High-Frequency Generator Mode Control via Handpiece Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current medical instruments for bipolar vessel sealing require constant manual activation of the energy supply switch during the sealing process, leading to interrupted procedures and limited mode selection options, increasing the risk of operating errors due to additional switches and distracting the surgeon.
Innovation Solution
A high-frequency generator with a third mode that detects the duration of actuation of the energy supply operating element on the handpiece, allowing seamless switching between predefined energy supply modes without additional buttons, using existing components to control the energy supply and adjust sealing parameters based on the actuation time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the energy supply switch is kept pressed for the duration of the sealing process, then the sealing process can be maintained, but the surgeon's attention is distracted and the risk of operating errors increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically detects tissue sealing status and manages energy supply without requiring continuous manual intervention. The control unit monitors sealing progress and adjusts energy delivery autonomously, allowing the surgeon to release the switch while maintaining reliable sealing operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional dedicated operating elements are added to the instrument for mode selection, then mode selection capability is improved, but the device complexity increases and the risk of operating errors increases
Solution Approach 1:
The existing energy supply switch on the handpiece is made multi-functional by integrating mode selection capability. The control unit detects different switching patterns (continuous hold vs. release and re-actuation) to distinguish between mode selection and energy supply control, eliminating the need for separate mode selection buttons while maintaining full functionality.
3Ease of operation
If the energy switch is released during the sealing process, then the surgeon can operate more freely, but the sealing process is interrupted or stopped
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit continuously monitors sealing status and provides feedback about tissue sealing progress. When the surgeon releases the switch, the system detects this and can either maintain energy supply based on detected sealing completion or prompt the surgeon to re-actuate, ensuring sealing continuity while allowing temporary release for surgical maneuvering.
Data Source
AI summary
A device for controlling the energy supply to a medical instrument contains the medical instrument and an energy supply device. The energy supply device has at least a first and a second energy supply mode that can be preselected on the energy supply device and which supplies energy to the medical instrument according to a preselected energy supply mode. The energy supply device additionally has a third mode which differs from the at least two energy supply modes, can be preselected on the energy supply device, can detect an actuation of an energy supply operating element arranged on the medical instrument, and can carry out the supply of energy to the medical instrument in the first or second mode based on the detected actuation.