Haptic Needle Insertion Simulator Using Variable Dampener
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current robotic systems for simulating the insertion of medical instruments, such as needles, are expensive and complex, making it difficult to provide realistic haptic force feedback for training purposes.
Innovation Solution
A low-cost haptic medical instrument insertion simulator that includes a retractable needle or probe with an internal variable dampener and a detachable cartridge filled with synthetic material, allowing for variable force resistance and realistic simulation of insertion forces, which can be replicated in a handheld device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If expensive robotic systems are used to simulate insertion forces, then realistic haptic force feedback is achieved, but system cost and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a simplified copy of the tissue insertion experience using a phantom material that replicates the haptic properties of real tissue. Instead of using complex robotic systems to simulate forces, the invention directly copies the physical interaction characteristics through carefully engineered material properties, achieving realistic feedback without the complexity of active force generation systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs disposable or replaceable phantom materials that can be easily manufactured and discarded after use. These low-cost consumable materials replace expensive, complex robotic systems, providing realistic haptic feedback through material design rather than complex mechanical systems that would require maintenance and calibration
2Reliability
If expensive robotic systems are used to provide force feedback, then realistic insertion simulation is achieved, but system cost increases to approximately $10,000
Solution Approach 1:
The invention copies the essential haptic characteristics of tissue insertion through phantom materials with matched mechanical properties. This approach eliminates the need for expensive robotic force feedback systems by directly replicating the physical sensation through material design, reducing system cost from $10,000 to a fraction of that amount
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the complex mechanical robotic system with a simpler material-based solution. Instead of using motors, sensors, and control systems to generate force feedback, the invention uses the intrinsic mechanical properties of phantom materials to provide realistic haptic feedback, dramatically reducing manufacturing cost and complexity
3Ease of manufacture
If a retractable needle design is used, then visual illusion of penetration is created, but additional mechanical complexity is introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses flexible phantom materials that can be penetrated by the needle while maintaining structural integrity. The material deformation and recovery provide the visual illusion of penetration without requiring complex retractable mechanisms, simplifying the overall device design while achieving the desired visual effect
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables cost-effective and realistic simulation of medical instrument insertion procedures, providing valuable training for medical residents without the need for expensive robotic systems, allowing for free 360° movement and varied force profiles through various mechanical, pneumatic, and hydraulic methods.
Implementation Method 1
The cartridge may be filled with synthetic material that the back of the needle, knife or probe penetrates into and the material penetration creates the haptic force that is felt by the user advancing the instrument
Implementation Method 2
The internal variable dampener includes a cavity having a variable profile and being filled with a fluid within the instrument body
Data Source
AI summary
A haptic needle insertion simulator includes a syringe compartment having a cavity and a retractable needle at an end of the syringe compartment. The needle is operable to retract into the syringe compartment when pushed against a surface. The cavity is configured to provide a force profile felt by a user holding the simulator and simulating a realistic feeling of insertion force.