Magnetic Motion Control for Seldinger Vascular Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
The Seldinger Technique for vascular access requires manual assembly and handling of needles, guidewires, and catheters, which is time-consuming, increases contamination risks, and requires significant operator effort, while also generating hazardous waste and posing environmental safety concerns.
Innovation Solution
A magnetically operated motion control system that assembles and controls the essential tools within a sterile cartridge, allowing for efficient, safe, and automated placement of needles and guidewires, with decoupling mechanisms for easy disposal and reduced exposure to contaminants.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual assembly and handling of needles, guidewires, and catheters is used, then operator control and flexibility are maintained, but the procedure becomes time-consuming and increases contamination risks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical assembly and handling with an automated robotic system that uses magnetic actuators to manipulate medical tools. The robotic arm with magnetic grippers can assemble needles, guidewires, and catheters without direct manual contact, significantly reducing procedure time and contamination risks while maintaining precise control through electronic actuation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a robotic system as an intermediary between the operator and the medical tools. The operator controls the robotic arm through a console, and the robotic system performs the actual manipulation of needles, guidewires, and catheters. This intermediary layer reduces direct handling time and minimizes contamination exposure while preserving operator intent and control.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If manual handling of vascular access tools is performed, then operator experience and tactile feedback are maintained, but contamination risks and exposure to hazardous waste increase
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic system with magnetic actuators performs all assembly and manipulation tasks without manual contact, eliminating the time required for careful manual assembly while simultaneously reducing contamination risks. The automated system can quickly and precisely assemble tools within the sterile field without exposing the operator to hazardous waste.
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic system performs self-contained assembly and manipulation of medical tools within the sterile field. The magnetic actuators on the robotic arm can independently grasp, position, and assemble needles, guidewires, and catheters without requiring manual intervention, making the system self-sufficient in maintaining sterility while reducing assembly time.
3Reliability
If automated magnetic control system is used, then assembly time and contamination risk are reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic system is divided into modular components: a robotic arm with multiple magnetic actuators, a control console, and interchangeable tool modules. Each magnetic actuator is an independent module that can be controlled separately, allowing the complex function to be broken down into manageable segments. This modular architecture reduces overall system complexity while maintaining high sterility standards.
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic arm with magnetic actuators serves multiple functions: it can grasp needles, manipulate guidewires, position catheters, and perform assembly tasks. This multi-functional design reduces the need for multiple specialized devices, thereby managing system complexity while achieving reliable sterility maintenance through automated control.
4Productivity
If traditional manual Seldinger technique is used, then simple device structure is maintained, but operator effort and procedure duration increase
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic system with magnetic actuators replaces manual dexterity with automated mechanical manipulation. The magnetic grippers can apply precise forces to manipulate tools without requiring significant operator physical effort. The system translates small control inputs into precise tool movements, dramatically improving procedure efficiency while minimizing operator exertion.
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
This system enhances operator confidence and efficiency, reduces contamination risks, minimizes waste, and improves safety by automating the assembly and disposal of vascular access tools, allowing for precise tactile feedback and reduced manual handling.
Implementation Method 1
one or more external magnets that are mounted to the exterior of the enclosed tube and coupled to one or more ferromagnetic components within the sterile tube
Implementation Method 2
a first ferromagnetic component coupled to the guidewire
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides a variety of methods and apparatus for insertion of a needle and/or guidewire from a sterile tube. In some embodiments, a bungee cord holds the apparatus. The invention also provides methods of decoupling the needle and/or guidewire from the external magnets during an insertion process.


