Magnetic Torque Limiter for Surgical Instruments
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mechanical torque limiting instruments in medical applications lack accuracy and precision, requiring frequent recalibration and are susceptible to wear, leading to unreliable torque transfer in surgical procedures.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic torque limiter using an arrangement of magnets to limit torque transfer, where magnetic couplers transmit torque across an air gap, reducing the need for recalibration and minimizing wear, thereby providing precise and repeatable torque limiting characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If mechanical means are used to limit torque, then torque limiting function is achieved, but wear occurs and accuracy deteriorates over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical torque limiting mechanisms (such as friction-based or gear-based systems) with a magnetic coupling system. The magnetic coupling between the driver and driven components allows torque transmission without direct mechanical contact, eliminating wear while maintaining precise torque limiting through magnetic field strength control.
2Reliability
If mechanical torque limiters are used, then torque transfer is limited, but frequent recalibration is required
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic coupling system eliminates the need for frequent recalibration by using magnetic field strength, which remains stable over time, to define the torque limiting characteristic. This contrasts with mechanical systems that require recalibration due to wear and component degradation.
3Reliability
If mechanical means are used for torque limiting, then torque transfer is controlled, but wear leads to reduced durability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs magnetic coupling to replace mechanical contact-based torque limiting mechanisms. This substitution eliminates wear between components, significantly extending the operational lifespan and durability of the torque limiter while maintaining reliable torque control.
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
The magnetic torque limiter offers improved accuracy and reduced maintenance needs, ensuring consistent torque transfer without frequent recalibration, enhancing the reliability and efficiency of surgical instruments.
Implementation Method 1
The shaft can include a shaft magnet enclosed within the shaft and can be configured to magnetically couple with the housing magnet to transmit a torque between the housing and the shaft
Implementation Method 2
configured to uncouple from the housing magnet causing the shaft to rotate within the housing when a threshold torque is reached
Data Source
AI summary
A torque limiter can include a housing and a shaft. The housing can include a housing magnet enclosed within the housing. The shaft can be at least partially surrounded by the housing and can be rotatable within the housing. The shaft can include a shaft magnet integrated with the shaft to magnetically couple with the housing magnet to transmit a torque between the housing and the shaft and configured to uncouple from the housing magnet allowing the shaft to rotate within the housing when a threshold torque is reached.