Matrix Router for Surgical Ablation Mode Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current medical/surgical instruments and systems employing RF energy for tissue ablation lack a unified control system to seamlessly integrate multiple devices and switch between ablation, pacing, and sensing modes, complicating procedures like the Maze procedure for treating atrial fibrillation.
Innovation Solution
A matrix router system that integrates an energy generator, printer control module, handpiece interface circuit, pacing module, control circuit, and input/output circuit to facilitate the use of multiple surgical devices, allowing switching between ablation, pacing, and sensing modes, and enabling the creation of hard copy documentation and data storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple surgical devices are integrated into a single system, then device versatility is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal control system that can operate multiple different surgical devices through a single interface. The system includes a device detector that automatically identifies connected devices and a controller that routes signals appropriately, allowing one system to perform ablation, pacing, and sensing functions across various device types without requiring separate control systems for each device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary control layer between the user and multiple surgical devices. This intermediary system includes a microprocessor-based controller that receives user inputs through a unified interface and translates them into device-specific commands, while also managing signal routing and device coordination to simplify the overall system architecture.
2Adaptability or versatility
If switching between multiple operational modes is enabled, then functional versatility is improved, but operational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates automatic mode detection and selection based on the connected device type. The device detector automatically identifies whether the connected device requires ablation, pacing, or sensing mode, and the controller configures the appropriate parameters without manual intervention. This self-service approach reduces operational complexity while maintaining full functional versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system dynamically adapts its behavior based on the detected device type and operational requirements. The controller modifies signal routing, parameter settings, and interface responses in real-time according to the active mode, allowing seamless transitions between ablation, pacing, and sensing functions while presenting a consistent simplified interface to the user.
3Ease of operation
If a unified control system is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into distinct functional modules: a device detector module that identifies connected devices, a controller module that manages signal routing and mode selection, and an interface module that handles user inputs. This segmentation allows each module to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall design while maintaining unified control capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical switching and manual configuration mechanisms with an electronic microprocessor-based control system. The microprocessor automatically detects device types, selects appropriate operational modes, and routes signals through software-controlled pathways, eliminating the need for physical switches and manual settings while reducing operational complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A matrix router with frequency switching is provided having an energy source electrically connected to a plurality of interface ports. A switching device is provided between the energy source and the plurality of switches. One of the plurality of interface ports includes a paired electrode interface port for the connection of a paired electrode device thereto. The paired electrode device has a first pair of opposed electrodes and a second pair of opposed electrodes for clamping on tissue. When the paired electrode device is operably connected to the paired electrode interface port and actuated, the switching device alternates energy such as bipolar RF from the first pair of opposed electrodes to the second pair of opposed electrodes.