Medical Device Control for Safe Assembly via Proximity Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current multi-piece medical devices with power-operated components face challenges in safe and comfortable assembly and disassembly due to the risk of accidental activation and the need for precise mechanical coupling, which can lead to user injury and device damage.
Innovation Solution
An electronic circuit concept that detects the relative position of device units and activates only when they are in a specific configuration, minimizing the risk of accidental activation and allowing for automatic and contact-less operation, using proximity sensors or switches to ensure safe and efficient coupling and decoupling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the actuation element is implemented as a pushbutton that must be continuously held during assembly and disassembly, then the device can be operated, but the user cannot release both hands for other tasks and risks accidental activation if the signal is interrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical pushbutton actuation system with an electronic sensor-based detection system. The control unit automatically detects the relative position of device units through sensors (e.g., optical, magnetic, or capacitive sensors) and activates or deactivates the drive mechanism accordingly, eliminating the need for continuous manual pressure on a pushbutton during assembly and disassembly operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service by automatically detecting the assembly state through sensors and controlling the actuation element accordingly. When the device units are in a specific relative position indicating assembly or disassembly mode, the control unit autonomously activates or deactivates the drive mechanism without requiring continuous user intervention, thereby reducing manual effort and accident risk.
2Ease of operation
If the device allows manual manipulation during assembly and disassembly, then the user can adjust components, but the exposed mechanical coupling segment poses a risk of injury from spring force
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit performs preliminary action by detecting the relative position of device units before the mechanical coupling segment becomes exposed. When sensors detect that the units are in a position indicating potential manual manipulation, the control unit proactively deactivates the drive mechanism and holds the coupling segment in a safe retracted position, preventing injury before it can occur.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback through sensors that continuously monitor the relative position of device units during assembly and disassembly. The control unit receives this feedback and automatically adjusts the state of the actuation element and mechanical coupling segment accordingly, ensuring the segment is retracted when manual manipulation is detected, thus preventing user injury while allowing necessary adjustments.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the device uses a two-part design with separable functional units, then components can be sterilized or replaced, but the assembly and disassembly process becomes complex and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal control system that automatically recognizes and adapts to different operational modes (assembly, disassembly, normal operation) through sensor feedback. The same control unit and sensor system serve multiple functions: detecting assembly state, controlling actuation during assembly/disassembly, preventing accidental activation, and ensuring safe operation, thereby simplifying the overall process despite the two-part design.
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 solution enhances user safety and convenience by preventing accidental activation and injury during assembly and disassembly, allowing for a more compact design and reducing the risk of device damage, while maintaining effective mechanical and electrical coupling.
Implementation Method 1
An electronic circuit concept that detects the relative position of device units and activates only when they are in a specific configuration, minimizing the risk of accidental activation and allowing for automatic and contact-less operation, using proximity sensors or switches
Data Source
AI summary
A medical device includes two device units having two functional units that can be coupled to each other to actuate the second functional unit via the first functional unit. The first functional unit has a mechanical coupling segment which can be brought into a coupling position to couple with the second functional unit. A detector for detecting a relative position of the two device units or a distance between the two device units is provided on at least one device unit. The electrical or electronic control of the first functional unit is configured such that the mechanical coupling segment of the first functional unit can be brought into the coupling position only if the two device units are in a certain position with respect to each other or fall below a minimum distance from each other.