Micro-Force Sensor for In Vivo Tissue Viscoelasticity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current technologies face challenges in measuring localized in-vivo tissue viscoelastic properties, particularly in confined spaces within the human body, limiting the ability to diagnose conditions such as urinary bladder cancer and urinary incontinence effectively.
Innovation Solution
Development of a miniature micro-force sensor fabricated using three-dimensional printing techniques, which allows for precise measurement of tissue reaction forces and relaxation data through controlled indentation, enabling the evaluation of tissue healthiness and biomechanical properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional tissue evaluation technologies are used, then existing diagnostic capabilities are maintained, but the ability to measure localized in-vivo tissue viscoelastic properties in confined spaces is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by miniaturizing the force sensor dimensions to fit confined anatomical spaces while maintaining measurement precision. The sensor size is reduced to enable access to restricted areas such as the bladder, and the force measurement range is optimized to detect subtle tissue viscoelastic properties. This resolves the contradiction by changing the physical parameters of the sensor to simultaneously achieve both precise localized measurement and accessibility to confined spaces.
2Ease of operation
If miniature force sensors are developed for confined spaces, then access to restricted areas is improved, but sensor size and load capabilities must be constrained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by concentrating the sensing function in a highly localized region at the tip of the sensor, while the rest of the sensor structure remains minimal and adaptable to confined spaces. The force sensing element is positioned precisely where tissue interaction occurs, allowing the sensor to maintain adequate load capability for tissue measurement while keeping the overall sensor size small enough for access to restricted anatomical areas.
3Measurement precision
If quantitative tissue property evaluation is implemented, then diagnostic accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the extraction principle by isolating the essential force sensing function from complex diagnostic systems. The micro-force sensor directly measures tissue reaction forces during indentation, and this single primary measurement is used to derive multiple tissue properties (viscoelastic parameters, stiffness, compliance) through controlled indentation protocols. This approach extracts the core measurement need and derives comprehensive tissue characterization from it, avoiding the need for multiple complex sensors while achieving quantitative tissue property evaluation.
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 micro-force sensor provides quantitative data on tissue viscoelastic properties, enhancing diagnostic capabilities and disease prognosis by accurately measuring forces and relaxation responses in confined spaces, improving the assessment of tissue healthiness and disease progression.
Implementation Method 1
the sensing element or one or more gauges integrated or attached to the sensing element can then generate one or more signals corresponding to a force or reaction force of the target tissue
Implementation Method 2
Studies showed that a tumorous surface exhibits a higher stiffness compared to healthier surrounding tissues. As such, tumor mechanics significantly differ from that of normal tissue. Hence, identifying localized viscoelastic properties of tissues can be advantageous in assessing the healthiness of organs.
Data Source
AI summary
According to some embodiments, a device for tissue evaluation comprises a sensor housing, the sensor housing comprising a sensor head and a sensor body, where the sensor head is configured to engage with target tissue for evaluation, and a sensing element disposed within the sensor housing and configured to measure a force or reaction force of the target tissue as the device is pressed against the target tissue.