MRI Biopsy Control Module Interface Using Piezo Motors

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current biopsy devices face challenges in obtaining biopsy samples in MRI environments due to magnetic interference from electric motors, necessitating a solution that allows for safe and effective operation within MRI suites.

Innovation Solution

A control module interface and vacuum control module are designed to be mounted on a cart, maintaining a safe distance from MRI equipment, using piezo motors and mechanical cables to transmit rotational motion, enabling the biopsy device to operate remotely and minimize magnetic interference.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Extent of automation

If electric motors are used to drive the biopsy device, then the device can operate automatically and efficiently, but magnetic interference occurs in MRI environments

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautomated biopsy operationVSAvoidmagnetic interference
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent removes electric motors from the MRI environment by placing them outside the MRI suite. Mechanical cables extend from the external motor through the MRI room wall to transmit rotational motion to the biopsy device, extracting the harmful magnetic field source while maintaining automated operation capability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

Mechanical cables serve as an intermediary medium to transmit rotational motion from the external motor to the biopsy device. This intermediary mechanism allows automated control without direct electrical or magnetic connection within the MRI environment, resolving the contradiction between automation and magnetic interference

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If the control module is placed close to the biopsy device for direct control, then control precision is improved, but magnetic interference with MRI equipment increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol precisionVSAvoidmagnetic interference
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The control system is segmented into two parts: the motor and control electronics are placed outside the MRI environment, while only the passive mechanical transmission components (cables and drive mechanisms) remain inside. This segmentation allows precise control to be maintained through mechanical coupling while isolating magnetic field sources

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Mechanical cables act as an intermediary transmission medium that connects the external control module to the internal biopsy device. This intermediary allows control precision to be maintained through direct mechanical coupling while preventing magnetic interference by keeping electronic components outside the MRI environment

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 configuration allows for the safe and efficient operation of biopsy devices in MRI environments by reducing exposure to magnetic fields, ensuring accurate sample collection while preventing interference with MRI equipment.

Implementation Method 1

using piezo motors and mechanical cables to transmit rotational motion

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPiezoelectric effect: Piezoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS10052087B2Control module interface for MRI biopsy device
Publication Date: 2018.08.21 DEVICOR MEDICAL PRODUCTS INC
  • US10052087B2 patent drawing
  • US10052087B2 patent drawing
  • US10052087B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A biopsy system includes a biopsy device, a control module, a control module interface, at least one wireless data communication link, and an encoder. The biopsy device is operable to capture a tissue sample and includes a reusable portion and a disposable portion. The reusable portion includes an MR compatible motor. The disposable portion is adapted to be releasably joined with the reusable portion. The control module interface is configured to provide an interface between the control module and the reusable portion of the biopsy device. The at least one wireless data communication link includes a first data link configured to permit communication of data between the reusable portion of the biopsy device and the control module interface. The encoder is operationally coupled with the MR compatible motor.