Multifunctional Visualization Laryngoscope With Orientation-Aware Steering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Steerable introducers, such as flexible endoscopes, are difficult to maneuver into desired locations and orientations within a patient's anatomy due to challenges in maintaining accurate orientation and intuitive steering.
Innovation Solution
A steerable introducer system that includes an orientation sensor at the distal end, translating steering commands from a user's reference frame into the introducer's orientation frame, using a processor to adjust the introducer's steering based on real-time orientation signals, allowing independent distal bending without torsional force transfer from the proximal end.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional steerable introducers are used without orientation sensing, then the device structure remains simple, but the device is difficult to maneuver into desired locations and orientations within patient anatomy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical orientation tracking with electronic orientation sensors (accelerometers, gyroscopes, magnetometers) that automatically detect and report the introducer's orientation. This substitution of mechanical sensing with electronic sensing improves ease of operation while the added electronic components represent a controlled increase in device complexity that enables superior maneuverability control
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements real-time feedback by continuously monitoring orientation sensor data and using this information to adjust steering commands. The system provides feedback to the operator about current orientation and automatically adjusts steering based on orientation changes, enabling precise maneuvering into desired locations and orientations within patient anatomy
2Measurement precision
If steering commands are given in user reference frame without orientation translation, then the control interface remains simple, but accurate orientation control is lost as the introducer rotates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary computational layer that translates steering commands from the user reference frame to the introducer's current orientation frame. This translation intermediary uses orientation sensor data to dynamically adjust command interpretation, ensuring accurate orientation control even as the introducer rotates, while maintaining a simple user interface
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic command translation where the steering command interpretation changes in real-time based on the introducer's current orientation. As the introducer rotates or bends, the system dynamically adjusts how user inputs are translated into actual steering actions, maintaining measurement precision throughout the procedure
3Ease of operation
If torsional force is applied from proximal end to steer distal tip, then mechanical steering is simple, but operator variability increases and independent distal bending is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the steering control by providing independent actuators at the distal tip that can bend independently of proximal manipulations. This segmentation allows the distal tip to be steered independently from the proximal end, reducing operator variability and enabling more precise control of the distal tip's orientation and position
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes mechanical torsional force transmission with electronically controlled distal actuators. Instead of relying on torque transmission through the flexible shaft from the proximal end, the system uses electronic signals to control distal bending actuators, eliminating the variability introduced by manual twisting and providing more reliable, precise steering control
Data Source
AI summary
A multifunctional laryngoscope is provided that includes a handle comprising a proximal end and a distal end and a display screen on the handle. The laryngoscope includes a laryngoscope camera at the distal end of the handle and an introducer comprising an orientation sensor at a distal end of the introducer. The laryngoscope includes a processor programmed to execute instructions for receiving from a steering input a steering command in a first reference frame, and mapping the steering command to a second reference frame oriented to the distal end of the introducer based on an orientation signal from the orientation sensor.