Needle Magnetizing Alignment Keys for Accurate Ultrasound Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medical devices lack an efficient system for magnetizing needles, which hinders accurate tracking and placement during procedures, particularly when superimposed on ultrasound images.
Innovation Solution
A magnetizing system that includes an orientation key system to ensure correct positioning of the needle within the magnetizing system, utilizing a combination of permanent magnets and a tray with specific key features to accurately magnetize the needle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a magnetizing system is implemented to enable needle tracking, then the accuracy of needle placement and visualization is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the need for orientation keys and precise positioning mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The orientation key system enables the needle to self-align and self-position within the magnetizing system. The key features on the needle automatically engage with corresponding features in the magnetizing system, ensuring correct orientation without requiring complex external alignment tools or procedures. This self-service mechanism reduces operational complexity while maintaining high precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The orientation key acts as an intermediary element between the needle and the magnetizing system. These keys serve as the interface that translates the need for precise positioning into a simple mechanical engagement problem, mediating the interaction between the operator and the complex magnetizing components.
2Manufacturing precision
If an orientation key system is added to ensure correct needle positioning, then the manufacturing precision of needle magnetization is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional key features and components
Solution Approach 1:
The orientation keys utilize asymmetric geometries that can only fit into corresponding asymmetric receptacles in one specific orientation. This asymmetric design inherently encodes the correct positioning information into the physical structure, eliminating the need for complex alignment procedures or multiple adjustment mechanisms. The asymmetric shapes provide intuitive, error-proof positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The orientation key system performs the positioning action preliminarily, before the actual magnetization process begins. By pre-establishing the correct geometric relationship between the needle and magnetizing components through key engagement, the system ensures that subsequent magnetization occurs with the precise orientation required, without needing complex real-time adjustments during magnetization.
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
Enables precise magnetization of needles, allowing for accurate tracking and placement during medical procedures, enhancing the clinician's ability to visualize and insert needles correctly within the body.
Implementation Method 1
A magnetizing system includes a magnetizer including a body defining a receptacle and a plurality of permanent magnets linearly disposed within the magnetizer body in a multipole arrangement
Data Source
AI summary
A magnetizing method includes obtaining a tray having a needle in the tray, the tray including a first key feature and placing a magnetizer under the tray, the magnetizer including a second key feature. The method further includes aligning the first key feature of the tray with the second key feature of the magnetizer and positioning the tray on the magnetizer with the first key feature and the second key feature aligned. The method further includes magnetizing the needle with the tray inserted into the magnetizer.