Automated Orbital Soft Tissue Resistance Measurement
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for assessing orbital soft tissue entrapment are subjective, lack quantitative measurement, and are not easily applicable by all surgeons, leading to challenges in diagnosing and managing orbital fractures and other ocular motility disorders.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a motion-generation unit with stacked motors and resistance measurement sensors, along with a suction cup for ocular surface interface, allows for quantitative assessment of orbital soft tissue restriction by measuring resistance and range of motion in various directions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If forced duction testing is performed using fine forceps to grasp the ocular surface, then soft tissue entrapment can be assessed, but the method lacks quantitative measurement and relies on subjective expert feel
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical forceps-based forced duction system with an automated robotic arm system that uses a contactless or minimally invasive interface (such as a corneal shield or specialized probe) to apply controlled forces to the eye. This substitution eliminates the need for precision manual grasping while providing quantitative measurement through integrated force sensors and position encoders, directly resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic system automatically performs the forced duction testing without requiring manual operation by the surgeon. The system self-regulates the application of force, tracks eye movement, and quantifies soft tissue resistance automatically, eliminating the subjective element of expert feel while maintaining assessment accuracy.
2Ease of operation
If forced duction testing is performed by surgeons without ophthalmic training, then more surgeons can use the method, but the risk of corneal injury and conjunctival laceration increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual surgeon manipulation with an automated robotic system that precisely controls the interface with the eye. The robotic arm can apply forces in a controlled, standardized manner while sensors monitor for excessive force or abnormal resistance, automatically alerting the operator to potential safety issues. This eliminates the variability and human error associated with manual technique while making the procedure accessible to non-ophthalmic surgeons.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates real-time feedback through force sensors and position encoders that continuously monitor the interaction between the testing device and the eye. When abnormal resistance or excessive force is detected, the system automatically alerts the operator and can stop the procedure, providing a safety mechanism that protects against corneal injury regardless of the operator's training level.
3Manufacturing precision
If custom implant contours become more sophisticated, then better bony contour restoration is achieved, but soft tissue dragging and potential restriction increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables preliminary assessment of soft tissue restriction risks before implantation by using the robotic forced duction system to evaluate the orbital soft tissue envelope in advance. The system can identify areas of potential soft tissue entrapment or restriction, allowing the surgical team to plan implant contours and positioning that minimize soft tissue dragging while achieving the desired bony reconstruction.
Solution Approach 2:
The quantitative data from the robotic forced duction testing provides feedback on soft tissue compliance and resistance in different orbital regions. This information can be used to guide implant design and placement decisions, allowing sophisticated implant contours to be created while avoiding areas where soft tissue restriction is likely to occur.
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 device provides reproducible and quantitative data on orbital soft tissue resistance and range of motion, enabling more accurate clinical decision-making and improving the precision of interventions for orbital pathologies.
Implementation Method 1
a suction cup suitable to fit a front part of an eye
Implementation Method 2
A primary resistance measurement sensor (primary load cell) is configured in between the motion-generation unit and a suction cup
Data Source
AI summary
A portable device, method and system are provided for automated, quantitative assessment of orbital compliance and soft tissue restriction with emphasis on applicability to orbital trauma and fracture management is provided.