Parabolic Ink Applicator for Tissue Specimen Orientation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for marking excised tissue specimens, such as sutures and clips, are inadequate for providing sufficient spatial orientation data and can hinder downstream imaging, while ink-based methods are time-consuming and may obscure imaging data.
Innovation Solution
A tissue marking device with an elongate body and an applicator head having a parabolic profile, coupled with an elongate nib, is used to dispense ink along incision edges, allowing for efficient generation of ink segments that delineate tissue specimen surfaces and provide spatial orientation data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If sutures or clips are used to mark tissue specimens, then spatial orientation data can be provided, but they hinder downstream imaging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the marking function from physical objects (sutures, clips) that obstruct imaging, and transfers it to ink-based markings that are transparent to imaging modalities. The ink markings provide the same spatial orientation information without the harmful imaging obstruction, effectively separating the marking function from the obstructive physical presence.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces ink as an intermediary marking medium that bridges the need for spatial orientation data and the requirement for clear imaging. The ink serves as a mediator that provides visible markings for orientation while being transparent or minimally interfering with downstream imaging processes, unlike solid objects such as sutures or clips.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If ink-based marking methods are used, then imaging data is preserved, but the process becomes time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-configuring the applicator head with a parabolic profile that matches the nib profile, and pre-positioning the ink delivery system. This allows the marking process to proceed efficiently without requiring complex adjustments or multiple steps during the actual marking operation, reducing the time loss despite using ink-based methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies curvature by designing the applicator head with a parabolic profile that corresponds to the nib profile. This curved geometry allows for smooth, continuous motion along tissue surfaces and incision edges, enabling efficient marking without abrupt movements or repositioning, thereby reducing the time required for the marking process.
3Productivity
If traditional marking devices are used, then marking can be applied, but precision and efficiency in delineating tissue margins are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs curvature through the parabolic profile of the applicator head and corresponding nib profile, which enables precise tracking along curved incision edges and tissue margins. This geometric design allows the marking device to conform to the natural contours of tissue surfaces, improving both the precision of margin delineation and the efficiency of the marking process by eliminating the need for frequent repositioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical marking systems (sutures, clips, physical tags) with an ink-based dispensing system. This substitution eliminates the need for mechanical attachment and removal processes, allowing for rapid, precise marking along complex tissue geometries while maintaining both high productivity and manufacturing precision through controlled ink delivery.
Data Source
AI summary
Tissue marking devices and methods of tissue marking. Tissue marking devices may include: an elongate body member; an applicator head coupled to the elongate body member having a parabolic profile; and an elongate nib coupled to a distal edge of the applicator head, the elongate nib including a nib profile corresponding to the parabolic profile of the applicator head and adapted to dispense ink.