Piezoelectric Sensor Needle Connector for Ultrasound Localization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current ultrasound imaging systems face challenges in visualizing needles due to their specular surface, which reflects beams away from the imaging probe, and existing solutions like echogenic coatings and multiple imaging beams provide limited improvement, especially when the needle is inserted perpendicular to the imaging plane or has a small offset.
Innovation Solution
A connector device with ring-shaped contact pads on a needle hub end, incorporating a piezoelectric copolymer sensor and a reusable clamshell connector that minimizes cost on the disposable needle side by placing the costly connection components on a reusable clamp, allowing for accurate positioning and orientation of the needle without interfering with its functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If ultrasound receivers are added near the tip of the needle, then needle tip visualization accuracy is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The piezoelectric copolymer sensor is integrated within the needle structure itself, with the sensor embedded in the needle wall or tip region. The sensor, electrical contacts, and insulation layers are nested concentrically within the needle, allowing the sensing functionality to be incorporated without significantly increasing the external dimensions or complexity of the needle device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple functions into the needle device: the needle serves both as the surgical tool and as the mounting structure for the ultrasound sensor. The electrical contacts are integrated into the needle hub, and the insulation is incorporated as part of the needle construction, merging the structural, sensing, and electrical functions into a single integrated device.
2Measurement precision
If piezoelectric copolymer sensor is integrated into the needle, then needle tip localization accuracy is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The needle with integrated sensor is designed as a disposable device, allowing the use of piezoelectric copolymer sensors that provide high measurement precision without requiring long-term durability or reusability. The disposable nature eliminates the need for expensive, reusable sensor components while maintaining high localization accuracy for the duration of the procedure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses piezoelectric copolymer material instead of traditional piezoelectric ceramics, which offers lower manufacturing costs, greater flexibility, and easier integration into the needle structure. The copolymer can be deposited as thin films using cost-effective techniques, reducing overall manufacturing expenses while maintaining sensor performance.
3Measurement precision
If sensor is placed near needle tip, then needle visibility in ultrasound image is improved, but needle functionality may be interfered with
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor is placed only in the region where it is needed for visualization (near the needle tip or in the distal portion of the needle), while the rest of the needle maintains its original surgical functionality. The sensor occupies only a small portion of the needle structure, leaving the majority of the needle channel and mechanical properties unchanged.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor is embedded within the needle wall or tip region rather than adding external components, so the sensor is nested within the existing needle structure. This allows the needle to maintain its original external dimensions and mechanical properties while incorporating the sensing functionality internally.
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 solution enables precise localization of the needle tip and orientation with high accuracy, reducing signal loss and capacitive loading, while maintaining a low disposable cost and ensuring biocompatibility, applicable to various medical procedures and instruments.
Implementation Method 1
a piezoelectric copolymer sensor formed thereon and configured to sense position of the needle tip relative to an ultrasound image
Data Source
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AI summary
A connector includes an inner conductive body (34) for connecting to a sensor contact on a medical device. An insulator (40) is formed on the inner conductive body. An outer conductive body (32) is formed over the insulator and surrounds the inner conductive body but is electrically isolated from the inner conductive body. The outer conductive body is for making contact at two places on a medical device on opposite sides of the inner conductive body.