Probe Positioning Device With Integrated Signal Means

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing devices for positioning probes in vivo lack a reliable and simple method for communication and power transmission, leading to complex designs and potential mechanical disruptions.

Innovation Solution

A device with a casing that includes a signal means which serves both as a communication and insertion mechanism, allowing the probe to be inserted into tissue while maintaining a fixed connection for reliable signal and power transmission via a continuous signal wire or separate power connection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a separate communication mechanism is added to the probe positioning device, then signal transmission reliability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal transmission reliabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The signal means is integrated into the carrier part that also holds the probe, combining communication and positioning functions in a single structure. This merging eliminates the need for separate communication mechanisms while maintaining signal transmission reliability through the continuous signal wire connection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The carrier part serves multiple functions: it holds the probe, provides the signal means for communication, and acts as the insertion mechanism. This multi-functionality reduces overall device complexity while ensuring reliable signal transmission through the integrated continuous wire connection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Device complexity

If mechanical connection methods are used for signal transmission, then device complexity is reduced, but mechanical disruptions may occur

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice complexityVSAvoidsignal transmission reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex mechanical connection systems with a simpler continuous signal wire connection. The wire is routed through the carrier part and connection elements in a way that eliminates complex mechanical joints, reducing the risk of mechanical disruptions while maintaining simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The signal wire is pre-routed and secured within the carrier part structure before insertion. This preliminary arrangement ensures that the wire maintains continuous contact without requiring complex mechanical adjustments during operation, preventing mechanical disruptions while keeping the system simple.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Device complexity

If the signal means is integrated into the carrier part, then device complexity is reduced, but power transmission may be affected

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice complexityVSAvoidpower transmission
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The signal means and power source are integrated into the carrier part, combining signal transmission and power supply functions in one component. This integration reduces device complexity while ensuring adequate power transmission through the same carrier structure that carries the signal wire.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The carrier part acts as an intermediary that simultaneously transmits both signals and power to the probe. By serving as a common medium for both functions, it simplifies the overall device structure while maintaining effective power transmission without requiring separate dedicated power delivery mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS10537362B2Device for positioning a probe in living tissue
Publication Date: 2020.01.21 ROCHE DIABETES CARE INC
  • US10537362B2 patent drawing
  • US10537362B2 patent drawing
  • US10537362B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A device for positioning a probe in living tissue, the device including a casing having an underside for positioning on the tissue, the probe, which can be moved relative to the casing beyond the underside in an insertion direction to be inserted into the tissue, and a signal means carried by the casing such that it can be moved in the insertion direction to an end position, wherein the signal means slaves the probe when moving in the insertion direction.