RF Generator Power Verification via Inverter Input Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for verifying the power output of RF generators used in electrosurgical instruments are prone to systematic errors, are costly due to redundant systems, and increase leakage currents.
Innovation Solution
A method involving direct measurement of input power and accounting for power dissipation to verify the output power, using less expensive sensors and considering factors like modulation level, RF mode, and ambient temperature to ensure accuracy without redundant systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If two similar FPGA systems are implemented to verify output power, then measurement redundancy is achieved, but systematic errors cannot be detected and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary approach by measuring input power and calculating output power through a power balance equation that accounts for losses, rather than directly measuring output power with multiple redundant systems. This mediator (power balance calculation) allows verification without requiring identical measurement paths, enabling error detection while avoiding systematic errors.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of measuring output power directly with redundant systems as conventionally done, the patent inverts the approach by measuring input power and calculating output power indirectly through the power balance equation. This inversion allows verification of output power measurements without requiring redundant output measurement systems, thus avoiding systematic errors while maintaining reliability.
2Reliability
If two similar FPGA systems are implemented to verify output power, then measurement redundancy is achieved, but costs increase due to redundant hardware
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the verification function from the output measurement path and relocates it to the input measurement path. By measuring input power and using the power balance equation, the system achieves verification without requiring redundant output measurement hardware, thus reducing device complexity while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The input power measurement system serves multiple functions: it provides the primary measurement for power balance calculation and simultaneously enables verification of output power measurements. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate redundant output measurement systems, reducing overall device complexity.
3Reliability
If additional redundant sensors are added to verify output power, then measurement redundancy is achieved, but leakage current increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the power balance equation as an intermediary to achieve verification without adding redundant sensors to the output path. By calculating output power from input power measurements and loss considerations, the system avoids introducing additional sensors that would increase leakage current, thus maintaining reliability while reducing harmful effects.
Data Source
AI summary
Method for verifying a power recording of an RF generator to control at least one electrosurgical instrument, wherein the RF generator has an inverter for generating an RF signal, and the inverter via an Inverter input is supplied with electrical current and via an Inverter output emits an RF signal with a voltage value and a current value for driving an electrosurgical instrument, including the steps recording of an output power delivered via the RF signal by directly measuring the RF signal by means of an RF power acquisition device, as directly recorded out-put power, recording of a comparative power based on a power measured on the input side of the inverter and verifying the functioning of the RF power acquisition device by comparing the recorded comparative power with the directly recorded output power.