Single-Frequency Ablation Power Supply With Phase-Shifted Electrode Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional RF generators for medical ablation are inefficient, large, and cause intermodulation distortion, leading to interference with other signals like ECG, requiring high power and extensive expertise for procedures that are time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A switched-mode power supply generator operating on a single frequency, using phase-shifted and amplitude-controlled AC voltage signals to each electrode, eliminating intermodulation distortion and improving efficiency by directly converting AC to DC without a transformer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If conventional linear power supplies with transformers and regulators are used, then voltage regulation is achieved, but the device becomes large and generates excessive heat
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/electromagnetic transformer-based voltage regulation system with an electronic switched-mode power supply system. The SMPS uses electronic switching components (MOSFETs, IGBTs) and control circuits to regulate voltage, eliminating the need for large transformers and linear regulators, thus reducing both size and heat generation while maintaining efficient power conversion.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple frequencies are used for multi-catheter ablation, then power control for each electrode is achieved, but intermodulation distortion occurs causing signal interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal single-frequency power supply system that can simultaneously control multiple catheters and electrodes. The SMPS generates a single frequency output that is distributed to all electrodes, eliminating intermodulation distortion while maintaining the ability to independently control power levels at each electrode through pulse-width modulation and switching control.
3Power
If conventional RF generators are used, then ablation power is delivered, but procedure time is excessive and requires high expertise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic control of the switched-mode power supply to rapidly adjust power delivery to electrodes. The SMPS can quickly change output power levels in response to real-time feedback from temperature sensors and impedance measurements, enabling adaptive ablation that optimizes treatment efficacy while reducing overall procedure time and simplifying operator expertise requirements.
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 results in a more compact, efficient power supply that minimizes interference with other signals, reducing the need for high power and expertise, and shortening procedure times by accurately controlling ablation power.
Implementation Method 1
a phase shifter configured to shift signal transmission phase angles
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of switched-mode amplifiers each electrically connected to a corresponding one of the electrodes and each configured to convert the DC voltage received from the power supply to an AC voltage signal
Data Source
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AI summary
A power generator is disclosed for use with a medical tool used to perform a medical ablation procedure. The power generator comprises a power supply configured to generate a DC voltage, a phase shifter configured to shift signal transmission phase angles, a plurality of switched-mode amplifiers each configured to convert the DC voltage received from the power supply to an AC voltage signal. The power generator also comprises a processor configured to control a phase shift of each AC voltage signal converted by the switched-mode amplifiers and an amplitude of each AC voltage signal converted by the switched-mode amplifiers. Each AC voltage signal is provided to one of a plurality of ablation electrodes of a medical tool.