Single-Use Sterile Imaging Device for Surgical Procedures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional video endoscopes face issues with image quality, sterilization challenges, and high manufacturing costs, particularly in ensuring single-use sterility and proper handling during surgical procedures.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for a single-use, sterile imaging device with a CCD or CMOS sensor housed in molded plastic, featuring secure optical coupling, data recording for usage tracking, and a control unit that ensures safe, one-time use by preventing reuse through on-screen warnings and security validation, ensuring patient and doctor safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional sterilization procedures are used for video endoscopes, then the device can be reused, but the risk of contamination and improper sterilization increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single-use imaging device that is discarded after one use, eliminating the need for sterilization procedures. The device includes a usage indicator that changes state after use, preventing accidental reuse. This disposable approach ensures sterility while reducing contamination risks associated with repeated sterilization cycles.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is pre-sterilized and packaged in a sterile barrier before delivery to the surgical site. The sterile barrier remains intact until the moment of use, ensuring sterility without requiring on-site sterilization procedures. This preliminary sterilization action eliminates the need for complex sterilization cycles.
2Ease of manufacture
If video endoscopes are designed for reuse with sterilization capabilities, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but the complexity of sterilization tracking and validation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adopts a disposable imaging device that eliminates the need for complex sterilization tracking systems. Each device is pre-sterilized and includes a simple usage indicator that changes after use. This approach reduces manufacturing complexity while maintaining sterility assurance, as the device is discarded after single use rather than requiring tracking and re-sterilization infrastructure.
3Reliability
If single-use imaging devices are implemented, then sterility is ensured, but the cost per procedure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single-use imaging device that is discarded after one procedure, ensuring sterility without requiring expensive sterilization infrastructure. The device includes a usage indicator to prevent accidental reuse, maximizing value. While the per-unit cost is higher than reusable devices, the elimination of sterilization costs and reduced risk of contamination provide overall cost benefits.
4Ease of manufacture
If reusable endoscopes are used, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but the difficulty of ensuring proper care and sterilization increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adopts a disposable imaging device that eliminates the need for complex care and sterilization procedures. The device is pre-sterilized and packaged, requiring only simple attachment to the endoscope. A usage indicator clearly shows when the device has been used, preventing accidental reuse. This approach dramatically simplifies operation while ensuring proper care through single-use design.
Data Source
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AI summary
A system, apparatus and methods for providing a single use imaging device for sterile environments is disclosed and described. A single use high definition camera used for general purpose surgical procedures including, but not limited to: arthroscopic, laparoscopic, gynecologic, and urologic procedures, may comprise an imaging device that is a sterile and designed to ensure single use. The imaging device may have a single imaging sensor, either CCD (charge coupled device) or CMOS (complementary metal oxide semiconductor), encased in a housing. The imaging device may further include the ability to be attached to an optical coupling device, using C-Mount threads or another proprietary or unique connection method. The imaging device may further include a cable to transmit data to and from a camera control unit.