Steerable Surgical Cannula Hinge and FBG Tension Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
The manufacturing of steerable surgical cannulas is labor-intensive and prone to component damage, and it is challenging to accurately monitor tension forces applied during their use, especially as the cannula length increases, affecting their deformation and steering capabilities.
Innovation Solution
The development of surgical cannulas with patterned holes or apertures for enhanced axial bending and torsional rigidity, along with a deformable hinge formed in situ and force-sensing tendons equipped with fiber Bragg grating reflectors to monitor tension loads, allowing for precise control and monitoring of cannula deformation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional manufacturing methods are used for steerable surgical cannulas, then the cannula can be produced, but the manufacturing process is labor-intensive and prone to component damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple manufacturing operations (cutting, hinge formation, pin creation) into a single automated laser processing step, eliminating sequential manual operations and reducing component handling that causes damage
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical manufacturing processes with automated laser-based processing, eliminating labor-intensive operations and the associated risk of human error and component damage
2Length of moving object
If the cannula length is increased to reach deeper surgical sites, then the steering capability is improved, but the tension force monitoring becomes more challenging and less accurate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical strain gauge systems with optical fiber Bragg grating sensors that use light wavelength shifts to measure tension, providing higher precision measurements over longer cannula lengths without signal degradation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from electrical resistance (strain gauges) to optical wavelength (FBG), enabling more accurate tension measurement over extended distances by using light instead of electrical signals
3Ease of operation
If the cannula is made more flexible to enable bending and steering, then the maneuverability is improved, but the structural integrity and resistance to damage deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the cannula wall into multiple regions separated by hinges, allowing controlled bending at specific locations while maintaining structural integrity in the solid wall segments between hinges
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different structural qualities to different parts of the cannula: solid walls for strength and rigidity, and hinged regions for flexibility and steering, optimizing both structural integrity and maneuverability
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
This solution improves the manufacturing efficiency and structural integrity of steerable cannulas while enabling accurate monitoring of tension forces, enhancing their steering capabilities and reducing the risk of damage during surgical procedures.
Implementation Method 1
a fiber brag grating (FBG) reflector mounted to the tendon such that a tension in the tendon causes a strain on the FBG reflector
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments disclosed herein are directed to surgical cannulas and methods relating thereto. In some embodiments, a method includes cutting one or more lines in a tubular member to form a tubular body and a hinge of a surgical cannula. In some embodiments, a surgical cannula includes a fiber brag grating (FBG) reflector mounted to a tendon for deflecting a distal tip of the surgical cannula. A controller is coupled to the FBG reflector and is configured to determine a tension in the tendon based on reflected light from the FBG reflector. In some embodiments, a surgical cannula includes a tubular body including a plurality of apertures extending therethrough.