Steerable Elongate Device Input Console with Infinite Travel Controls
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing input control systems for steerable elongate medical devices, such as catheters, lack intuitive control mechanisms that support precise management of insertion depth and steering, particularly in minimally invasive medical procedures.
Innovation Solution
The development of an input control console with a first input control providing infinite length of travel in a single direction for controlling insertion depth and a second input control with infinite length of travel in multiple directions for steering the distal end of the elongate device, coupled with transceivers and interface circuits for communication with a control unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional input control systems are used for steerable elongate devices, then the device can be controlled, but the control lacks intuitiveness and precision for managing insertion depth and steering
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into separate controls for different functions: a first input control (scroll wheel) dedicated to insertion depth control and a second input control (joystick) dedicated to steering control. This segmentation allows each control to be optimized for its specific function, improving both intuitiveness and precision without interference from other control functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The first input control utilizes rotational motion (another dimension) to control insertion depth, transforming the conventional linear slider control into a scroll wheel that can be rotated indefinitely in both directions. This dimensional change provides infinite length of travel and more intuitive control for insertion depth management.
2Adaptability or versatility
If finite length of travel input controls are used, then the control mechanism is simple, but it cannot provide sufficient range for precise control of insertion depth and steering
Solution Approach 1:
The input controls are designed with dynamic characteristics: the scroll wheel can rotate continuously in both directions with variable speed, and the joystick can be positioned anywhere within its range. This dynamic design provides infinite or extensive length of travel while maintaining mechanical simplicity through well-established control mechanisms.
3Measurement precision
If separate controls for insertion and steering are implemented, then control precision is improved, but the number of controls and system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each input control is designed to be universal within its function: the scroll wheel handles both insertion and retraction through bidirectional rotation, and the joystick handles both pitch and yaw steering through multi-directional movement. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of controls needed while maintaining high precision for each function.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
Systems and methods for controlling an elongate device include an input control console. The console includes a first input control having an infinite length of travel in a first direction, a second input control having an infinite length of travel in more than one direction, one or more transceivers for coupling the console to a control unit for the elongate device, and interface circuits for coupling the first input control and the second input control to the one or more transceivers. The first input control provides a first command suitable for controlling an insertion depth of the elongate device. The second input control provides second commands suitable for controlling steering of a distal end of the elongate device. In some embodiments, the console includes raised rings or bezels within which the input controls are mounted. In some embodiments, pockets of a drape are anchored to the raised rings or bezels.