Surgical Power Module Automatic Handpiece Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing powered surgical tools face challenges in efficiently distinguishing between different handpieces, leading to potential misconfiguration and errors when using aseptic power modules with various surgical handpieces, which can result in improper operation and increased risk of contamination.
Innovation Solution
The integration of a data tag with magnets in the handpiece and sensors in the power module allows for automatic detection and configuration of power output based on the specific handpiece type, ensuring proper coupling and operation without manual setting, thereby reducing errors and ensuring sterilization integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual configuration is used to match power modules with handpieces, then operational flexibility is maintained, but configuration errors and contamination risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The power module automatically detects handpiece type through magnetic sensors and configures its output parameters without manual intervention. The system self-identifies the connected handpiece using magnet presence/position detection and autonomously adjusts voltage, current, and power delivery settings, eliminating configuration errors while maintaining operational flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical configuration switches are replaced with automatic magnetic field-based detection and electronic control systems. Magnetic sensors detect the handpiece type through the magnetic field generated by magnets in the handpiece, and electronic controllers automatically configure power output parameters, substituting manual mechanical operations with automated electromagnetic detection and control.
2Reliability
If sealed modules are used to protect electrical components during sterilization, then corrosion resistance improves, but joint breakdown over time occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The power module is segmented into sterilizable and non-sterilizable sections. Electrical components are isolated in sealed compartments that can withstand sterilization, while magnetic detection components are positioned in non-sterile zones. This segmentation allows the sterile portions to be repeatedly sterilized without affecting non-sterile components, extending overall system lifespan.
Solution Approach 2:
Magnetic fields serve as an intermediary for communication between the power module and handpiece without requiring direct physical contact or wired connections that would compromise sterilization barriers. The magnetic detection system allows configuration data transfer through the sterile barrier, eliminating the need for penetrations that would weaken seals over time.
3Measurement precision
If automatic handpiece detection is implemented, then configuration accuracy improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Magnetic magnets are strategically positioned at specific locations on the handpiece corresponding to distinct handpiece types. The power module contains sensors positioned to detect these local magnetic signatures. Each handpiece type has a unique magnetic configuration (presence, position, or strength), allowing accurate identification through localized field detection without requiring complex overall system analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses magnetic field strength and presence as analogous 'signatures' to identify different handpiece types, similar to how color coding identifies different categories. Each handpiece type produces a distinct magnetic field pattern that the sensor detects and translates into specific configuration settings, providing accurate identification through simple field characterization rather than complex analysis.
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 enables the surgical power tool to automatically adapt to different handpieces, enhancing operational safety and efficiency by ensuring correct power configuration and reducing the risk of contamination, while also simplifying the preparation process for surgical procedures.
Implementation Method 1
A first set of sensors is disposed in said shell base adjacent said bottom plate configured to detect the presence of magnetic fields generated external to said shell by a data tag of the surgical handpiece
Data Source
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AI summary
A surgical handpiece (40) including a shell (42) is disclosed. The shell is shaped to define a void (52) for receiving a power module (180) and an opening through which the power module is insertable into and removable from the void space. A lid (62) is moveably mountable to the shell to cover the shell opening, and a latch (90, 101) moveably attached to one of the shell or the lid for holding said lid in a latched state. A data tag (98) is mounted to the latch (90, 101) so as to move with said latch. The data tag (98) includes data that identifies said handpiece. A power module for the handpiece, comprising: a shell (180) with a tower (210) with a cross sectional area less than that of the base (182); a motor (290) in said shell tower; a cell/battery (270) in said shell base; a first set of sensors (286, 288) in said shell base and a second set of sensors (302, 304) in said shell tower spaced at least 5 cm apart from the first set, for detecting magnetic fields generated external to said shell; a controller (320) to regulate the application of current from the cell to said motor to control the actuation of said motor based on the received sensor signals.