Surgical Instrument Signal Interference Detection With Embedded Sensors

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing surgical instruments face challenges in accurately detecting and resolving signal interference during tissue stapling and cutting operations, which can affect the precision and reliability of the procedure.

Innovation Solution

Incorporation of a signal interference detection system within surgical instruments, utilizing a stretchable optical waveguide and Hall effect sensors to monitor the position and load of actuation members, along with a sensing system to detect orientation and orientation changes, ensuring precise control and interference resolution.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If signal interference detection systems are added to surgical instruments, then measurement precision and reliability are improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal detection precisionVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates multiple sensing capabilities (optical waveguide for position, Hall effect sensors for load, orientation sensors) within the existing surgical instrument structure. The sensors are embedded in the actuation member and shaft assembly, nesting detection functions within the mechanical components rather than adding separate external systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The actuation member serves multiple functions: it provides mechanical actuation for tissue manipulation and simultaneously acts as a carrier for optical waveguides and Hall effect sensors. The shaft assembly integrates structural support with orientation sensing capabilities, reducing the need for separate dedicated sensing components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If multiple sensors are integrated into the surgical instrument, then reliability is improved through interference resolution, but ease of manufacture deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational reliabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the sensing system into distinct functional modules: optical waveguide segments embedded in the actuation member, Hall effect sensors positioned at specific locations, and orientation sensors in the shaft assembly. This segmentation allows each sensor type to be manufactured and tested independently before integration, simplifying the overall manufacturing process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The optical waveguides are pre-positioned and secured within the actuation member during manufacturing, and the Hall effect sensors are pre-calibrated before assembly. This preliminary preparation of sensing components ensures proper alignment and functionality while reducing assembly complexity during final instrument manufacturing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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

Enhances the precision and reliability of surgical stapling and cutting operations by accurately detecting and resolving signal interference, thereby improving the overall performance and safety of the surgical instrument.

Implementation Method 1

utilizing a stretchable optical waveguide and Hall effect sensors to monitor the position and load of actuation members

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOptical waveguide: Waveguide (optics)

Implementation Method 2

utilizing a stretchable optical waveguide and Hall effect sensors to monitor the position and load of actuation members

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHall effect: Hall Effect

Implementation Method 3

along with a sensing system to detect orientation and orientation changes

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOrientation sensing:

Data Source

PatentUS12383263B2Surgical instrument comprising a signal interference resolution system
Publication Date: 2025.08.12 CILAG GMBH INTERNATIONAL
  • US12383263B2 patent drawing
  • US12383263B2 patent drawing
  • US12383263B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A surgical instrument including a signal interference detection system.