Switchable Laser Source for Surgical Fixation Member Securement
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity of using lasers in surgical procedures due to safety regulations and the need for precise control, which can limit their application in bone fixation techniques despite their minimally invasive benefits.
Innovation Solution
A laser device with a selectively switchable laser source that can be configured between inactive and active modes, allowing controlled emission of a laser beam for fixing a fixation member to a surgical site, thereby reducing the risk of tissue and eye damage and simplifying procedural complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a laser source is used for fixation member securement, then minimally invasive benefits and precision are improved, but safety risks and procedural complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The laser source is designed to be selectively switchable between inactive and active configurations, allowing the system to transition between states based on procedural needs. This dynamic control enables precision when needed while reducing complexity and safety concerns when the laser is not required.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameter of the laser source from inactive to active state based on procedural requirements. This parameter switching allows the same device to serve both precision laser applications and standard non-laser procedures, reducing overall procedural complexity.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If strict protective measures are implemented for laser safety, then safety risks are reduced, but procedural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The selective switchability of the laser source allows the system to dynamically adjust safety measures based on whether the laser is active. When inactive, fewer protective measures are needed, simplifying the procedure. When active, appropriate safety protocols are engaged, ensuring safety without unnecessary complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the laser emission function from the always-on state, placing it under selective control. This separation allows the system to operate in a simplified non-laser mode when possible, removing the need for continuous laser safety protocols while maintaining the capability when precision is required.
3Productivity
If laser emission is continuously available, then procedural efficiency is improved, but safety risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The laser source transitions from a continuous emission state to a selectively activated state. This dynamic control maintains procedural efficiency by enabling laser use when needed while reducing safety risks by eliminating continuous emission and associated hazards during non-laser portions of the procedure.
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
Enables safe and precise use of lasers in surgical procedures by controlling the emission of the laser beam, reducing the risk of injury and enhancing the applicability of laser technology in bone fixation techniques.
Implementation Method 1
a laser source supported by the laser device body and capable of emitting a laser beam to the distal end
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A
Figure 2B
AI summary
A laser device having a proximal end and a distal end spaced from the proximal end, the distal end configured to receive a fixation member to be affixed to a target surgical site. The laser device includes a laser source supported by the laser device body and capable of emitting a laser beam to the distal end, wherein the laser source is responsive to at least one input so as to selectively switch between an inactive configuration whereby the laser source does not emit the laser beam, and an active configuration whereby the laser source emits the laser beam.