Tissue Characterization Probe With Vacuum Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current tissue characterization techniques face challenges in achieving reproducible and automatic contact and release between sensors/probes and tissue, leading to inconsistencies in measurement accuracy and reliability.
Innovation Solution
A tissue measuring system with a probe and control unit that automatically switches between scan and measure modes using a vacuum source to ensure a predetermined degree of attachment, allowing for accurate and reproducible tissue characterization without user intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual contact and release between probe and tissue is used, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision and reliability deteriorate due to inconsistencies in contact quality
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service through automated detection of contact quality and self-regulation of measurement timing. The processor automatically determines when optimal contact is achieved based on sensor feedback, and autonomously controls the transition between contact and release phases without requiring manual intervention, thereby ensuring consistent measurement precision while maintaining reasonable system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback control by continuously monitoring contact quality parameters (such as impedance, force, or position sensors) and using this information to automatically adjust and determine the optimal moment for measurement. This feedback loop ensures that measurements are only performed when predetermined contact quality criteria are met, resolving the contradiction between automation complexity and measurement reliability
2Reliability
If automated vacuum-controlled contact is implemented, then measurement reliability improves through consistent attachment, but device complexity increases due to additional control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges the vacuum control function with the existing probe structure and measurement system. The vacuum source and control unit are integrated into the overall measurement device, allowing automated contact control to be achieved without adding significant external complexity. The vacuum mechanism is combined with the probe's existing attachment structure, creating a unified system that improves reliability while minimizing additional complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs pneumatic principles using a vacuum source to create controlled attachment between the probe and tissue. By utilizing vacuum pressure to reliably secure the probe during measurement and then releasing it for detachment, the system achieves consistent and reproducible contact conditions. This pneumatic approach provides reliable automated control of the contact state without requiring complex mechanical locking or positioning mechanisms
3Measurement precision
If prolonged contact between probe and tissue is maintained, then measurement accuracy improves, but loss of time increases due to extended measurement duration
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs periodic action by automatically cycling through contact and release phases based on predetermined criteria. Rather than maintaining continuous contact, the probe automatically establishes contact, performs measurement when quality criteria are met, and then releases for a brief interval before potentially repeating the cycle. This periodic operation ensures sufficient measurement time for accuracy while minimizing overall cycle time through efficient automation
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by pre-establishing optimal contact conditions using vacuum control before initiating the actual measurement. The automated system prepares the contact state in advance, ensuring that when measurement begins, the probe is already in the optimal position and contact quality is predetermined. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for prolonged adjustment periods during the measurement itself, reducing overall time loss while maintaining measurement precision
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
The system achieves high accuracy and reproducibility in tissue characterization by ensuring consistent and effective contact between the probe and tissue, with automated mode transitions and detachment, enhancing the reliability of measurement processes.
Implementation Method 1
a vacuum source (pump) for providing suction to the probe
Data Source
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Figure 3A
AI summary
A measurement system and method are provided for use in characterizing a tissue. The system comprises a probe adapted for operating in either a scan mode or a measure mode, and a control unit for operating the probe. The probe comprises a sensing module for measuring one or more parameters indicative of one or more states of the tissue; and an attachment module configured and operable to enable selective operation of the probe in either one of the scan mode and the measure modes. The control unit is configured and operative to selectively operate the probe in either one of the scan and measure modes.