Trocar Camera Positioning via Magnetic Sensor and Sliding Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medical tools with embedded cameras for invasive procedures face challenges in obtaining clear images due to camera positioning issues, where the camera may be obscured by blood or other matter if too far distally, or provide poor quality images if too proximally positioned within the trocar.
Innovation Solution
A trocar with a movable camera system that slides along a channel within the cannula, controlled by a rotatable knob, and a position sensor to optimize camera positioning, allowing for improved visualization of target tissues without obstruction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the camera is positioned distally within the trocar, then the field of view is improved, but the camera may be obscured by blood or other matter
Solution Approach 1:
The camera is mounted on a movable element that can slide along the longitudinal axis within a channel in the cannula wall, allowing dynamic adjustment of camera position between proximal and distal locations to optimize imaging conditions
Solution Approach 2:
A magnetic coupling system acts as an intermediary between the external control mechanism and the camera, allowing remote manipulation of camera position without direct mechanical connection or obstruction of the surgical field
2Reliability
If the camera is positioned proximally within the trocar, then the camera is protected from obstruction, but image quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The camera position is made dynamic rather than fixed, allowing the operator to move the camera to the optimal location during different phases of the procedure - proximally when protection is needed and distally when field of view is prioritized
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows real-time adjustment of camera position based on feedback from the surgical field conditions, enabling the operator to respond to changing circumstances such as bleeding or tissue exposure needs
3Device complexity
If the camera is fixed in position, then the device structure is simplified, but adaptability to different surgical conditions is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The camera mounting transitions from a fixed structure to a dynamic sliding mechanism guided by a channel, providing positioning flexibility while maintaining structural integrity through the constrained movement path
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical connection between the external control and the camera is replaced with a magnetic coupling system, eliminating complex mechanical linkages while achieving the same functional result of remote camera manipulation
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 better image acquisition and visualization during minimally invasive procedures by allowing precise adjustment of the camera's position within the trocar, enhancing the effectiveness of medical interventions.
Implementation Method 1
a position sensor, which is attached to an inner wall of a distal end of the cannula, and is configured to generate signals indicative of a position of the distal end in the organ. In an embodiment, the position sensor is a magnetic position sensor.
Data Source
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AI summary
A trocar for insertion into an organ of a patient includes a cannula having a longitudinal axis, a camera fitted inside the cannula, and a movable element, which is coupled to the camera and is configured to be moved along the longitudinal axis of the cannula and to move the camera along the cannula.