Ultrasonic Transducer Casing with Segmented Grip Geometry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ultrasonic treatment instruments have casing designs that are either too large or slippery, making them difficult for surgeons to grasp and maneuver effectively during procedures.
Innovation Solution
A cylindrically-shaped casing with circular arc portions and extension portions is designed to hold an ultrasonic transducer, featuring a virtual polygon cross-section with varying radii and wall thicknesses to provide a secure grip while minimizing slippage, allowing for efficient transmission of ultrasonic vibrations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the outer diameter of the casing is reduced to improve ease of grasp, then the ease of operation is improved, but the stability of the object's composition (structural integrity) may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The casing employs local quality by varying the wall thickness at different locations. The extension portions have greater wall thickness to provide grip stability, while the circular arc portions have smaller wall thickness to reduce overall size and weight. This localized variation allows the casing to maintain structural integrity where needed while achieving a compact diameter for ease of grasp.
Solution Approach 2:
The casing design incorporates asymmetry through the alternating pattern of circular arc portions and extension portions around the circumference. This asymmetric geometry creates a non-uniform wall thickness distribution that optimizes both the outer diameter for ease of grasp and the structural strength through strategic material placement at critical grip areas.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the casing is formed with extension portions to prevent slippage, then the stability of the object's composition is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The casing is segmented into distinct portions: circular arc portions and extension portions that alternate around the circumference. This segmentation allows each portion to serve its specific function - the circular arc portions provide a smooth profile while the extension portions create grip features. The segmented design achieves anti-slip stability through functional differentiation without requiring complex mechanical components.
Solution Approach 2:
The casing utilizes curvature through the circular arc portions that maintain a smooth, rounded profile, while the extension portions create controlled protrusions. This curvilinear geometry provides a comfortable grip surface that fits naturally in the hand, preventing slippage through ergonomic shaping rather than through complex mechanical locking mechanisms.
3Ease of operation
If the wall thickness is varied to optimize grip characteristics, then the ease of operation is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The varying wall thickness is implemented through local quality by creating extension portions with greater thickness at specific circumferential locations. This localized thickening provides enhanced grip characteristics without requiring the entire casing to be manufactured with high precision. The circular arc portions can be manufactured with standard tolerances while only the extension portions require the additional thickness for grip stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The extension portions are designed as preliminary structural features that are formed during the molding process itself, rather than requiring post-manufacturing adjustments. By incorporating the varying wall thickness into the mold design, the manufacturing precision requirement is shifted to the mold fabrication stage, where the geometry can be more easily controlled and replicated.
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 design enables easier handling and reduced hand fatigue for surgeons by providing a small, non-slip surface for the treatment instrument, maintaining structural integrity and facilitating precise application of ultrasonic vibrations during medical procedures.
Implementation Method 1
an ultrasonic transducer configured to generate ultrasonic vibrations when receiving supply of electrical energy
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosed technology is directed to a transducer unit used in a treatment instrument that comprises an ultrasonic transducer configured to generate ultrasonic vibrations. A cylindrically-shaped casing is configured to hold the ultrasonic transducer therein along a central axis. The cylindrically-shaped casing includes an outer circumferential portion having respective circular arc portions and extension portions formed thereon. A virtual polygon is formed by connecting together a plurality of virtual points located at positions outside of the outer circumferential portion and is separated by a predetermined distance from the central axis when a cross-section intersecting the central axis at right angles and a first virtual distance between the central axis and each side of the virtual polygon are defined. The circular arc portions each includes, as a radius from the central axis, a first length greater than the first virtual distance but smaller than the predetermined distance.