Wireless Surgical Instrument Calibration via Infrared Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional image-guided surgery systems face challenges such as complex setup processes, inaccuracies due to manual calibration, requirement of multiple operators, limited instrument compatibility, and high costs associated with sterilization and battery life issues.
Innovation Solution
The development of wireless surgical instruments with bi-directional high-speed communication systems, non-volatile memory for software updates, and integrated control buttons, allowing for real-time communication and calibration data exchange, enabling easier setup, calibration, and operation within the sterile field.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional image-guided surgery systems use manual calibration and initialization processes, then the system can be set up and calibrated, but the setup process becomes lengthy and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The surgical instrument performs self-calibration by automatically detecting its position through the camera system and exchanging calibration data with the computer system without requiring manual intervention. The instrument's emitter transmits calibration information that the computer system processes to automatically register the instrument's coordinate system, eliminating the need for manual entry of calibration data.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical calibration procedures with an automated optical/electromagnetic system. The camera system captures images of the instrument's emitter, and through image processing and coordinate transformation algorithms, the system automatically calculates and establishes the instrument's position and orientation, substituting manual measurement and entry with automated computational processes.
2Ease of operation
If traditional systems require multiple operators for instrument manipulation and system control, then the system can be operated, but the complexity and potential for inaccuracies increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control functions into a single integrated system where the surgical instrument itself contains control capabilities. The instrument can autonomously communicate with the computer system, exchange calibration data, and perform calibration operations without requiring separate operators for instrument manipulation and system control. This consolidation reduces the number of operators needed while maintaining operational effectiveness.
3Ease of operation
If traditional systems use tethered instruments, then the system can be controlled, but the range of motion is limited and additional wires and cables complicate the surgery
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the communication and control functions from physical tethering and implements them through wireless optical/electromagnetic signals. The surgical instrument uses an emitter that transmits data to the camera system, eliminating the need for physical wires and cables connected to the instrument. This extraction of the coupling mechanism enables full range of motion while reducing system complexity.
4Reliability
If traditional systems require frequent re-calibration when instruments are dropped or damaged, then the system maintains accuracy, but the time and resources required for maintenance increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the surgical instrument continuously communicates its status and calibration information to the computer system. The instrument's emitter and control system provide ongoing feedback about the instrument's condition, allowing the system to detect issues such as drops or damage and automatically initiate re-calibration procedures without requiring manual intervention or extensive maintenance time.
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
This solution enhances the precision, control, and economic efficiency of image-guided surgery systems by simplifying initialization and calibration, reducing the need for multiple operators, and extending instrument life through software updates and improved battery management.
Implementation Method 1
A camera system adapted to detect infrared light
Implementation Method 2
a sensor array adapted to wirelessly receive data back and forth between the at least one smart instrument and the computer system and to sense the position of the at least one smart instrument
Data Source
AI summary
A surgery system comprising at least one smart instrument, a computer system, and a sensor system adapted to wirelessly sense the position of the at least one smart instrument and to transmit position information to the computer system, wherein the sensor system includes a sensor array and the sensor array includes at least three linear CCD cameras and at least one infrared transceiver.