Powered surgical tool with control module that contains a sensor for remotely monitoring the tool power generating unit
US7638958B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 21, 2006 |
| Grant date | Dec 29, 2009 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 25, 2027 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB01F35/332
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A powered surgical tool with a housing that contains a power generating unit such as a motor. A control module is disposed in a shell that is mounted in the housing. The control module contains a control circuit for regulating the actuation of the power generating unit. The power generating unit emits a signal representative of the operating state of the unit that is transmitted through the structural material forming the shell. Also internal to the control module shell is a sensor that monitors the signal emitted by the power generating unit. This signal output by the sensor is applied to the control circuit. The control circuit, based on the sensor signal regulates actuation of the power generating unit. Wherein the power generating unit is a motor, the signal emitted is the magnetic field that varies with rotor position. The sensor monitors the strength of this field.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.