What are the various Applications of an Encoder in Medical Devices?

 In medical motion systems where accuracy and precision are the most important factors, encoders are highly important components.  The precision of the encoder makes them an important part of semiconductor manufacturing where nanometer precision is the norm. So, in medical devices, where utmost precision is needed for an error-free application of motion, an encoder for medical device is a vital component.

The medical equipment designers create medical diagnostic equipment with the use of the different kinds of latest technologies. One of the most complex technologies in this motion control which is used in equally complex medical procedures such as

●       Robotic surgery

●       Radiation treatment

●       DNA sequencing 

And more.

All these are procedures for medical diagnostics and treatment requiring high precision. Let us delve deeper into how the encoder is beneficial in use in different kinds of aforementioned medical devices and technology.

Robotic surgery: Surgeon assisted surgery methods are getting widely accepted across the globe. At present, nearly 80% of prostate surgeries in the US are done with the help of robotic surgeries procedures. Robotic surgery is again a motion control application. In some cases, redundancy is required in the functioning of the motion control components. Accuracy and reliable speed control are other important parameters in this kind of location in medical devices used in robotic surgery.

Radiation treatment: Radiation technology and treatment involves using various machines for administering radiation therapy for tumours in cancerous patients. The machine as a mechanism that guides the radiation beam on the table was the patient at the exact place where the tumour needs to be nullified.

It is a critical process as even a small error can result in damage to the healthy cells. In this machine, the communication between the encoder for medical device and the radiation control mechanisms in the device is truly important and requires precision.

The encoders for a bi-directional Cyclic Redundancy Check which is transmitted alongside the position of the control, which then evaluates the checksum for the bits.

Laboratory analysis: In machines for drug analysis and those for DNA sequencing, high-quality encoder feedback is important. The smooth and reliable motion of pipettes into the well trays forms the basis of the evaluation of samples. The motion takes place for a continuous duration which can last for 24 hours of the day. Here again repeatability and redundancy are critical. Moreover, with continuous operation cycles, the machine may heat up and its shape may change. Therefore, encoders with the functionality of real position assessment in both linear encoder and rotary or ball screw encoders are set up.

In DNA sequencing machines, having lab on chip mechanisms comprise several billion microwells, where colours must get detected. These are applications with very insulation. An encoder must be of high precision and thoroughly tested for the occurrence of any interpolation errors which can lead to errors in signal periods and eventually errors in data collection.

It is clear that the encoder for a medical device is the most vital component for accuracy and precision in the most advanced and complex medical procedures. Therefore, medical device manufacturers must procure the encoder supplies from the best and most reputable manufacturers providing duly tested and guaranteed performances encoder components.