Exploring how autoclavable brushless DC motors are powering advances in surgical power tools
DRIVES , MOTORS & GEARS PUSHING BOUNDARIES
PORTESCAP
Exploring how autoclavable brushless DC motors are powering advances in surgical power tools
The autoclave cycle exposes components to extremely harsh conditions in a process designed to kill bacteria , viruses , fungi and spores .
The demand for hand-held surgical power tools is at an all-time high due to significant surgical procedure backlogs and rising calls for elective and cosmetic surgeries . Where hospital administrators are under pressure to manage their costs , manufacturers are being challenged to produce tools that can be reused , typically requiring them to withstand autoclave cleaning processes . This is where Portescap ’ s autoclavable brushless DC motors can prove advantageous .
Opportunities and Challenges in Surgical Hand Tool Design
Despite the obvious opportunity for OEM designers , there are pitfalls and challenges that must be considered when designing surgical hand tools . It is a market of swift innovation with a trend towards miniaturisation to improve convenience , ergonomics and overall performance . This trend naturally requires advanced microelectronics that will perform to the tough regulatory standards that are rightly demanded of medical tools . As a result , the devices are often associated with high costs , which may be seen as restrictive .
Keeping costs in mind , OEMs are faced with two choices . Reduce component quality with a view to producing ‘ low cost ’, disposable solutions ; or develop solutions which can reliably be re-used , thus decreasing the ‘ Total Cost of Ownership ’. The second option is typically regarded as a more sustainable solution , both in terms
44 PECM Issue 71