SENSOR SOLUTIONS

Sensors, Pots and Encoders are Medical Essentials

Bourns offers a wide range of sensors and control products designed for use in diagnostics, imaging, anaesthesia and surgery, as well as medical devices for emergency, therapy care, medication management and patient monitoring.



Diagnostic and imaging equipment ranging from X-ray machines to Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Computer Assisted Tomography (CAT) equipment must position the patient precisely. Precision potentiometers, such as Bourns’ Models 3500, 6537, 3435, 3541 and 3549H, are essential in achieving this. The 3549H uses a Hybriton resistive element that combines the temperature coefficient and resistance stability of a wirewound element with the long operational life, high resolution and low noise of a conductive plastic device.

The same types of equipment commonly include optical encoders in their panel controls. Devices such as the EM14 offer a smooth feel, exceptional rotational life and optional soft-touch push switch. Its compact package size, high rotational life and sealing capability also make the EM14 a useful option in adjusting flow and volume rates in infant care equipment. Bourns’ Model 82 panel control provides another option for such applications.

Emergency and patient monitoring equipment like ventilators and anaesthesia delivery systems may also include a panel-control optical encoder for oxygen flow-rate control. Defibrillators benefit from the exceptionally long operating life and sturdy construction of the Model ECW digital contacting encoder, as can mobility equipment such as scooters, and electro-ultrasound scanners used for combination therapy.



Precision components are required in a number of other areas. They are used to provide feedback control in medication management systems such as infusion pumps for drug and IntraVenous (IV) solutions and fluid dispensing equipment for nutrients and other liquids. In these cases Models 3541H, 3545H, 3549H and 3547H are recommended because of their Hybriton resistive elements. For radiation dosimetry, devices such as the Model 3590 provide position feedback to human body simulators.

The Model 3590 also finds applications in patient care equipment such as panel controls, dental chairs and other treatment tables. Other options include the Models 6639, 3590 and the new 6630l.

The Bourns range also includes devices such as the Model 51 control panel, designed to withstand autoclave environments and hence suitable for use in surgical equipment. Other devices are incorporated in radiation oncology and steriotactic neurosurgery. The Model 6657, 3541H and 3549H precision potentiometers provide position feedback for the X-ray head for Gamma Knife surgical equipment for non-invasive treatment of brain disorders.

Broad Product Portfolio

• Precision potentiometers
  • Effectively infinite resolution
  • Optional Hybriton element
  • Low-profile option
  • Bushing and panel control packages
  • Sealed versions
• Panel controls
  • Sealed options
  • Optional switch
• Rotary optical encoders
• Digital contacting encoders

Applications

• MRI and CAT scanners
• Infant care equipment
• Emergency and patient monitoring equipment
  • Ventilators
  • Anaesthesia
• Defibrillators
• Mobility equipment
• Electro-ultrasound scanners
• Infusion pumps
• Fluid dispensing equipment
• Radiation dosimetry
• Dental chairs
• Surgical equipment
• Radiation oncology

For further information, including the Bourns Medical Brochure, please click here