Actuation Element Switching for Endoscopic Shank and Tool Rotation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscopic instruments face ergonomic handling issues due to the need for the thumb-operated rotation wheel to be encompassed by the index finger, leading to unintended movement of the proximal rotation wheel and inadequate adaptation for different hand sizes.
Innovation Solution
A medical instrument with a handle featuring an actuation element that can be moved into multiple switch positions, allowing for independent rotation of the shank and tool relative to the handle, using a star wheel design with positive-fit coupling parts and a spring-biased locking element to ensure precise movement transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If two rotation wheels are arranged on the handle for rotating the shank and tool, then the shank and tool can be rotated independently, but the thumb-operated rotation wheel is encompassed by the index finger, leading to unintended movement of the proximal rotation wheel and poor ergonomic handling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of two separate rotation wheels into a single actuation element with multiple switch positions. This actuation element integrates both the proximal and distal rotation control functions, eliminating the interference between two separate wheels while maintaining independent rotation capability of the shank and tool.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuation element is designed as a multi-functional component that can operate in at least two switch positions: first switch position for rotating the shank and second switch position for rotating the tool. This universal design allows one component to perform multiple functions that previously required two separate components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If two rotation wheels are arranged on the handle, then rotation control is provided, but the handle cannot be adapted to different hand sizes of various users
Solution Approach 1:
The single actuation element with multiple switch positions provides a more compact and adaptable design that can accommodate different hand sizes. The integrated design allows users with different hand dimensions to operate both rotation functions from a single control location, improving adaptability across various user groups.
3Ease of operation
If a single actuation element is used for both shank and tool rotation, then ergonomic handling is improved, but the mechanism requires a switching mechanism between different functions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control functions into a single actuation element that incorporates a switching mechanism. The switching mechanism is integrated within the actuation element itself, allowing seamless transition between controlling the shank rotation and tool rotation without requiring separate external controls or complex external switching arrangements.
Data Source
AI summary
A medical instrument includes a handle on the proximal end and a shank rotatably arranged on the handle. A tool is arranged on the distal end of the shank. This tool is rotatable relative to the shank. An actuation element is arranged on the handle. The actuation element may be moved into at least two switch positions, wherein in a first switch position the actuation element is coupled in movement to the shank and in a second switch position the actuation element is coupled in movement to the tool.