Intelligent Adapter Assembly Rotary-to-Linear Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical devices with rotary motion power delivery are not compatible with linear-driven end effectors, and there is a need for adapter assemblies that can interface between these devices and store operational information for safe and effective use.
Innovation Solution
The development of intelligent adapter assemblies that include a housing for connection with surgical devices, an outer tube for connection with end effectors, a drive transmitting/converting assembly to convert rotary motion to axial translation, and a circuit board for storing operating parameters and life cycle information such as identification, dimensions, and maintenance records.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a rotary motion surgical device is used, then the device can deliver power efficiently, but it is not compatible with linear-driven end effectors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an adapter assembly as an intermediary component between the rotary motion surgical device and the linear-driven end effector. The adapter includes a rotary-to-linear conversion mechanism that receives rotary input from the surgical device and converts it to linear motion for the end effector, thereby enabling compatibility without sacrificing the power delivery efficiency of the rotary device.
2Adaptability or versatility
If an adapter assembly is introduced to enable compatibility, then compatibility between rotary devices and linear end effectors is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter assembly is segmented into distinct functional modules: a housing component, a rotary-to-linear conversion mechanism, and an end effector interface. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and facilitates easier manufacturing, assembly, and maintenance, thereby managing the complexity introduced by the compatibility function.
3Reliability
If operational information is stored in the adapter assembly, then safe and effective operation is ensured, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter assembly incorporates a circuit board with memory that automatically stores operational information such as usage counts, calibration data, and maintenance records. This self-service capability allows the adapter to track and retain critical operational data without requiring external monitoring systems, thereby enhancing reliability while minimizing additional complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables compatibility between rotary-driven surgical devices and linear-driven end effectors, ensuring safe and effective operation by converting rotational input into axial translation and storing critical operational data for each adapter assembly.
Implementation Method 1
a drive transmitting/converting assembly for interconnecting a respective one of the at least one rotatable drive shaft of the surgical device and one of the at least one force receiving drive member of the end effector
Data Source
AI summary
An adapter assembly is provided and includes a housing for connection with a surgical device and for operative communication with at least one rotatable drive shaft of the surgical device; an outer tube having a proximal end supported by the housing and a distal end for connection with a selected end effector, wherein the distal end of the outer tube is in operative communication with each of the at least one force receiving drive member of the end effector; at least one drive transmitting/converting assembly for interconnecting a respective one of the at least one rotatable drive shaft of the surgical device and one of the at least one force receiving drive member of the end effector; and a circuit board supported in the housing and storing at least one of operating parameters and life cycle information which are unique to the adapter assembly.