Adaptive Surgical Instrument Control for Multi-Function End Effectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current surgical instruments lack versatility and efficiency in performing various tissue manipulation tasks due to limitations in end effector movement and power management, requiring multiple devices for different procedures and lacking integrated control systems.
Innovation Solution
A surgical instrument system with a modular design featuring a handle and shaft assemblies, a rotary drive mechanism that selectively activates multiple end effector functions, and an integrated control system with sensors and power management, allowing for articulation, rotation, and clamping of end effectors, enabling versatile tissue manipulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single surgical instrument is designed to perform multiple functions (articulation, rotation, clamping), then versatility and productivity are improved, but device complexity increases due to integrated power management and control systems
Solution Approach 1:
The surgical instrument is designed as a multi-functional system where a single end effector can perform articulation, rotation, and clamping functions. The control system selectively activates different functions based on surgical needs, eliminating the requirement for multiple separate devices while integrating power management and control systems into one unified instrument.
2Productivity
If multiple end effector functions are integrated into a single instrument, then the need for multiple devices is reduced, but control system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system automatically manages the selective activation of multiple end effector functions based on detected surgical conditions and power availability. The system self-regulates power distribution to different functions (articulation, rotation, clamping) without requiring manual intervention, thereby improving efficiency while managing control complexity through automated decision-making algorithms.
3Adaptability or versatility
If power management systems are integrated to support multiple functions, then adaptability is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power management system operates in periodic cycles, activating different end effector functions (articulation, rotation, clamping) only when needed during the surgical procedure. The system alternates between active function execution and low-power states, thereby supporting multiple functions and improving adaptability while reducing overall energy consumption compared to continuous operation of all functions.
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical instrument system is disclosed comprising a handle, an elongate shaft selectively attachable to the handle, a battery pack replaceably attachable to the handle, and an end effector extending distally from the elongate shaft. In various instances, the battery pack comprises a power source couplable to the motor and a display. The elongate shaft comprises a processor and a memory couplable to the processor. In various instances, the memory comprises a control program which, when executed, causes the processor to initiate a desired function. In various instances, the end effector comprises a sensing circuit configured to detect a condition of the end effector. The sensing circuit is in signal communication with the processor.