Endoscopic Forceps Jaw Latching with Arc Pin and Labyrinth Plate
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current latching mechanisms for endoscopic cutting forceps are mechanically complex and expensive to manufacture, necessitating a simpler and more cost-effective solution for both these devices and other lever-actuated surgical instruments.
Innovation Solution
A lever latching system comprising a housing, a lever with a latch pin, and a latch plate with a labyrinth, where the latch pin moves in an arc or is offset from the pivot point, allowing for a mechanically simple and inexpensive latching mechanism that can be used in endoscopic cutting forceps and other surgical instruments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If current latching mechanisms are used for endoscopic cutting forceps, then the jaws can be locked in closed position, but the mechanism becomes mechanically complex and expensive to manufacture
Solution Approach 1:
The latching mechanism is divided into separate functional components: a lever with an arc-shaped latch pin, a latch plate with a labyrinth, and a housing. Each component has a specific function, and they work together through simple geometric interactions rather than complex mechanical linkages. The latch pin's arc-shaped path through the labyrinth provides the latching function while maintaining simplicity in each individual component.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch pin serves as an intermediary element that mediates between the lever's rotational motion and the latch plate's linear movement. The arc-shaped path of the latch pin through the labyrinth acts as a geometric mediator that converts rotational motion into linear displacement, eliminating the need for complex mechanical conversion mechanisms.
2Reliability
If current latching mechanisms are used for endoscopic cutting forceps, then the jaws can be locked in closed position, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanism is segmented into simple, manufacturable components that can be produced using standard manufacturing processes. The latch plate with its labyrinth feature, the lever with the arc-shaped pin, and the housing are distinct parts that can be manufactured separately and assembled, reducing overall manufacturing complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The latching mechanism is designed with simple geometric features (arc-shaped pin, labyrinth) that can be easily manufactured and potentially integrated into disposable endoscopic instruments. This approach aligns with the trend toward single-use surgical instruments where cost-effectiveness and ease of manufacturing are critical.
3Device complexity
If a latch pin moves in an arc through a labyrinth, then the latching mechanism is mechanically simple, but the latch plate must move linearly with respect to the housing
Solution Approach 1:
The arc-shaped latch pin acts as a geometric intermediary that mediates between the lever's rotation and the latch plate's linear movement. By constraining the latch pin to follow an arc-shaped path through the labyrinth, the mechanism automatically converts rotational motion into linear displacement of the latch plate without requiring additional mechanical components.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch pin's path is defined by an arc (curved geometry) rather than a straight line. This curvature is intentionally designed to convert the rotational motion of the lever into linear motion of the latch plate. The curved geometry of the arc-shaped pin interacting with the labyrinth provides the mechanical advantage of motion conversion while maintaining overall simplicity.
Data Source
AI summary
A lever latching system comprising: a housing; a lever having a latch pin fixedly mounted to the lever, the lever being movably mounted to the housing so that the latch pin moves in an arc; and a latch plate movably mounted to the housing for linear movement with respect to the housing, the latch plate comprising a labyrinth for receiving the latch pin.