Arthroscopic Handpiece Button Layout for One-Handed Haptic Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medical instruments for arthroscopic procedures have complex connection arrangements that are difficult to clean and operate safely, with multiple buttons requiring precise finger control, which can lead to errors during procedures.
Innovation Solution
A medical instrument with a simplified button arrangement featuring three buttons that actuate two push-button contacts, including a third button for simultaneous activation, integrated on a rigid key plate for improved haptic feedback and easy cleaning, along with a connection system using two arms with locking elements for secure attachment and detachment of the cutting edge holder.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple individual buttons are arranged independently on the handpiece, then the medical instrument can be operated with multiple functions, but the structure becomes complex and difficult to clean
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple independent buttons into a single integrated button arrangement with multiple actuation zones. This single arrangement includes first, second, and third buttons that can be actuated in different combinations to control rotation direction and suction functions, thereby reducing structural complexity while maintaining functional versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated button arrangement serves multiple functions: it controls clockwise rotation, counter-clockwise rotation, and suction operations through different actuation combinations of its buttons. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate independent buttons for each function
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple independent buttons are arranged on the handpiece, then various functions can be controlled, but the number of parts increases and cleaning becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple button structures into a single integrated button arrangement that can be easily detached as one unit. This arrangement includes multiple actuation zones (first, second, and third buttons) that control different functions, but are manufactured and cleaned as a single component rather than multiple separate parts
3Adaptability or versatility
If three buttons are arranged independently in a row, then multiple operations can be controlled, but the handpiece balance is affected and operation safety decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges three independent buttons into a single integrated button arrangement with multiple actuation zones. This arrangement is positioned at a specific location on the handpiece to maintain optimal balance and ergonomics, allowing the surgeon to operate safely without the handpiece feeling unbalanced
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a medical instrument for arthroscopic procedures, comprising a handpiece (2), a cutting holder (3) with an outer hollow tube (30) and an inner hollow cutting tube (31) with cutting edges (32) at a distal end of the inner tube, and a button arrangement (5) for actuating the medical instrument, wherein the button arrangement (5) is arranged on the handpiece (2) close to a distal end of the handpiece (2), wherein the button arrangement (5) has a first button (51), a second button (52) and a third button (53) as well as a first tactile contact (55) and a second tactile contact (56), wherein the first button (51) is configured to actuate the first tactile contact (55), the second button (52) is configured to actuate the second tactile contact (56) and the third button (53) is configured to actuate the first and second tactile contacts (55, 56) simultaneously.