Arthroscopic Probe Coupling for Rotary-to-Articulation Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing arthroscopic tools require multiple types with different functions, leading to high inventory costs and compatibility issues with rotating and non-rotating end effectors, particularly for articulating devices.
Innovation Solution
A motorized handpiece with a rotating drive shaft that engages a rotatable coupling to convert rotary motion into articulating motion, compatible with both rotating and articulating tools, using concentric sleeves and a reciprocatable electrode for enhanced tissue ablation and extraction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple types of arthroscopic tools with different functions are used, then various surgical tasks can be performed, but inventory costs and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The handpiece is designed with a universal drive interface that can accommodate multiple types of tools including rotating end effectors (drills, shavers, grinders) and non-rotating end effectors (probes, electrodes). This multi-functional design allows a single handpiece to perform various surgical tasks by simply changing the attached tool, thereby reducing inventory complexity while maintaining functional versatility
2Power
If a rotating drive shaft is used in the handpiece, then rotating end effectors can be driven, but compatibility with non-rotating and articulating end effectors becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
A drive coupling mechanism serves as an intermediary between the rotating drive shaft and the end effector. This coupling can selectively transmit rotation to rotating end effectors while also being capable of converting the rotary motion into articulating motion for articulating end effectors, thus maintaining compatibility across different tool types
Solution Approach 2:
The drive coupling mechanism is designed to be dynamic in its function - it can operate in different modes depending on the attached tool. When a rotating end effector is attached, it transmits rotation directly. When an articulating end effector is attached, it converts the rotary motion into articulating motion, providing adaptability while maintaining a single rotating drive shaft design
3Ease of operation
If articulating end effectors are used to reach difficult tissues, then access to targeted tissues is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The articulating end effector employs a nested structure where an inner articulating shaft is positioned within an outer shaft. The inner shaft can articulate relative to the outer shaft while both are contained within a compact configuration, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining the ability to reach difficult tissues
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 efficient and cost-effective use of a single handpiece with disposable tools, allowing for precise access to difficult-to-reach tissues with articulating end effectors, reducing inventory burdens and improving surgical efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
A rotatable drive coupling on or within the hub is configured to detachably engage the rotating driver when the hub is connected to the handpiece. Rotation of the drive coupling by the driver causes the articulating distal region of the shaft to articulate.
Implementation Method 2
a proximal portion of the inner sleeve is axially movably or translatably mounted in an interior bore of the outer sleeve in response to rotation of the driver
Data Source
AI summary
An arthroscopy system includes both a motorized handpiece and a detachable probe. The motorized handpiece includes a rotating driver which is configured to engage a rotatable drive coupling within a hub of the probe. The probe has a shaft with an articulating distal region, and the rotatable drive coupling is configured to convert the rotary motion of the rotating driver to an articulating motion within the articulating region of the probe.