Articulating Endoscopic Screwdriver with Segmented Torque Shaft
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical tools face challenges in inserting screws into bones due to limited access and anatomical constraints, which can lead to increased procedural time and patient trauma.
Innovation Solution
An articulating tool with a flexible or elastomeric extension that includes an articulating driver head with bevel or miter gears, allowing for multiple angles of articulation and efficient torque transmission, thereby facilitating endoscopic placement of fasteners.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a flexible or elastomeric extension is used to navigate tight spaces, then access to difficult-to-reach locations is improved, but torque transmission efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The extension is divided into multiple segments with varying degrees of flexibility. The proximal portion is more rigid for torque transmission, while distal portions become progressively more flexible to navigate tight spaces. This segmentation allows each portion to be optimized for its specific function.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the extension have different mechanical properties. The proximal end maintains higher rigidity for efficient torque transmission, while distal portions have increased flexibility for navigation. This local variation in material or structural properties resolves the contradiction between torque transmission and navigability.
2Force
If a rigid fastening tool is used to maintain torque output, then torque transmission efficiency is improved, but adaptability to different insertion angles deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The extension transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic system that can change its configuration. The articulating component allows the distal portion to pivot and adjust its angle relative to the proximal portion, enabling adaptation to different insertion locations and angles while maintaining torque transmission through the rigid proximal section.
3Adaptability or versatility
If an articulating component with multiple angles is added, then adaptability to insertion locations is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The articulation function is extracted as a separate, dedicated component rather than being integrated throughout the entire tool. The articulating component is a discrete element that can be independently designed and optimized, reducing the overall complexity compared to making the entire extension articulated.
Solution Approach 2:
A gear mechanism serves as an intermediary between the proximal rigid portion and the distal articulated portion. This intermediary component enables the articulation function while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure, as the gear system efficiently transmits motion and maintains the desired range of motion with minimal complexity.
4Area of stationary object
If the outer profile of the extension is reduced, then the need for larger access portals is reduced, but the structural integrity for torque transmission may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The extension is segmented into portions with different structural requirements. The proximal portion maintains sufficient structural integrity and outer profile for torque transmission, while distal portions have reduced outer profiles to minimize the access portal size requirement. Each segment is optimized for its local function.
Solution Approach 2:
The outer profile and structural characteristics vary locally along the extension. The proximal end has a larger outer profile for strength and torque transmission, while distal portions have progressively smaller profiles for minimally invasive access. This local quality variation allows the tool to meet both strength and mini-invasiveness requirements.
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
The articulating tool enables precise placement of fasteners in tight spaces while maintaining sufficient torque, reducing the need for larger access portals and minimizing procedural complications.
Implementation Method 1
gearing (e.g., bevel or miter gears) can provide improved overall range for the articulating component
Implementation Method 2
gearing (e.g., bevel or miter gears) can provide improved overall range for the articulating component
Data Source
AI summary
Various articulating tools for endoscopic placement of fasteners are disclosed. The tool can comprise a multi-angle articulating screwdriver. The tool can have an elongate shaft with an articulating driver head at a distal end. The tool can rotate the articulating driver head to drive fasteners, such as screws, to a surgical site. The articulating driver head can articulate with respect to a longitudinal axis of the elongate shaft to enable the fastener to be driven at various angle. The tool can be coupled to a powered handpiece power and can transmit torque from the handpiece to the driver head.