Articulating Laparoscopic Energy Device with Rotating End Effector
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional laparoscopic devices face limitations in steering and manipulating distal features, such as clasping, vessel sealing, and cutting, which hinders precise surgical procedures.
Innovation Solution
An electrosurgical device with an elongate shaft and end effector featuring an articulation joint, closure bands, and a knife assembly that allows for articulation, rotation, and precise movement of the end effector, enabling improved positioning and tissue manipulation through a combination of articulation, closure, and cutting mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional laparoscopic devices are used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the ability to steer and manipulate distal features is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into multiple functional segments including an articulation joint mechanism with first and second articulation bands, a closure mechanism with closure bands, and a distal end effector. Each segment can move and function independently, allowing complex manipulation capabilities while maintaining modular simplicity in manufacturing
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates dynamic articulation joints that allow the distal end effector to articulate relative to the elongate shaft. The articulation bands and closure bands work together to provide dynamic positioning and manipulation of the end effector, enabling adaptive steering and manipulation during surgical procedures
2Measurement precision
If articulation mechanism is added to improve positioning precision, then the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The first and second articulation bands act as intermediary elements that transmit forces from the handle assembly to the distal end effector. These bands mediate the complex articulation movements, allowing precise positioning of the end effector while simplifying the control mechanism at the handle
Solution Approach 2:
The articulation mechanism is designed to distribute forces and movements evenly through the articulation bands, creating a balanced system where the end effector can be positioned precisely without requiring excessive complexity in any single component
3Adaptability or versatility
If closure bands are made movable to accommodate articulation, then the control mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The closure bands are merged with the articulation bands in a integrated configuration where both functions are achieved through a unified mechanism. The closure bands extend through the articulation mechanism and are operatively coupled to the end effector, allowing simultaneous articulation and closure operations without separate complex control systems
Solution Approach 2:
The closure bands serve multiple functions: they control the opening and closing of the end effector jaws and simultaneously accommodate the articulation movements of the distal end. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate mechanisms and simplifies the overall control system
Data Source
AI summary
Electrosurgical instruments and associated methods are disclosed herein. Embodiments of the electrosurgical instruments can include an elongate shaft that can articulate an end effector relative to the elongate shaft, with the end effector including opposed jaws and positioned at a distal end of the elongate shaft. In addition, electrosurgical instruments are provided that include a cutting feature or knife that is coupled to the end effector and can axially translate relative to the elongate shaft. Furthermore, the knife can be rotated relative to the elongate shaft, which can cause simultaneous rotation of the end effector. Electrosurgical instruments are also provided that include an end effector including opposed jaws that are configured to rotate relative to the elongate shaft and grasp objects (i.e., via opening and closing the opposed jaws). Electrical energy can also be passed through the electrosurgical instrument for performing electrosurgical procedures.