Articulating Laparoscopic Holder with Rotational Joints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current laparoscopic device positioning systems are cumbersome, expensive, require significant maintenance, and are difficult to control, especially when a skilled assistant is not available, and existing mechanical frameworks have too many movable parts that are slow to reposition and have a large footprint.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a holder with a central portion having two members that are selectively movable along a central axis, featuring multiple rotational joints and a clamping mechanism that allows for quick and precise positioning of a laparoscopic device using a curvilinear articulating arm, enabling one-handed operation and minimal footprint.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If high end robotic arms (such as da Vinci) are used to hold and position the camera, then positioning precision and automation are improved, but device complexity, cost, and maintenance requirements increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The holder is designed to be self-positioning through its articulating arm mechanism with multiple rotational joints that allow the holder to automatically adjust and maintain optimal positioning of the laparoscopic device without requiring complex robotic control systems or skilled operators
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning system is divided into modular components including an articulating arm with multiple rotational joints (first, second, and third rotational joints) that can independently adjust position, allowing simplified control while achieving precise positioning
2Adaptability or versatility
If mechanical frameworks with multiple adjustment and locking points are used to hold the camera, then positioning flexibility is improved, but device complexity and repositioning time increase due to too many movable parts
Solution Approach 1:
The holder employs dynamic articulating joints that allow continuous adjustment of position through rotational movement, eliminating the need for multiple discrete locking points and enabling rapid repositioning by simply rotating the joints to new positions
3Adaptability or versatility
If mechanical frameworks with multiple joints are used to position the camera, then positioning range is improved, but the footprint near the surgical field increases
Solution Approach 1:
The articulating arm structure nests multiple rotational joints within a compact configuration, allowing the holder to achieve extensive positioning range through sequential rotation of joints while maintaining a small overall footprint that does not encroach on the surgical field
4Device complexity
If simpler robotic arms (AESOP or LAPMAN) are used to hold the camera, then device complexity and cost are reduced, but positioning speed and control precision deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces complex robotic control mechanisms with a purely mechanical articulating arm design that uses rotational joints and gravitational forces to achieve rapid, smooth positioning without motors, sensors, or electronic control systems
Data Source
AI summary
A laparoscopic instrument holder for positioning a laparoscopic device includes a central portion having a first member operatively associated with a second member, the members selectively movable with respect to one another along a central axis, with the central portion having a proximal end defined by the first member and a distal end defined by the second member. The holder also includes at least three proximal rotational joints coupled to the first member proximate the proximal end, at least two distal rotational joints coupled to the second member proximate the distal end, a first ball and socket joint coupled to a distal rotational joint, and a second ball and socket joint coupled to the first ball and socket joint. In addition, the holder includes a clamp configured and dimensioned for retaining a laparoscopic device, with the clamp coupled to the second ball and socket joint, and a coupling portion proximate a first of the proximal rotational joints.