Articulating Mechanism Link Components for Modular Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing articulating mechanisms and devices, such as endoscopes and steerable catheters, face limitations in remote maneuverability and require laborious steering mechanisms, making it difficult to navigate complex geometries and increasing the risk of trauma or imprecision in procedures like endoscopy and laparoscopy.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising link, joint, and central components with releasable connections and cable channels allows for the assembly and disassembly of articulating mechanisms, enabling enhanced remote maneuverability through the use of connecting cables that can be tensioned and secured, forming customizable mechanisms for various applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If traditional articulating mechanisms use fixed assembly structures, then structural stability is improved, but ease of assembly and disassembly deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The articulating mechanism is divided into multiple separable link components that can be independently assembled and disassembled. Each link component has standardized connection interfaces that enable quick assembly while maintaining structural integrity when connected.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system transitions from fixed permanent assembly to dynamic reversible connection. Quick-connect interfaces allow the mechanism to be easily assembled and disassembled, while connection features such as interference fits or locking mechanisms maintain structural stability during operation.
2Ease of operation
If articulating mechanisms use complex steering mechanisms, then remote maneuverability is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation worsen
Solution Approach 1:
Traditional complex mechanical steering mechanisms (knobs, pulleys, multiple wire systems) are replaced with a simplified cable-driven system. Connecting cables run through channels in link components and can be tensioned to control the articulation of joints, reducing mechanical complexity while improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism uses flexible connecting cables that can bend and route through curved paths defined by channels in the link components. This flexible cable system provides smooth control articulation without requiring complex rigid mechanical linkages.
3Adaptability or versatility
If articulating mechanisms are designed as custom-built units, then precision for specific applications is improved, but adaptability to different applications deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The link components are designed with standardized universal connection interfaces and cable channel configurations that can be used across multiple applications. By selecting different combinations and arrangements of the same basic link components, precisely tuned articulating mechanisms can be created for different surgical or industrial procedures without requiring custom-built units.
Data Source
AI summary
A component-based system for assembling articulating mechanisms that generally includes a variety of link, joint, central and spacer components together with connecting cables of varying lengths.