Articulating Stapler Adapter Assembly for Quick Loading Unit Exchange
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical stapling devices with powered handles face challenges in efficiently replacing disposable or multiple-use loading units during procedures, as the process is often complex and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
The design includes an adapter assembly with a proximal and distal body portion that articulates relative to each other, featuring a drive gear system and a flexible band tensioning mechanism, allowing for easy attachment and detachment of loading units, and a locking mechanism to secure the cartridge assembly, facilitating efficient staple and cut functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a powered handle with motor is used to actuate loading units, then surgical stapling functions can be performed, but the replacement of loading units becomes complicated and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter assembly is divided into separable components including a proximal body portion, distal body portion, and articulation joint, allowing the loading unit to be independently removed and replaced while keeping the powered handle assembly in place
Solution Approach 2:
The articulation joint enables dynamic movement between the proximal and distal body portions, allowing the distal body portion to articulate relative to the proximal body portion to facilitate loading unit replacement while maintaining connection to the powered handle
2Measurement precision
If a complex drive transfer assembly with multiple gears is used, then precise control of loading units is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The drive transfer assembly acts as an intermediary mechanism between the powered handle and loading unit, using a coordinated system of bevel gears and spur gears to precisely transfer and convert rotational motion while maintaining manageable complexity through modular arrangement
Solution Approach 2:
The articulation joint introduces an additional dimensional degree of freedom, allowing the distal body portion to move relative to the proximal body portion, which simplifies the overall mechanism by enabling flexible positioning without requiring complex universal joints or spherical connections
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
This configuration enables quick and secure attachment/detachment of loading units, reducing procedural time and enhancing the efficiency of staple and cut operations, while maintaining the stability and precision required for surgical procedures.
Implementation Method 1
a first drive gear disposed within the distal body portion... The loading unit may include a second drive gear configured to engage the first drive gear
Implementation Method 2
The loading unit may include a drive screw and the second drive gear may be disposed on a proximal end of the drive screw. Rotation of the drive screw may cause advancement of the drive beam
Implementation Method 3
The flexible band may be operably connected to a third drive shaft extending through the proximal body portion
Data Source
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AI summary
A surgical apparatus is provided. The surgical apparatus includes a proximal body portion, a distal body portion selectively articulable relative to the proximal body portion at an articulation joint, and a first drive gear disposed within the distal body portion. The distal body portion has a diameter and a length. The length of the distal body portion is substantially the same as the diameter of the distal body portion.