Articulating Surgical Device with Segmented Member and Jaw Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Endoscopic surgical devices face challenges in navigating the complexities of human anatomy, requiring surgical instruments capable of multiple degrees of motion to reduce the number of incisions needed during minimally invasive procedures.
Innovation Solution
A surgical device with a handle assembly, an elongate member, and an articulation mechanism that allows the articulating section to move relative to the straight section, coupled with a locking mechanism for jaw members, enabling multiple degrees of articulation and precise tissue manipulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a surgical device is designed with multiple degrees of articulation to navigate complex anatomy, then the ability to reach surgical sites through fewer incisions is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The elongate member is divided into multiple sections including a straight section and an articulating section with multiple articulation points. This segmentation allows each section to perform specific functions while collectively providing multi-degree articulation capability to navigate complex anatomical paths through fewer incisions.
Solution Approach 2:
The articulating section incorporates multiple articulation mechanisms that allow dynamic movement and reconfiguration of the device geometry. This enables the surgical device to adapt its shape and orientation in real-time to navigate complex anatomy while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure through controlled degrees of freedom.
2Measurement precision
If a locking mechanism is added to fix jaw member positions for precise tissue manipulation, then the precision of tissue manipulation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism replaces complex mechanical positioning systems with a ratchet-based locking system. This allows precise fixation of jaw member positions through simple engagement of ratchet teeth with corresponding slots, achieving accurate tissue manipulation without requiring complex multi-component mechanical assemblies.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is implemented as a separate, modular component within the handle assembly that can independently fix jaw positions. This extraction of the locking function from the main actuation mechanism allows precise tissue manipulation while keeping the overall device structure relatively simple and maintainable.
3Ease of operation
If the articulating section is designed to articulate toward a first direction upon movement of the handle assembly, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The articulation control is merged with the handle assembly actuation mechanism. Movement of the handle assembly in a first direction directly articulates the articulating section toward the same direction through coupled mechanical linkages. This integration allows intuitive control where the operator's natural hand movements directly translate to articulation directions without requiring separate control mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical device for performing surgery generally includes a handle assembly, an elongate member extending from the handle assembly, an articulation mechanism operatively associated with the handle assembly, and an end effector. The elongate member has an articulating section and straight section. The articulating section is configured to articulate with respect to the straight section. The articulation mechanism is operatively associated with the handle assembly and the articulating section such that the articulating section articulates toward a first direction relative to the straight section upon movement of the handle assembly towards the first direction with respect to the straight section. The end effector is operatively coupled to the articulating section of the elongate member and includes first and second jaw members. The surgical device further includes a locking mechanism configured for fixing a relative position of first and second jaw members.