Biased Shifting Mechanism for Multi-Function Surgical Instruments
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current surgical instruments lack versatility and efficiency in performing multiple functions such as grasping, dissecting, clipping, and suturing due to limited articulation and rotation capabilities, and often require manual dexterity that can be tiring and prone to error.
Innovation Solution
A surgical instrument system with a modular design featuring a handle and shaft assemblies that include a drive module with an electric motor, speed reduction gear, and articulation joint, allowing for rotatable and articulatable end effectors that can be selectively configured for different surgical functions through a clutch system and powered by interchangeable power modules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If surgical instruments use manual operation, then operator control is direct, but operator fatigue increases and precision decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operation with an electric motor system. The motor is coupled to the end effector through a transmission mechanism, eliminating the need for manual manipulation of the instrument while maintaining precise control through electronic actuation. This substitution reduces operator fatigue and improves reliability by removing human physical limitations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a transmission mechanism as an intermediary between the motor and the end effector. This transmission system (comprising gears, shafts, and coupling elements) translates motor rotation into the desired end effector movements, enabling automated control while preserving mechanical advantage and precision.
2Ease of manufacture
If surgical instruments have fixed configuration, then manufacturing is simple, but versatility for multiple functions is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic configuration system where the end effector can be rotated and articulated to different positions. The end effector is coupled to the shaft through a rotatable connection that allows it to assume multiple orientations relative to the shaft axis, enabling the same instrument to perform different surgical functions without manufacturing variations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the end effector with universal functionality through its ability to perform multiple surgical tasks (grasping, dissecting, clipping, suturing) by rotating to different positions. The single end effector structure, when combined with rotational capability, replaces the need for multiple specialized instruments, achieving multi-functionality without complicating manufacturing.
3Device complexity
If surgical instruments lack articulation capability, then structure is simple, but ability to perform complex surgical tasks is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the instrument into segmented components: the shaft, the end effector, and the articulation mechanism. The end effector is separated from the shaft and connected through a rotatable joint, allowing independent movement. This segmentation enables articulation capability while keeping each component's structure relatively simple and manageable.
4Measurement precision
If surgical instruments require high manual dexterity, then precision can be achieved, but operator fatigue increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual dexterity requirements with automated motor control. The electric motor, controlled through electronic systems, provides precise positioning and movement of the end effector without requiring operator physical dexterity. This substitution maintains surgical precision while eliminating the fatigue associated with manual manipulation.
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical instrument comprising a shiftable transmission is disclosed. The transmission comprises a mechanism for assuring that the transmission is in one of a plurality of predefined configurations.