Biopsy Coupler Latch for Bidirectional Needle Release

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing biopsy systems lack a coupler device that facilitates a bidirectional (push-pull) release of an intraosseous device from a biopsy driver, limiting operational flexibility and efficiency.

Innovation Solution

A coupler device with a drive body, distal latch member, and distal coupler portion that allows for bidirectional release of the intraosseous device by pivoting around a longitudinal axis, enabling both distal and proximal movement of the coupler portion to engage and disengage the intraosseous device from the biopsy driver.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a single-direction release mechanism is used to connect the biopsy needle to the driveshaft, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of operation is worsened because the biopsy needle cannot be easily exchanged during the procedure

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of biopsy needle exchangeVSAvoidcoupler device complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The coupler device employs a dynamic latch member that can transition between engaged and disengaged states through bidirectional actuation. The latch member is spring-loaded to automatically engage with the drive portion, but can be released by applying force in either direction, enabling quick exchange of intraosseous devices without complex manual operations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The coupler device serves as an intermediary component between the driveshaft and the intraosseous device. It includes a distal coupler portion with a latch member that mediates the connection and release functions, allowing the biopsy needle to be securely held during operation and quickly exchanged when needed by actuating the release mechanism

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the coupler device is designed with bidirectional release capability, then the adaptability is improved to accommodate different user preferences, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccommodation of right-handed and left-handed operationVSAvoidcoupler device structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The coupler device incorporates asymmetric features including a biased latch member that can be actuated in either direction, and an external operator arm that can be positioned on different sides to accommodate right-handed or left-handed users. The spring biasing creates asymmetric engagement forces that facilitate easy release in both directions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

Solution Approach 2:

The coupler device is designed as a universal interface that can accommodate different user preferences and operating styles. The bidirectional release mechanism and adjustable operator arm positioning allow the same device to be effectively used by both right-handed and left-handed operators, as well as accommodate different surgical approaches

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If the distal housing portion is made movable in both distal and proximal directions, then the ease of operation is improved for bidirectional release, but the reliability of the latch mechanism may be worsened

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebidirectional release operationVSAvoidlatch mechanism reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The latch member is spring-loaded to maintain constant engagement pressure with the drive portion, providing a cushioning force that ensures reliable connection during normal operation. The spring also absorbs shocks and vibrations, preventing accidental disengagement while allowing intentional release when force is applied in either direction

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Data Source

PatentUS20250387105A1Biopsy system and coupler device for use therewith
Publication Date: 2025.12.25 BARD PERIPHERAL VASCULAR INC
  • US20250387105A1 patent drawing
  • US20250387105A1 patent drawing
  • US20250387105A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A coupler device and methods for interfacing between a biopsy driver and an intraosseous device including a drive body rotatable around a longitudinal axis and having a distal drive receptacle. The distal drive receptacle is configured to drivably couple to a drive portion of the intraosseous device. A distal coupler portion is coupled to the drive body and is configured to operate a distal latch member. The distal latch member latches the drive body to the intraosseous device when the distal coupler portion is in a distal coupler latch position. The distal coupler portion has a distal housing portion that is movable in either of a distal direction or a proximal direction. The distal coupler portion has a distal release position and a proximal release position. The distal housing portion is configured to move the distal coupler portion to a release position to operate the distal latch member.