Bipolar Forceps Jaw Actuation via Cam Slot and Pin
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Solution Overview
Problem
Endoscopic forceps configured for use with small cannulas (less than five millimeters) present design challenges due to size constraints, requiring an end effector assembly that maintains integrity and functionality while accommodating various access port sizes.
Innovation Solution
A bipolar forceps design featuring a housing with a shaft and drive assembly that includes an actuation tube operatively connected to jaw members via cam pins and slots, allowing for reciprocal motion to pivot the jaw members from an open to a clamping position, enabling effective tissue grasping and sealing with electrosurgical energy application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If endoscopic forceps are designed for use with small cannulas (less than five millimeters), then patient scarring and healing time are reduced, but the design complexity and manufacturing challenges increase due to size constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The end effector assembly is nested within a compact shaft structure that can be inserted through small cannulas. The jaw members are folded or nested in the retracted position, allowing the entire assembly to fit within tight spatial constraints while maintaining full functionality when deployed
Solution Approach 2:
The jaw members are designed with dynamic articulation mechanisms that allow them to pivot and adjust during the procedure. This dynamic capability enables the rigid jaw members to achieve precise positioning and effective tissue grasping despite the limited space imposed by small cannula dimensions
2Adaptability or versatility
If the end effector assembly is designed to accommodate various cannula sizes, then adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The end effector assembly is designed with universal features that allow it to function effectively across a range of cannula sizes. The jaw members and articulation mechanisms are configured to provide consistent performance whether inserted through a 3mm or 12mm cannula, eliminating the need for multiple specialized devices
3Force
If the jaw members are made rigid for effective tissue grasping, then grasping force is improved, but the ability to navigate through small cannulas is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The jaw member structure is segmented into multiple articulated sections that can flex and bend during insertion through small cannulas. Once positioned, these segmented sections lock or rigidify to provide the necessary stiffness for effective tissue grasping and sealing
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
The bipolar forceps effectively grasp and seal tissue across various cannula sizes, including those less than five millimeters, ensuring both functionality and integrity, facilitating efficient electrosurgical procedures with reduced scarring and healing time for patients.
Implementation Method 1
One or both of the jaw members is operatively connected to a distal end of the actuation tube via a cam pin that operatively engages a corresponding cam slot such that proximal reciprocation of the actuation tube cams at least one jaw member towards the other jaw member about the living hinge
Implementation Method 2
Electrosurgical forceps utilize both mechanical clamping action and electrical energy to effect hemostasis by heating the tissue and blood vessels to coagulate, cauterize, seal, cut, desiccate, and/or fulgurate tissue
Data Source
AI summary
A bipolar forceps is provided and includes a housing having a shaft that extends therefrom. The housing includes a drive assembly operable to reciprocate an actuation tube within the shaft. An end effector assembly operatively connects to a distal end of the shaft and includes a pair of first and second jaw members biased in an open configuration. One or both of the first and second jaw members is pivotable about a living hinge from a first position to a clamping position. One or both of the jaw members includes a cam slot defined at a proximal end thereof. One of the jaw members is operatively connected to a distal end of the actuation tube via a cam pin that operatively engages the cam slot such that proximal reciprocation of the actuation tube cams at least one jaw member towards the other jaw member about the living hinge.