Bipolar Sealing Instrument With Split-Range Motor-Assisted Clamping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bipolar sealing instruments face challenges in ergonomics, operability, and user error due to the need for high actuation forces during tissue clamping, which complicates precise tissue preparation and increases physical strain, especially for users with smaller or larger hands.
Innovation Solution
A bipolar sealing instrument with separate actuating mechanisms for low-load and high-load working force ranges, utilizing a manual mechanism for sensitive tissue preparation and an electric motor-assisted mechanism for high-load clamping, allowing for reduced actuation stroke and ergonomic design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a large actuation stroke is provided to generate larger clamping forces on the effector, then high actuation forces can be achieved for tissue sealing, but the portion of the actuation stroke available for tissue preparation is limited and the instrument becomes difficult to use for users with small hands
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the actuating mechanism into two separate mechanisms: a first actuating mechanism for manual actuation in the low-load working force range (tissue preparation) and a second actuating mechanism with an electric motor for automatic actuation in the high-load working force range (tissue sealing). This segmentation allows each mechanism to be optimized for its specific function, resolving the contradiction between achieving high clamping forces and maintaining ease of operation for tissue preparation.
2Force
If the handle element is strongly compressed in the working position for tissue cauterizing, then high clamping forces are achieved, but users must hold this position with strong hand curvature leading to increased physical strain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the purely mechanical second actuating mechanism with an electric motor that automatically actuates the tool in the high-load working force range. This substitution eliminates the need for users to maintain strong hand compression and awkward hand curvatures, significantly reducing physical strain while maintaining the necessary high clamping forces for tissue sealing.
3Device complexity
If a purely mechanical actuating mechanism is used, then the instrument structure remains simple, but complex operating mechanisms are required to optimize both ergonomic design and fine motor operability, increasing the potential for operating errors
Solution Approach 1:
By introducing an electric motor for the second actuating mechanism, the patent reduces the complexity of the mechanical operating mechanisms required. The automatic motorized actuation eliminates the need for complex mechanical linkages and adjustments, thereby reducing the potential for operating errors while maintaining necessary functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The electric motor in the second actuating mechanism provides self-service by automatically actuating the tool in the high-load working force range without requiring complex manual manipulation. This automation reduces the burden on the user and minimizes the potential for operating errors related to fatigue or cramping.
Data Source
AI summary
A bipolar sealing instrument includes a first actuating mechanism for manual actuation of a tool provided at a distal instrument tip at least in a low-load working force range. A second actuating mechanism includes an electric motor configured to be automatically activated when a high-load working force range is reached, in order to subsequently transfer the tool into a high-load working posture/position in a motor-assisted or fully automatic manner supporting the manual actuation.