Coated Control Circuit for Moisture-Resistant Surgical Staplers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical stapling and cutting instruments face challenges in protecting electronic components from moisture and ensuring reliable operation under varying environmental conditions.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a control circuit with a conformal coating and a moisture mitigation system, including a moisture migration component, to safeguard electronic elements within surgical devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If electronic components are exposed to moisture in surgical devices, then device functionality is maintained, but reliability deteriorates due to moisture damage
Solution Approach 1:
A moisture collection agent is introduced as an intermediary substance between the moisture environment and electronic components. This agent actively collects and sequesters moisture molecules, preventing them from reaching and damaging the electronic components, thereby resolving the contradiction between maintaining device functionality and preventing moisture damage
Solution Approach 2:
The moisture collection agent is designed as a consumable component with finite capacity. Once saturated with moisture, it must be replaced. This disposable approach ensures continuous protection reliability without the complexity of regenerating or maintaining permanent moisture barriers
2Reliability
If moisture mitigation systems are added to protect electronic components, then reliability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The moisture collection agent functions autonomously to collect and trap moisture without requiring external control systems, sensors, or active mechanisms. This passive self-service approach provides effective moisture mitigation while minimizing the addition of complex system components
Solution Approach 2:
The moisture collection agent is integrated within the existing electronic component housing or casing. By nesting the moisture mitigation function within the existing device structure rather than adding external components, the solution protects electronics while minimizing overall device complexity
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
Enhances the reliability and durability of surgical instruments by preventing moisture damage to electronic components, ensuring consistent performance during surgical procedures.
Implementation Method 1
control circuit with a conformal coating
Implementation Method 2
electronic component having a moisture collection agent sealed therein
Implementation Method 3
moisture mitigation system including a moisture migration component
Data Source
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AI summary
A powered surgical stapler for stapling and cutting tissue is disclosed. The powered surgical stapler comprises a handle. The handle comprises a motor, a control circuit, a firing trigger, and a closure trigger. The motor is configured to generate a rotary motion. The control circuit is configured to control the supply of power from a power source to the motor. The control circuit comprises a printed circuit board, electrical components mounted to the printed circuit board, and a coating over the printed circuit board and the electrical components which seals the control circuit from the environment. The firing trigger is movable between an unactuated position and an actuated position. The closure trigger is movable between an unclamped position and a clamped position.