Collet Drive Shaft for Multi-Diameter Tool Engagement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional drive shafts for motor assemblies are not adaptable to accommodate a wide range of tools with different diameters and configurations, requiring additional attachments for each tool, which limits their versatility and efficiency in various procedures.

Innovation Solution

A drive shaft with a collet assembly and axial fixation mechanism featuring moveable members biased to engage tools of different sizes, allowing for secure axial fixation and rotational drive without the need for additional attachments, enabling the use of multiple tools with varying diameters.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a conventional drive shaft is used, then the structure is simple, but it cannot accommodate tools of different diameters and configurations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to accommodate different tool diametersVSAvoiddrive shaft structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The drive shaft incorporates moveable members that can dynamically adjust their position along the longitudinal axis. These moveable members include engagement features that can shift between different engagement positions to accommodate tools of varying diameters. The moveable nature allows the drive shaft to adapt its internal geometry without requiring multiple fixed configurations or attachments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The drive shaft is designed with a universal engagement mechanism that can interface with multiple tool types and diameters through a single structure. The axial fixation engaging portion and moveable members work together to provide a multi-functional capability, allowing the same drive shaft to securely hold and rotate various tools without requiring tool-specific attachments or modifications.

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If additional attachments are provided for different tools, then all tool types can be accommodated, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to drive different tool typesVSAvoidnumber of attachments
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the functions of multiple attachments into a single integrated drive shaft structure. Instead of having separate attachments for different tool types, the drive shaft incorporates multiple engagement features and moveable members that can adapt to various tool configurations. This consolidation eliminates the need for multiple discrete attachments while maintaining the ability to drive different tool types.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The drive shaft is segmented into functional regions including a tool engaging portion, an axial fixation engaging portion, and moveable members. Each segment performs a specific function, and their coordinated operation allows the drive shaft to accommodate various tools. The segmentation enables independent adjustment of different features to match different tool requirements without affecting the entire structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Device complexity

If a single drive shaft design is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to securely fix tools of different sizes is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedrive shaft designVSAvoidaxial fixation of tools
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The axial fixation mechanism employs moveable members that can dynamically adjust their engagement force and position based on the tool being held. The moveable members are biased by spring elements that provide consistent axial retention force regardless of tool diameter. This dynamic adjustment capability ensures reliable fixation across different tool sizes while maintaining a relatively simple overall design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The drive shaft utilizes parameter changes in the moveable members to achieve reliable fixation. The moveable members can change their axial position, engagement depth, and contact force depending on the tool dimensions. This parameter variability allows a single drive shaft design to maintain secure fixation across a range of tool sizes and configurations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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

Enables the efficient and versatile operation of tools with different diameters by providing a single drive shaft that can axially fix and rotate various tools, enhancing procedural flexibility and reducing the need for additional attachments, while allowing for easy tool interchange and sterilization.

Implementation Method 1

The moveable members may be biased to an engaged configuration to engage the tools. The biasing mechanism may be moved to disengage the tool from the biased configuration.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic deformation: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS11666344B2Multiple connection drive shaft
Publication Date: 2023.06.06 MEDTRONIC PS MEDICAL INC
  • US11666344B2 patent drawing
  • US11666344B2 patent drawing
  • US11666344B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Disclosed is a system to engage a plurality of tools. In the system a drive shaft and collet may be assembled to engage and disengage, selectively, a plurality of tools. User selection may allow use of a plurality of tools during a procedure or during a plurality of procedures.