Differential Gearbox Assembly for Multi-Function Surgical Actuation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Robotic surgical systems face challenges in providing additional functionality to surgical instruments due to constraints in the number, type, and configuration of inputs provided by the robotic arm, limiting the ability to achieve desired functionalities.
Innovation Solution
A gearbox assembly with a carriage and differential gear systems that can translate rotational inputs into translational outputs, allowing for independent articulation of surgical instruments and precise control of jaw members and a knife, by using a combination of input and differential gear assemblies to manage inputs from the robotic arm.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If additional functionality is desired in surgical instruments, then the instrument capabilities are improved, but the number and configuration of inputs from the robotic arm remain constant, creating a constraint
Solution Approach 1:
The transmission system is divided into multiple gear systems (first, second, third, and fourth gear systems) with distinct functions. Each gear system handles specific movements (articulation, jaw actuation, knife actuation), allowing the instrument to achieve multiple functions while maintaining a manageable input interface from the robotic arm.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a differential dimension by incorporating three differential gear assemblies that operate in conjunction with the four gear systems. This differential mechanism adds a layer of complexity that enables the system to translate multiple rotational inputs into diverse translational outputs, effectively expanding functionality without requiring proportional increases in input channels.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple functions are integrated into the surgical instrument, then the versatility is improved, but the mechanism complexity increases due to multiple gear systems and differential assemblies
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple gear systems and differential assemblies are merged into a single integrated gearbox assembly. The first, second, third, and fourth gear systems are operably coupled with three differential gear assemblies, creating a unified transmission system that coordinates articulation, jaw actuation, and knife actuation functions within one compact structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The gearbox assembly is designed as a universal mechanism that performs multiple functions through its four gear systems and three differential assemblies. The same gearbox assembly handles independent articulation of the surgical instrument, actuation of jaw members, and actuation of a knife, making it a multi-functional component that reduces the need for separate mechanisms for each function.
3Measurement precision
If precise control of jaw members and knife is required, then the surgical precision is improved, but the mechanism requires more complex gear systems to manage multiple inputs
Solution Approach 1:
Each gear system is optimized for its specific function with tailored gear ratios and mechanical properties. The first gear system for articulation, the second and third gear systems for jaw actuation, and the fourth gear system for knife actuation each have localized characteristics that enable precise control for their respective functions while maintaining overall system coordination.
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 enhanced functionality and precise control of surgical instruments, including independent articulation and tissue manipulation, by effectively utilizing the inputs from the robotic arm, thereby overcoming the limitations of existing systems.
Implementation Method 1
The output gear assembly is a lead screw assembly. Each lead screw assembly may include a lead screw longitudinally fixed and rotatable coupled to the carriage, and a hub operably engaged about the lead screw such that rotation of the lead screw translates the hub.
Data Source
AI summary
A gearbox assembly of a surgical instrument and a surgical instrument including the same are provided. The gearbox assembly includes a carriage configured to selectively translate, four gear systems each including an input portion configured to receive an input and an output portion configured to provide an output, a first differential gear assembly operably coupled between the first and second gear systems, a second differential gear assembly operably coupled between the third and fourth gear systems, and a third differential gear assembly operably coupled between the first and second differential gear assemblies. The third differential gear assembly including an output coupled to the carriage. In response to different inputs provided, the third differential gear assembly provides no output to the carriage. In response to equal inputs provided, the output of the third differential gear assembly translate the carriage.