Disposable Motor-Drive Loading Unit for Surgical Staplers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical stapling apparatuses require manual ratcheting to fire staples and cut tissue, which is inefficient and can lead to user fatigue and errors.
Innovation Solution
A disposable loading unit with a self-contained motor and axial drive assembly that automates the stapling and cutting process, eliminating the need for manual ratcheting by using a motor-driven axial drive assembly powered by a battery within the unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual ratcheting is used to fire staples and cut tissue, then the device structure remains simple, but user fatigue increases and precision decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical ratcheting system with an electric motor-driven axial drive assembly. The motor (240) converts electrical energy to mechanical motion, automatically advancing the axial drive assembly (204) through the carrier (216) and staple cartridge (220) to fire staples and cut tissue, eliminating the need for manual ratcheting operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The disposable loading unit is designed as a self-contained system with an integrated battery (526) that automatically powers the motor (240) to perform the stapling and cutting functions without requiring external power sources or manual intervention during the surgical procedure.
2Productivity
If motor-driven automation is implemented, then surgical precision and efficiency improve, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into distinct functional modules: the reusable surgical apparatus (10) and the disposable loading unit (16). The disposable loading unit contains the motor (240), battery (526), and staple cartridge (220), which can be manufactured independently and then assembled, simplifying the overall manufacturing process and enabling mass production of standardized components.
Solution Approach 2:
The axial drive assembly (204) is nested within the carrier (216), which in turn contains the staple cartridge (220). The battery (526) and motor (240) are integrated within the carrier housing. This nested arrangement minimizes the overall device footprint and reduces the number of external connections required.
3Duration of action of moving object
If a self-contained motor and battery system is used, then continuous operation is enabled, but weight and device size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The loading unit (16) is designed as a disposable component that is discarded after a single use or after the battery (526) is depleted. This eliminates the need for complex rechargeable battery systems, power management circuits, and cooling mechanisms that would be required for reusable systems, thereby reducing overall weight while still providing continuous operation during the surgical procedure.
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 motor-driven disposable loading unit simplifies the stapling and cutting process, reducing user fatigue and improving precision by automating the stapling and cutting actions, enhancing the efficiency and reliability of surgical procedures.
Implementation Method 1
A battery is supported within the carrier and coupled to the motor for supplying power thereto
Implementation Method 2
A motor is supported within the carrier and configured to interface with the axial drive assembly to drive the axial drive assembly in the distal and proximal directions
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
A self contained motor-powered disposable loading unit (16) for use with a robotic system configured to generate control systems there¬ for. The disposable loading unit may contain a battery (526) that is retained in a disconnected position when the disposable loading unit is not in use and is moved to a connected position when the dispos¬ able loading unit is coupled to the robotic system to permit the motor (562) to be selectively powered thereby. Indicators may be support¬ ed on the disposable loading unit to indicate when the axial drive as¬ sembly thereof is in a starting position and an ending position. Anoth¬ er indicator may be provided to indicate when the anvil assembly is in a closed position.