Endoscopic Forceps Lever Latching With Labyrinth Plate Locking
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current latching mechanisms for endoscopic cutting forceps are mechanically complex and expensive to manufacture, necessitating a simpler and more cost-effective solution for both these devices and other lever-actuated surgical instruments.
Innovation Solution
A lever latching system comprising a housing, a lever with a latch pin, and a latch plate with a labyrinth, where the latch pin moves in an arc or is offset from the pivot point, allowing for a mechanically simple and inexpensive latching mechanism that can be easily integrated into endoscopic cutting forceps and other surgical instruments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If current latching mechanisms are used for endoscopic cutting forceps, then the jaws can be locked in closed position, but the mechanism becomes mechanically complex and expensive to manufacture
Solution Approach 1:
The latching mechanism is divided into separate functional components: a lever with an arc-shaped latch pin, a selector plate with a slot, and a latch plate with a labyrinth. This segmentation allows each component to be simple in itself while collectively providing reliable latching functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a complex mechanism to prevent the lever from moving, the invention uses a simple arc-shaped latch pin that naturally follows the lever's rotational arc and engages with the selector plate slot. The latching action emerges from the geometry of the components rather than from complex mechanical interlocking.
2Reliability
If current latching mechanisms are used for endoscopic cutting forceps, then the jaws can be locked in closed position, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanism is segmented into simple, manufacturable components that can be produced using standard manufacturing processes. The arc-shaped latch pin, selector plate with slot, and latch plate with labyrinth are all geometrically simple features that reduce manufacturing complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The arc-shaped latch pin automatically engages with the selector plate slot based on the lever's position, requiring no additional actuation or complex control mechanisms. This self-latching behavior reduces the number of parts and manufacturing steps required.
3Device complexity
If a latch pin moves in an arc or is offset from the pivot point, then the latching mechanism becomes simpler, but the geometric precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The latch pin is given an arc-shaped cross-section that matches the curvature of its engagement path with the selector plate slot. This curved geometry allows the latch pin to naturally follow its engagement path, reducing the need for high-precision alignment while maintaining reliable latching.
Solution Approach 2:
The offset position of the latch pin from the pivot point is carefully selected to optimize the engagement geometry. By adjusting this parameter, the design achieves a balance between mechanical simplicity and manufacturing precision requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A lever latching system comprising: a housing; a lever having a latch pin fixedly mounted to the lever, the lever being movably mounted to the housing so that the latch pin moves in an arc; and a latch plate movably mounted to the housing for linear movement with respect to the housing, the latch plate comprising a labyrinth for receiving the latch pin.