Single-Handed Endoscopic Spatula Adjustment via Screw Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spreadable medical instruments for endoscopic interventions, such as laryngoscopes, often require two-handed operation for adjusting spatula blades, limiting their application and usability, especially in procedures where one hand is needed for additional medical instruments.
Innovation Solution
A continuous screw-in adjustment mechanism allows single-handed operation of spatula blades, with self-locking screws for precise positioning and tippability, and features like tapering and stepped contact surfaces to prevent tissue penetration and ensure self-centering, enabling one-handed use and versatility in various endoscopic applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a ratchet mechanism is used to adjust spatula blades, then the blades can be positioned in pre-established lock steps, but the operator cannot continuously adjust the blade position and must use both hands for operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional ratchet mechanism with a screw-in adjustment mechanism. The screw mechanism allows continuous adjustment of spatula blade positions rather than limited pre-established lock steps, and can be operated unilaterally through a handle designed for single-handed manipulation. This mechanical substitution enables both continuous adjustment and single-handed operation simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustment mechanism transitions from static pre-established positions to dynamic continuous adjustment. The screw-in mechanism allows the spatula blades to be adjusted continuously along their entire length, providing adaptability for different surgical requirements while maintaining ease of single-handed operation through the handle's ergonomic design.
2Ease of operation
If the adjustment mechanism is positioned far from the handle, then the mechanism can be accessed, but it requires two-handed operation and complicates the construction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the adjustment mechanism with the handle structure, integrating the screw-in mechanism directly into the handle rather than positioning it as a separate protruding component. This integration allows the operator to access and activate the adjustment mechanism while gripping the handle, eliminating the need for two-handed operation and simplifying the overall construction.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustment mechanism is nested within the handle structure, with the screw-in mechanism positioned inside or integrated with the handle body. This nesting allows the mechanism to be accessible and operable during single-handed grip without adding external protrusions that would increase device complexity or require additional space for operation.
3Device complexity
If pre-established ratchet positions are used, then the mechanism is simple, but the blade position may be too narrow or wide for current use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the adjustment parameter from discrete pre-established positions to continuous parameter control. The screw-in mechanism allows the operator to precisely control the blade position along the entire length of the spatula, enabling adaptation to various surgical requirements with fine-grained precision rather than limited fixed positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The continuous screw-in adjustment mechanism replaces the discrete ratchet system, providing uninterrupted adjustment capability. This substitution maintains mechanical simplicity while dramatically improving positioning precision and adaptability, allowing the blades to be positioned at any point along their length rather than limited to predetermined steps.
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 single-handed operation of the instrument, maintaining one hand free for additional medical instruments, enhancing usability in laryngoscopy and other endoscopic procedures, and facilitating easy cleaning and camera lens insertion.
Implementation Method 1
the adjustment mechanism is configured as a screw-in mechanism that is adjustable and continuous
Implementation Method 2
the locking screws are self-locking
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a spreadable medical instrument for endoscopic interventions having a base body, a handle positioned on the base body, and at least two spatula blades that are connected with the handle and can be displaced between a closed starting position and at least one working position parallel and/or at an angle to one another by means of an adjustment device, in such a way that the adjustment mechanism is positioned on the handle so that it is possible simultaneously to grip the handle and activate the adjustment mechanism with the same hand. To create a spreadable medical instrument that has the widest possible range of applications and is easy and safe to operate, it is proposed with the invention that the adjustment mechanism is configured as a continuous, adjustable screw-in mechanism.