Ergonomic Medical Device Handle With Bulging Grip
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for ergonomic handles for medical devices, such as injection needles, that facilitate comfortable gripping and repeated extension/retraction of the needle.
Innovation Solution
The ergonomic handle design includes a first body defining a lumen and a second body with a grip that has a proximal portion, a distal portion, and a middle portion with a greater cross-sectional width. The grip features a plurality of ridges extending at a non-zero angle to the longitudinal axis, and an adapter for coupling to a fluid source.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional handle design is used, then the device structure is simple, but the operator experiences discomfort and fatigue during repeated use
Solution Approach 1:
The handle incorporates a grip portion with non-uniform cross-sectional width, where the middle portion has a greater width than the proximal and distal portions. This creates varying friction zones along the grip surface, with the wider middle section providing enhanced comfort and control for the operator's fingers, while maintaining structural simplicity overall
Solution Approach 2:
The grip portion features a curved, ergonomic contour with the middle portion bulging outward to match the natural curvature of human fingers. This spherical/curved geometry distributes pressure evenly across the contact surface, reducing operator fatigue during repeated needle actuation while adding minimal structural complexity
2Ease of operation
If a smooth grip surface is used, then the manufacturing is simple, but the operator loses grip security during repeated actuation
Solution Approach 1:
The grip surface incorporates localized friction-enhancing features in the form of circumferential ridges or knurling patterns. These surface irregularities are concentrated specifically in the middle portion of the grip where finger contact occurs, providing secure grip without requiring complex manufacturing across the entire handle structure
Solution Approach 2:
The grip surface is pre-textured with friction-enhancing patterns during the molding or manufacturing process. This preliminary incorporation of grip features ensures secure operator control from the first use, eliminating the need for post-manufacturing surface treatment or assembly of separate grip components
3Productivity
If the needle actuation mechanism is simplified, then the device complexity is reduced, but the operator experiences increased fatigue during repeated extension/retraction
Solution Approach 1:
The handle employs a dynamic actuation mechanism where the second body moves relative to the first body along the longitudinal axis to advance and retract the needle. This relative motion creates a mechanical advantage that reduces operator fatigue during repeated actuation cycles, while the overall mechanism remains relatively simple in structure
Data Source
AI summary
A medical device handle may comprise a first body defining a lumen; and a second body having a portion that is movably received within the lumen. The second body may include a grip. The grip may include a proximal portion, a distal portion, and a middle portion between the proximal portion and the distal portion. The middle portion may have a greater cross-sectional width than the proximal portion and the distal portion. The second body may be configured to move proximally and distally along a longitudinal axis of the second body in order to actuate a needle of a medical device.