Ergonomic Laparoscopic Handle and End Effector Articulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current laparoscopic tools are poorly designed ergonomically, leading to trauma, fatigue, and discomfort for surgeons due to inadequate pressure distribution and design, which complicates minimally-invasive surgical procedures.
Innovation Solution
An articulating rod system with a control mechanism that includes connection rods and a control sphere, a gripping mechanism with a force controller, and an end effector assembly with offset pivot points and a pin-in-slot mechanism, designed to improve ergonomics and functionality by allowing directional force application and enhanced movement capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional laparoscopic tool handles are used, then the tools can be inserted through small incisions, but the pressure points on the handle do not correspond to locations on the human hand designed to absorb impact, causing pain, numbness, and fatigue
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by designing the handle with specific ergonomic features at critical contact points. The handle includes a pistol grip configuration with a trigger mechanism positioned to align with the natural grip positions of the hand, and a thumb rest positioned to accommodate the thumb's natural placement. This localized ergonomic design ensures that pressure is distributed to areas of the hand designed to absorb impact, resolving the contradiction between maintainable grip and prevention of hand trauma.
2Length of moving object
If laparoscopic tools with small sizes are used, then minimally-invasive surgery is achieved, but the tools are difficult to use and place greater mental and physical stress on surgeons
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by incorporating an articulating rod system that allows the end effector to move relative to the handle. The system includes an articulation control member with a receiving annulus, connection rods, and rod guides that enable controlled articulation of the end effector. This dynamic capability allows the surgeon to navigate the small tool through complex paths while maintaining ergonomic control, reducing mental and physical stress while preserving the minimally-invasive advantage of small tool size.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional handle designs (shank, pistol, axial, and ring-handle) are used, then various gripping options are available, but they result in either painful pressure spots or cause extreme ulnar deviation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a multi-functional handle that integrates multiple control mechanisms into a single ergonomic structure. The pistol grip handle incorporates a trigger mechanism for actuation, a thumb rest for stabilization, and an articulation control interface, all positioned to work together harmoniously with the hand's natural anatomy. This universal design eliminates the need to switch between different handle types, providing a single solution that offers versatile control while preventing pressure spots and ulnar deviation.
Data Source
AI summary
A number of improvements to laparoscopic devices are described herein, primarily to improve the ergonomic functionality of the devices. For example, an articulating rod system is described, a gripping mechanism is described, and an end effector is described.