Ferrule Retention Latch for Minimally Invasive Suturing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automated suturing devices face issues with ferrules becoming dislodged from their holders before needle actuation, leading to premature deployment of sutures.
Innovation Solution
A suture security device featuring latches and actuators that secure the ferrule in place until needle actuation, ensuring the ferrule remains aligned with the needle for proper stitch formation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a ferrule holder is used to hold the ferrule in alignment with the needle, then the ferrule remains positioned correctly for suturing, but the ferrule may become dislodged prior to needle actuation due to device flexibility and environmental factors
Solution Approach 1:
The latch is positioned to engage with the ferrule before needle actuation occurs, preliminarily securing the ferrule in the holder against dislodgement. This preliminary securing action prevents the problem of premature ferrule release while maintaining proper alignment for subsequent suturing operations
Solution Approach 2:
The latch acts as an intermediary element between the ferrule holder and the ferrule, providing an additional mechanical connection that ensures the ferrule remains securely positioned. This intermediary component transfers and maintains the positional relationship between the holder and ferrule without requiring direct complex structural integration
2Adaptability or versatility
If the device shaft is made more flexible and steerable to position the tissue gap onto target tissue, then the device can adapt to various surgical environments, but the ferrule held in the ferrule holder may come loose prior to needle actuation
Solution Approach 1:
The latch secures the ferrule in advance before the device is actuated or moved, ensuring that even when the flexible shaft is manipulated to reach target tissue, the ferrule remains firmly positioned in the holder and cannot become dislodged during device positioning or operation
Solution Approach 2:
The latch applies a preliminary counteracting force to prevent the ferrule from becoming dislodged during device manipulation. This preliminary anti-action counterbalances any forces that might cause the ferrule to shift or release during flexible shaft movement and steering operations
3Reliability
If a latch mechanism is added to secure the ferrule in the holder, then the ferrule remains securely positioned until needle actuation, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is designed to be self-actuating through the latch actuator, which automatically engages or disengages the latch based on device operation state. This self-service design reduces the need for complex external control systems while maintaining reliable ferrule positioning throughout the suturing process
Data Source
AI summary
A suture security device is disclosed. The suture security device also includes a latch, a plate, and an actuator coupled to the latch and operable to move the latch away from the plate. The suture security device may also include a first latch array, a second latch array, a plurality of plates, a first actuator coupled to the first latch array and operable to move the first latch array away from the plurality of plates, and a second actuator coupled to the second latch array and operable to move the second latch array away from the plurality of plates.