Flexible Wire Actuator D-Head for Endoscope Jaws
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional medical device actuators face issues with friction, damage to endoscope linings, and labor-intensive assembly due to existing attachment methods, leading to inefficient and potentially damaging operation during minimally-invasive procedures.
Innovation Solution
A medical device with a flexible wire actuator featuring a D-shaped head and a 90° bend, which is securely attached to the jaws of the end effector, reducing friction and preventing wire protrusion, allowing for smooth operation and precise tissue manipulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the wire is securely attached to the jaws using conventional methods (Z-bend, crimping, welding), then the attachment strength is improved, but friction increases and the wire may protrude causing damage to the endoscope lining
Solution Approach 1:
The wire actuator is divided into distinct functional segments: a head portion for attachment to the jaw, a bend portion for directional change, and a shaft portion for transmitting force. This segmentation allows each portion to be optimized for its specific function, with the head designed to prevent protrusion while maintaining secure attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The wire actuator transitions from a one-dimensional linear structure to a multi-dimensional configuration through the inclusion of a bend portion. This bend creates a perpendicular orientation between the head and shaft portions, allowing the head to engage with the jaw in a plane that prevents protrusion while maintaining attachment strength.
2Ease of manufacture
If the wire is loosely attached through the bore using casting processes, then assembly is simplified, but the wire may protrude and scratch the sensitive lining of the endoscope
Solution Approach 1:
The head portion of the wire actuator is pre-formed with a specific geometry that includes a bend, creating a configuration where the head is positioned perpendicular to the shaft. This preliminary formation ensures that when the actuator is assembled, the head engages with the jaw in a manner that prevents protrusion and potential damage to the endoscope lining.
3Reliability
If conventional attachment methods are used, then the wire can be linked to the jaws, but the parts tend to wear and require labor-intensive assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The head portion and shaft portion are formed as a single integrated wire actuator component rather than separate parts that require assembly. This merging of components eliminates the need for labor-intensive assembly operations while ensuring reliable operation, as there are no separate parts that can wear relative to each other.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a flexible actuator, and methods for manufacturing and using a flexible actuator, for transmitting high loads from a user to an end effector. In one exemplary embodiment, the flexible actuator can extend from a handle of a medical device to an end effector located on a distal end of the device. The actuator can include a head formed on a terminal end thereof with at least one planar surface that is approximately coplanar with an outer surface of the flexible actuator. In use, the actuator can be coupled to a medical device having an end effector located on a distal end thereof. Tension applied to the actuator can be effective to actuate the end effector.