Forceps with Adjustable Support Element for Variable Spring Force
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing forceps lack the ability for operators to adjust the dissection force to meet specific operational requirements, as it is predetermined by the spring force derived from the length, cross-section, and material of the forceps, which often results in an unsuitable dissection force for the task at hand.
Innovation Solution
A support apparatus is introduced that is adjustable in spacing between the forceps branches, allowing the spring force to be customized by using an adjustable support element with a male thread that can be screwed into a corresponding female thread section, or by displacing a support element along one branch, enabling the operator to adjust the force as needed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the spring force is predetermined by the length, cross-section and material of the forceps spring, then the structure is simple and reliable, but the dissection force cannot be adjusted to meet specific operational requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The support element is made adjustable along the branch, transforming the static spring force into a dynamic, user-adjustable parameter. The support element can be positioned at different locations (e.g., via threading or sliding mechanisms) to change the effective spring force, allowing the forceps to adapt to different dissection requirements while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the physical parameter of spring force by modifying the position of the support element relative to the resilient section. By adjusting the distance between the support element and the tip of the forceps, or by changing the position where the support element engages the branch, the effective spring constant is altered, enabling continuous adjustment of dissection force without changing the basic forceps structure.
2Ease of operation
If the support element is made adjustable to change spring force, then the dissection force can be customized, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support element incorporates self-adjusting features such as threading mechanisms or friction-based locking that allow the operator to adjust the spring force directly without requiring additional tools or complex procedures. The design enables the user to simply rotate or slide the support element to the desired position, and the mechanism automatically maintains the setting, making the adjustment process intuitive and tool-free.
3Force
If the support element is positioned closer to the resilient section, then the spring force increases, but the range of adjustment is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extends the adjustment mechanism along the longitudinal axis of the branch, creating a linear dimension for adjustment. The support element can be positioned at multiple discrete or continuous locations along the branch length, with each position corresponding to a different spring force. This linear arrangement provides a wide range of adjustment from minimal to maximum spring force, allowing comprehensive coverage of different dissection requirements.
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
This solution allows for precise adjustment of the spring force, enabling the forceps to meet various operational demands, enhancing its usability in applications such as tissue and vessel dissection by allowing the operator to set the desired dissection force, thereby improving the effectiveness of the tool.
Implementation Method 1
a resilient section 18 distally adjoining the connection section
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a forceps with two branches which can be pushed resiliently against each other, are connected to each other at one end by means of a connection section and have a resilient section distally adjoining the connection section, a grip section distally adjoining the resilient section and forceps legs distally adjoining the grip section. In order to afford the possibility of matching the spring force of the forceps to different operational aims, provision is made according to the invention for a support apparatus which is arranged on a branch in the region between the connection section and the grip section or in the proximal region of the grip section, which support apparatus extends transversely between the branches in the direction of the other branch and which is adjustable in terms its spacing from the other branch.