Electrosurgical Forceps Blade Stop Using the Jaw Pivot Pin
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrosurgical forceps with blades often require additional components for blade stops, increasing complexity and cost, as the distal extension of the blade can damage or dull due to contact with jaw components.
Innovation Solution
Utilizing a pivot pin of the forceps to limit distal translation of the blade, thereby reducing the number of components and preventing blade damage by acting as both a coupling element for jaws and a blade stop.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If additional blade stop components are used to control blade extension, then blade damage is prevented, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The pivot pin is designed to perform multiple functions: it couples the jaw to the shaft for pivotal movement, and simultaneously acts as a blade stop to prevent over-extension. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate blade stop components, reducing device complexity while maintaining blade protection
Solution Approach 2:
The function of blade stopping is merged with the pivot pin structure. The pivot pin extends into a slot in the blade to limit distal translation, combining the coupling and blade control functions into a single integrated component rather than using separate parts
2Reliability
If blade stops are added to prevent blade contact with jaws, then cutting effectiveness is maintained, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pivot pin serves dual purposes as both a mechanical coupling element for jaw attachment and as a blade stop mechanism. This eliminates the need for additional manufactured parts, reducing manufacturing cost while ensuring the blade maintains proper positioning for effective cutting
Solution Approach 2:
The pivot pin automatically performs the blade stopping function as part of its inherent structure. The slot in the blade engages with the pivot pin to self-limit blade extension, eliminating the need for separate controlled mechanisms or additional manufacturing steps
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical tool can include a shaft, a pin, an end effector, and a translating member. The shaft can define a longitudinal axis. The pin can be located at a distal portion of the shaft. The end effector can be connected to the shaft. The translating member can be positioned laterally inward of the shaft. The translating member can include a track and the pin can extend into the track to limit translation of the translating member along the longitudinal axis with respect to the end effector.