Two-Part Forceps Drive Bar for Simpler Jaw Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing forceps designs are complex and costly to manufacture, with limited space for other components due to the design and assembly requirements of the drive bar mechanism.
Innovation Solution
A forceps design featuring a drive bar formed from a pair of identical drive bar struts that snap into slots on an inner shaft, simplifying manufacturing, reducing costs, and maximizing space for other components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a traditional drive bar design is used, then the forceps can function properly, but the design and manufacturing become complex and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The drive bar is divided into two separate drive bar struts that can be independently manufactured and then assembled. This segmentation allows each strut to be produced using simpler, more cost-effective processes while maintaining the overall functionality of the drive bar mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
Two separate drive bar struts are combined to form the complete drive bar assembly. This merging approach allows for standardized, identical components to be manufactured separately and then assembled together, reducing overall manufacturing complexity and cost
2Ease of manufacture
If a traditional drive bar design is used, then the forceps can function properly, but the cost of manufacturing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The drive bar consists of two identical struts that are copies of each other. This allows for standardized manufacturing processes to be used for both struts, reducing tooling costs, simplifying quality control, and enabling more efficient production through repetition
Solution Approach 2:
By segmenting the drive bar into separately manufacturable struts, each component can be produced using optimal, cost-effective manufacturing processes rather than requiring complex integrated manufacturing of the entire drive bar as a single piece
3Area of stationary object
If a traditional drive bar design is used, then the forceps can function properly, but the available space for other components is limited
Solution Approach 1:
Dividing the drive bar into separate struts allows for more flexible spatial arrangement and optimization of the internal component layout, maximizing the use of available space within the forceps structure
Solution Approach 2:
The drive bar struts are positioned laterally inward relative to the flanges, utilizing the lateral dimension more efficiently. This dimensional optimization creates additional space in other areas of the forceps for accommodating other necessary components
Data Source
AI summary
A forceps having a first jaw and a second jaw, where at least one of the first and second jaws is capable of moving between an open position and a closed position. The forceps including an inner shaft located within an outer shaft and extending along the longitudinal axis, and a drive bar coupled to and extending distally from the inner shaft. The drive bar including a pair of drive bar struts extending from a distal portion of the inner shaft and positioned laterally inward of at least one of first and second set of flanges of the first and second jaws. A drive pin is securable to the pair of drive bar struts and the drive bar is translatable within the outer shaft to translate the drive pin to move the first jaw and/or the second jaw between open and closed positions.