Endoscopic Forceps Jaw Lever Latch With Labyrinth Pin Path

Solution Overview

Problem

Current latching mechanisms for endoscopic cutting forceps are mechanically complex and expensive to manufacture.

Innovation Solution

A lever latching system comprising a housing, a lever with a latch pin, and a latch plate with a labyrinth, allowing for a mechanically simple and inexpensive latching mechanism.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a latching mechanism is provided for the lever to lock the jaws in closed position, then the jaws can be temporarily locked while the blade cutter is actuated, but the latching mechanism becomes mechanically complex and expensive to manufacture

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelatching functionVSAvoidmechanical complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention extracts the latching function from a complex mechanical system and implements it through a simple cam mechanism. The cam is a straightforward geometric shape that can be easily manufactured, eliminating the need for complex linkages, springs, or multiple moving parts while still achieving reliable latching functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention replaces traditional mechanical latching systems (which would require multiple components like springs, levers, and detents) with a cam-based system. The cam's geometric profile directly translates lever movement into latching action, substituting a simple mechanical element for a complex mechanical system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If a latching mechanism is provided for the lever to lock the jaws in closed position, then the jaws can be temporarily locked while the blade cutter is actuated, but the manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelatching functionVSAvoidmanufacturing cost

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The invention extracts the latching function from a complex mechanical system and implements it through a simple cam mechanism. The cam is a straightforward geometric shape that can be easily manufactured, eliminating the need for complex linkages, springs, or multiple moving parts while still achieving reliable latching functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The cam mechanism is designed to be a simple, inexpensive component that can be easily manufactured and, if necessary, replaced. The simplicity of the cam allows for cost-effective production through standard manufacturing processes, making the overall device more affordable.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

Data Source

PatentUS20250244786A1Endoscopic cutting forceps with jaw clamp lever latching mechanism

Publication Date: 2025.07.31 GYRUS ACMI INC

AI summary

A lever latching system comprising: a housing; a lever having a latch pin fixedly mounted to the lever, the lever being movably mounted to the housing so that the latch pin moves in an arc; and a latch plate movably mounted to the housing for linear movement with respect to the housing, the latch plate comprising a labyrinth for receiving the latch pin.