Forceps Motion Transfer Assembly With Integrated Force Limiting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional medical devices, such as forceps, require improvements in packaging space, design simplicity, manufacturing efficiency, user experience, stability, and prevention of damage during actuation of end effectors.
Innovation Solution
A handpiece actuation system for medical devices, including forceps, that incorporates a drive shaft motion transfer assembly with a drive body and spring mechanism to control end effector functions like opening, closing, rotating, extending, and retracting blades, while incorporating a force-limiting feature to prevent damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If conventional actuation systems are used in forceps, then the basic function of opening and closing jaws is achieved, but the packaging space is excessive and the design is overly complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple actuation functions (jaw opening/closing, blade extending/retracting, jaw rotating) into a single integrated motion transfer assembly. The drive body serves as a common component that coordinates all these movements through a unified mechanical linkage system, eliminating the need for separate actuation mechanisms for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The motion transfer assembly is designed as a multi-functional mechanism where a single actuator input produces multiple output movements. The drive body simultaneously controls jaw closure, blade extension, and jaw rotation through its interaction with different mechanical elements (drive shaft, cam surface, linkage), making one component perform multiple actuation tasks.
2Productivity
If conventional actuation systems are used in forceps, then the basic function of opening and closing jaws is achieved, but manufacturing efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The actuation system is divided into modular components: a drive body, drive shaft, cam mechanism, and linkage elements. Each component can be manufactured separately using standardized processes and then assembled, simplifying manufacturing and enabling parallel production of components rather than requiring complex integrated machining.
3Reliability
If conventional actuation systems are used in forceps, then the basic function of opening and closing jaws is achieved, but stability and damage prevention are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The cam mechanism is designed with a controlled engagement surface that gradually transfers force during jaw closure. The cam profile is shaped to distribute the closing force over an extended period and area, preventing sudden force spikes that could damage the jaws or surrounding tissue, thus providing built-in force protection without additional sensors or control systems.
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
The system reduces packaging space, simplifies design and manufacturing, enhances user experience, and improves stability and durability of the forceps by limiting excessive force application.
Implementation Method 1
A handpiece actuation system for medical devices, including forceps, that incorporates a drive shaft motion transfer assembly with a drive body and spring mechanism to control end effector functions
Data Source
AI summary
Forceps including a frame and a motion transfer assembly to transfer forces from or more actuators to an end effector. The motion transfer assembly can include a body having a passageway, a drive shaft extending through the passageway, and a drive link. The body and the drive shaft slidable with respect to the frame, and the body rotationally fixed to the drive shaft to transfer a rotational input received from a first actuator into a rotational motion of the drive shaft relative to the frame. The drive link operably coupled to the frame and the body to transfer a force received from a second actuator into a linear motion of the body and the drive shaft relative to the frame.