Hybrid Quick-Connect Socket for Ball and Shaft Retractor Tools
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical stabilizer arms are limited to using either ball-type or shaft-type quick-connect mechanisms, restricting the compatibility of tissue manipulator tools and requiring separate tools for different types of stabilizer arms.
Innovation Solution
A hybrid quick connect mechanism that integrates both ball and shaft attachment options, allowing a single stabilizer arm to accommodate either type of tool, using a spring-loaded sleeve and dual actuator system to secure either a ball or shaft end.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a stabilizer arm uses a single type of quick-connect mechanism (either ball-type or shaft-type), then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the adaptability to different tool types is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The quick-connect mechanism is designed with a universal interface that can accommodate both ball-type and shaft-type tissue manipulator tools. The mechanism includes a receptacle with a detent system that can engage with either a ball end or a shaft end, allowing a single stabilizer arm to use multiple tool types without requiring separate mechanisms for each tool type.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a stabilizer arm uses a single type of quick-connect mechanism, then the device is easier to operate and maintain, but multiple separate tools are required for different stabilizer arm types
Solution Approach 1:
The quick-connect mechanism creates a universal interface standard that allows the same tool to be used with different stabilizer arm types. By designing the receptacle to accept both ball-type and shaft-type attachments, the system eliminates the need for users to maintain separate tool inventories for different stabilizer arm variants.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a hybrid quick-connect mechanism is implemented to accept both ball-type and shaft-type tools, then tool compatibility is improved, but the mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The quick-connect mechanism is divided into functional segments: a receptacle portion that receives the attachment, a detent system that provides locking, and actuators that control engagement. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while working together to achieve universal compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The detent system acts as an intermediary element between the actuator and the attachment (ball or shaft). The detent translates the actuator's linear motion into a locking action that secures either type of attachment, mediating the interaction between the standardized mechanism and the variable tool types.
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
Enables flexible tool attachment to a single stabilizer arm, enhancing compatibility and reducing the need for multiple tools by allowing either ball or shaft-style attachments to be securely locked in place.
Implementation Method 1
A compression spring positioned within the cylindrical sleeve urges the actuator in a distal direction
Implementation Method 2
Tightening a tension cable increases the pressure to fully lock the attachment in place
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical stabilizer arm ends with a hybrid quick connect mechanism capable of holding tissue manipulator tools of either the ball type or the shaft type. The single integrated mechanism allows users to choose the type of attachment mechanism they prefer on a case-by-case basis. The mechanism has a spring-loaded sleeve that can be pulled back to enable an attachment (manipulator tool) to be inserted. A ball-style attachment is inserted through an opening in a grip cage, and a shaft-style attachment is inserted into an actuator (e.g., spring detent) through the claws of the grip cage. When the sleeve is released, a compression spring pushed the actuator forward, either pressing the ball attachment against the grip cage or pressing the spring detent against the shaft attachment to partially lock the attachment in place. Tightening a tension cable increases the pressure to fully lock the attachment in place.