In Vivo End Effector Loader With Resilient Attachment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current surgical access devices for minimally invasive procedures require larger incisions and longer recovery times due to the need for traditional trocars, which can cause more trauma and scarring, and lack efficient mechanisms for quick end effector exchanges during surgery.
Innovation Solution
A surgical device comprising a loader and instrument with a detachable and attachable end effector system that allows for in vivo attachment and detachment, using a resilient attachment mechanism with a pin and arms to secure the end effector, enabling smaller incisions and quicker end effector changes, potentially eliminating the need for trocars and reducing surgical time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If traditional trocars are used for surgical access, then surgical instruments can be introduced into the body cavity, but larger incisions are required causing more trauma and scarring
Solution Approach 1:
The surgical system is segmented into separate functional components: a reusable shaft/handle assembly and interchangeable end effectors. This allows the incision size to be minimized to accommodate only the thin shaft, while the functional end effectors are attached externally, eliminating the need for large incisions required by traditional integrated trocars.
Solution Approach 2:
The shaft and handle assembly serves as a universal platform that can accommodate multiple different end effector types through standardized attachment mechanisms. This multi-functional design allows a single shaft to perform various surgical functions by simply changing the end effector, rather than requiring separate large-bore instruments for each function.
2Loss of time
If traditional surgical instruments are used, then surgical procedures can be performed, but instrument exchanges require larger incisions and more time
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple end effectors are pre-loaded onto the shaft in a sequential arrangement before entering the surgical site. This preliminary preparation allows the surgeon to simply rotate or slide between pre-positioned end effectors during surgery, eliminating the time-consuming process of removing and reinserting entire instruments through large incisions.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment mechanism between the shaft and end effectors incorporates dynamic elements such as resilient arms and spring-loaded locking features that enable quick, tool-free exchanges. The resilient arms can be temporarily deflected to release an end effector and automatically return to lock the next one into place, facilitating rapid instrument changes without requiring surgical exposure.
3Productivity
If interchangeable end effectors are implemented, then quicker exchanges are possible, but the attachment mechanism must be reliable to prevent detachment during surgery
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanism incorporates spring-loaded resilient arms that provide continuous mechanical feedback through tactile engagement. When an end effector is properly attached, the springs compress and lock into a secure position, providing immediate tactile confirmation to the surgeon that the connection is reliable. This feedback mechanism ensures secure attachment while allowing rapid exchange by simply releasing the locking springs.
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 solution allows for smaller incisions, reduced pain and scarring, quicker recovery, and faster surgical procedures by enabling smaller diameter shafts and quick end effector exchanges, while also reducing instrument costs through a kit of interchangeable end effectors.
Implementation Method 1
The attachment mechanism includes a pin and resilient arms that move between engaged and disengaged positions
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical device for use in combination with a percutaneous elongate shaft defining a longitudinal axis. The shaft comprises a distal end and a proximal end, the distal end comprising an attachment mechanism. A surgical end effector is selectively attachable in vivo and detachable in vivo to the attachment mechanism of the percutaneous elongate shaft. A percutaneous elongate loader comprises an articulating distal end. The distal end comprises a tube with an opening at the distal tip, the tube being dimensioned to receive the surgical end effector. The distal end further comprises an engagement feature capable of frictionally holding the surgical end effector in the tube during in vivo attachment to and in vivo detachment from the percutaneous elongate shaft.