Interconnected Drive Tube Joints for High-Force Surgical Stapling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing robotic surgical systems are limited in generating the magnitude of forces required to effectively cut and fasten tissue, and they are restricted in the number of different types of surgical devices they can operate.
Innovation Solution
The development of a robotic system with advanced drive systems and end effectors that include a variety of drive shaft assemblies and quick disconnect joints, enabling greater force transmission and versatility in surgical procedures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If existing robotic surgical systems are used, then the systems are simple to operate, but they cannot generate the magnitude of forces required to effectively cut and fasten tissue
Solution Approach 1:
The drive system is divided into multiple interconnected joint segments (first joint segment, second joint segment, third joint segment) that can be assembled in sequence. Each segment contains drive components (drive shaft, drive cam, follower cam) that work together to generate and transmit force. This segmentation allows the system to achieve high force magnitude through modular assembly while maintaining operational simplicity through standardized interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The joint segments are designed to be nested or interconnected, where the distal end of one segment connects to the proximal end of the next segment. The drive shaft extends through multiple segments, and drive cams are positioned within each segment to engage with followers. This nesting arrangement allows force generation components to be integrated within the structural segments, achieving high force output without proportionally increasing external system complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing robotic surgical systems are used, then the systems have limited device complexity, but they are restricted in the number of different types of surgical devices they can operate
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic system employs universal quick disconnect joints that can accommodate multiple types of surgical end effectors (stapling devices, cutting devices, fastening devices). The standardized interface allows different surgical devices to be attached to the same drive system, enabling the system to perform multiple surgical functions without requiring separate dedicated systems for each device type.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates quick disconnect joints that allow dynamic reconfiguration of the surgical device assembly. The joints can be rapidly connected and disconnected, enabling the surgical system to adapt between different device types during procedures. This dynamic capability increases versatility while keeping the base system complexity manageable through reusable standardized components.
Data Source
AI summary
Surgical end effectors and fastener cartridges having firing lockout arrangements for preventing or limit a firing stroke when a cartridge has not been operably installed in the end effector or a spent cartridge has not been replaced.