Laparoscopic Instrument with Independent Bending Guide and Shaft
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manually operated laparoscopic instruments with articulation features lack stability and precision, causing obstruction when multiple instruments are used through the same incision during surgery.
Innovation Solution
A laparoscopic surgery device featuring a bendable elongated shaft with independent control units for bending, supported by a pivotally coupled elongated guide and handle, allowing for precise manipulation and reduced obstruction through orthogonal bending capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If articulation features are added to laparoscopic instruments to control orientation, then operational flexibility is improved, but stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The instrument is divided into two separate bendable components: an elongated guide and an elongated shaft. Each component has its own control unit, allowing independent bending control. This segmentation enables flexible orientation control while maintaining stability, as each segment can be controlled separately rather than requiring complex articulation features in a single structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple laparoscopic instruments with articulation features are used, then operational capability is improved, but mutual obstruction increases
Solution Approach 1:
The instrument utilizes two independent bending dimensions controlled by separate control units. The elongated guide and elongated shaft can bend in different directions and planes, allowing multiple instruments to navigate through the same incision without obstructing each other. This multi-dimensional control capability enables instruments to operate in different spatial orientations simultaneously.
3Measurement precision
If independent control units are added to control bending of guide and shaft, then precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control units for the elongated guide and elongated shaft are integrated into a single handle assembly. Both control units can be operated simultaneously or independently from a common ergonomic interface, reducing the overall complexity compared to having separate control mechanisms. The handle combines multiple control functions in one location, making the system easier to operate despite the added precision capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical instrument having an elongated shaft that is at least partially bendable with a surgical tool coupled to a distal end of the elongated shaft and a handle coupled to a proximal end of the elongated shaft to manipulate the surgical tool and a bendable elongated guide coupled to the handle to support the surgical instrument.