Laparoscope Retaining Device with Opposing Rotation Drive
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laparoscope repositioning systems are complex and require multiple motor activations for simple movements like TILT and ZOOM, necessitating expensive setups and interpolation, which complicates the surgical process.
Innovation Solution
A device with a securing unit and receiving unit that utilizes a single drive unit to rotate the main body and lever in opposite directions, allowing for direct TILT movement and a separate drive unit to adjust housing parts for ZOOM movement, eliminating the need for complex motor activations and interpolation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a complex retaining system with multiple motors is used for laparoscope repositioning, then the laparoscope can be repositioned, but the device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple rotation units (first rotation unit for PAN movement, second rotation unit for TILT movement) into a single integrated device that shares common components such as the drive unit, housing, and control system. This merging approach reduces overall system complexity while maintaining full repositioning capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The single drive unit is designed to control both the first and second rotation units, enabling it to perform multiple functions (PAN and TILT movements) through a unified control mechanism. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate motor systems for each movement type.
2Ease of operation
If multiple motors are activated for simple TILT or ZOOM movements, then repositioning is achieved, but the activation process becomes expensive and requires interpolation
Solution Approach 1:
The device segments the repositioning functionality into independent rotation units (first rotation unit for PAN, second rotation unit for TILT), each controlled by the same drive unit. This segmentation allows simple movements like TILT to be achieved by activating only the relevant rotation unit, eliminating the need for complex multi-motor coordination and interpolation.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system changes operational parameters by selectively activating different rotation units based on the desired movement type. For TILT movement, only the second rotation unit is activated; for PAN movement, only the first rotation unit is activated. This parameter-based control simplifies the activation process and eliminates interpolation requirements.
3Device complexity
If a compact device structure is used, then the device is easier to handle, but the space for multiple rotation units and drive mechanisms is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested structure where the second rotation unit (for TILT movement) is positioned within or adjacent to the first rotation unit (for PAN movement), both sharing the same housing and drive unit. This nesting arrangement accommodates multiple rotation capabilities within a compact form factor, maintaining versatility while reducing overall device size.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a device for retaining and moving a laparoscope during an operation, which comprises a securing unit for securing on a retaining arm, a receiving unit for retaining the laparoscope, as well as a main body. Furthermore, the device has a lever via which the receiving unit is secured to the main body. The main body is mounted on the securing unit in a rotatable manner about a first rotation axis via a first rotation unit. The lever is mounted on the main body in a rotatable manner about a second rotation axis via a second rotation unit. Furthermore, a first drive unit is provided, which, upon activation, drives the first and the second rotation unit in such a manner that the main body is rotated about the first rotation axis, and the lever is rotated about the second rotation axis by the same rotation angle in the opposite rotation direction.