Laparoscopic Sealer Bias Force Control for Vessel Size Variation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medical devices, such as forceps, are limited by a fixed maximum force that cannot be altered by the user, necessitating device switching for varying tissue sizes, which increases surgery duration and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A medical device with a variable motion transfer assembly allows users to adjust the maximum bias force applied by the jaws through a compressible member, such as a spring, using a user-positionable seat and adjustable components like a hex nut or cam lever, enabling continuous or discrete force adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed maximum force is used in existing forceps, then the device structure is simple, but the adaptability to different tissue sizes is limited and requires switching devices
Solution Approach 1:
The forceps incorporates a dynamic force adjustment mechanism where a compressible member (spring) can be compressed by a user-positionable seat to vary the maximum bias force in real-time. This allows the device to adapt to different tissue sizes during surgery without switching devices, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and device structure complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the force parameter by allowing users to adjust the compression of the spring member, thereby varying the maximum bias force applied by the jaws. This parameter adjustment capability enables the same device to handle different tissue sizes effectively, improving adaptability while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
2Productivity
If device switching is required for varying tissue sizes, then each device can be optimized for specific use, but surgery duration and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The forceps is designed with multi-functionality through the variable force adjustment mechanism, enabling a single device to perform effectively across multiple tissue size scenarios. This eliminates the need to switch between different forceps for different vessel sizes, thereby reducing surgery time and improving productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The force adjustment mechanism is pre-configured within the device structure, allowing surgeons to quickly adjust the maximum bias force during surgery without needing to prepare or switch to different devices. This preliminary preparation of the adjustment mechanism within the device itself reduces surgery time and improves efficiency.
3Reliability
If higher force is applied to seal larger vessels, then sealing effectiveness improves, but thermal spread and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention allows precise adjustment of the force parameter through spring compression, enabling the application of exactly the right amount of force needed for each vessel size. This prevents excessive force application that would lead to unnecessary thermal spread and energy consumption, while still achieving reliable sealing effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of always applying maximum force, the invention enables partial action by allowing force adjustment to match the actual sealing needs of different vessel sizes. This avoids excessive force application and the associated increased thermal spread and energy consumption, while maintaining adequate sealing effectiveness.
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 efficient sealing and cutting of vessels of varying sizes without needing additional instruments, optimizing generator energy use, reducing surgery time, and minimizing thermal spread.
Implementation Method 1
A compressible member can be aligned with the longitudinal shaft. The compressible member can be configured for applying a variable maximum bias force for communication to the end effector.
Data Source
AI summary
A medical device such as a surgical forceps is usable with at least two different jaw forces. The device can include a longitudinal shaft, having a proximal portion and a distal portion. An end effector can be attached to and can extend from the distal portion. A compressible member can be aligned with the longitudinal shaft. The compressible member can be configured for applying a variable maximum bias force for communication to the end effector. An end-user-positionable seat can be located against a first end of the compressible member. The seat can be actuatable by the end-user for varying the variable maximum bias force.