Laparoscopic Instrument Integrated Latching Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laparoscopic instruments have complex latching mechanisms that lose efficiency due to the degradation of elastic elements, are costly to manufacture, and require multiple hands to operate, which can lead to reduced precision and increased risk during surgical procedures.
Innovation Solution
A laparoscopic instrument with a simplified latching mechanism integrated into the handgrip and lever, featuring a toothed bar and latch system with a rotatable switching lever and pushback element for easy engagement and disengagement, and an ergonomic design allowing one-handed operation with audible feedback for angular position changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional latching mechanism with multiple elements is used, then the instrument can hold the lever position, but the mechanism becomes complex and loses efficiency due to degradation of elastic elements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the latching mechanism directly into the handgrip structure, merging the latch element with the handgrip body. This eliminates separate latch components and their associated elastic elements, reducing complexity while maintaining the holding function through the inherent structural geometry of the integrated design
Solution Approach 2:
The patent removes the elastic elements from the latching mechanism, extracting the source of degradation and efficiency loss. The latching function is achieved through rigid structural features and geometric constraints rather than elastic deformation, eliminating the reliability issues associated with elastic element fatigue
2Reliability
If a complex latching mechanism is used, then the lever position can be held, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the latching mechanism into the handgrip as a unified structure, the patent reduces the number of separate components that require manufacturing, assembly, and quality control. This integration simplifies the manufacturing process and reduces costs while maintaining functional reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The simplified, integrated latching mechanism makes the entire instrument more suitable for disposable use, where cost-effective manufacturing of single-use instruments is prioritized over long-term durability of individual components
3Ease of operation
If the latching mechanism is operated with multiple hands, then the latch can be engaged and disengaged, but the surgical precision is reduced and risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The handgrip is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as both the gripping surface for handholding and the integrated latching mechanism. This allows the surgeon to operate the latch with the same hand that holds the instrument, maintaining surgical precision while enabling latch operation
Solution Approach 2:
The instrument's handgrip structure itself provides the latching function through its integrated design, eliminating the need for separate manual manipulation of distinct latch components. The surgeon can control the latch as part of the normal handholding and instrument operation
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 instrument reduces manufacturing costs, allows for sterile and disposable use, enhances patient safety by minimizing finger involvement during latch operation, and provides precise control with audible feedback for improved surgical precision.
Implementation Method 1
the pushback element rests against the toothed bar of the latching mechanism
Implementation Method 2
a spring element which pushes the latch into engagement with the toothed bar
Data Source
AI summary
A laparoscopic instrument includes a handgrip and an articulated lever. A shank is attached to the handgrip at its closer end, and tissue acting actuators are installed at the further end of the shank. A string moves the actuators. A further end of the string is connected to the actuators, and a closer end is connected to the lever. The movement of the lever is coupled with movement of the actuators. The instrument has an integrated latching mechanism, which includes a toothed bar and a latch, holding the actuators in the operating position, and a locking and releasing mechanism equipped with a switching lever for holding and disengaging the latching mechanism. The switching lever is rotatably mounted on the handgrip and has a pushback element which, in the release position of the switching lever, disengages the latching mechanism move the toothed bar away from the latch.