Laparoscopic Instrument Removable Tip Sleeve Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laparoscopic surgical instruments have complex and costly disposable components with difficult-to-disassemble attachment mechanisms, which increase procedural costs and pose a risk of injury due to sharp end effectors during detachment.
Innovation Solution
A laparoscopic instrument design featuring a reusable handle with a flexible body, a removably coupled end effector, and a slidable sleeve that secures and disengages the end effector with minimal effort, using an anchor and actuator to restrict axial movement and facilitate manipulation, allowing for easy detachment and replacement of disposable components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If complex attachment mechanisms (helical threads, ball joins) are used to couple disposable components to non-disposable components, then the connection strength and reliability are improved, but the device complexity and difficulty of disassembly increase
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanism is divided into two functional segments: an anchor portion that provides secure mechanical coupling through engagement features, and a separate sleeve portion that provides controlled disengagement. This segmentation allows the system to achieve both strong connection and easy separation without increasing overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment mechanism transitions from a static, permanent connection to a dynamic, controllable connection. The sleeve can move between a first position that secures the end effector and a second position that allows disengagement, enabling the system to adapt its connection state based on operational needs.
2Reliability
If secure attachment mechanisms are used to prevent unintended disengagement, then the reliability of the connection is improved, but the ease of operation for intentional detachment deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The sleeve acts as an intermediary element between the user and the anchor-end effector connection. By manipulating the sleeve rather than directly handling the sharp end effector, the user can safely control both attachment and detachment operations. The sleeve mediates the force transmission and provides a safe interface for operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If disposable components include complex actuators and attachment mechanisms, then the functionality and control capability are improved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
Complex actuators and control mechanisms are extracted from the disposable end effector and placed in the reusable handle assembly. The disposable end effector is left with only essential, simple components (anchor, sleeve, cutting element), significantly reducing manufacturing cost while the reusable handle retains full control capability through its actuator system.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the end effector extends past the distal end of the flexible body for effective surgical operation, then the functional capability is improved, but the risk of injury during handling increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sleeve serves as a protective intermediary that covers the sharp end effector during handling and detachment operations. When the sleeve is in its first position, it shields the cutting element, preventing accidental injury. The sleeve can be safely manipulated without exposing the user to sharp edges, while still allowing the end effector to extend for surgical use.
Data Source
AI summary
A laparoscopic instrument is disclosed, including an elongated tube defining a proximal portion and a distal portion; an end effector removably coupled to the distal portion, the end effector including first and second elements pivotably coupled to one another; an anchor coupled to the tube and a pivot point of the end effector to restrict axial movement of the end effector; and a sleeve movably coupled to the tube, where the sleeve is slidable across at least a portion of the end effector to secure the end effector to the tube.