Laparoscopic Articulated Tool Positioner Using Tension-Compression Cables

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing articulated surgical systems for laparoscopic surgery require complex assembly due to the use of springs biasing articulated segments into a straight position, necessitating careful manipulation to avoid undesired straightening.

Innovation Solution

An articulated tool positioning apparatus utilizing cables capable of tension and compression to connect terminating members between articulating links, eliminating the need for springs and simplifying assembly.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If springs are used to bias articulated segments into a straight position, then the articulated segments can be automatically returned to a neutral position, but the assembly becomes complicated and requires careful manipulation to avoid undesired straightening

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautomatic return to neutral positionVSAvoidassembly complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent removes the spring mechanism from the articulation assembly, extracting the source of automatic return functionality while eliminating the associated complexity and unwanted straightening forces. This allows the articulated segments to be positioned and held without the constant biasing force that complicates assembly.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The control cables serve multiple functions: they provide both pulling and pushing forces to control articulation, replacing the need for separate springs and cable tensioning mechanisms. This multi-functionality simplifies the overall assembly while maintaining reliable positional control.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Stability of the object's composition

If springs are used to bias articulated segments, then neutral tension can be maintained, but careful manipulation is required during assembly to counteract the bias

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveneutral tension maintenanceVSAvoidassembly ease

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of using springs to actively maintain neutral tension, the invention inverts the approach by using cables that can passively maintain neutrality through their flexible nature, allowing the system to achieve stability without active biasing forces during assembly.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

Solution Approach 2:

The cable-based system allows the articulated segments to self-position and self-hold without requiring external spring forces. The cables naturally maintain appropriate tension through their flexible connection, eliminating the need for careful counteraction during assembly.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Device complexity

If cables capable of tension and compression are used instead of springs, then assembly is simplified, but precise control of articulated segments must be achieved

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveassembly simplicityVSAvoidarticulated segment positioning precision

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The invention changes the physical parameters of the control elements from spring-based elastic forces to cable-based tensile and compressive forces. This parameter change enables simpler assembly while maintaining precise control through the cable's ability to transmit forces in both directions without permanent deformation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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 apparatus provides simpler assembly and precise control of articulated segments through the use of cables, allowing for continuous curve definition and orientation adjustment without permanent deformation, enhancing operational reliability and ease of use.

Implementation Method 1

cables capable of tension and compression connecting terminating members between articulating links

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectTension: Tension

Implementation Method 2

cables capable of tension and compression connecting terminating members between articulating links

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCompression: Compression

Data Source

PatentUS12433576B2Articulated tool positioner and system employing same

Publication Date: 2025.10.07 COVIDIEN LP

AI summary

A laparoscopic surgical apparatus for performing a surgical procedure through a single incision in a patient's body includes a gross positioning arm supported on a moveable platform, the gross positioner including a head; at least one articulated tool positioning apparatus coupled via a tool controller to an underside of the head, the articulated tool positioning apparatus being configured to receive a tool for performing surgical operations, the tool controller being actuated by the head to cause movements of the articulated tool positioning apparatus for performing surgical operations; and wherein the gross positioner is configured to permit the head to be positioned to facilitate insertion of the articulated tool positioning apparatus through the incision into the patient's body.