Laparoscopic Wrist Articulation with Coil Spring Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electrocauterization devices for laparoscopic procedures have limited range of motion and difficulty in positioning the jaws, hindering precise operation during surgical procedures.
Innovation Solution
A laparoscopic grasping instrument with articulated opposing jaws, utilizing tightly wound coil springs for support and a locking mechanism with indexing features to control and lock the wrist articulation, allowing for precise angle adjustment and stable operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the jaws of electrocauterization devices are made rigid for stable operation, then stability is improved, but the range of motion and positioning capability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The device shaft is divided into a rigid proximal portion and a flexible distal portion with articulated segments. The flexible portion includes multiple articulated segments that can bend and rotate relative to each other, allowing the jaws to achieve various angles and positions while the proximal shaft remains stable and rigid for secure insertion and actuation.
Solution Approach 2:
The device transitions from a completely rigid structure to a dynamic structure with controlled flexibility. The flexible distal portion with articulated segments can dynamically adjust its configuration during the procedure, enabling the jaws to reach difficult-to-access areas while maintaining operational stability through the rigid proximal portion.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the jaws are made flexible to improve positioning capability, then adaptability is improved, but structural stability and support deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into rigid and flexible portions, with the flexible portion further divided into articulated segments. This segmentation allows the distal end to be flexible for positioning while the proximal shaft maintains structural integrity and strength for stable operation and actuation force transmission.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the device have different mechanical properties: the proximal shaft is rigid and strong for structural support, while the distal portion is flexible and articulated for adaptability. This local differentiation of material properties and structural characteristics allows each section to optimize its function without compromising the other.
3Adaptability or versatility
If an articulated wrist mechanism is added to increase range of motion, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The articulated wrist mechanism is implemented by segmenting the distal shaft into multiple articulated segments that can rotate relative to each other. This segmentation provides the necessary range of motion while keeping each individual segment relatively simple in structure, avoiding the need for a complex centralized articulation mechanism.
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
Enhances the range of motion and precision in positioning the jaws, enabling more effective electrocauterization and tissue manipulation during laparoscopic surgery by providing a stable and adjustable articulation mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
The bendable support for the drive members in the embodiment comprises tightly wound coil springs
Data Source
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AI summary
A medical instrument has a set of opposing jaws that can be articulated, both left and right, from centerline. The instrument has a proper bend radius and support for the jaw actuation member and cutter driving member. The bendable support for the drive members comprises tightly wound coil springs. Another embodiment of the invention controls the degree of articulation at the handle of the laparoscopic instrument. A further embodiment of the invention incorporates a locking mechanism to prevent motion of the wrist while the user performs other operations on the device. The locking mechanism also includes an indexing feature with which the user can index and choose the necessary amount of angle between preset angles.