Powered Linear Stapler Actuation for Uniform Firing Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical stapling devices face challenges in providing uniform staple formation along the entire length of the tool assembly and suffer from user fatigue during actuation.
Innovation Solution
A powered actuation assist is integrated with an open linear stapling device, featuring a motor assembly, lead screw, and knob connector to provide axial displacement of the actuation knob, reducing user effort and ensuring uniform staple application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual actuation of the stapling device is used, then device simplicity is maintained, but user fatigue occurs and staple formation uniformity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical actuation system with a powered actuation assist comprising a motor assembly, lead screw, and knob connector. The motor assembly generates rotational motion that is converted to axial displacement through the lead screw mechanism, which then actuates the firing assembly via the knob connector. This substitution of manual mechanical effort with an automated motorized system eliminates user fatigue while maintaining precise control over the stapling process.
Solution Approach 2:
The powered actuation assist serves as an intermediary device between the power source (motor) and the stapling device's firing mechanism. The lead screw acts as a mechanical intermediary that transforms rotational motor output into linear axial motion, which then engages the actuation knob to trigger staple ejection. This intermediary mechanism enables smooth, controlled actuation without direct manual intervention.
2Manufacturing precision
If manual actuation is used, then device structure remains simple, but staple formation uniformity along the tool assembly length deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The motorized actuation system provides consistent, controlled rotational motion that translates to uniform axial displacement of the actuation knob. This powered delivery mechanism ensures that the firing assembly is actuated with precise, repeatable force and speed along the entire length of the tool assembly, resulting in uniform staple formation. The electronic control system further ensures consistent actuation parameters throughout the stapling process.
Solution Approach 2:
The motor assembly provides continuous, controlled rotational motion to the lead screw, which in turn provides continuous axial displacement to the actuation knob throughout the firing sequence. This continuous powered action ensures that staple ejection and formation occurs uniformly across all positions of the tool assembly, eliminating the variability inherent in manual actuation.
3Productivity
If powered actuation assist is added, then user fatigue is reduced and staple uniformity improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The powered actuation assist is designed as a multi-functional integrated unit that combines the motor assembly, lead screw mechanism, knob connector, and control electronics into a single device that attaches to the stapling device. This universal actuation system performs multiple functions: generating motive power, transforming motion types (rotational to linear), and triggering the firing sequence, thereby improving surgical efficiency without requiring multiple separate components.
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 powered actuation assist enhances staple formation uniformity and reduces user fatigue by automating the stapling process, improving surgical efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a lead screw operatively coupled to the motor assembly, a knob connector coupled to the lead screw such that rotation of the lead screw causes axial displacement of the knob connector
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical kit includes a stapling device and a powered actuation assist detachably couplable to the stapling device. The stapling device includes an anvil half section, a cartridge receiving half section, and a firing assembly including an actuation knob movable along a length of the cartridge receiving half section. The powered actuation assist includes a motor assembly, a lead screw operatively coupled to the motor assembly, a knob connector coupled to the lead screw, a battery pack, and a first switch electrically coupled to the motor to activate the motor. The knob connector is configured to detachably engage the actuation knob of the stapling device to impart axial displacement to the actuation knob. Actuation of the motor assembly imparts rotation to the lead screw, which, in turn, causes axial displacement of the actuation knob of the firing assembly.