Linear Trigger Handle Assembly for Tissue Resection Devices
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tissue resection devices, particularly those used in conjunction with hysteroscopes, can cause fatigue and pain due to ergonomic issues and force requirements, especially when manually operated, leading to a need for improved handle assemblies that reduce user discomfort during procedures.
Innovation Solution
A handle assembly for tissue resection devices featuring a trigger mechanism that translates parallel to the central longitudinal axis, actuated by the user's fingers, with a return spring and resilient member to bias the trigger, distributing force evenly and reducing the need for excessive finger movement, thereby minimizing user fatigue.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a hand operated tissue resection device is used, then the physician has better control and feel during the procedure, but the user experiences fatigue and pain in the hand and arm due to ergonomic issues and force requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The trigger member is configured to translate along the central longitudinal axis rather than pivot, creating a dynamic linear motion path that aligns with the natural movement of the fingers. This dynamic configuration reduces awkward wrist positions and minimizes fatigue while preserving tactile feedback and control during the procedure.
2Ease of operation
If excessive finger movement is required to operate the device, then the trigger mechanism can be actuated, but user fatigue increases and comfort decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The return spring and resilient member are configured to optimize the force-displacement characteristics of the trigger mechanism. By adjusting the spring constants and pre-loads, the system requires minimal finger movement to actuate the trigger while maintaining adequate force feedback, thereby reducing fatigue during prolonged use.
3Ease of operation
If the trigger member is pivoting relative to the handle, then the trigger can be actuated, but the ergonomic design is compromised and user fatigue increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a conventional pivoting trigger that requires angular movement, the invention inverts the approach by using a linearly translating trigger member that moves parallel to the central longitudinal axis. This inversion simplifies the mechanical linkage and improves ergonomics by aligning the actuation motion with the natural linear movement of the fingers.
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 handle assembly reduces user fatigue and stress by distributing force evenly across multiple fingers, allowing for more efficient and comfortable operation of the tissue resection device, enhancing the ergonomic design and reducing the risk of fatigue-related injuries.
Implementation Method 1
a return spring disposed within the elongate tubular body, wherein the return spring biases the trigger member toward the first position
Implementation Method 2
a resilient member extending from the palm grip to the trigger member outside of the elongate tubular body. The resilient member is configured to bias the trigger member toward the first position
Data Source
AI summary
A handle assembly for a tissue resection device may include a handle including an elongate tubular body defining a central longitudinal axis, and a palm grip extending from the elongate tubular body, the palm grip being configured to be engaged by a palm of a user; a trigger member extending from the elongate tubular body, the trigger member being configured to be engaged by one or more fingers of the user; and a drive mechanism disposed within the elongate tubular body, the drive mechanism being configured to move a tissue resection element extending distally from the elongate tubular body. The trigger member is engaged with the drive mechanism such that translation of the trigger member relative to the handle actuates the drive mechanism. The trigger member is configured to translate parallel to the central longitudinal axis between a first position and a second position.