Sealed Loading Unit Connector for Fluid-Resistant Sensor Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Surgical stapling apparatus face challenges in establishing a sealed electrical connection that resists contamination from bodily fluids, which can lead to short circuits and disrupt the reliable operation of sensors and electronics.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus incorporates an adapter and loading unit electrical connector assembly with rotatable and translating components, including annular ribs, ring recesses, and spring contacts, which form a sealed electrical connection when coupled, ensuring continuous data transfer from sensors to the housing assembly, even in conductive environments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If electrical connector assemblies are exposed to establish electrical connection, then electrical contact is achieved, but contamination from bodily fluids can occur leading to short circuits
Solution Approach 1:
A seal member is introduced as an intermediary element between the electrical connector components. The seal member includes a seal groove and seal唇 structure that creates a fluid barrier, allowing electrical contacts to be made while preventing bodily fluids from reaching the electrical connection interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The seal member functions as a flexible barrier that conformally seals around the electrical connector components. This flexible sealing structure adapts to the connector geometry while maintaining protection against fluid contamination throughout the assembly and disassembly cycles.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If sealed electrical connection is established, then contamination is prevented, but device complexity increases due to additional sealing components
Solution Approach 1:
The seal member is integrated into the adapter assembly structure, combining the sealing function with the mechanical connection function. The seal groove and seal唇 are formed as part of the adapter housing, eliminating the need for separate sealing components and reducing overall assembly complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter assembly serves multiple functions: it provides mechanical connection between the loading unit and shaft assembly, establishes electrical connections through the electrical connector, and prevents fluid contamination through the integrated seal member. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components.
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical stapling apparatus includes a housing assembly and an elongated shaft assembly. The elongated shaft assembly is selectively attachable to the housing assembly. The elongated shaft assembly includes an adapter assembly and a loading unit. The adapter assembly extends distally to a distal tip housing. The distal tip housing supports an adapter electrical connector assembly therein. The loading unit is selectively attachable to the adapter assembly and extends distally to an end effector supporting one or more sensors therein. The loading unit supports a loading unit electrical connector assembly therein. The loading unit electrical connector assembly is positioned to contact the adapter electrical connector assembly when the adapter assembly and the loading unit are coupled together to electrically couple the one or more sensors to the housing assembly.