Lockable Articulation Joint for Surgical Stapler
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current surgical stapling instruments face challenges in efficiently articulating the end effector relative to the shaft, which can lead to difficulties in accessing and stapling tissue effectively, especially in minimally invasive procedures.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an articulation joint that allows the end effector to be rotated about a pivot axis defined by an array of discs, enabling the end effector to be articulated in multiple directions and locked into position, while also switching between articulation and firing modes based on the closure tube's position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If an articulation joint with multiple discs is implemented to enable multi-directional rotation of the end effector, then the adaptability and ease of operation are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The articulation joint is divided into multiple discs (first disc, second disc, third disc) that can rotate independently relative to each other, allowing the end effector to articulate in multiple directions. Each disc provides a degree of freedom, enabling complex articulation paths while keeping individual disc structures relatively simple and modular.
Solution Approach 2:
The articulation joint employs a nested arrangement where discs are positioned one within another along the longitudinal axis, with the first disc having a larger diameter and subsequent discs being progressively smaller. This nesting allows multiple articulation components to be compactly arranged without significantly increasing the overall footprint of the device.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a locking mechanism is added to secure the articulation joint in position, then the stability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism utilizes the existing structural features of the articulation joint components themselves. The second disc includes a locking surface that interfaces with a corresponding surface on the third disc, allowing these components to lock each other in place without requiring external locking devices or additional actuation systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking function is merged into the articulation joint structure by incorporating locking surfaces directly onto the disc components. This integration means the locking capability is built into the articulation mechanism itself rather than being a separate system, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining stability.
3Ease of operation
If the closure tube is designed to switch between articulation and firing modes, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The closure tube serves multiple functions: it acts as a closure element for the anvil, serves as an actuator for mode switching between articulation and firing, and provides structural support. By consolidating these functions into a single component, the number of separate mechanisms is reduced, and the user interface is simplified despite the increased multi-functionality of the tube itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The closure tube acts as an intermediary element that translates user input (movement of the tube) into system-wide mode changes. Its position relative to the articulation joint determines whether the system is in articulation mode or firing mode, providing a simple mechanical indication and control mechanism.
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical stapling apparatus is disclosed which comprises a shaft, an end effector, and an articulation joint, wherein the end effector is rotatable relative to the shaft about the articulation joint. The stapling apparatus further comprises a firing drive responsive to an input, an articulation drive, and a switch assembly configured to selectively couple the articulation drive to the input. The switch assembly is configured to lock the articulation drive in position when the articulation drive is not coupled to the input.