Locking Adapter for Removable Surgical Tool Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical instruments lack the ability to securely and removably attach additional tools without requiring modification or replacement, limiting the ability to add functionalities like mirrors or sensors during procedures.
Innovation Solution
A locking adapter with first and second legs and coupling portions that securely attach to a surgical instrument, allowing tools to be coupled and decoupled easily while maintaining the instrument in a handpiece, and enabling adjustable positioning of the tool along the instrument.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If surgical instruments are designed with fixed functionality, then manufacturing precision and reliability are improved, but adaptability and versatility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The surgical instrument is designed with a universal attachment mechanism that allows multiple different tools (mirrors, sensors, other surgical tools) to be coupled to the same instrument shaft, enabling one instrument to perform multiple functions without compromising its structural reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment device includes a coupling member with a passage that receives the instrument shaft, and a locking member that nests within the coupling member to secure the tool attachment, creating a compact multi-functional assembly where tools can be attached and detached while maintaining instrument integrity
2Adaptability or versatility
If tools are permanently attached to surgical instruments, then functional versatility is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system is segmented into distinct modular components: a coupling member with a passage for the instrument shaft, a locking member with engagement features, and a tool attachment portion. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while simplifying the overall attachment process
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling member acts as an intermediary between the instrument shaft and the tool attachment, providing a standardized interface that simplifies the connection process. The locking member then secures this intermediate connection, creating a simple two-step attach/detach mechanism rather than a complex permanent bonding process
3Adaptability or versatility
If tools are permanently attached to surgical instruments, then functional versatility is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking member is designed to be transitionable between locked and unlocked positions, allowing dynamic adjustment of the attachment state. This enables quick tool changes during surgery by simply actuating the locking member to release or secure the tool, rather than requiring permanent attachment or complex removal procedures
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2A~2B
AI summary
A locking adapter configured to removably attach a surgical tool to a surgical handpiece unit can include a first coupling portion having a first hole and a second coupling portion having a second hole. The first and second holes can receive a portion of a surgical instrument, such as a cutting element (e.g., a burr or blade). The locking adapter can have a first position where the first hole is not aligned with the second hole and a second position where the first hole is aligned with the second hole. When the locking adapter is in the second position and the portion of the surgical instrument is received within the first and second holes, the first coupling portion can apply a first force on the portion and the second coupling portion can apply a second force on the portion, the first and second forces having different directions.