Magnetic Endoscopic Grasper Articulation for Independent Repositioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional graspers used in endoscopic procedures often operate in only one degree of freedom and require deflection of the endoscope for repositioning, affecting visualization and increasing procedure duration and risk.
Innovation Solution
A medical device with a handle assembly, ball joint, sensor assembly, and articulation portion made of magnetic material, allowing independent movement of the end effector via a magnetic field from an external magnet assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional graspers are used that operate in only one degree of freedom, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of operation deteriorates because deflection of the endoscope is required for repositioning the grasper
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical deflection system of conventional graspers with a magnetic field-based actuation system. An external magnet assembly generates magnetic fields that interact with magnetic materials in the articulation portion of the grasper, enabling repositioning without mechanical deflection of the endoscope. This substitution resolves the contradiction by providing multi-degree-of-freedom movement capability while maintaining relative device simplicity through the use of external magnetic actuation rather than complex internal mechanical mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a magnetic field as an intermediary between the operator and the grasper. The magnet assembly acts as an intermediary device that transmits control forces to the grasper through magnetic interaction with the articulation portion. This intermediary enables precise control of the end effector's position and orientation without requiring direct mechanical manipulation or endoscope deflection, thereby improving ease of operation while keeping the overall system manageable in complexity.
2Ease of operation
If the endoscope is deflected to reposition the grasper, then the grasper can be repositioned, but the visualization of the treatment site deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the repositioning function from the visualization function. The grasper's articulation portion is designed with magnetic materials that respond to external magnetic fields independently of the endoscope's position. This segmentation allows the endoscope to remain stationary for optimal visualization while the grasper is repositioned through magnetic actuation, resolving the contradiction between repositioning capability and visualization quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic field serves as an intermediary that enables grasper repositioning without moving the endoscope. The magnet assembly acts as a remote control mechanism that transmits positioning commands to the grasper through magnetic interaction, allowing the endoscope to maintain its optimal position for visualization while the grasper is repositioned independently in multiple degrees of freedom.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple endoscopic instruments are used for tissue resection, then the treatment capability is improved, but the procedure duration increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal grasper design with an articulation portion that can perform multiple functions through magnetic actuation. The grasper can be repositioned in multiple degrees of freedom, grasp tissue at various angles, and work in conjunction with different cutting instruments. This multi-functionality reduces the need for multiple specialized instruments and procedures, thereby improving treatment capability while reducing overall procedure duration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic control capability to the grasper through magnetic field actuation. The articulation portion can be dynamically repositioned during the procedure without requiring instrument withdrawal or repositioning of the endoscope. This dynamic adaptability allows the surgeon to adjust the grasper's position and orientation in real-time, improving treatment versatility while minimizing procedure time compared to static conventional graspers that require multiple instrument changes.
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
Enables independent repositioning of the end effector without deflection of the endoscope, improving visualization and reducing procedure duration and risk.
Implementation Method 1
The articulation portion may be configured to move upon application of a magnetic field from the magnet
Data Source
AI summary
A medical device for insertion into a body may include a handle assembly including a handle body and a ball joint; a sensor assembly configured to electronically communicate with a magnet; a body extending longitudinally from the handle assembly; an articulation portion coupled to a distal end of the body, wherein the articulation portion includes a magnetic material; and an end effector coupled to a distal end of the articulation portion. The articulation portion may be configured to move upon application of a magnetic field from the magnet.