Releasable Coupling for Medical Device Handle Reuse
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Solution Overview
Problem
Single-use medical devices contribute significantly to waste and environmental burden, as the entire device, including the handle and shaft, is often discarded after a single use.
Innovation Solution
A releasable coupling system that allows the proximal component (handle) of a medical device to be decoupled from the distal component (end effector) after use, enabling the proximal component to be reused with different distal components, thereby reducing waste.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the entire medical device is designed as a single-use device, then reliability and safety are improved, but waste and environmental burden increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The medical device is divided into two separable components: a proximal component (handle) and a distal component (end effector with shaft). The proximal component can be reused while the distal component is disposed of after single use, thereby reducing waste while maintaining reliability for the sterile portion.
Solution Approach 2:
The distal component is designed as a disposable element that is discarded after use, while the proximal component is recovered and reused with a new distal component. This approach eliminates the need to discard the non-sterile handle portion while maintaining single-use sterility requirements for the distal portion.
2Loss of substance
If the proximal component is made reusable, then waste is reduced, but the complexity of ensuring proper connection and sterilization increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism incorporates dynamic elements including a spring-loaded actuator that automatically engages and disengages the coupling. The spring provides automatic resetting action and ensures positive engagement while allowing controlled separation, reducing the complexity of manual coupling operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism is designed to automatically engage and lock when the proximal and distal components are brought together, without requiring complex alignment procedures. The spring-loaded actuator self-actuates to secure the connection, and the release mechanism allows easy separation without specialized tools or procedures.
3Productivity
If a releasable coupling mechanism is implemented, then the proximal component can be reused, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism is segmented into distinct functional elements: a coupling portion with engagement features, a spring-loaded actuator for automatic engagement, and a release mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and manufactured using standard processes, reducing overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The proximal component with its reusable coupling mechanism is designed to be universal and compatible with multiple different distal components. The standardized coupling interface allows the same handle to be used with various end effectors, increasing productivity while the coupling mechanism itself remains relatively simple through standardization.
Data Source
AI summary
A medical device may comprise a proximal component. The proximal component may comprise a handle with a coupling portion. The coupling portion is configured to releasably couple to a distal joint of a distal component of the medical device. A proximal wire may extend distally from the handle. The distal end of the proximal wire may include a connector that may be configured to releasably connect to a distal wire of the distal component of the medical device.