Integrated Distance Guide for Medical Gripping Tools
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current medical procedures require separate instruments for measuring small dimensions like puncture depths and foreign object sizes, which increases procedure complexity and costs, and does not allow for in situ measurement during sterile procedures.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a distance guide with medical tools, such as a hemostat, that includes a pivot mechanism and distance markings along the arms, allowing for in situ measurement of object sizes and depths without the need for additional tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a separate measuring instrument is used to measure distances such as puncture depths and foreign object sizes, then measurement capability is provided, but device complexity and procedure cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the measuring function with the existing medical tool by integrating a distance guide along the arm of the tool. The distance guide includes markings that align with the jaw position to indicate measured distances, eliminating the need for a separate measuring instrument while maintaining measurement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The medical tool is designed to perform multiple functions: gripping/manipulating objects with the jaws and measuring distances through the integrated distance guide. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate tools needed during procedures.
2Measurement precision
If a separate measuring instrument is used, then measurement capability is provided, but the size and cost of sterile trays increase
Solution Approach 1:
The measuring function is merged into the existing medical tool structure, eliminating the need to allocate additional space in sterile trays for separate measuring instruments. The distance guide is integrated along the arm of the tool, so no extra components are required in the sterile package.
3Measurement precision
If a separate measuring instrument is used, then measurement capability is provided, but waste associated with procedures increases
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the distance guide into the reusable medical tool, the patent eliminates the need for additional single-use measuring components in sterile trays, thereby reducing medical waste associated with disposable items.
4Ease of operation
If measuring devices are included in sterile procedure trays, then in situ measurement is enabled, but the size and cost of sterile trays increase
Solution Approach 1:
The measuring capability is merged into the existing tool structure rather than being added as a separate component in the sterile tray. The distance guide is integrated along the arm of the medical tool, so no additional space is required in the sterile package.
Solution Approach 2:
The medical tool is designed to perform multiple functions: gripping/manipulating objects with the jaws and measuring distances through the integrated distance guide. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate tools needed during procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
Measuring devices that can be incorporated with gripping tools are described. The measuring devices can be integral to a gripping tool or can be removably attachable to a gripping tool. The measuring devices can be incorporated in conjunction with a gripping tool for use in a medical application such as a clamp, a hemostat, a forceps, or the like. Devices can be utilized to determine a straight length and/or to determine the spread of the jaws a gripping tool associated with the device.