Modular Clamp Arm Assembly for Surgical Instrument Adaptability

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing ultrasonic surgical instruments lack a modular and versatile design that allows for easy switching between different clamp arm configurations and energy modes, limiting their adaptability to various surgical procedures.

Innovation Solution

The development of a surgical instrument with a dual mode end effector and a modular clamp arm assembly that can be selectively attached and detached, allowing for different clamp arm configurations and energy modes, such as ultrasonic and RF energy, to be used depending on the surgical task.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a surgical instrument is designed with fixed clamp arm configuration and single energy mode, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to different surgical procedures deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptability to different surgical proceduresVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The clamp arm assembly is designed as a separate, detachable module from the instrument shaft. This segmentation allows the clamp arm to be selectively attached or removed based on surgical needs, enabling versatility without permanently increasing device complexity. The modular design permits different clamp arm configurations to be used with the same instrument body.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The instrument shaft is designed with universal compatibility to accommodate different clamp arm assemblies. The standardized interface allows a single instrument body to perform multiple functions by accepting various clamp arm configurations, thereby improving adaptability while maintaining relatively simple base device architecture.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If the instrument allows selective attachment and detachment of clamp arm assemblies, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability of connection deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of switching clamp arm configurationsVSAvoidreliability of clamp arm connection

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The coupling mechanism is pre-configured with alignment features and engagement structures that ensure proper positioning before attachment. The design includes preliminary alignment elements that guide the clamp arm assembly into the correct position, reducing the risk of improper connection while enabling easy attachment by the surgeon.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The connection system uses a sophisticated coupling mechanism that may incorporate locking features, detents, or friction-based retention rather than simple mechanical fastening. This substitution of basic mechanical attachment with more reliable retention mechanisms maintains ease of operation while ensuring secure, reliable connection during surgical procedures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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

This modular design enhances the instrument's versatility and adaptability to different surgical procedures, improving precision and efficiency by allowing surgeons to choose the optimal energy mode and clamp arm configuration for each specific task.

Implementation Method 1

These instruments include piezoelectric elements that convert electrical power into ultrasonic vibrations

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPiezoelectric effect: Piezoelectric Effect

Implementation Method 2

an end effector having a blade element that vibrates at ultrasonic frequencies

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectUltrasonic vibration: Ultrasonic Vibration

Implementation Method 3

which are communicated along an acoustic waveguide to the blade element

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectAcoustic waveguide: Waveguide (optics)

Data Source

PatentUS20250177080A1Surgical instrument with dual mode end effector and modular clamp arm assembly

Publication Date: 2025.06.05 CILAG GMBH INTERNATIONAL

AI summary

A first subassembly includes a body and an ultrasonic blade. A second subassembly is configured to removably couple with the first subassembly and includes a first clamp arm and a first clamp arm actuator. The first clamp arm is configured to be located on a first side of the longitudinal axis of the body, and the first clamp arm actuator is configured to be located on a second side of the longitudinal axis, when the second subassembly is coupled with the first subassembly. The third subassembly is similar to the second subassembly except that the second clamp arm of the third subassembly is configured to be located on the second side of the longitudinal axis of the body when the third subassembly is coupled with the first subassembly.