Modular Energy System Header With Guided Coupler
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Solution Overview
Problem
Operating rooms are cluttered with numerous devices and cords due to the need for specialized equipment for each surgical task, leading to inefficiency and complexity in managing multiple devices with different user interfaces, which complicates surgical procedures and increases the risk of errors.
Innovation Solution
A modular energy system comprising a header module with a display and a coupler, allowing interchangeable modules to be connected in various configurations, providing a unified interface and reducing the number of devices needed, with a latch mechanism for secure attachment and easy disconnection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple specialized capital equipment devices are used to perform different surgical tasks, then functional versatility is improved, but device complexity and equipment footprint increase
Solution Approach 1:
The surgical system is divided into a header module and interchangeable energy modules. Each energy module is a self-contained unit that can be attached to the header module to provide different surgical energy functions (electrosurgical, ultrasonic, bipolar, advanced bipolar). This segmentation allows the system to offer multiple specialized functions while maintaining a compact footprint, as only one energy module needs to be present at a time rather than multiple complete capital equipment devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The header module serves as a universal platform that can interface with multiple types of energy modules through standardized mechanical and electrical connections. The guidewalls and recess geometry are designed to accommodate different module types, allowing a single header module to perform multiple surgical functions by simply changing the attached energy module, thereby reducing the need for multiple specialized devices.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple specialized capital equipment devices with unique user interfaces are used, then functional versatility is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to the need to learn and manage multiple interfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The header module incorporates a universal user interface that can control different types of energy modules. The display and control mechanisms in the header module are designed to adapt to the attached module type, providing a consistent interaction model regardless of which energy module is installed. This eliminates the need for surgical staff to learn multiple different capital equipment interfaces while still providing access to diverse energy modalities.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate devices are used to perform different surgical energy functions, then functional versatility is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to the need to interact with and manage multiple devices
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges the control functions, power supply, and user interface into a single header module that can accommodate different energy modules. This consolidation means surgical staff interact with one unified system rather than multiple separate devices, improving efficiency by reducing the cognitive load and physical movement required to manage multiple capital equipment devices while maintaining access to diverse energy functions.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular energy system is disclosed including a header module including an enclosure and a display including a coupler. The enclosure defines a recess. The recess includes a first guidewall and a second guidewall. The coupler is removably positionable in the recess. The coupler includes a first sidewall and a second sidewall. The first guidewall is configured to guide the first sidewall as the coupler moves through the recess. The second guidewall is configured to guide the second sidewall as the coupler moves through the recess.