Modular Signal Interface System for Powered Trocar
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Solution Overview
Problem
Endoscopic medical procedures face challenges due to the cumbersome nature of electrical cables required for powered surgical instruments, which interfere with procedures and increase manufacturing costs due to the need for internal power supplies in cordless instruments.
Innovation Solution
A modular signal interface system that allows electrical communication between surgical instruments and external devices through a cannula-mounted signal interface adapter, eliminating the need for cables attached to the instruments by using a signal interface adapter and instrument connector that mate magnetically, providing power and communication signals without external cables.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If electrical cables are attached to powered surgical instruments, then power and data transmission are achieved, but cable interference with the procedure increases and operational efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The cannula serves as an intermediary structure that provides a passageway for electrical cables to reach the surgical instrument without the cables being attached to or interfering with the instrument's operation. The cable passes through the cannula lumen, allowing power and data transmission while keeping the instrument itself cable-free and maneuverable.
Solution Approach 2:
The system separates the cable management function from the instrument function. The cable is routed independently through the cannula rather than being integrated with the instrument, allowing the instrument to operate freely while still receiving power and data through the segmented cable-instrument interface.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple powered surgical instruments are used during a procedure, then surgical capabilities are enhanced, but the number of cables required increases and procedural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cannula is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate multiple different surgical instruments, each with their own cable routed through the same cannula structure. This allows multiple instruments to be used simultaneously or sequentially without requiring separate external cable management for each instrument.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple cable functions are merged into a single cannula passageway system. Instead of having separate cable management systems for each instrument, all cables are routed through the shared cannula structure, consolidating complexity into a single manageable interface at the patient site.
3Ease of operation
If cordless surgical instruments with internal power supplies are used, then cable interference is eliminated, but instrument weight increases and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply function is extracted from the instrument itself and relocated to an external source. Instead of embedding a battery or power supply within the instrument, the power is supplied externally through the cannula, allowing the instrument to remain lightweight while still achieving cable-free operation at the surgical site.
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 the use of multiple surgical instruments during procedures with a single power source, reducing cable interference and manufacturing costs by providing external electrical connectivity through the cannula, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing instrument weight.
Implementation Method 1
using a signal interface adapter and instrument connector that mate magnetically
Data Source
AI summary
A modular signal interface system for providing electrical communication with a surgical instrument when the surgical instrument is inserted into a cannula of a trocar. The system includes a signal interface adapter and an instrument connector. The signal interface adapter is provided on, or adapted to be mounted on a trocar, and includes central aperture extending therethrough and a proximal face having a plurality of conductive contacts. The instrument connector is provided on or adapted to be mounted on a shaft of a surgical instrument, and includes a central aperture extending therethrough and a distal face having a plurality of conductive contacts. The signal interface adapter and the instrument connector are adapted for mating engagement such that, when matingly engaged, their central apertures are axially aligned and predetermined ones of the plurality of contacts of the signal interface adapter are in conductive contact with predetermined ones of the plurality of contacts of the instrument connector.