Modular Surgical Instrument Articulation Joint Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current surgical instruments for cutting and stapling tissue lack efficient articulation mechanisms and secure coupling systems, leading to limited maneuverability and stability during procedures.
Innovation Solution
The development of a surgical instrument with an articulation joint that allows the carrier and anvil assembly to pivot in multiple directions, combined with a rotatable coupling collar for secure attachment to the elongated shaft assembly, facilitating simultaneous coupling of the drive beam and articulation assemblies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If surgical instruments use fixed rigid structures for cutting and stapling, then structural strength is maintained, but maneuverability and adaptability to different tissue configurations are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The surgical instrument is divided into modular components including a handle assembly, elongated shaft assembly, and interchangeable end effectors that can be attached and detached. The end effectors themselves are segmented into jaw members with articulation joints, allowing independent movement of cutting and stapling elements while maintaining overall structural integrity through standardized coupling mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The instrument incorporates articulation joints that enable dynamic movement between different configurations. The jaw members can articulate relative to each other to accommodate various tissue angles and positions, while the modular design allows the end effector to be replaced based on specific surgical requirements, providing both maneuverability and structural strength when needed.
2Ease of operation
If surgical instruments use simple attachment mechanisms, then ease of operation is improved, but stability and security during tissue cutting and stapling are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanisms are pre-configured with alignment features and engagement surfaces that guide proper attachment before final locking occurs. The standardized interfaces include preliminary alignment elements that ensure correct positioning, followed by secure locking through detent mechanisms or bayonet-style couplings, providing both ease of operation and reliable attachment stability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If surgical instruments use complex articulation mechanisms, then maneuverability is enhanced, but device complexity and difficulty of operation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The articulation mechanism is segmented into discrete articulation joints located at specific points within the end effector rather than a continuous complex mechanism. Each joint provides controlled movement in a specific degree of freedom, enabling maneuverability while keeping individual joint complexity low and the overall system easier to operate.
4Adaptability or versatility
If surgical instruments use fixed end effectors, then manufacturing precision is maintained, but adaptability to different surgical procedures is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The instrument employs universal standardized coupling interfaces that allow multiple different end effector types to be attached to the same handle and shaft assembly. Each end effector is manufactured independently with standardized attachment features, enabling procedural adaptability while simplifying manufacturing through modular, reusable components rather than custom-integrated designs.
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical instrument equipped with a coupler arrangement for coupling end effectors to an elongated shaft assembly of the surgical instrument. The end effectors may include a pair of jaws in the form of a carrier supporting a surgical staple cartridge and an anvil. The anvil is movable relative to the carrier in opening and closing directions. The end effector may include an articulation joint that facilitates pivotal travel of the carrier and anvil as a unit relative to the elongated shaft assembly in the same directions in which the anvil is opened and closed relative to the carrier.