Modular Ultrasonic Transducer Handle for Surgical Versatility
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current ultrasonic surgical instruments lack a modular design that allows for easy detachment and reuse of transmission assemblies with different end effectors, limiting their versatility and efficiency in various surgical procedures.
Innovation Solution
A multi-piece handle assembly that can couple with multiple transmission assemblies, enabling the reuse of a single handle assembly with various end effectors by detaching and reattaching different transmission assemblies, each with distinct blades or functions, such as RF, stapling, or cutting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional single-piece design is used, then the structural integrity is maintained, but the versatility and ease of detaching different end effectors deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The ultrasonic surgical instrument is divided into separate modular components: a handle assembly and a transmission assembly that can be detached and reattached. This segmentation allows different transmission assemblies with various end effectors to be coupled with a single handle assembly, enhancing versatility without requiring multiple complete instruments.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle assembly is designed with a universal coupling mechanism that can accommodate multiple types of transmission assemblies with different end effectors. This multi-functionality allows a single handle assembly to perform various surgical functions by simply changing the attached transmission assembly, eliminating the need for multiple specialized instruments.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate instruments are used for different operations, then the versatility is improved, but the contamination risks and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the instrument into a reusable handle assembly and interchangeable transmission assemblies, the design allows the handle assembly to remain sterile while only the transmission assembly needs to be changed between procedures. This reduces contamination risks compared to handling multiple complete instruments.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular interface between the handle assembly and transmission assembly acts as an intermediary that allows easy detachment and reattachment. This facilitates quick changes between different end effectors without requiring complete instrument replacement, reducing exposure to contamination while maintaining versatility.
3Ease of operation
If a modular design with detachable transmission assemblies is implemented, then the ease of operation and versatility are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The instrument is segmented into modular components with standardized coupling interfaces, making it easy to detach and reattach different transmission assemblies. This segmentation improves ease of operation by allowing quick changes between end effectors without requiring complex assembly procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The universal coupling mechanism designed in the handle assembly works with multiple types of transmission assemblies, simplifying the operation of switching between different surgical functions. Despite the added modularity, the standardized interface reduces the operational complexity compared to handling multiple separate instruments.
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 versatility of ultrasonic surgical instruments, allowing for different operations with a single handle assembly, facilitating the use of various end effectors and reducing the need for multiple instruments, thereby improving surgical efficiency and reducing contamination risks.
Implementation Method 1
an ultrasonic transducer (100) configured to generate an ultrasonic vibration
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
An ultrasonic surgical instrument includes a body such as a handle assembly and an acoustic transmission assembly. The acoustic transmission assembly includes an ultrasonic transducer and an end effector. A mounting ring is positioned on a horn of the transducer. A rotatable drum is positioned distal to the mounting ring. Piezoelectric components of the transducer are positioned proximal to the mounting ring. Electrical conduits extend from the drum to the piezoelectric components and are routed over or through the mounting ring. The drum is coupled with a power source through a slip ring assembly to selectively activate the transducer.