3D-Printed Multi-Axis Pivot Joints for Articulating Surgical Staplers
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current surgical stapling instruments face challenges in providing a wide range of articulation while accommodating various drive systems and maintaining precision, due to size constraints imposed by trocar cannulas, which limits the range of motion and complexity of assembly.
Innovation Solution
The development of a surgical stapling system with a flexible firing drive and closure drive, utilizing 3D-printed components and additive manufacturing to create universally movable joints that can articulate through small spaces, allowing for independent rotation of drive members and enhanced structural strength.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional surgical stapling instruments are designed to fit within trocar cannulas, then they can be used for minimally invasive surgery, but the range of articulation and complexity of assembly are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The instrument is divided into modular components including a handle assembly, shaft assembly, and end effector assembly that can be independently manufactured and assembled. The drive system is segmented into discrete drive members (first drive member for articulation, second drive member for firing) that can rotate independently, reducing overall assembly complexity while enabling multiple degrees of freedom for articulation
Solution Approach 2:
The handle assembly serves multiple functions by housing both the first drive member for articulation control and the second drive member for firing control within a single integrated unit. The shaft assembly universally transmits both articulation motion and firing motion through shared structural components, reducing the number of separate assemblies needed
2Measurement precision
If drive members are constrained to rotate within limited spaces, then they can fit within trocar cannulas, but precision of drive motion transmission is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The drive members are arranged to rotate in different dimensional planes within the shaft assembly. The first drive member rotates in a first plane to control articulation, while the second drive member rotates in a second plane to control firing. This dimensional separation allows precise motion transmission without requiring large rotational spaces in any single plane
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple drive systems are integrated into a single instrument, then functionality is enhanced, but size constraints within trocar cannulas are exceeded
Solution Approach 1:
The first drive member and second drive member are nested within each other and within the shaft assembly structure. The drive members are positioned concentrically or in overlapping configurations that allow multiple drive systems to coexist within the compact dimensions required for trocar cannula insertion while maintaining full functionality
Data Source
AI summary
Multi-axis pivot joints and surgical instrument drive shafts formed using additive manufacturing methods.