Multi-clip Applier Stroke Increasing Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current surgical clip appliers require different handle strokes for various clip sizes and struggle to fit through small trocar cannulas without compromising clip size or risking clip loss during insertion, necessitating multiple handle designs and increasing manufacturing and operational complexities.
Innovation Solution
A surgical clip applier with a stroke increasing mechanism, such as a drive belt system, that allows a consistent handle stroke for different clip sizes and includes a reversing mechanism to load clips after trocar insertion, ensuring proper clip formation and preventing loss during insertion through smaller trocars.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If different handle strokes are used for various clip sizes, then proper clip application is achieved, but multiple handle designs are required increasing manufacturing complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal handle design that can accommodate different clip sizes through a single standardized interface. The handle incorporates a standardized stroke mechanism that works with various clip cartridges, eliminating the need for multiple handle designs while maintaining proper clip application for different sizes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of handle stroke consistency by designing a mechanism that provides a standardized stroke length regardless of clip size. This is achieved through a standardized cam mechanism and follower system that ensures consistent motion parameters across different clip configurations.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If smaller trocar cannulas are used for minimally invasive surgery, then patient trauma is reduced, but clip applier insertion becomes difficult without risking clip loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs preliminary action by pre-loading clips into cartridges that are then inserted through the trocar before the actual surgical procedure. The clips are secured in the cartridges with retention mechanisms that prevent accidental dislodgement during insertion through small trocars, ensuring reliability before the surgeon needs to apply them.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a nested structure where clips are inserted into cartridges, which are then inserted into the handle through the trocar. This nested arrangement protects the clips during transmission through the small trocar cannula, allowing minimally invasive access while maintaining clip integrity and preventing loss.
3Device complexity
If standard clip appliers are used with small trocars, then simplicity is maintained, but clip crimping or loss may occur during insertion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary cartridge mechanism that serves as a buffer between the handle and the clips during insertion through small trocars. The cartridge protects the clips from premature crimping and prevents loss by providing a secure holding mechanism, while the overall design remains relatively simple and integrated.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent provides beforehand cushioning through retention springs and detent mechanisms within the cartridge that secure clips before insertion through the trocar. These pre-positioned protective elements prevent clip loss or premature crimping during the vulnerable insertion phase, while adding minimal complexity to the overall system.
Data Source
AI summary
A clip applier having a handle at a proximal portion, an elongated portion extending distally of the handle, a jaw mechanism including a pair of jaws movable to a closed position to crimp a clip held therein, a clip feeder mechanism movable in proximal and distal directions, a camming mechanism and a puller mechanism movable in proximal and distal directions. The puller mechanism is operatively connected to the handle such that actuation of the handle a) moves the puller mechanism a first distance in the proximal direction; and b) moves the clip feeder mechanism a second distance greater than the first distance.