Multi-function Trigger for Ultrasonic Surgical Instrument Power Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ultrasonic surgical instruments lack a convenient and efficient method for the operator to select and adjust the power level of ultrasonic energy during surgical procedures, which can lead to variations in cutting and coagulation precision.
Innovation Solution
The development of a surgical instrument with a multi-functioning trigger that allows the operator to select different power levels of ultrasonic energy by pivoting the trigger to specific positions, with the help of switches or sensors that activate corresponding power settings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional ultrasonic surgical instruments are used without a multi-functioning trigger, then the device structure remains simple, but the operator cannot conveniently select and adjust power levels during surgical procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The trigger is designed to perform multiple functions: it can be pivoted to select different power levels (first function) and also activated to initiate ultrasonic energy delivery (second function). This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require separate controls into a single interface element, improving ease of operation while managing device complexity through functional integration
Solution Approach 2:
The trigger employs a dynamic positioning system where it can be held at multiple discrete pivoted positions (e.g., up, middle, down) to represent different power levels. This dynamic positioning allows the operator to select and maintain desired power levels during surgery, providing both selection capability and operational simplicity through a single movable component
2Manufacturing precision
If power level adjustment capability is added to ultrasonic surgical instruments, then cutting and coagulation precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates sensors (such as Hall effect sensors or position sensors) that detect the trigger's pivoted position and provide feedback signals to the control circuitry. This feedback mechanism enables automatic selection of the appropriate power level based on trigger position, ensuring precise power delivery while reducing the complexity of manual adjustment mechanisms. The feedback loop allows the system to automatically match the desired power level with the actual delivery parameters
Solution Approach 2:
A control circuit acts as an intermediary between the mechanical trigger position and the ultrasonic power delivery system. The control circuit receives signals from position sensors, processes them to determine the desired power level, and then adjusts the power delivery accordingly. This intermediary layer simplifies the overall system by decoupling the mechanical interface from the electronic control, allowing independent optimization of both components
3Measurement precision
If a multi-functioning trigger with switches or sensors is implemented, then power level control accuracy is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces complex mechanical switch assemblies with non-contact sensing technologies such as Hall effect sensors or capacitive sensors that detect trigger position without physical contact. This substitution improves measurement precision by eliminating mechanical wear and contact resistance issues, while actually reducing device complexity by removing numerous discrete mechanical switches and contacts. The non-contact sensing approach provides more accurate and reliable position detection with fewer moving parts
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 solution enables precise control over the ultrasonic energy, improving the consistency and accuracy of tissue cutting and coagulation, while also simplifying the operational process for the operator.
Implementation Method 1
one or more piezoelectric elements that convert electrical power into ultrasonic vibrations
Implementation Method 2
an end effector having a blade element that vibrates at ultrasonic frequencies to cut and/or seal tissue (e.g., by denaturing proteins in tissue cells)
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical instrument includes an end effector and a handle assembly. The end effector is configured to operate at a first energy level and at a second energy level. The end effector is further configured to transition between an open position and a closed position. The end effector is configured to grasp tissue in the closed position. The handle assembly includes a body, a trigger, and an activation element. The trigger is configured to pivot in a first direction relative to the body to actuate the end effector from the open position to the closed position. The activation element is configured to activate the end effector at either the first energy level or the second energy level. The trigger is configured to either activate the activation element or determine whether the end effector operates at the first energy level or the second energy level.