Detachable Plug-Socket Connector for RF Tissue Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a suitable connector and method for coupling components of a large volume tissue removal device, particularly for attaching medical device components such as a retrieval bag and actuator, while allowing for electrical and mechanical connections that enable RF energy transmission and independent movement of wires during tissue segmentation.
Innovation Solution
A coupling system with a first plug and socket that are detachably coupled to housings, allowing movement between engaged and disengaged configurations, utilizing friction fits and a retaining mechanism to secure the connection, and enabling slidable movement with a pulling force greater than the friction force, facilitating electrical and mechanical connections for RF energy transmission and wire retraction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the first plug and first socket are securely fixed to the housings using friction fit, then reliable electrical connection is maintained, but the wires cannot move independently during tissue segmentation
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into separate components: the first plug fixed to the actuator housing and the first socket fixed to the retrieval bag housing. This segmentation allows the plug and socket to maintain reliable electrical connection while enabling independent movement of the retrieval bag and its wires relative to the actuator during tissue segmentation.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the first plug and first socket are rigidly fixed to the housings, then stable electrical connection is achieved, but the connection cannot accommodate relative movement between components
Solution Approach 1:
The friction fit connection between the plug and socket provides a dynamic solution that adapts to operational needs. The friction force is calibrated to maintain stable electrical connection during normal operation while allowing the components to be deliberately moved or disconnected when needed, accommodating both stability and operational flexibility.
3Reliability
If a strong retaining mechanism is used to secure the plug and socket, then connection reliability is improved, but the components cannot be easily disconnected when needed
Solution Approach 1:
The friction fit mechanism uses optimized friction parameters (coefficient of friction, contact pressure, contact area) to create a connection that is reliably stable during operation but can be easily broken when a deliberate force is applied. The friction force is set below the strength of the housing structures, allowing safe disconnection when needed for repair or replacement.
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
The system effectively maintains secure connections while allowing wires to move independently, ensuring reliable electrical conductivity and mechanical operation during tissue segmentation, reducing the risk of damage and enhancing the functionality of the tissue removal device.
Implementation Method 1
In the first configuration, the first plug is fixed to the first housing by a friction fit, and the first socket is fixed to the second housing by a friction fit
Implementation Method 2
the first plug and the first socket are slidable relative to the first and second housings by application of a pulling force that is greater than a retaining force applied by the friction fits
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
A coupling system and related methods are disclosed. The system has a first plug detachably coupled to a first housing, and a first socket detachably coupled to a second housing. The first socket is configured to receive the first plug. The system is movable between a first configuration wherein the first and second housings are not engaged and a second configuration wherein the first and second housings are engaged and the first plug and the first socket are coupled together.