Power-Assisted Surgical Stapler Handle with Motor-Driven Trigger
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical stapling instruments require high manual force for stapling, which can be tiring for surgeons and may lead to inconsistent stapling performance, especially in minimally invasive procedures where precision and control are critical.
Innovation Solution
A power-assisted handle assembly that includes a trigger assembly with a motor, a clamping gear, a firing gear assembly, and a drive gear system, which provides power assistance when a predetermined threshold of force is applied, reducing the manual effort required for stapling and enhancing precision.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual force is applied for stapling, then the surgical instrument can be operated, but high manual force is required which causes fatigue and reduces precision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical force application with an electric motor-driven system. The motor generates rotational force that is transmitted through gears and a drive shaft to the stapling mechanism, eliminating the need for surgeons to apply high manual forces while maintaining consistent and reliable stapling performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The surgical instrument performs self-service by using an integrated motor to generate the necessary force for stapling. The system automatically provides the required mechanical force through its motor and transmission mechanism, reducing dependence on manual effort and improving operational consistency without requiring external force application from the user.
2Productivity
If manual force is applied for stapling, then the stapling function is achieved, but physical fatigue accumulates during procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes manual mechanical force with an electric motor system that continuously provides power without physical exhaustion. The motor-driven transmission mechanism ensures consistent force delivery throughout the entire surgical procedure, eliminating the physical fatigue that would otherwise limit surgeon endurance and productivity.
3Force
If high manual force is applied, then stapling can be achieved, but precision and control are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces uncontrolled manual force application with a motor-driven system that provides precise and consistent force control. The motor can be programmed to deliver exact force levels, and the mechanical transmission system ensures uniform force distribution throughout the stapling process, significantly improving staple placement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates sensors and control systems that provide feedback on force application and staple placement. This feedback mechanism allows the system to automatically adjust force levels and positioning in real-time, ensuring precise staple placement while eliminating the need for high manual forces that would compromise precision.
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 power-assisted handle assembly reduces the physical effort needed for stapling, providing consistent and precise staple placement, thereby improving surgical efficiency and reducing fatigue for surgeons during minimally invasive procedures.
Implementation Method 1
A power-assisted handle assembly that includes a trigger assembly with a motor
Implementation Method 2
The drive assembly includes a clamping gear, a firing gear assembly, a drive gear, and a rack
Implementation Method 3
The clamping gear is operatively coupled to the trigger such that actuation of the trigger causes rotation of the clamping gear
Implementation Method 4
The rack is engaged with the drive gear such that rotation of the drive gear causes axial displacement of the rack
Data Source
AI summary
A handle assembly includes a trigger assembly, a motor, and a drive assembly. The trigger assembly includes a trigger, a head portion, and a deflection member interconnecting the trigger and the head portion such that a load applied to the trigger causes the deflection member to flex to define a gap between the trigger and the head portion. The motor is configured to be activated based on a size of gap defined by the trigger and the head portion. The drive assembly includes a clamping gear, a firing gear assembly, a drive gear, and a rack. When a button of the trigger assembly engages the clamping gear, actuation of the trigger advances the rack by a first distance, and when the button engages the firing gear assembly, actuation of the trigger advances the rack by a second distance greater than the first distance.