Powered Stapler Handle Assembly for Variable Cartridge Stroke
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical stapling devices require complex and costly mechanisms to adjust stroke length for firing staple reloads of different sizes, limiting their versatility and economic efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A powered handle assembly with a gear assembly and safety toggle mechanism that allows for manual adjustment of the drive rack stroke length, enabling the device to accommodate staple cartridges of varying lengths using a simple and economic mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a mechanism is added to adjust stroke length for different staple reload sizes, then the device can accommodate varying cartridge lengths, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The trigger assembly is designed to serve multiple functions: it both activates the motor and controls the drive rack stroke length. By integrating the stroke control function into the existing trigger mechanism through selective engagement with different portions of the drive rack, the device achieves multi-functionality without adding separate adjustment mechanisms, thereby maintaining simplicity while enabling versatility for different staple reload lengths
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the drive rack stroke length during operation by allowing the trigger to engage different portions of the drive rack based on the selected staple reload size. This dynamic adjustment capability enables the same handle assembly to adapt to various cartridge lengths (15mm, 30mm, 45mm, 60mm) without requiring static mechanical adjustments or additional components
2Adaptability or versatility
If a complex adjustment mechanism is used to accommodate different staple cartridge lengths, then versatility is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The trigger assembly performs dual functions of motor activation and stroke length control, eliminating the need for separate adjustment mechanisms. This multi-functional design reduces the total component count and simplifies manufacturing processes, thereby lowering production costs while maintaining the ability to accommodate multiple staple cartridge lengths
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the existing trigger mechanism and motor assembly to self-adjust the stroke length by selectively engaging different portions of the drive rack. This self-service approach eliminates the need for external adjustment devices or complex mechanical linkages, reducing manufacturing complexity and cost while achieving versatility across different staple reload sizes
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
Enables the use of a single handle assembly to fire staple reloads of different lengths with improved versatility and reduced complexity, enhancing the economic efficiency of surgical stapling devices.
Implementation Method 1
The gear assembly includes a first bevel gear that is engaged with the motor assembly, a transmission shaft, a second bevel gear engaged with the first bevel gear and supported on the transmission shaft, and a pinion fixedly supported on the transmission shaft that is engaged with the rack
Implementation Method 2
a pinion fixedly supported on the transmission shaft that is engaged with the rack. The transmission shaft is movable in relation to the second bevel gear from a first position in which the transmission shaft is rotatably fixed to the second bevel gear and a second position in which the transmission shaft is rotatable independently of the second bevel gear
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical stapling device includes a staple reload and a handle assembly that supports a drive rack, a motor assembly, a gear assembly, a reload select mechanism, and a safety toggle mechanism. The gear assembly is adapted to facilitate uncoupling of the motor assembly from the drive rack to allow manual movement of the drive rack. The reload select mechanism allows the length of a stroke of the drive rack to be selectively adjusted to allow the stapling device to accommodate different length staple reloads. The safety toggle mechanism is provided to move the stapling device from a non-firing state to a firing state to allow for firing of the stapling device.