Releasable Attachment Clamp for One-Handed Endoscope Pairing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Medical procedures often require the use of multiple devices simultaneously, such as endoscopes, which can be burdensome for physicians to manage and operate effectively, as they need to hold and manipulate multiple instruments simultaneously for tasks like minimally invasive procedures.
Innovation Solution
Development of various apparatuses that allow a first medical device to securely attach to a second medical device using mechanisms like clamps, pincers, latches, and straps, enhancing gripping strength with materials like adhesives, magnets, and VELCRO, enabling easy attachment and detachment with one hand, allowing for single-handed operation and easy transfer between users.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple medical devices are used simultaneously during a procedure, then the functional capability and versatility of the medical system is improved, but the operational burden and complexity for the physician increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple medical devices into a single integrated assembly where a first medical device is securely attached to a second medical device through a coupling mechanism. This merging allows the physician to manipulate both devices simultaneously using a single handle, eliminating the need to separately coordinate multiple independent devices while maintaining their individual functional capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism designed in the patent creates a universal attachment system that can accommodate different types of medical devices. The base portion with coupling mechanisms can attach various second medical devices to the first medical device, providing multi-functionality and versatility while maintaining a consistent operational interface for the physician.
2Measurement precision
If multiple medical devices are held and coordinated separately, then each device can be independently controlled, but the time required for procedure execution and device coordination increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple medical devices into a single coordinated assembly with a common handle, the patent enables simultaneous manipulation of all devices through one control interface. This eliminates the time required to separately position and coordinate multiple devices while maintaining precise control over each device's function through the unified mechanical linkage.
3Reliability
If a secure attachment mechanism is used to hold multiple devices together, then the stability and reliability of the device assembly is improved, but the complexity of the attachment mechanism increases
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: a base portion that attaches to the first medical device, a coupling mechanism for securing the second medical device, and a handle for manipulation. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall simplicity. The coupling mechanism uses modular elements such as clamps, clips, or interlocking features that provide reliable attachment without requiring complex assembly procedures.
4Reliability
If a permanent attachment method is used to join medical devices, then the structural integrity and reliability is improved, but the ability to adapt to different device combinations and perform maintenance decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanism incorporates dynamic, reversible connection features that allow the second medical device to be securely attached and easily detached. The coupling mechanism uses releasable fasteners, clips, or interlocking elements that provide strong attachment during use but can be quickly released when device changes are needed. This dynamic attachment system maintains structural integrity during procedures while enabling rapid reconfiguration for different medical tasks.
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 efficient and secure attachment of multiple medical devices, reducing the burden on physicians during procedures and allowing for easy switching between users without removing the attached device, thus improving operational efficiency and safety.
Implementation Method 1
magnets
Implementation Method 2
a sticky or tacky material such as a releasable adhesive
Data Source
AI summary
Various apparatuses to attach a first medical device to a second medical device are described that allow the physician to grasp only a single device while the other device remains securely attached to the one being grasped. The apparatuses, once they are attached to the first medical device, are designed to be easily and quickly attached and detached to a second medical device, normally only requiring the use of one hand. Furthermore, the apparatuses oftentimes include a base that can easily couple and decouple from the portion that is attached to the second medical device so that if the need arises to separately use the second medical device, it can be decoupled from the first medical device without completely removing the apparatus from the second medical device.