Repositionable Endoscopic Closure Device with Dynamic Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current endoscopic closure devices with distal clipping mechanisms are often single-use and cannot be repositioned once closed, making it difficult to correct placement on target tissue, and may be insufficient for various anatomical conditions or situations.
Innovation Solution
A closure device with two ring structures that can be actuated between open and closed positions multiple times, featuring a locking mechanism and an anvil, allowing for repositioning and secure gripping of target tissue, and can be integrated with an endoscope for precise control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a single-use quick launch mechanism is used for closure devices, then the device structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the device cannot be repositioned once closed and lacks versatility
Solution Approach 1:
The closure device incorporates a dynamic locking mechanism that can be repeatedly engaged and disengaged, allowing the device to transition between locked and unlocked states. This enables the simple single-use structure to gain repositionability through controlled dynamic behavior rather than complex mechanical components
Solution Approach 2:
The closure device uses self-contained shape memory alloy components that automatically lock and unlock without external intervention. The SMA elements provide the locking and releasing functions through temperature-triggered phase changes, eliminating the need for complex external actuation mechanisms while maintaining repositionability
2Adaptability or versatility
If a locking mechanism is added to enable repositioning, then the adaptability and repositionability are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is integrated directly into the closure device structure, with the shape memory alloy elements serving dual functions as both the actuation mechanism and the locking components. This merging eliminates separate locking mechanisms and reduces overall device complexity while maintaining repositionability
Solution Approach 2:
The device uses temperature as a control parameter to trigger phase changes in shape memory alloy elements, which in turn control the locking and unlocking states. This parameter-based control simplifies the mechanical complexity by using material property changes rather than complex mechanical actuators
3Reliability
If the closure device is designed for secure gripping, then the reliability of tissue closure is improved, but the ease of operation and repositioning may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The closure device enables periodic locking and unlocking cycles through reversible shape memory alloy actuation. The device can be repeatedly locked for secure gripping and unlocked for repositioning, allowing multiple operation cycles without compromising either reliability or ease of repositioning
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism incorporates mechanical feedback through the engagement of locking features that provide tactile and visual confirmation of the locked state. This feedback ensures reliable closure while maintaining ease of operation, as the operator can clearly determine when the device is securely locked and when it can be safely repositioned
Data Source
AI summary
A closure device includes a first ring structure having a first distal portion and a first medial portion and a second ring structure having a second distal portion and a second medial portion. The first and second distal portions are movable between an open position, where the first and second distal portions form an angle relative to one another for receiving target tissue therebetween, and a closed position, where the first and second distal portions are drawn toward one another for gripping the target tissue. The device also includes an anvil about which the first and second medial portions are formed. Either one of proximal motion of the anvil relative to the first and second rings or proximal motion of the medial portions relative to the anvil causes the first and second distal portions to move into either one of the open position or the closed position.