Retractor Camera Assembly With Rotatable Reflector Viewing Axis
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing retractor systems with rotatable camera assemblies are prone to accidental impact and alteration of the viewing axis due to the passage of surgical tools, compromising surgical visualization.
Innovation Solution
A camera assembly is mounted on the proximal end of a retractor system, with a rotatable reflector mount disposed between the imaging sensor and the reflector, allowing adjustment of the viewing axis without rotating the entire assembly, and is configured to overhang the working channel, accommodating various retractor configurations and obstacles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the camera assembly is mounted on the retractor system with the distal-most optical element disposed at the proximal end, then the camera assembly is protected from accidental impact and alteration of the viewing axis, but the camera assembly requires a more complex mounting structure that overhangs the working channel
Solution Approach 1:
The camera assembly is positioned in the proximal dimension rather than extending to the distal end, utilizing the spatial dimension along the retractor length to achieve protection while maintaining viewing capability through optical redirection
2Ease of operation
If the distal-most optical element is disposed proximal to the proximal end of the retracting element, then the camera assembly can overhang the working channel to avoid obstruction, but the mounting structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The optical element is repositioned to the proximal dimension, creating an overhanging configuration that clears the working channel obstruction path while maintaining visual access to the surgical field through strategic positioning
3Adaptability or versatility
If the entire camera assembly is rotated to point the camera to different areas, then the viewing angle is adjustable, but the viewing axis is subject to accidental impact and alteration
Solution Approach 1:
The camera system is segmented into a stable proximal mounting portion and a rotatable optical portion, allowing independent adjustment of the optical elements while the main assembly remains fixed and protected from impact
Solution Approach 2:
The optical elements are made dynamically adjustable through rotation capability, enabling viewing angle changes while the overall assembly maintains a fixed, protected position that prevents accidental impact
Data Source
AI summary
A camera system for use with retractors. The system includes a camera assembly configured for mounting on the proximal end of a retractor system, such as the proximal end of a blade such that the entirety of the camera assembly is disposed at the proximal end of the retractor system may be disposed such that the distal-most optical element overhangs the working channel established by the retractor, and includes a reflector and a rotatable mount for the reflector, camera assembly viewing axis may be altered without changing the position of the entire camera assembly.