Reusable Optical Obturator with Transparent Window
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional optical obturators are typically single-use due to difficulties in sterilization without degradation, and reusable options are expensive and hard to manufacture.
Innovation Solution
A reusable optical obturator system with a transparent window member on the distal tip, made from biocompatible materials like stainless steel, allowing for visualization and penetration, and featuring a retainer member to secure the window in place, enabling multiple sterilizations without performance loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If conventional optical obturators are made with transparent window members, then visualization capability is improved, but reusability deteriorates due to sterilization degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The optical obturator is divided into separate modular components: a reusable shaft assembly and a disposable optical assembly containing the transparent window member. The disposable optical assembly can be easily detached, sterilized, or replaced without subjecting the entire device to harsh sterilization processes that would degrade the transparent window. This segmentation allows the reusable portion to be sterilized conventionally while the optical portion is either sterilized gently or replaced, resolving the contradiction between maintaining visualization capability and enabling reusability.
2Productivity
If conventional optical obturators are designed for reusability, then cost-effectiveness is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the obturator into modular reusable and disposable assemblies, the manufacturing complexity is concentrated in producing standardized components that can be mass-produced. The reusable shaft assembly is manufactured once and sterilized for multiple uses, while the simpler disposable optical assemblies are manufactured in large quantities at low cost. This modular approach reduces overall manufacturing complexity compared to creating a single complex reusable device with integrated optical components that must withstand repeated sterilization.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the transparent window member is secured firmly in the tip member, then structural stability is improved, but ease of sterilization deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The optical assembly containing the transparent window member is designed as a separable module that can be easily detached from the reusable shaft. This segmentation allows the optical assembly to be sterilized independently using appropriate methods, or simply replaced if contamination occurs, without requiring complex disassembly or special sterilization procedures. The firm structural connection is maintained during use, but the modular design enables easy separation for sterilization purposes.
Data Source
AI summary
An optical obturator system is described. The optical obturator system includes a transparent window member provided on a distal tip portion of the obturator shaft, thus permitting the surgeon to visualize the tissue of the patient (e.g., via an imaging system positioned near the window member). One or more major portions of the optical obturator system may be formed of a biocompatible material, such as but not limited to stainless steel. Accordingly, the optical obturator system may be reusable for a relatively large number of surgical procedures.