Rotatable Linear Actuation Mechanism for Surgical Instruments
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current ultrasonic surgical instruments face challenges in providing precise control and articulation during robotic-assisted surgeries, particularly in varying tissue conditions, due to limitations in their mechanical and electrical actuation systems.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a rotatable linear actuation mechanism with a translatable rack gear assembly and articulation bands, allowing for adjustable tension and flexible articulation of the end effector, enabling precise movement and adaptation to different tissue conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a traditional fixed mechanical actuation system is used in ultrasonic surgical instruments, then the structure is simple and reliable, but the precision of control and adaptability to different tissue conditions is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the mechanical actuation system adjustable and adaptable rather than fixed. The articulation mechanism allows the end effector to change its articulation angle dynamically during surgery, and the tensioning mechanism allows real-time adjustment of articulation band tension. This dynamic capability enables precise control adaptation to different tissue conditions while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
2Reliability
If the controller is positioned far from the patient for safety, then the surgeon's safety is improved, but the real-time control responsiveness and precision are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical cable-based control with a robotic system that uses electric motors and direct drive mechanisms. This substitution allows the controller to be positioned remotely for surgeon safety while maintaining high control responsiveness through electronic signal transmission and precise motor control, eliminating the latency and mechanical friction associated with cable systems.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid articulation mechanism is used, then the structural stability is improved, but the flexibility to adapt to different tissue conditions is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by allowing the articulation mechanism to vary its geometric parameters (articulation angle, band tension) in response to different tissue conditions. The system can adjust the articulation angle and tensioning force to match the mechanical properties of different tissues, providing both structural stability during cutting and adaptability to varying tissue types and conditions.
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
This solution enhances the precision and versatility of ultrasonic surgical instruments by allowing for real-time adjustments and improved control during surgeries, facilitating effective cutting and coagulation across varying tissue types and conditions.
Implementation Method 1
one or more piezoelectric elements that convert electrical power into ultrasonic vibrations
Implementation Method 2
a translatable rack gear assembly and articulation bands
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical instrument includes an end effector, a shaft assembly proximally extending from the end effector, and at least one translatable rack gear assembly coupled with the shaft assembly. The shaft assembly includes at least one elongate member connected to a select one or both of the end effector and the shaft assembly. The at least one translatable rack gear assembly includes a rack gear, an anchor longitudinally adjustable relative to the rack gear, and an insert received within the anchor. The anchor is coupled with the at least one elongate member such that adjustment of the anchor relative to the rack gear longitudinally moves the insert and the at least one elongate member for adjusting tension of the at least one elongate member.