Rotatable Working Channel Actuator for Medical Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Physicians face difficulties in rotating medical accessory devices within the working channel of medical devices due to frictional forces, leading to potential damage or improper rotation of the devices.
Innovation Solution
A medical device with a rotatable working channel and an actuator that engages and disengages with the channel, allowing for controlled rotation of accessory devices by translating and rotating the actuator.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If physicians apply excessive rotational force to overcome frictional forces, then the accessory device can be rotated, but the accessory device may be damaged or over-rotate
Solution Approach 1:
A rotatable working channel is introduced as an intermediary component between the actuator and the accessory device. The channel engages with the actuator at its proximal end and with the accessory device at its distal end, allowing rotational force to be transmitted through the channel rather than directly applying excessive force to the accessory device. This mediator protects the accessory device from damage while enabling controlled rotation.
Solution Approach 2:
The working channel is made rotatable relative to the shaft, allowing it to dynamically transmit rotational motion from the actuator to the accessory device. The channel can rotate about the longitudinal axis of the shaft, providing a dynamic mechanism that enables controlled rotation without requiring excessive static force that would damage the accessory device.
2Ease of operation
If a fixed working channel is used, then the device structure is simple, but frictional forces prevent proper rotation of accessory devices
Solution Approach 1:
The working channel transitions from a fixed structure to a rotatable structure that can rotate about the longitudinal axis of the shaft. This dynamic capability allows the channel to overcome frictional forces and properly rotate accessory devices, while the rotation is controlled through engagement with the actuator, preventing excessive rotation.
Solution Approach 2:
The working channel is segmented into distinct functional portions: a proximal end that engages with the actuator, a body that rotates about the shaft axis, and a distal end that engages with the accessory device. This segmentation allows each portion to perform its specific function while maintaining overall system simplicity.
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
The solution minimizes the risk of damaging accessory devices and ensures precise rotation, improving the control and efficiency of medical procedures by reducing the need for excessive rotational force.
Implementation Method 1
The actuator is spring-biased. The spring coiling around a portion of the elongated body that extends proximally outside of the actuator channel, wherein the spring is positioned between a distal surface of a knob and a proximal surface of the actuator channel.
Data Source
AI summary
A medical device comprising a shaft, a handle housing a proximal end of the shaft, a first channel extending throughout a lumen of the shaft, wherein the first channel is rotatable about a longitudinal axis of the shaft, the channel including a proximal end and a distal end, and an actuator, wherein a distal end of the actuator is configured to engage and disengage with the proximal end of the first channel, such that in an engaged position the actuator and the first channel are rotatable.