Rotating Adapter for Surgical Instrument Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical instruments without integrated tracking systems require an adapter to mount a tracking target, and there is a need for an adapter that allows the tracking target to rotate with the instrument to maintain line of sight with tracking sensors.
Innovation Solution
An adapter with an elongated shaft and a collet that clamps onto the instrument shaft, allowing a tracking element with rotating capabilities to be mounted, ensuring the tracking element remains in the line of sight of the tracking system even when the instrument is rotated.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a tracking target is mounted on a surgical instrument using a fixed adapter, then the tracking system can determine the position of the instrument, but the tracking target cannot rotate with the instrument to maintain line of sight with tracking sensors during rotational maneuvers
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter incorporates a rotational joint that allows the tracking target to dynamically rotate relative to the instrument shaft. This dynamic mechanism enables the tracking target to maintain line of sight with external tracking sensors during rotational maneuvers while remaining securely attached to the instrument, thus preserving tracking accuracy throughout the surgical procedure.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter is divided into distinct functional segments: a fixed portion attached to the instrument shaft and a rotating portion holding the tracking target. This segmentation allows independent rotation of the tracking target segment without affecting the instrument's operational segments, enabling continuous tracking during rotational movements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a universal adapter is designed to fit multiple instrument types, then adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the need for multiple engagement fittings
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter employs a standardized engagement fitting design that can accommodate multiple instrument types through a single universal interface. This universal fitting mechanism allows the same adapter body to be attached to various surgical instruments with different shaft dimensions, reducing the need for multiple specialized adapters and simplifying the overall device architecture.
Data Source
AI summary
An adapter mounts a tracking target to an end fitting of an existing r instrument. The adapter includes A shaft having an engagement fitting at one end thereof that is configured the same as the end fitting of the existing instrument so that a handle can be mounted on the adapter instead of on the end fitting of the tool/instrument. The adapter shaft includes a collet that cooperates with a locking nut to clamp the collet onto the instrument shaft when the end fitting of the instrument is disposed within the collet. A tracking element is provided that is detectable by a tracking system to determine the position and orientation of the instrument. The tracking element includes a mounting feature that is configured to snap onto the adapter shaft at a known axial position thereon while permitting rotation of the tracking element about the longitudinal axis of the adapter shaft.