Scalpel to Forceps Interface Mechanism for Surgical Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Surgeons face inefficiencies during surgical procedures due to the need to frequently switch between a cold bladed scalpel and bipolar forceps, leading to distractions, loss of concentration, and reduced dexterity, as existing surgical devices lack the ability to integrate both functions seamlessly.
Innovation Solution
An interface that connects a scalpel to bipolar forceps, allowing for conversion between the two devices, enabling them to be used without switching, and includes features like a channel and tab mechanism for secure connection, allowing longitudinal movement and preventing therapy currents from passing between them.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a surgeon uses separate cold bladed scalpel and bipolar forceps devices, then each device can perform its specific function, but the surgeon must switch between devices multiple times which causes loss of concentration and increases procedure time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a cold bladed scalpel and bipolar forceps into a single integrated surgical device. The scalpel blade is positioned within the forceps shaft, allowing both cutting and coagulation functions to be performed without switching devices. This merging eliminates the time loss associated with switching while maintaining both functional capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The surgical device is designed with multi-functionality, incorporating both a cold bladed scalpel for cutting and bipolar forceps for coagulation and tissue manipulation. The universal design allows the surgeon to perform multiple surgical functions with a single device, improving adaptability and reducing procedural interruptions.
2Productivity
If a scalpel is connected to forceps to create a combined device, then switching time is eliminated, but therapy currents may accidentally pass from the forceps to the scalpel causing safety issues
Solution Approach 1:
An electrical insulator is introduced as an intermediary component between the forceps and scalpel within the integrated device. This insulator prevents therapy currents from passing from the forceps to the scalpel, eliminating electrical interference and safety hazards while maintaining the functional integration that improves productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs an electrical insulating layer or coating on the scalpel or forceps components to prevent current transfer. This thin film or shell approach provides electrical isolation while allowing the mechanical integration and movement between the scalpel and forceps components.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the scalpel is fixed within the forceps structure, then the device provides stable configuration, but the scalpel cannot be easily removed or repositioned when needed
Solution Approach 1:
The connection between the scalpel and forceps is designed to be dynamic rather than fixed. The scalpel can be inserted into and secured within the forceps shaft during procedures, and can also be removed or repositioned when needed. This dynamic design maintains structural stability during use while providing operational flexibility for component access.
Data Source
AI summary
A medical device comprising: (a) an interface including: (i) a first portion including: (1) a body portion connected to N a handle of a scalpel; and (2) a connection adapter; (ii) a second portion; wherein the connection adapter includes an interface portion that is a channel and the second portion includes an interface portion that is a tab that extends into the channel so that the first portion is connected to the second portion or wherein the second portion includes an interface portion that is a channel and the connection adapter includes an interface portion that is a tab that extends into the channel so that the first portion is connected to the second portion.