Self-unlocking Deflection Shaft Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing instruments with deflectable shafts face ergonomic challenges and safety risks due to complex control mechanisms that require different directions of movement for deflection and locking, leading to potential unintended movement of the shaft during medical or inspection procedures.
Innovation Solution
A catch mechanism is integrated into the control element that automatically locks the shaft in place when not actuated, allowing for safe and one-handed operation by ensuring the shaft remains locked until the control element is moved to initiate deflection, and then immediately re-engages upon release.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a combined brake lever and control lever is used to lock the shaft, then the shaft can be locked against return from a defined position, but the operator must perform different directions of movements and different manipulations to actuate the deflection mechanism and the brake mechanism, increasing operational complexity and reducing safety
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the brake mechanism and deflection mechanism into a single control lever system. The control lever simultaneously performs both braking and deflection functions through its movement, eliminating the need for separate manipulations. When the control lever is moved to deflect the shaft, it automatically releases the brake mechanism; when released, the shaft is automatically locked. This merging of functions into one control element simplifies operation while maintaining reliable locking.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs automatic locking and unlocking mechanisms that operate without requiring manual intervention to switch between modes. The control lever's movement automatically triggers the appropriate mechanism: deflection when the lever is actuated, and automatic locking when released. The system self-regulates the locking state based on the control lever position, eliminating the need for the operator to manually switch between braking and deflection modes.
2Reliability
If the control element requires different directions of movement for deflection and locking, then the locking function can be achieved, but the operator cannot determine the control element's state at a glance, leading to potential unintended movement and reduced safety
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides immediate tactile feedback to the operator about the control element's state through the control lever's position and the associated mechanical feedback from the locking mechanism. When the control lever is in the locking position, the operator feels the engagement of the locking mechanism. When the lever is moved to deflect, the feedback indicates the release state. This continuous feedback allows the operator to clearly distinguish between locked and unlocked states without needing to interpret complex movement directions.
3Reliability
If a complex control mechanism with separate brake and control levers is used, then the locking function can be achieved, but the device complexity increases and ergonomic safety is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the brake lever and control lever into a single integrated control lever that performs both braking and deflection functions. This consolidation reduces the number of separate components and control elements, simplifying the overall device structure while maintaining the reliable locking function. The single control lever eliminates the need for the operator to manage multiple independent mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
An instrument comprises a headpiece at a proximal end, a shaft connected to said headpiece, said shaft can be deflected at least in a distal end area thereof. A deflection mechanism is provided for deflecting said shaft. Said deflection mechanism has control wires and a control element for controlling a deflection movement of said deflection mechanism. A lock is provided for locking said deflection mechanism. Said lock has a catch mechanism connected to said control element in such a way that said catch mechanism, without actuation, is automatically forced into a locking position and a movement of said control element first opens said catch mechanism and only then permits a deflection of said shaft. A release of said control element in any position of said deflection mechanism causes an enforced locking by said catch mechanism in said position.