Shiftable Transmission Assembly for Powered Surgical Stapler
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current surgical instruments lack efficient mechanisms for simultaneously actuating multiple drive systems within a single motor-driven surgical instrument, leading to complexity and potential misalignment issues during surgical procedures.
Innovation Solution
A modular surgical system with a motor-driven surgical instrument featuring a shiftable transmission assembly that selectively powers either the first or second drive system, ensuring precise actuation of closure and firing motions through a single motor, and a mechanical coupling system for aligning drive shafts with end effectors, facilitating simultaneous coupling and alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple drive systems are actuated simultaneously in a motor-driven surgical instrument, then the instrument can perform multiple functions (closure and firing), but the device complexity increases and misalignment issues arise
Solution Approach 1:
The transmission assembly is designed to be shiftable between different positions, dynamically changing the power transmission path. A shifter mechanism allows the system to switch between engaging the first drive system (closure) and the second drive system (firing), enabling multiple functions while maintaining a relatively simple base structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The shifter acts as an intermediary component that mediates between the single motor and the two different drive systems. It selectively connects the motor to either the first or second drive system, allowing function switching without requiring complex simultaneous coordination of multiple power paths.
2Device complexity
If a single motor powers multiple drive systems, then device complexity is reduced, but precise actuation and alignment become more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The shifter mechanism replaces complex mechanical coupling systems with a simpler selective engagement approach. Instead of using a complex mechanical system to simultaneously coordinate multiple drive shafts, the shifter selectively engages one drive system at a time through simplified mechanical switching, reducing alignment requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The power transmission system is segmented into distinct pathways: the motor outputs to a shifter, which then selectively connects to either the first drive system or the second drive system. This segmentation allows each component to be independently designed and aligned, reducing overall alignment complexity.
3Ease of operation
If drive shafts are coupled to end effectors, then the instrument can perform surgical functions, but misalignment and positioning errors occur
Solution Approach 1:
The coupled system allows the drive shafts to self-align with the end effectors through their mechanical interfaces. The shifter mechanism and drive train design enable the components to automatically position themselves during engagement, reducing the need for precise pre-alignment and manual adjustment.
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical instrument can comprise a handle, a motor, and a shaft extending from the handle. The handle and/or the shaft can define a longitudinal axis. The surgical instrument can further comprise a fastener cartridge comprising a plurality of fasteners removably stored therein, an anvil configured to deform the fasteners, a closure drive configured to move the anvil toward and away from the fastener cartridge which is rotatable about the longitudinal axis, and a firing drive configured to deploy the fasteners from the fastener cartridge which is rotatable about the longitudinal axis. The surgical instrument can further comprise a transmission comprising a first operating configuration which connects the motor to the closure drive and a second operating configuration which connects the motor to the firing drive.