Single-Actuator Handle for Coordinated Multi-Implement Motion
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional medical devices with multiple actuated implements require multiple actuators and lack the ability to control the relative speed and force of operation, leading to user coordination challenges and potential errors.
Innovation Solution
A single user actuator system with grooves and slots in the handle controls the movement of multiple implements through distinct motion profiles, allowing independent and coordinated operation of implements like hooks and lassos via barrels and slots, enabling complex motions and force application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple actuators are used for each implement, then each implement can be controlled individually, but the device complexity increases and user coordination becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple actuators are merged into a single actuator system. The patent integrates control of multiple implements (hook implement and lasso implement) into one actuator located in the handle, eliminating the need for separate actuators for each implement and simplifying user operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The single actuator is designed to perform multiple functions by controlling different implements through distinct mechanisms. The actuator includes a first groove for controlling the hook implement and a second groove for controlling the lasso implement, allowing one component to serve multiple purposes.
2Ease of operation
If multiple actuators are used for each implement, then control over each implement is independent, but the ease of operation decreases due to coordination requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides self-service coordination through the mechanical design of grooves and slots. When the user operates the single actuator, the grooves automatically guide the barrels along predetermined paths, ensuring proper coordination of multiple implements without requiring the user to manually coordinate their movements.
Solution Approach 2:
The grooves and slots act as intermediary elements between the single actuator and multiple implements. These intermediaries translate the single actuator's movement into coordinated movements of different implements, ensuring proper timing and sequencing automatically.
3Ease of operation
If a single actuator controls multiple implements, then operation is simplified, but control over relative speed and force of each implement becomes challenging
Solution Approach 1:
Different portions of the actuator are designed with distinct local qualities to control different implements. The first groove has specific geometric characteristics for controlling the hook implement's motion profile, while the second groove has different geometric characteristics for controlling the lasso implement's motion profile, allowing differentiated control within a single actuator.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables dynamic control of motion profiles through the geometric design of grooves and slots. By varying the shape, orientation, and dimensions of grooves and slots, the system can dynamically adjust the speed, direction, and force applied to each implement during operation.
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 system simplifies user operation, reduces errors, and enables complex medical device functions by coordinating multiple implements with a single actuator, providing mechanical advantages and precise control over motion and force.
Implementation Method 1
the actuator includes a first groove and a second groove... Movement of the actuator between the first position and the second position cause the first groove to drive the first barrel to translate along the first path of the first pair of slots and the second groove to drive the second barrel to translate along the second path of the second pair of slots
Implementation Method 2
Movement of the actuator between the first position and the second position causes the first groove to drive the first barrel to translate along the first path... providing mechanical advantages and precise control over motion and force
Data Source
AI summary
A system for a medical device that can operate multiple actuated implements with sophisticated and individual motion profiles using a single user actuator. The system has a handle having a pair of slots for each implement and an actuator positioned in the handle for movement between a first position and a second position that has a groove for each implement. Each implement is coupled to the handle a barrel that is captured in the pair of slots and driven by the groove of the actuator. The shape of the pair of slots and the corresponding groove combine to provide a motion profile for the implement that is independent from any other implement having its own pair of slots and groove. Multiple implements may thus be driven simultaneously and can have complex and coordinated movement based on user operation of the single actuator.