Specimen Retrieval Bag Cinch Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing specimen retrieval devices lack an efficient mechanism to adjust the diameter of the tissue collection bag during surgical procedures, which can lead to difficulties in inserting, removing, or sealing tissue specimens.
Innovation Solution
A specimen retrieval device equipped with a cinch mechanism featuring a flexible band and a cinch that can pivot between open and closed positions, allowing the bag's diameter to be selectively adjusted using a shape memory material like Nitinol for precise control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If no cinch mechanism is used, then the bag structure is simple, but the diameter of the bag cannot be adjusted making specimen handling difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by using a flexible band made of shape memory material (Nitinol) whose diameter can be dynamically adjusted through thermal or mechanical stimulation. The cinch mechanism changes the physical parameter of the band's diameter to transition between open and closed states, enabling specimen insertion and securement without complex mechanical fasteners
Solution Approach 2:
The cinch mechanism employs a self-service principle through the shape memory material's ability to automatically return to its original diameter when released. The Nitinol band maintains its cinched state through its memory effect and can be reset by applying heat or mechanical force, eliminating the need for additional locking mechanisms or manual intervention to maintain the closed state
2Adaptability or versatility
If the bag diameter is fixed, then the structure is simple, but it cannot accommodate specimens of varying sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamics by transforming the static fixed-diameter bag into a dynamic system where the flexible band's diameter can change. The cinch mechanism allows the band to transition between expanded and contracted states, enabling the bag to adapt to specimens of different sizes while maintaining structural integrity through the elastic properties of the shape memory material
3Reliability
If the cinch mechanism uses traditional mechanical fasteners, then the closure is secure, but the mechanism becomes more complex and harder to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical fastening systems (zippers, clips, ties) with a smart material-based closure mechanism. The shape memory material's intrinsic properties provide the closure force, eliminating complex mechanical components while maintaining secure closure through the material's ability to maintain constant tension and resist deformation
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
Enables secure and adjustable closure of the tissue collection bag, facilitating easy specimen handling and reducing the risk of specimen loss or contamination during surgical procedures.
Implementation Method 1
The flexible band may include shape memory material. The shape memory material may be Nitinol.
Data Source
AI summary
A specimen retrieval device includes a bag having a closed bottom end portion and an open top end portion. The specimen retrieval device includes a cinch mechanism coupled to the open top end portion. The cinch mechanism includes a flexible band secured to the bag and a cinch coupled to the flexible band. The flexible band is movable relative to the cinch to reduce or enlarge a diameter of the open top end portion of the bag. The cinch is selectively engagable with the flexible band to fix the diameter of the open top end portion of the bag.