Spring-Hammer Torque Amplification for Endoscopic Jaw Actuation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medical devices face challenges in applying sufficient force effectively and efficiently during endoluminal procedures due to the need for manual actuation, which can increase strain on the device operator and prolong procedure duration.
Innovation Solution
A torque amplification system is integrated into medical devices, utilizing a spring-driven mechanism to amplify rotational force from a motor, allowing for pulsed high-torque output to end effectors like graspers or staplers, by storing and releasing energy through a hammer-anvil interaction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual actuation is used to apply force to the end effector, then the device operator has direct control, but operator strain increases and procedure duration increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring is pre-compressed to store elastic potential energy before actuation is needed. When the actuator releases the latch, the pre-stored energy in the spring is rapidly converted to kinetic energy, delivering a powerful blow to the anvil without requiring continuous manual force application during the critical force delivery moment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses intermittent, pulsed actuation rather than continuous manual force application. The motor-driven latch mechanism engages and disengages periodically, allowing the spring to store energy and then release it in controlled bursts, reducing operator strain while maintaining effective force delivery to the end effector.
2Productivity
If manual actuation is used to re-apply force to the end effector, then flexibility in force application is maintained, but procedure duration increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded mechanism maintains readiness for force delivery by continuously storing elastic potential energy as long as the latch remains engaged. This eliminates dead time between actuations, allowing the system to rapidly repeat force delivery cycles without requiring manual re-positioning or re-loading, thereby improving procedure efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically resets and recharges the spring mechanism through the motor-driven latch without requiring manual intervention. After each force delivery cycle, the latch automatically re-engages and the spring re-compresses, enabling the system to service itself and prepare for the next actuation, reducing overall procedure time.
3Extent of automation
If a motor-driven system is used to actuate the end effector, then automation is improved, but the force output may be insufficient without torque amplification
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static motor torque to dynamic spring-loaded impact torque. The spring mechanism converts gradual motor-driven latch movement into rapid, high-force hammer blows against the anvil, amplifying the effective torque delivered to the end effector while maintaining automated control through the motor-driven latch mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The hammer-anvil interaction creates impulsive mechanical vibrations that deliver concentrated force bursts to the end effector. This vibrational impact mechanism amplifies the effective torque output beyond what a motor could directly provide, while the automated latch control regulates the frequency and timing of these vibrational pulses.
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 enables efficient and controlled application of high torque to medical instruments, reducing operator strain and shortening procedure time by enhancing the force transmission capabilities of endoscopic tools.
Implementation Method 1
a spring coupled to the driveshaft and configured to expand or contract in a proximal or a distal direction relative to the driveshaft
Implementation Method 2
a hammer moveably coupled to the driveshaft; an anvil coupled to an output shaft and abutting the hammer
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~6
Figure 7~8
AI summary
A medical device may include a main shaft extending from a proximal end to a distal end; an actuator at a proximal portion of the medical device; an end effector positioned at a distal end of the main shaft and comprising a first jaw and a second jaw; a motor; and a torque amplification system. The torque amplification system may include a driveshaft coupled to the motor; a spring coupled to the driveshaft and configured to expand or contract in a proximal or a distal direction relative to the driveshaft; a hammer moveably coupled to the driveshaft; and an anvil coupled to the end effector and abutting the hammer. The anvil may be configured to provide a rotational power output to the end effector to move the first jaw and/or the second jaw.