Spring-Loaded Torque Amplification for Endoscopic Jaw Actuation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medical systems face challenges in applying sufficient and controlled force to actuate distal end instruments, such as graspers, due to the small scale and unique requirements for endoluminal surgical tools, leading to increased procedure duration and strain on device operators.
Innovation Solution
A medical device with a torque amplification system comprising a driveshaft, spring, hammer, and anvil, which stores and releases energy to provide a rotational power output to the end effector, enhancing the torque applied to instruments like graspers and scissors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual actuation is used to apply force to distal end instruments, then the device operator can control the actuation, but the procedure duration increases and strain on the operator increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring is pre-loaded during the retraction phase to store elastic potential energy, which is then released during the advancement phase to automatically actuate the end effector. This preliminary energy storage eliminates the need for manual actuation during the procedure, reducing operator strain and procedure time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system operates in periodic cycles of advancement and retraction, where the spring is alternately loaded and discharged. During retraction, the spring loads; during advancement, it releases energy to drive the end effector. This periodic operation enables automated, rhythmical actuation without continuous manual intervention.
2Volume of moving object
If the medical device is scaled down for endoluminal surgery, then it can operate in confined spaces, but sufficient torque cannot be applied to actuate distal end instruments
Solution Approach 1:
The spring is pre-compressed or pre-tensioned during the retraction phase to accumulate elastic potential energy. When advancement occurs, this stored energy is rapidly released to generate high torque at the end effector, compensating for the small size of the device components.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static, low-torque state during retraction to a dynamic, high-torque state during advancement. The spring-loaded mechanism creates a dynamic torque amplification effect, where the rapidly expanding spring generates impulsive forces that exceed what would be possible with steady-state motor torque in a device of this size.
3Productivity
If automated actuation systems are implemented, then procedure duration is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded system operates automatically in periodic cycles of loading and discharging, providing automated actuation that reduces procedure time. The periodic nature of the operation simplifies control compared to continuous automated systems, as the spring self-regulates the timing and force delivery.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring mechanism is self-actuating, using the retraction motion itself to load the spring, which then automatically drives the advancement phase. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for external motors, sensors, or control systems, reducing device complexity while maintaining automated 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 efficiently amplifies torque, reducing the need for manual actuation and strain on operators, enabling effective manipulation of tissue during endoscopic procedures.
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
Data Source
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.