Spring Testing Apparatus for Surgical Stapling Cartridges
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for inserting springs into surgical stapling cartridges are labor-intensive and lack a convenient way to test the spring force before insertion, which is crucial for ensuring the safety feature of the surgical instrument.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a cartridge-receiving plate with a tapered track to compress the spring, a load cell to measure the force, and a plunger to align with the pocket, allowing for the testing and loading of springs based on their force suitability for use in the cartridge.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If mechanical means are used to insert springs into cartridges, then the springs can be inserted, but there is no way to rapidly and conveniently test spring force before insertion
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus performs spring force testing before spring insertion into the cartridge. The load cell measures the force of each spring while it is being compressed by the tapered track, allowing the system to verify spring adequacy prior to insertion and reject insufficient springs before they contaminate the cartridge assembly process.
Solution Approach 2:
The testing and insertion functions are merged into a single integrated apparatus. The same mechanical structure that compresses the spring for insertion (the tapered track) also serves as the testing mechanism, eliminating the need for separate testing equipment and enabling rapid sequential testing and insertion.
2Ease of manufacture
If manual positioning and mechanical insertion methods are used, then springs can be inserted into cartridges, but the process becomes labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus uses the spring's own force to assist in the insertion process. As the tapered track compresses the spring, the spring's expansion force automatically positions it in the cartridge slot, eliminating the need for separate manual positioning steps and reducing labor intensity.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus replaces manual mechanical insertion with an automated mechanical system that uses a controlled compression mechanism (tapered track with load cell) to both test and insert the spring in a single automated operation, significantly increasing insertion rate.
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 rapid and accurate testing of spring force, ensuring only springs with sufficient force are used, thereby enhancing the safety and efficiency of the surgical stapling process.
Implementation Method 1
a preferably tapered track formed above the cartridge-receiving plate and configured to receive a spring. Thus, a spring mounted in the track is compressed as it is displaced through the track
Implementation Method 2
A load cell is mounted with a sensing finger at the pocket so that it can contact a first leg of the spring in the pocket, and thereby measure a force the spring applies in a compressed state
Data Source
AI summary
A force measuring apparatus and method for testing a spring for a surgical cartridge. The apparatus and method permit an operator to measure the force applied by the spring when it is in the state it will be in when mounted in a cartridge. Therefore, a spring that exerts an insufficient force is rejected, and a spring that exerts a sufficient force is accepted and then mounted in a cartridge. A rejected spring is ejected from a pocket in the apparatus, and an accepted spring is mounted in the cartridge.