Surgical Stapler Articulation Joint Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current surgical staplers lack efficient articulation mechanisms that allow for precise angulation and locking of the end effector relative to the shaft axis, limiting their ability to effectively reach and clamp tissues at varying angles within the body during surgical procedures.
Innovation Solution
The surgical stapling instrument incorporates an articulation section with a control knob and articulation joint that enables the end effector to articulate laterally and lock at desired angles, allowing for precise positioning and secure clamping of tissues, featuring a cam member and lock bar mechanism for selective locking and unlocking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If an articulation mechanism is added to enable the end effector to articulate laterally, then the ability to reach and clamp tissues at varying angles is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The articulation mechanism is nested within the existing shaft structure. The articulation section is positioned within the shaft, with the cam member and lock bar mechanism integrated into the longitudinal channel of the shaft. This nesting approach allows the end effector to articulate laterally without adding external complexity to the overall device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
A cam member acts as an intermediary element between the control knob and the lock bar mechanism. The cam member translates rotational motion from the control knob into linear motion that drives the lock bar to engage or disengage from the articulation joint, providing a mechanical mediation that simplifies the control interface.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a lock bar mechanism is implemented for selective locking, then the stability of the articulated position is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lock bar mechanism is designed to be self-actuating through spring biasing. The spring automatically pushes the lock bar into engagement with the articulation joint when the control knob is rotated to the locked position, eliminating the need for additional actuators or complex control systems. The mechanism serves itself by using the rotational input to trigger the locking action through cam-follower interaction.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking function is achieved through a simple mechanical cam and follower arrangement rather than using motors, sensors, or electronic control systems. The cam member's profile directly translates knob rotation into lock bar movement, replacing complex electromechanical systems with a purely mechanical solution that is more reliable and easier to manufacture.
3Ease of operation
If an articulation control knob is added for selective articulation, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control knob serves multiple functions: it acts as the user interface for articulation control, drives the cam member to enable locking/unlocking, and provides tactile feedback through its interaction with the cam profile. This multi-functionality consolidates what could be separate controls into a single intuitive interface element.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam member's profile provides inherent tactile feedback to the operator as the knob is rotated. The operator can feel the engagement and disengagement of the lock bar through variations in rotational resistance, providing immediate feedback about the articulated position and locking status without requiring visual confirmation or additional indicators.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for using a surgical instrument comprises translating a first translatable member to unlock an articulation joint, translating a second translatable member to articulate and end effector at the articulation joint, and translating the second translatable member again to lock the articulation joint. The first and second translatable members may be translatable independently of each other. The act of unlocking an articulation joint may include moving a locking feature along a plane that is parallel to both the longitudinal axis of a shaft assembly and an articulation axis of the articulation joint. The locking feature may move longitudinally along the articulation axis, perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the shaft assembly.