Linear Cutting Stapler Safety Mechanism Floating Block
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing linear cutting staplers have complex and costly safety mechanisms that are difficult to manufacture and assemble, which can lead to accidental cutting without stapling when the staple cartridge is not loaded.
Innovation Solution
A linear cutting stapler with a simplified safety mechanism featuring a floating block and leaf spring system, where a notch on the staple pushing bar engages with the floating block, preventing the cutter and staple pushing bars from passing through unless the staple cartridge is loaded, deactivating the safety mechanism when the jaws are closed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a safety mechanism is provided to prevent accidental cutting without stapling, then operational safety is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The safety mechanism is merged with the existing lower jaw structure. The floating block is integrated into the lower jaw, and the engaging member is combined with the staple pushing bar assembly. This merging reduces the number of separate components and simplifies the overall structure while maintaining safety functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The safety mechanism operates automatically based on the physical state of the stapler. When the staple cartridge is loaded and jaws are closed, the mechanical action automatically disengages the floating block from the engaging member, deactivating the safety mechanism. When the cartridge is not loaded or jaws are open, the spring automatically engages the block to prevent operation. This self-regulating mechanism eliminates the need for external control systems.
2Reliability
If a complex safety mechanism with multiple components is used, then safety reliability is improved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The safety mechanism is segmented into two main functional components: the floating block with through-slots and the engaging member with the notch. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured separately using simple processes and then assembled together, improving manufacturing ease while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The floating block is designed with specific local features (through-slots positioned at particular locations) that enable it to interact with the engaging member. These localized structural qualities allow the mechanism to function reliably without requiring complex geometry throughout the entire component, simplifying manufacturing.
3Reliability
If a safety mechanism with multiple passages and blocks is provided, then prevention of accidental cutting is improved, but assembly difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The floating block integrates multiple functions into a single component: it provides the safety blocking function, contains the through-slots for the pushing bars, and incorporates the protrusion for engaging with the staple cartridge. This merging reduces the number of separate parts that need to be assembled, thereby reducing assembly complexity while maintaining comprehensive safety functionality.
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 solution provides a safe, reliable, and easy-to-manufacture safety mechanism that prevents accidental cutting without stapling, ensuring the stapler can only be used effectively when the staple cartridge is loaded, enhancing operational safety and reducing manufacturing complexity.
Implementation Method 1
a leaf spring is provided under the cutter. When the instrument is in an opened position, i.e., the upper jaw and the lower jaw are not closed, the leaf spring lifts the cutter upwards
Implementation Method 2
a safety block with a cutter pushing bar passage and a staple pushing bar passage is provided in the middle portion of the instrument, with the safety block being rotatable around the instrument under the action of the torsion spring
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
A linear cutting stapler comprises: an upper jaw and a lower jaw (5) capable of closing or opening relative to each other. A staple cartridge (51) is disposed at a distal end of the lower jaw (5). The lower jaw (5) is U-shaped, and has a staple driving rod (3) and a blade driving rod (4) slidably disposed therein. The linear cutting stapler further comprises a safety mechanism. The safety mechanism comprises an engagement member. A notch fitting the engagement member is disposed on a bottom surface of the staple driving rod (3). The safety mechanism further comprises a floating block (1). The floating block (1) may perform longitudinal displacement in the lower jaw (5). When the floating block (1) is pressed against the staple cartridge (51) or an anvil (6), a top end of the engagement member is driven to perform longitudinal displacement, so that the engagement member is separated from the notch. The linear cutting stapler has a simple structure, is easy to be fabricated, and is safe and reliable.