Powered Stapler Handle With Adaptive Motor Control and Jaw Articulation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Surgical staplers with complex mechanisms lead to increased manufacturing burdens and potential device failures, as well as user confusion.
Innovation Solution
A powered handle for surgical staplers featuring a drive system powered by a power supply, a manual articulation mechanism, and a control system that varies actuation profiles based on operating parameters, including a ball screw mechanism for continuous articulation of the jaw assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple triggers and handles with complex mechanisms are used to provide proper stapling, then stapling functionality is achieved, but manufacturing burden increases and device reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate triggers and handles into a single integrated powered handle with a unified control system. The powered handle integrates the drive system, articulation mechanism, and firing control into one cohesive unit, eliminating the need for multiple separate mechanical triggers and handles while maintaining all necessary stapling functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical mechanisms with a powered drive system controlled by electronics. The powered handle uses an electric motor and control circuitry to actuate the stapling mechanism, replacing traditional mechanical triggers, springs, and linkages with a more reliable and easier to manufacture powered system.
2Adaptability or versatility
If complex mechanisms are used to provide proper stapling, then stapling functionality is achieved, but potential sources for device failure increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical mechanisms with a powered drive system controlled by electronics. The powered handle uses an electric motor and control circuitry to actuate the stapling mechanism, replacing traditional mechanical triggers, springs, and linkages with a more reliable and easier to manufacture powered system.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system automatically monitors and adjusts operating parameters such as drive system torque and actuation adapter position to ensure reliable operation. The system includes sensors and feedback mechanisms that self-regulate the stapling process, reducing the likelihood of failure without requiring complex mechanical safety mechanisms.
3Adaptability or versatility
If complex mechanisms are used to provide proper stapling, then stapling functionality is achieved, but user confusion increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate triggers and handles into a single integrated powered handle with a unified control system. The powered handle integrates the drive system, articulation mechanism, and firing control into one cohesive unit, eliminating the need for multiple separate mechanical triggers and handles while maintaining all necessary stapling functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system provides real-time feedback to the user through indicators such as LED lights or display elements that show the current operating state, jaw position, and readiness to fire. This feedback mechanism guides the user through the stapling process, reducing confusion and improving ease of operation.
4Ease of manufacture
If a powered drive system with control system is used, then manufacturing burden is reduced, but device complexity in control increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is designed to perform multiple functions through a single integrated unit. The control system manages the powered drive, monitors jaw position, controls articulation, and manages firing sequences, consolidating what could be multiple separate control systems into one versatile controller that simplifies manufacturing while maintaining 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 powered handle provides reliable stapling without complex mechanisms, reducing manufacturing burdens and user confusion while ensuring precise control and functionality.
Implementation Method 1
The powered handle can further comprise a manual articulation system including a ball screw mechanism. The ball screw mechanism can allow continuous articulation of a jaw assembly of the stapling system within a predetermined articulation range.
Data Source
AI summary
A powered handle for a surgical stapler can have a drive system including an electric motor. The powered handle can include a manual articulation mechanism to articulate a jaw assembly coupled to a reload shaft connected to the handle. The manual articulation mechanism can include a ball screw mechanism that translates an articulation member responsive to rotation of an articulation knob when an instrument shaft is engaged with the handle. The articulation mechanism includes a release function that allows the jaw assembly to return to a longitudinally centered orientation. The powered handle includes a battery pack serving as a power supply for the drive system. A control system can control actuation of the motor based on user inputs and operating parameters of the stapler and can provide certain motor drive profiles for predetermined positions of the stapler. The powered handle can include a manual return mechanism.