Surgical Stapler Rotary Closure and Firing Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical stapling systems lack effective mechanisms for controlling the separate rotary closure and firing systems, leading to inefficiencies and potential errors during surgical procedures.
Innovation Solution
The development of advanced surgical stapling systems with integrated control mechanisms that synchronize the rotary closure and firing systems, ensuring precise and coordinated tissue stapling and cutting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate rotary closure and firing systems are used in surgical staplers, then functional versatility is improved, but system complexity and coordination control become worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The surgical stapler is divided into separate functional systems: a rotary closure system for closing the surgical site and a firing system for deploying staples. Each system has its own drive mechanism, allowing independent operation while maintaining overall system functionality. This segmentation enables versatile surgical applications while managing complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The surgical stapler integrates multiple functions into a single device, combining both closure and firing capabilities. The device can perform tissue closure, staple deployment, and cutting operations, making it a multi-functional surgical instrument that replaces multiple separate tools while maintaining organized system architecture.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate rotary closure and firing systems are used in surgical staplers, then functional versatility is improved, but coordination control and error reduction become worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The control system incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor the state of both the rotary closure system and firing system. Sensors detect positions, forces, and operational status, providing real-time information to the control processor. This feedback enables coordinated control, ensuring that closure and firing actions are properly synchronized and reducing the risk of operational errors.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by first executing the rotary closure movement to close the surgical site before enabling the firing function. The control system sequences operations so that closure must be achieved and verified before staple deployment can occur, preventing premature firing and ensuring proper tissue approximation before stapling.
3Manufacturing precision
If integrated control mechanisms are implemented, then synchronization precision is improved, but device complexity becomes worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The control mechanisms for the rotary closure system and firing system are merged into a single integrated control architecture. A unified processor coordinates both functions, sharing common control elements such as triggers, sensors, and power management. This integration improves synchronization precision while avoiding the complexity of completely separate control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediary control processor acts as a mediator between the rotary closure system and firing system. This intermediary coordinates the timing and sequencing of operations, translating user input into coordinated actions for both systems. The intermediary manages the complexity by providing a single point of control that orchestrates multiple functions with precise synchronization.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for controlling a powered surgical stapler that includes an end effector with jaws that are movable between an open and a closed position and a firing member that is movable between a starting position and an ending position within the end effector. The jaws and firing member are controlled by separate rotary systems and the end effector includes a firing member lockout system that prevents axial movement of the firing member unless the surgical staple cartridge is in ready to fire condition.