Surgical Stapling Assembly with Articulation Joint

Solution Overview

Problem

Current surgical stapling instruments face challenges in efficiently articulating end effectors relative to shaft assemblies within the constraints of trocar cannulas, requiring compact articulation joints that accommodate various drive systems while maintaining precise control and withstanding external forces during procedures.

Innovation Solution

The development of surgical stapling systems featuring articulation joints with dual or single articulation components, including flexible drive members and 3D-printed components, that allow for independent rotation of closure and firing drives through these joints, enabling precise articulation and retention of the end effector position during surgical procedures.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If compact articulation joints are used to accommodate size constraints within trocar cannulas, then the device can be inserted through smaller incisions, but the range of articulation and precision control are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesize of articulation jointVSAvoidrange of articulation

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of moving objectVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The articulation joint is divided into multiple independent components including a closure articulation component and a firing articulation component, each capable of independent rotation. This segmentation allows the joint to achieve a broader range of motion while maintaining a compact overall size that can be accommodated within trocar cannulas.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The articulation joint incorporates rotation about two different axes, adding a dimensional aspect to the movement capability. This multi-axis rotation enables the end effector to articulate in multiple directions, expanding the range of motion without proportionally increasing the volume of the joint mechanism.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Volume of moving object

If compact articulation joints are used to fit within trocar cannulas, then the device profile is reduced, but the ability to withstand external forces during surgery is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesize of articulation jointVSAvoidforce withstanding capability

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of moving objectVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The articulation joint is divided into multiple independent components including a closure articulation component and a firing articulation component, each capable of independent rotation. This segmentation allows the joint to achieve a broader range of motion while maintaining a compact overall size that can be accommodated within trocar cannulas.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The articulation components utilize spherical or curved geometries that provide inherent mechanical advantage for withstanding external forces. The spherical articulation surfaces distribute loads more effectively across the joint structure, enhancing strength and stability while maintaining a compact form factor suitable for trocar insertion.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

3Ease of operation

If independent rotation of closure and firing drives is enabled, then precise control is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprecision controlVSAvoidarticulation joint structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The articulation joint is divided into multiple independent components including a closure articulation component and a firing articulation component, each capable of independent rotation. This segmentation allows the joint to achieve a broader range of motion while maintaining a compact overall size that can be accommodated within trocar cannulas.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The articulation joint components are designed to perform multiple functions: they enable independent rotation for precise control, provide structural support to withstand external forces, and maintain a compact profile for trocar compatibility. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate mechanisms, thereby limiting the increase in overall device complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS11832816B2Surgical stapling assembly comprising nonplanar staples and planar staples

Publication Date: 2023.12.05 CILAG GMBH INTERNATIONAL

AI summary

A surgical stapling assembly is disclosed. The surgical stapling assembly can include a first jaw, a second jaw, an articulation joint, a closure drive comprising a first flexible rotary drive extending through the articulation joint, and a firing drive comprising a second flexible rotary drive extending through the articulation joint and rotatable independent of the first flexible rotary drive. The surgical stapling assembly can further include a 3D-printed component. The surgical stapling assembly can be configured to form different staple shapes, such as non-planar staples and planar staples, can include an eccentrically-driven firing assembly, and/or can include a floatable component. The surgical stapling assembly can include a staple cartridge including a longitudinal support beam.