Steerable Articulating Surgical Instrument With Spring-Assisted Deflection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing steerable articulating surgical instruments face limitations in motion transmission capabilities and stability, particularly in minimally invasive procedures, with restricted rotation and flexibility of the longitudinal shaft affecting the movement and stability of the end effector.
Innovation Solution
A steerable articulating surgical instrument with a bendable portion featuring a resilient bendable member, such as a helical spring, that stores and releases mechanical energy to facilitate deflection and retraction of the distal end, enhancing motion transmission and stability while maintaining a compact structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple moving mechanisms (universal joints, scissor mechanisms, telescopic shafts) are used to achieve steering and articulation, then the motion capability of the end effector is improved, but the overall size of the instrument increases and stability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple moving mechanisms (universal joints, scissor mechanisms, telescopic shafts) into an integrated longitudinal shaft assembly. The scissor mechanisms are positioned at specific locations along the shaft to provide articulation, while the telescopic shafts enable extension and retraction. This merging approach achieves the desired motion capability while controlling the overall instrument size through coordinated design of these components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs nested structures within the longitudinal shaft, where telescopic shafts are inserted within each other to provide extension capability. The end effector is positioned at the distal end of the nested shaft structure, allowing compact storage when retracted and extended functionality when deployed. This nesting principle reduces the overall instrument size while maintaining motion capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the needle holder has limited rotation capability around its own axis, then the flexibility of the longitudinal shaft is improved, but the movement capability of the needle holder is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic articulation mechanisms that allow the needle holder to rotate and articulate relative to the longitudinal shaft. The universal joints and scissor mechanisms enable the needle holder to achieve rotation around its own axis while the longitudinal shaft maintains its flexibility. This dynamic design allows the system to adapt its configuration based on surgical requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If strong forces are applied to the flexible shaft in three dimensions, then the motion capability is improved, but the stability of the shaft decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the longitudinal shaft into multiple sections with articulation points, allowing controlled application of forces at specific locations. The scissor mechanisms are positioned to provide structural support at key articulation points, enabling the shaft to withstand three-dimensional forces while maintaining flexibility. This segmentation allows the shaft to bend and articulate in controlled manner without compromising overall stability.
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 instrument achieves improved motion transmission and stability, allowing for smoother and stronger movements of the end effector, while maintaining a compact design, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of surgical procedures.
Implementation Method 1
The resilient bendable member is adapted to store mechanical energy during bending of the bendable portion when the bending force is applied and to release stored mechanical energy when the bending force is removed. The stored mechanical energy is released to retract the deflected distal end to an undeflected state.
Implementation Method 2
The resilient bendable member may comprise a spring, preferably a helical spring. A spring is an elastic object that stores mechanical energy and releases it when the opposing force is removed.
Data Source
AI summary
Present invention provides a steerable articulating surgical instrument comprising an external hollow shaft, wherein the external hollow shaft comprises a bendable portion and a steering arrangement adapted to apply a bending force to the bendable portion, wherein the bendable portion comprises a resilient bendable member adapted to resist the bending force.