Adapter, extension, and connector assemblies for surgical devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing powered surgical devices face challenges in efficiently connecting and reusing handle assemblies with various end effectors, necessitating the development of adapter and extension assemblies that facilitate selective attachment and disassembly for sterilization or disposal.
Innovation Solution
The assembly includes an adapter assembly with a drive transfer mechanism and pusher assemblies that convert rotational motion into longitudinal movement, and an extension assembly with flexible band and trocar mechanisms to connect end effectors to electrosurgical instruments, allowing for efficient operation and reconfiguration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If adapter assemblies and extension assemblies are designed for selective attachment and disassembly, then versatility and ease of sterilization are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter assembly is divided into multiple separable components including a connector assembly, drive transfer assembly, and pusher assemblies that can be selectively attached and detached from the handle assembly. This segmentation enables individual components to be sterilized or replaced independently while maintaining overall system versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter assembly is designed with universal interfaces and standardized connection mechanisms that allow it to accommodate multiple types of end effectors and surgical instruments. The drive transfer assembly provides multi-functional capability by converting rotational motion to linear motion for different pusher applications.
2Volume of moving object
If multiple pusher assemblies are integrated within a single outer tube, then space efficiency is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple pusher assemblies are nested within a single outer tube structure, with each pusher assembly contained within its own internal housing or channel. This nesting arrangement maximizes space efficiency by utilizing the vertical and radial dimensions of the tube while maintaining independent operation of each pusher mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
Each pusher assembly within the outer tube is provided with localized guiding surfaces, bearings, and sealing mechanisms tailored to its specific functional requirements. This local quality approach allows each component to be optimized for its particular motion and force requirements while maintaining compact integration within the shared outer tube.
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
Enables seamless connection and disconnection of end effectors to powered surgical devices, enhancing versatility and facilitating sterilization or disposal of components, thereby improving operational efficiency and reducing maintenance costs.
Implementation Method 1
Each of the first and second planetary gear systems may be configured to reduce a speed of rotation of the first and second rotatable shafts
Implementation Method 2
Rotation of the first drive screw may cause longitudinal movement of the first pusher member and rotation of the second drive screw may cause longitudinal movement of the second pusher member
Data Source
AI summary
An assembly including an adapter assembly and an extension assembly for connecting an end effector to an electrosurgical instrument is provided. The adapter assembly includes first and second pusher assemblies configured for converting rotational motion into linear motion and a drive member for transferring rotational motion. The extension assembly includes at least one flexible band assembly for transferring the linear motion from the adapter assembly and a trocar assembly configured for converting rotational motion into linear motion. Also provided is a connection assembly for connecting a first tubular member to a second tubular member.