Surgical Adapter Latch Mechanism for Secure Rotational Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing adapter assemblies for powered surgical devices lack a reliable latch mechanism to securely rotate the end effector relative to the actuation assembly, leading to uncomfortable operator positioning and limited rotational alignment options.
Innovation Solution
An adapter assembly with a latch mechanism that includes a base with notches and a locking member, allowing for selective engagement and disengagement to lock or unlock the rotation handle, enabling precise rotational alignment and secure attachment of the end effector to the actuation assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a latch mechanism is added to secure rotational alignment, then reliability of the connection is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is divided into separate functional components: a locking member with engagement features, a rotation handle with notches for positioning, and a biasing member for automatic engagement. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while maintaining overall system reliability without excessive complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The biasing member automatically engages the locking member with the notches on the rotation handle without requiring manual intervention. The spring-loaded mechanism self-activates to secure the rotational position, improving reliability while minimizing the need for complex control systems or additional actuators.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple notches are provided for rotational positioning, then adaptability of the end effector alignment is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The notches are positioned at specific asymmetric intervals around the rotation handle circumference rather than uniform distribution. This allows optimization for common surgical angles while accommodating less frequent positions, providing adaptability without requiring equally precise manufacturing across all positions.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple notches are combined into a single integrated feature set on the rotation handle, with each notch serving a specific rotational position. This merging approach allows the handle to provide multiple alignment options while maintaining consistent manufacturing tolerances through a unified design rather than separate adjustable components.
3Ease of operation
If a latch mechanism with locking member is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The biasing member automatically engages the locking member with the notches on the rotation handle without requiring manual intervention. The spring-loaded mechanism self-activates to secure the rotational position, improving ease of operation while minimizing the need for complex control systems or additional actuators.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual locking operation is replaced with an automatic spring-loaded engagement system. Instead of requiring the operator to manually secure the handle at each position, the biasing member provides automatic mechanical engagement, simplifying the user interaction while using a straightforward mechanical spring mechanism rather than complex electronic or hydraulic systems.
Data Source
AI summary
An adapter assembly for connecting an end effector to an actuation assembly is provided. The adapter assembly a base defining a plurality of notches spaced at least partially about a circumference of the base, a handle supported on the base and rotatable about a longitudinal axis of the base, and a latch mechanism supported on the handle assembly and selectively engageable with the base. The latch mechanism includes a latch member and a locking member. The latch member is movable between a first position in which the locking member is received within one of the plurality of notches to lock the handle relative to the base, and a second position in which the locking member is spaced from the plurality of notches to unlock the handle relative to the base.