Surgical Adapter Assembly With Multi-Axis Drive Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing powered surgical devices lack a versatile and efficient adapter assembly for connecting end effectors to handle assemblies, which limits their adaptability and reuse capabilities.
Innovation Solution
The adapter assembly includes a coupling assembly with first, second, and third drive assemblies, each with a drive screw and connector sleeves, allowing for co-axial and offset longitudinal axes to connect to handle assemblies, enabling secure and versatile attachment of end effectors while distributing loads effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single drive assembly is used to connect end effectors to handle assemblies, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability and versatility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter assembly is divided into multiple independent drive assemblies (first, second, and third drive assemblies), each capable of connecting to different end effectors. This segmentation allows the system to maintain versatility by supporting multiple end effector types while managing complexity through modular, independent units that can be selectively activated.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter assembly is designed with multiple drive assemblies that can universally connect to various end effectors through standardized interfaces. The coupling assembly serves as a universal base that accommodates different drive assemblies, enabling a single adapter to perform multiple functions by switching between different drive configurations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple drive assemblies with co-axial and offset longitudinal axes are implemented, then the versatility of connecting different end effectors is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The drive assemblies are nested within the coupling assembly structure, with the first drive assembly positioned centrally and the second and third drive assemblies received about it. This nesting arrangement allows multiple drive assemblies with different longitudinal axes (co-axial and offset) to be integrated within a compact footprint, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a single-axis drive configuration to multi-axis configuration by introducing drive assemblies with offset longitudinal axes. This dimensional change enables the adapter to connect to end effectors with different geometric requirements while the coupling assembly manages the spatial relationships between axes through its structural design.
3Measurement precision
If drive screws are used to transmit rotation to longitudinal movement, then the precision of end effector control is improved, but the force required to operate the drive assemblies increases
Solution Approach 1:
The drive screws act as intermediaries that convert rotational motion from the drive shafts into precise longitudinal movement of the end effectors. This intermediary mechanism provides precise control through the threaded engagement while the bearing assemblies reduce the force required by supporting the rotational components and minimizing friction.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces direct mechanical force transmission with a screw-threaded mechanism that converts rotational force into linear movement. This substitution allows for more precise control of the end effector position while distributing the force requirements across the threaded engagement and bearing support structures.
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
This solution enables secure and versatile attachment of end effectors to handle assemblies, improving the adaptability and reuse of powered surgical devices by distributing loads efficiently and allowing for precise control of end effector functions like stapling and tissue manipulation.
Implementation Method 1
The first drive assembly includes a first drive screw. The second drive assembly includes a second drive screw in direct engagement with the first drive screw. The third drive assembly includes a third drive screw in direct engagement with the second drive screw.
Data Source
AI summary
An adapter assembly for connecting an end effector to a handle assembly includes first, second, and third drive assemblies configured for converting rotational motion from the handle assembly to linear motion for performing first, second, and third functions.