Surgical Clip Applier With Automatic Reloading and Clip Count View
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional surgical clip application devices require manual loading of individual clips, leading to handling accidents, inefficiency, and the need for multiple forceps, which complicates surgical procedures.
Innovation Solution
A surgical clip application device with automatic clip reloading, transparent window for clip count, and ambidextrous design, featuring a clip applier that automatically loads and applies multiple clips with a single handle operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual loading of individual clips is used, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity decreases due to repeated reloading actions
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple surgical clips are pre-loaded into the forceps device in a magazine or reservoir before the surgical procedure begins. The clips are arranged in sequence, and the advancement mechanism automatically feeds the next clip into the applying position after each clip is deployed, eliminating the need for manual reloading during surgery.
Solution Approach 2:
The device includes an automatic advancement mechanism that self-activates to push the next clip forward after each clip application. This mechanism may use spring-loaded followers, cam-driven systems, or simple mechanical linkages that convert the closing motion of the forceps into automatic clip advancement, allowing the device to service itself without external intervention.
2Quantity of substance
If multiple forceps are used to maintain stock of clips, then clip availability is improved, but device complexity and handling difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple surgical clips that would traditionally require separate forceps are merged into a single integrated device. The forceps incorporates a magazine or reservoir capable of holding multiple clips, and an advancement mechanism that sequentially presents each clip to the applying jaws, allowing one device to perform the function of multiple forceps.
Solution Approach 2:
The forceps device is designed with multi-functionality to handle multiple clips through a single instrument. The universal design includes a clip reservoir, advancement mechanism, and applying jaws that can accommodate different clip types or sizes, making the device versatile enough to replace multiple specialized forceps in the surgical workflow.
3Reliability
If manual clip loading is used, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability decreases due to handling accidents and misloaded clips
Solution Approach 1:
The automatic advancement mechanism self-activates to precisely position and present each clip to the applying jaws without manual intervention. This self-service feature eliminates human error in clip loading and positioning, ensuring that clips are consistently and accurately placed for application, thereby improving surgical safety and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates mechanical feedback mechanisms such as spring-loaded followers, cam surfaces, or positional sensors that monitor clip presence and advancement status. This feedback ensures that each clip is properly loaded and positioned before activation, providing real-time verification that prevents misloaded clips and enhances operational reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical clip application device for applying and crimping surgical clips to ligate a vessel.