Surgical Tool Coupling With Multi-Position Torque Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical tool-pieces face challenges in securing mechanisms that allow for both longitudinal and rotational adjustment while maintaining effective torque transmission, with non-adjustable mechanisms being cumbersome and adjustable mechanisms lacking sufficient torque.
Innovation Solution
A coupling mechanism with at least three radially spaced coupling elements that secure the tool-piece both longitudinally and rotationally, utilizing balls within channels and an O-ring to facilitate easy insertion and a locking ring for secure locking, allowing for multiple selectable longitudinal positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a non-adjustable locking mechanism with a single rotational groove and drive dog is used, then strong driving force and torque transmission are achieved, but the tool-piece cannot be adjusted longitudinally and requires separate features for locking and driving
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling elements are configured to perform both locking and driving functions simultaneously. Each coupling element has a locking surface that engages with a driving surface, merging the previously separate locking groove and drive dog into a single integrated feature that provides both longitudinal securing and torque transmission.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism is designed so that the same coupling elements serve multiple functions: they lock the tool-piece longitudinally at adjustable positions and simultaneously transmit torque for driving. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate locking and driving features.
2Adaptability or versatility
If an adjustable locking mechanism with multiple longitudinal locations is used, then longitudinal adjustability is achieved, but torque transmission is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling elements are designed with specific local features: locking surfaces oriented at predetermined angles to the longitudinal axis, and corresponding driving surfaces with friction-enhancing characteristics. This local differentiation allows the same component to provide both adjustable positioning and strong torque transmission.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling elements incorporate curved or rounded surfaces that increase contact area and friction between the locking and driving surfaces. This curvature enhances the frictional force available for torque transmission while maintaining the adjustable longitudinal positioning capability.
3Device complexity
If a drive dog with fewer flat surfaces is used, then simpler structure is achieved, but rotational alignment becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling elements feature asymmetric locking surfaces oriented at specific predetermined angles to the longitudinal axis. This asymmetric configuration provides distinct alignment references that guide rotational positioning, making alignment easier even with a simple structure.
4Reliability
If separate features for locking and driving are used, then secure locking is achieved, but the coupling mechanism becomes more complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism merges the locking groove and drive dog into a single integrated coupling element structure. The locking surface and driving surface are part of the same component, eliminating the need for separate features while maintaining secure locking and reliable torque transmission.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A surgical tool-piece and a coupling mechanism for a surgical tool-piece are provided. The surgical tool-piece is configured to be driving by a driving mechanism. The surgical tool-piece comprises a shaft having a longitudinal axis running from a distal end of the shaft to a coupling portion at a proximal end of the shaft. The coupling portion comprises a driving section comprising at least three indentations located around the circumference of the coupling portion, each indentation being configured to receive a corresponding driving element of the driving mechanism to secure the tool- piece both longitudinally and rotationally.