Surgical Instrument Deployment Mechanism for Simultaneous Component Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Surgical instruments often require multiple deployment structures for actuating various components, which can become cumbersome and inefficient as more components are added, necessitating a solution for simultaneous and efficient deployment of multiple components using a single actuation mechanism.
Innovation Solution
A differential deployment mechanism that includes a first and second drive assembly, coupled to a deployment mechanism pivotable about a pivot, allowing for simultaneous translation of both assemblies to deploy corresponding components, with an actuator to move the mechanism from a first to a second position, enabling the deployment of multiple components with a single actuation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple separate deployment structures are used for each functional component, then each component can be actuated independently, but the device complexity increases and the instrument becomes cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple deployment structures into a single integrated deployment mechanism that can simultaneously actuate multiple functional components. The mechanism includes a common actuator that drives multiple drive assemblies through a shared deployment path, reducing the number of separate structures while maintaining independent control of each component.
Solution Approach 2:
The deployment mechanism is designed as a universal structure capable of actuating different functional components through a single actuation motion. The mechanism can selectively deploy various components (such as cutting elements, fastening elements, or sealing elements) by adjusting the coupling between the common actuator and individual drive assemblies, eliminating the need for separate dedicated structures for each component.
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional functional components are added to the surgical instrument, then the instrument's functionality increases, but additional deployment structures are required increasing complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a universal deployment mechanism that can accommodate multiple functional components without requiring proportionally more deployment structures. The common actuator system can be selectively coupled to different drive assemblies, allowing the same basic mechanism to deploy various types of components (cutting, fastening, sealing) thereby increasing versatility without linearly increasing structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The deployment mechanism incorporates dynamic coupling elements that allow selective engagement and disengagement of different drive assemblies from the common actuator. This dynamic configuration enables the instrument to adapt its deployment capability to match the specific functional components installed, providing versatility while maintaining manageable complexity through on-demand activation of specific pathways.
3Productivity
If a single deployment mechanism acts on multiple drive assemblies at different radial distances, then simultaneous deployment is achieved, but the mechanism requires precise geometric configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from linear deployment paths to angular/rotational deployment paths by positioning slots at different radial distances from a pivot point. This dimensional change allows a single rotational actuator to simultaneously drive multiple components through arc-shaped paths, achieving synchronized deployment while the radial distance variations naturally accommodate different travel distances required by different components without requiring extremely precise linear positioning.
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 efficient and simultaneous deployment of multiple components in surgical instruments, reducing complexity and enhancing operational efficiency by using a single actuation mechanism for multiple components, even when they require different deployment distances.
Implementation Method 1
The first drive assembly is coupled to the deployment mechanism at a first radial distance D1 from the pivot, and the second drive assembly is coupled to the deployment mechanism at a second radial distance D2 from the pivot. Rotational movement of the deployment mechanism urges the first drive assembly to translate a first longitudinal distance X1 and the second drive assembly to translate a second longitudinal distance X2.
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical instrument includes a first drive assembly, a second drive assembly, and a deployment mechanism. The first drive assembly is coupled to a first component and is configured to translate a first longitudinal distance X1 to deploy the first component. The second drive assembly is coupled to a second component and is configured to translate a second longitudinal distance X2 to deploy the second component. The deployment mechanism is operably coupled to both the first and second drive assemblies and is configured to move from a first position to a second position to translate the first and second drive assemblies the respective first and second longitudinal distances X1 and X2 to deploy the first and second components.