Surgical Instrument End Effector Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing minimally invasive surgical instruments with articulating end effectors require complex control mechanisms that often necessitate the use of both hands to articulate and rotate the end effector, which can be cumbersome, especially in precise vascular operations where single-handed control is desirable.
Innovation Solution
A surgical instrument with an articulation control system that includes a closure member and an articulation lock system, allowing for selective pivotal travel of the end effector and enabling single-handed articulation and rotation by using a nozzle with radially protruding actuation buttons for easy rotation and a locking mechanism to prevent unwanted articulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If complex control mechanisms are used to enable articulation and rotation of the end effector, then the end effector can be positioned at multiple angles, but the operation becomes cumbersome requiring both hands
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the articulation control and rotation control into a single integrated control mechanism. The articulation control member is positioned within the rotation control member, allowing both functions to be operated from the handle without requiring separate control elements. This integration enables a clinician to perform both articulation and rotation operations with one hand, resolving the contradiction between versatility and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system is designed so that the articulation control member and rotation control member can be operated simultaneously or independently from the handle. The articulation control member can be moved axially while the rotation control member can be rotated, and both controls can be manipulated with the same hand. This multi-functional design allows a single operator to control multiple degrees of freedom of the end effector without requiring additional hands or complex separate control mechanisms.
2Adaptability or versatility
If articulation control mechanisms are integrated with end effector operating mechanisms within the shaft, then the instrument can articulate, but the mechanism becomes complex and difficult to control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the control system into distinct segments: the articulation control member and the rotation control member are separate components with distinct functions. The articulation control member is positioned within the rotation control member, creating a hierarchical segmentation. This segmentation allows each control function to be independently designed and operated, reducing the overall complexity compared to a fully integrated single mechanism. The segmented design also allows for easier manufacturing and assembly.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the end effector can articulate to multiple angles, then surgical placement is improved, but the control mechanism requires both hands to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds a dimensional aspect to the control mechanism by positioning the articulation control member within the rotation control member along the longitudinal axis of the instrument. This spatial arrangement allows both controls to be accessed from the handle region without requiring the operator to use both hands. The articulation control can be actuated axially while the rotation control can be manipulated radially, creating a multi-dimensional control interface that maintains ease of operation while providing full articulation capability.
Data Source
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AI summary
Hand-held surgical instruments that have and end effector attached to an elongate shaft are disclosed. The end effector has at least a portion that is movable in response to opening and closing motions applied thereto by a closure member. An articulation control system is provided to articulate the end effector relative to the shaft. An articulation locking system is provided to lock the end effector in a desired articulated position. The locking system interfaces with the closure member and is activated upon application of a closure motion to the end effector.