Surgical Device Locking Member for End Effector Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical devices face challenges in properly loading end effectors due to modularity issues, leading to improper actuation and potential delays in procedures, as users may actuate the device when the end effector is not correctly coupled, and the external latch can be difficult to operate during surgical procedures.
Innovation Solution
A surgical device with a housing, closure actuator, and locking member that moves to a load position to securely hold the closure actuator in place, allowing for easy loading of the end effector, and can be operated with one hand, ensuring the end effector is properly aligned and locked before actuation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an external latch is used to hold the closure actuator, then the actuator can be secured at a fixed angle, but the latch becomes difficult to operate while holding the device and performing surgical steps
Solution Approach 1:
The locking member is integrated into the handle assembly rather than being external, combining the actuator securing function with the device's main structure. This integration allows the locking member to be operated more easily while maintaining its function of holding the closure actuator at a fixed angle during surgical procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The locking member acts as an intermediary mechanism that mediates between the user's manual input and the closure actuator's positioning. By providing this intermediate element, the system achieves reliable actuator securing while maintaining ease of operation through intuitive engagement and disengagement actions
2Adaptability or versatility
If the end effector is modular and can be selectively attached and detached, then device versatility is improved, but users may actuate the device improperly when the end effector is not correctly coupled
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary verification of proper end effector coupling through the locking member mechanism before allowing actuation. The locking member must be engaged in a specific position indicating correct coupling, preventing improper actuation before the procedure begins
Solution Approach 2:
The locking member provides visual and tactile feedback to the user about the coupling status of the end effector. When properly coupled, the locking member assumes a specific position that confirms correct alignment and coupling, preventing erroneous actuation of improperly loaded effectors
3Manufacturing precision
If the closure actuator must be at a particular angle for end effector loading, then proper component alignment is ensured, but the procedure is delayed if users forget to engage the latch
Solution Approach 1:
The locking member mechanism is designed to be self-indicating, where its position automatically communicates the required actuator angle and loading readiness to the user. This self-service design eliminates the need for users to remember specific angles or procedures, reducing procedural delays while maintaining precise component alignment
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~3B
Figure 3C~3D
AI summary
Surgical devices and methods are described. The surgical devices can generally include a housing having one or more actuators such as a closure actuator (106). An elongate shaft (104) can extend distally from the housing and an end effector (130) can be selectively coupled to a distal end of the shaft. The surgical device can include various features that prevent a user from actuating the device when the end effector is not properly coupled to the shaft. More specifically, the housing can include a locking member (112) that can be pivoted or otherwise move relative the housing to cause various internal features of the housing to move to a ready-to-load position. With the locking member and actuator so positioned, an end effector can be loaded onto the shaft and the locking member can be moved from the ready-to-load position to the ready-to-actuate position, thus allowing the closure actuator to be in a ready-to-actuate position.