Surgical Instrument Power Control Circuit for Firing Lockout Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Powered surgical instruments lack feedback to the clinician regarding the state of the instrument, which is typically provided through manual force application in traditional instruments.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of a control circuit with a latching device, such as a latching relay or transistor, to provide electronic lock-out mechanisms and feedback, ensuring that the clinician is aware of the instrument's state and preventing unintended operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a powered surgical instrument is used, then the force to fire and manipulate the instrument is provided by an automated device, but feedback to the clinician regarding the state of the instrument is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms including visual indicators (LED lights) that display the state of the instrument to the clinician, and tactile feedback through the handle assembly that allows the clinician to sense the firing state and operational status of the powered instrument, thereby compensating for the loss of natural feedback
2Extent of automation
If a powered surgical instrument is used, then automation is increased, but unintended operation may occur due to lack of control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a control circuit assembly that acts as an intermediary between the clinician's manual input and the powered firing mechanism. This control circuit includes safety interlocks, state monitoring, and conditional activation logic that prevents unintended operation while maintaining automation benefits
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary safety measures including mechanical locks, electrical interlocks, and state verification protocols that actively prevent unintended firing before it can occur. The system checks conditions and blocks activation until proper state is confirmed
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments are directed to a powered surgical instrument for cutting and fastening tissue. The instrument may comprise an end effector comprising a first jaw member and a second jaw member. The second jaw member may be coupled to move relative to the first jaw member from an open position, where the jaw members are apart from one another, to a closed position. The end effector may also comprise a firing bar positioned to fire by translating within the end effector when the first and second jaw members are in the closed position. Additionally, the surgical instrument may comprise a drive device, a clamping trigger and a control circuit. The drive device may be mechanically coupled to the firing bar. The clamping trigger may be mechanically coupled to the end effector such that actuation of the clamping trigger causes the second jaw member to pivot towards the first jaw member. The control circuit may comprise a firing switch, a clamp switch, a latching device and an end-of-stroke sensor. The firing switch may be configured to be in electrical communication with a power supply for powering the drive device and in electrical communication with the drive device. The clamp switch may be in mechanical communication with the clamping trigger. The latching device may be in electrical communication with the clamp switch, the power supply and the drive device. The end-of-stroke switch may be in electrical communication with the latching device. Additionally, the firing switch may be electrically connected to, upon actuation, connect the power supply to the drive device via a first connection comprising the latching device and the firing switch. Further, the end-of-stroke switch may be electrically connected to, upon sensing an end of a stroke of the firing bar, cause a change in a state of the latching device to break the first connection between the power supply and the drive device.