Surgical Instrument Shifting Mechanism for Multi-Function End Effectors
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current surgical instruments lack versatility and efficiency in performing various surgical tasks such as grasping, dissecting, clipping, and suturing due to limitations in end effector movement and power transmission, which restricts their ability to effectively manipulate tissue within the body.
Innovation Solution
A surgical system with a handle and shaft assemblies that utilize a rotary drive mechanism to selectively actuate multiple end effector functions, including articulation, rotation, and jaw movement, powered by an electric motor with a gear reduction system and controlled by a sophisticated control system for precise tissue manipulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a rotary drive mechanism is used to selectively actuate multiple end effector functions, then versatility and efficiency of surgical tasks are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rotary drive mechanism is designed to perform multiple functions through a single integrated system. The electric motor with gear reduction system can selectively actuate different end effector functions (grasping, dissecting, clipping, suturing) by varying rotational speed and torque characteristics, allowing one mechanism to replace what would traditionally require multiple separate actuation systems
Solution Approach 2:
The control system dynamically adjusts the rotary drive mechanism's operation to achieve different end effector movements. By varying rotational speed, torque, and activation sequences, the system can produce diverse surgical actions from a single rotary source, enabling versatile task performance without proportionally increasing mechanical complexity
2Manufacturing precision
If an electric motor with gear reduction system is used for precise tissue manipulation, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical cable-driven or linkage-based actuation systems with an electric motor and gear reduction system. This substitution enables more precise control of end effector movements through electronic control, improving tissue manipulation precision while consolidating power transmission components into a single integrated motor assembly rather than multiple separate mechanical systems
Solution Approach 2:
The gear reduction system transforms the electric motor's high-speed low-torque output into low-speed high-torque motion suitable for precise surgical manipulation. By changing the speed and torque parameters through gear ratios, the system achieves fine control over end effector movements, enabling precise tissue manipulation despite the added complexity of the gear train
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 precise and versatile surgical procedures by allowing for controlled articulation, rotation, and jaw movement of end effectors, enhancing the ability to grasp, dissect, clip, and suture tissue efficiently and effectively.
Implementation Method 1
powered by an electric motor with a gear reduction system
Implementation Method 2
gear reduction system to selectively actuate multiple end effector functions
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical instrument system is disclosed comprising a plurality of outputs driven by an input. The input is selectively engaged with the outputs by a shifting system.