Self-Powered Surgical Stapler with Cryptographic Part Authentication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical staplers are hand-powered and lack electrical power for efficient tissue stapling and cutting, and they do not provide real-time feedback on optimal tissue compression force, which can lead to tissue degradation during procedures.
Innovation Solution
An electrically self-powered surgical stapler with a handle containing a power supply and circuit board, enabling motorized operation of the anvil and staple cartridge, and incorporating a force switch for real-time tissue compression feedback, along with cryptographic authentication for interchangeable parts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If hand-powered operation is used, then device simplicity is maintained, but stapling efficiency and tissue compression control are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional hand-powered mechanical system with an electrically powered system. A motor assembly drives the anvil movement and staple deployment, eliminating the need for manual hand cranking or lever operation. This substitution significantly improves stapling efficiency and allows for more precise control of tissue compression forces through electrical control rather than manual mechanical input.
Solution Approach 2:
The surgical instrument incorporates a power supply unit that enables self-powered operation. The motor assembly is driven by electrical power from an internal battery or external power source, allowing the device to perform stapling operations autonomously without requiring continuous manual input from the surgeon. This self-service capability maintains high productivity while reducing the operational burden on the user.
2Measurement precision
If real-time force feedback is added, then tissue compression control is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a force sensor assembly that measures the compression force applied to the tissue during the stapling process. This sensor provides real-time feedback to a control system, which monitors whether the compression force remains within the optimal range. The feedback mechanism includes a force detection element that generates signals based on the applied force, allowing the system to adjust or alert the user if compression is excessive or insufficient, thereby preventing tissue damage while maintaining precise control.
3Reliability
If cryptographic authentication is implemented, then part identification security is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs cryptographic authentication mechanisms that use digital codes or identifiers embedded in interchangeable parts such as staple cartridges. Instead of complex physical security features, the system uses coded information storage and verification. The authentication code is a simplified digital copy that can be easily manufactured and verified, providing secure identification while maintaining ease of manufacturing. The cryptographic system verifies part authenticity through electronic communication between the instrument and the interchangeable component.
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical instrument that comprises a surgical end effector, a handle that is connected to the surgical end effector and has a controller, and an interchangeable part removably connected to the surgical end effector and having an encryption device in electrical communication with the controller. The encryption device is programmed to authenticate the interchangeable part when the interchangeable part is at the surgical end effector.