Powered Surgical Tack Applier With Encoder-Timed Tack Deployment
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a surgical tack applier with a reusable power module that meets performance requirements while preventing premature ejection of tacks and timing issues during tack deployment.
Innovation Solution
The device includes a handle assembly with an actuation assembly and an articulation lever assembly. The actuation assembly features a motor, an actuation rod, and an actuation switch, along with an optical motor encoder and encoder wheel to ensure precise tack deployment. The articulation lever assembly allows for articulation of the surgical tack applier, and a power module with a gearbox provides the necessary power and control for tack application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a reusable power module is used in the surgical tack applier, then cost-effectiveness and sustainability are improved, but precision control and reliability of tack ejection timing may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms through encoders that monitor the rotational position of the actuation rod and provide real-time data to the control circuit. This feedback loop ensures precise control of the ejection timing, allowing the reusable power module to reliably determine when to eject the surgical tack based on the actual mechanical state of the device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical timing mechanisms with an electromechanical system featuring a motor-driven actuation rod, encoders for position sensing, and a control circuit for intelligent decision-making. This substitution maintains reliability while enabling the use of a reusable power module, as the electronic control system can precisely manage ejection timing without wear-prone mechanical components.
2Measurement precision
If a motor-driven actuation system with encoders is used, then precision control of tack deployment is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the power module with multi-functionality, where the motor and encoder system serves multiple purposes: driving the actuation rod, monitoring position, providing feedback for timing control, and enabling precise deployment. This universal approach reduces overall device complexity by consolidating functions into a single integrated module rather than requiring separate mechanisms for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes in the encoder signals to control the deployment process. By monitoring changes in rotational position, speed, and acceleration parameters, the control circuit can precisely determine when to eject the tack without requiring complex mechanical linkages or multiple sensors, thereby maintaining simplicity while achieving high precision.
3Ease of operation
If the actuation rod is operatively coupled to both the motor and the loading unit, then integrated control is improved, but risk of premature ejection due to timing issues increases
Solution Approach 1:
The encoder provides continuous feedback on the actuation rod's rotational position to the control circuit. This feedback enables the system to monitor the mechanical state in real-time and determine the precise moment when the device is ready for tack ejection, preventing premature ejection while maintaining integrated control between the motor and loading unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by advancing the actuation rod to a predetermined position before tack ejection. The encoder detects when the rod reaches the correct position, and only then does the control circuit trigger the ejection mechanism. This preliminary positioning ensures that all mechanical components are properly aligned before the actual ejection occurs, eliminating timing issues.
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
The solution effectively addresses the challenges of tack deployment by ensuring precise and controlled ejection of surgical tacks into tissue, preventing premature ejection and timing issues, and providing a reusable power module for efficient surgical procedures.
Implementation Method 1
an optical motor encoder configured to count turns of the motor output shaft
Data Source
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AI summary
A powered surgical tack applier is configured to deploy a surgical tack through tissue or a surgical mesh. The surgical tack applier is articulatable to facilitate placement of the surgical tack to a desired surgical location. The powered surgical tack applier includes a power module that includes a battery, a motor, and a gear box. The power module provides a high-speed/low-toque output and a low-speed/high-torque output.