Ambidextrous Rotary Surgical Tool Coupling Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical tool coupling systems are complex and do not accommodate diverse user preferences for operation, particularly lacking ambidextrous functionality and efficient single-finger engagement for drive head release.
Innovation Solution
A coupling apparatus for rotary surgical tools featuring a receiving coupler with first and second socket portions, a locking collar, and a release actuator that allows for ambidextrous operation and single-finger drive head release through clockwise or counterclockwise rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional locking mechanism is used for drive head attachment, then the connection is secure, but the operation is not ambidextrous and requires multiple fingers
Solution Approach 1:
The locking collar features an asymmetric locking surface geometry that enables bidirectional operation. The locking surface is positioned and angled such that rotation in either clockwise or counterclockwise direction can disengage the locking surface from the drive head, allowing ambidextrous operation while maintaining a relatively simple single-piece collar structure
Solution Approach 2:
The release actuator is designed to be operable by a single finger (index or trigger finger) while also accommodating both right-handed and left-handed users. This multi-functional design allows the same mechanism to serve multiple user preferences and operational styles without requiring separate mechanisms for different user types
2Reliability
If a complex coupling system is used, then the drive head release is secure, but the wear components deteriorate over time
Solution Approach 1:
The locking function is extracted from a complex multi-component system and consolidated into a single locking collar component. This simplification reduces the number of wear interfaces between moving parts, thereby reducing deterioration over time while maintaining secure drive head release through the concentrated locking surface geometry
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using multiple small locking points that distribute stress, the design uses a single prominent locking surface on the locking collar that engages with the drive head. This inverted approach concentrates the locking force at one location, improving reliability of engagement while reducing wear on individual contact points
3Productivity
If a multi-finger operation mechanism is used, then the locking is secure, but the operation efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The release actuator serves as an intermediary mechanism that translates a simple single-finger rotational motion into the lateral movement of the locking collar. This intermediary action allows the user to operate the system with one finger while the actuator mechanism handles the complexity of disengaging the locking surface from the drive head
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling interface for a surgical tool includes a shank of an interchangeable tool accessory forming a proximal engaging portion including a receiving groove. A receiving coupler receives the shank and includes a first socket portion and a second socket portion. The socket portions form a receiving profile extending about a rotational engagement axis of a drive head. A locking collar is interposed between the socket portions and a release actuator is in connection with the locking collar. The release actuator includes ramp surface that radially varies about the engagement axis along a ramp angle. A rotation of the release actuator about the engagement axis angularly repositions the ramp surface and displaces the locking collar.