Surgical Torque Transmission Device with Replaceable Insert
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical torque transmission devices are non-dismantleable and become unusable after a limited number of torque excesses, requiring disposal rather than reprocessing.
Innovation Solution
A device design that allows for the easy exchange of torque transmission units, enabling the reuse of components and enabling different tools and torque transmission units to be used with the same assembly, with features such as interchangeable torque transmission units, a compact design, and RFID traceability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the device is delivered complete and cannot be disassembled, then the device structure is simple and reliable, but after a limited number of torque exceedances the entire device must be disposed of
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into separate modules: a reusable first assembly (shaft and handle) and a disposable second assembly (insert with torque transmission unit). This segmentation allows the torque transmission unit to be replaced while reusing the main device structure, resolving the contradiction between reliability and reusability.
Solution Approach 2:
The torque transmission unit is extracted as a separate replaceable component (second assembly) that can be removed and replaced independently from the main device (first assembly). This extraction enables the device to be reused after torque exceedances by simply replacing the consumed torque transmission unit.
2Device complexity
If the torque transmission unit is integrated into the handle, then the device structure is compact, but the entire device cannot be reused after torque limiting elements are destroyed
Solution Approach 1:
The device structure is segmented into a reusable handle assembly and a replaceable insert assembly. The insert contains the torque transmission unit with torque limiting elements. This segmentation maintains compactness while enabling easy replacement of the torque transmission unit after use, facilitating reprocessing of the main device.
Solution Approach 2:
The insert (second assembly) is nested within the handle (first assembly). The insert can be easily removed and replaced while the handle remains in use. This nesting approach maintains a compact overall structure while enabling modular replacement for reprocessing.
3Duration of action of moving object
If multiple torque limiting elements are arranged one behind the other, then the device can transmit predetermined torque multiple times, but the device still becomes unusable after all elements are destroyed
Solution Approach 1:
The torque transmission unit with multiple torque limiting elements is segmented as a separate replaceable insert. This allows the insert to be replaced after all torque limiting elements are destroyed, extending the service life of the main device while maintaining the ability to transmit predetermined torque multiple times with each insert.
Solution Approach 2:
The insert containing the torque limiting elements is designed as a disposable component that is discarded after use, while the main device (handle and shaft) is recovered and reused. This approach extends the overall device service life by separating the consumable torque transmission elements from the reusable structural components.
4Ease of manufacture
If the device is designed as a single integrated unit, then manufacturing is simple, but different tools and torque transmission units cannot be used with the same assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into a reusable first assembly (shaft and handle) and a replaceable second assembly (insert with torque transmission unit). This segmentation enables different inserts with different torque transmission units to be used with the same first assembly, providing adaptability for different tools and torque requirements while keeping manufacturing relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The first assembly (shaft and handle) is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate different inserts and torque transmission units. This universality allows the same first assembly to be used with various surgical tools and different torque transmission units with different torque characteristics, enhancing adaptability without significantly complicating manufacturing.
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
Facilitates the replacement of used torque transmission units, allowing for clinical reprocessing and the use of different tools and torque settings with the same assembly, while ensuring sterility and traceability, thus extending the device's lifespan and improving operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The shaft (2) comprises a compression spring (27) and a pressure element (28), which is pressed against a front end of the torque transmission unit (13) by means of the spring force of the compression spring (27).
Implementation Method 2
The insert (17) comprises means (20) for a rotationally fixed connection with the rearmost torque limiting element (14).
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
Figure 6
AI summary
The invention relates to a device (1) for transmitting a specified torque to a surgical tool, the device (1) comprising: a longitudinal shaft (2), to the front end (5) of which a surgical tool (7) is or can be fastened; a handle (9); a torque-transmitting unit (13) having a plurality of torque-limiting elements (14), which are arranged behind the other along the longitudinal axis (3) and connected to one another by means of respective predetermined breaking points (15), wherein: when a specified torque is exceeded, the rearmost torque-limiting element (14) is disconnected at the predetermined breaking point (15); and the shaft (2) comprises a loading apparatus (16), by means of which the torque-transmitting unit (13) can be slid axially, with respect to the longitudinal axis (3), against the rear end (4) of the shaft (2). The device (1) also comprises an insert (17), which, in the assembled state of the device (1), is inserted into the cavity (12) of the handle (9) and is releasably axially and rotationally fixed to the handle (9), the insert (17) comprising means (20) for connecting to the rearmost torque-limiting element (14) for conjoint rotation.