Suturing System Thread Loop Formation via Pneumatic Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional suturing systems face limitations in efficiently inserting and withdrawing threads through substrates, particularly in creating a secure thread loop within a substrate capture chamber, due to restricted pressure regulation and thread carrier movement mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A suturing apparatus with a housing that regulates fluid flow between a substrate capture chamber and ambient pressure or vacuum ports, combined with a thread carrier driver that axially moves a thread carrier between retracted and extended positions to engage a thread capture assembly, generating a thread loop upon return, utilizing a ratchet assembly for unidirectional movement and pressure control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional suturing systems are used, then the structure is simple, but the thread purchase and loop formation capability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The suturing apparatus is divided into distinct functional modules: a substrate capture chamber for securing tissue, a thread carrier driver for precise linear actuation, a ratchet assembly for unidirectional movement control, and a thread capture assembly for loop formation. Each module performs a specific function, allowing the system to achieve superior thread purchase capability while maintaining manageable complexity through functional segmentation.
Solution Approach 2:
The thread carrier driver provides dynamic linear movement of the thread carrier along the longitudinal axis, enabling controlled insertion and withdrawal through the substrate. The ratchet assembly adds dynamic control by permitting movement in only one direction, ensuring proper thread loop formation. This dynamic actuation system replaces static conventional suturing mechanisms, significantly improving thread purchase and loop formation capability.
2Productivity
If a thread carrier is moved axially through the substrate capture chamber, then thread insertion efficiency is improved, but pressure regulation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The substrate capture chamber is connected to a vacuum source through a valve, creating a negative pressure environment that secures the substrate during the suturing process. This pneumatic control mechanism allows efficient thread insertion by holding the substrate steady while the thread carrier moves axially through it. The valve-based pressure regulation adds minimal complexity while significantly improving thread insertion efficiency by preventing substrate movement.
3Reliability
If a ratchet assembly is used for unidirectional movement, then thread loop security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ratchet assembly is designed as a simple, disposable component integrated into the thread carrier system. Its straightforward mechanical design with limited moving parts makes it reliable for ensuring unidirectional thread carrier movement and secure loop formation. The simplicity of the ratchet mechanism means that while it does add some complexity, the structure remains manageable and the component can be easily replaced if needed, maintaining high thread loop security without excessive device complexity.
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
Enhances thread purchase and loop formation within the substrate capture chamber, allowing for greater suture purchase distance and secure thread engagement, surpassing conventional systems in thread insertion and withdrawal capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
a valved conduit operable to regulate fluid flow between a substrate capture chamber and a vacuum port or an ambient pressure port to regulate pressure within the substrate capture chamber
Data Source
AI summary
A suturing system including apparatus and methods for disposing stitches in a substrate comprising a thread carrier which inserts a thread in the substrate at a first location and withdraws the thread from the substrate at a second location.