Handheld Tool Extender Slider Mechanism for Medical Instruments
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Solution Overview
Problem
Minimally invasive medical procedures using flexible elongate devices require precise and simultaneous control of the device and medical tools, which is difficult to achieve with existing manual methods, leading to awkward and inefficient operation.
Innovation Solution
A tool extender system with a slider mechanism that allows for one-handed control of medical tools relative to a flexible elongate device, enabling axial and rotational movement, and includes locking features for precise positioning, facilitating easier manipulation and reducing the need for simultaneous two-handed operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual two-handed control methods are used for flexible elongate devices and medical tools, then the operator can maintain control of both device and tool, but the operation becomes awkward and inefficient due to the need for simultaneous coordination
Solution Approach 1:
The tool extender acts as an intermediary device between the operator and the medical tool, providing a mechanical advantage system that translates simple slider movements into precise tool positioning. The slider mechanism serves as a mediator that converts single-handed input into coordinated tool movement relative to the flexible elongate device, eliminating the need for complex two-handed coordination.
2Measurement precision
If precise simultaneous control of flexible elongate device and medical tool is required, then accurate tool placement can be achieved, but the operational complexity and difficulty increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into independent functional components: the flexible elongate device for navigation and the tool extender with slider mechanism for tool positioning. This segmentation allows each component to be controlled independently, simplifying the overall control task while maintaining precise tool placement capability through the mechanical advantage provided by the slider system.
3Ease of operation
If traditional manual control methods are used, then the device structure remains simple, but operator fatigue increases and control precision decreases during prolonged procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The tool extender introduces dynamic mechanical advantage through the slider mechanism, allowing the operator to maintain precise control with reduced effort throughout the procedure. The mechanical system dynamically translates small slider movements into larger tool displacements, reducing operator fatigue during prolonged use while maintaining control precision.
Data Source
AI summary
A medical instrument includes a tool extender used to retain and move a tool relative to a flexible elongate device. The tool extender includes a slider that allows a user to move the tool relative to a flexible elongate device with one hand using a portion of the slider that is configured to be engaged and manipulated by the user's hand or fingers. A portion of the slider is attached to the tool shaft such that moving the slider moves the tool relative to the tool extender and to the flexible elongate device