Trocar Instrument Lock Assembly with Cam Lever and Elastomeric Block
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trocar assemblies face difficulties in maintaining the position of endoscopes and other instruments relative to the trocar sleeve, leading to instability during surgical procedures.
Innovation Solution
A lock assembly with a cam lever and elastomeric block is integrated into the trocar sleeve, allowing for controlled positioning and locking of instruments, utilizing a rotary latch mechanism and reinforced seal assemblies to secure the instrument in place.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If no locking mechanism is provided, then the device complexity is low, but the instrument stability relative to the trocar sleeve deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is nested within the trocar assembly structure. The lockable member is positioned within the trocar sleeve, and the cam member is integrated into the same assembly, allowing the locking function to be incorporated without adding external components. This nesting approach maintains instrument stability while minimizing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastomeric member acts as an intermediary between the cam member and the instrument. When the cam member rotates, it compresses the elastomeric member, which then engages with the instrument to provide stable positioning. This intermediary mechanism allows for smooth engagement and stable locking without requiring direct rigid contact, reducing complexity while improving stability.
2Manufacturing precision
If a rigid locking mechanism is used, then the instrument positioning precision is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to high actuation forces
Solution Approach 1:
The elastomeric member changes its physical parameters (compression state) in response to cam rotation. As the cam rotates, the elastomeric member transitions from a relaxed state to a compressed state, progressively engaging the instrument. This parameter change allows the locking mechanism to achieve precise positioning through a smooth, low-force rotational motion rather than requiring high actuation forces.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to be dynamic rather than static. The cam member can rotate to adjust the compression of the elastomeric member, allowing for fine-tuning of the instrument position. This dynamic adjustment capability enables precise positioning while maintaining ease of operation, as the user can make small rotational adjustments rather than applying large forces to a rigid lock.
3Ease of operation
If the cam lever is positioned for easy access, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional structural requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The trocar sleeve structure serves multiple functions: it provides the protective sheath for instrument insertion and simultaneously houses the locking mechanism. The distal end of the trocar sleeve is designed to receive both the instrument and the cam member, allowing the same structural element to fulfill multiple roles. This multi-functionality improves ease of operation by making the cam lever accessible while avoiding the need for separate structural components.
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 provides stable and secure positioning of instruments, reducing ergonomic forces required for actuation and ensuring long-term shelf life stability, while allowing easy detachment and reattachment, thus enhancing surgical precision and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
an elastomeric block positioned within the lock assembly housing... wherein rotation of the cam lever brings the elastomeric block into engagement with an instrument passing through the lock assembly housing for locking an instrument relative thereto
Data Source
AI summary
A lock assembly for use in conjunction with a trocar sleeve includes a lock assembly housing having an aperture extending therethrough. The lock assembly also includes a cam lever and an elastomeric block positioned within the lock assembly housing. The cam lever includes a first end pivotally secured to the lock assembly housing and a free second end that is adapted for user actuation, wherein rotation of the cam lever brings the elastomeric block into engagement with an instrument passing through the lock assembly housing for locking an instrument relative thereto.