Background
Many laparoscopic instruments are proportioned around adult anatomy and surgeon reach. This project asks how a combined suture grasper and trocar could better support pediatric procedures through an adjustable shaft length.
The adjustment mechanism must remain compact, easy to understand, and compatible with the basic geometry of a laparoscopic shaft. It also has to support surgeon comfort without making claims about clinical performance before testing.
Approach
The concept introduces an adjustable section into the instrument shaft so its working length can change for different procedures. The mechanism work focused first on how that adjustment could be packaged and controlled.
As the mechanical engineering lead, I developed and prototyped the adjustable-shaft concept. I also organized the CAD work and documented early R&D decisions so the team could compare iterations against the original need.
The project began with the user and geometry problem, then moved into mechanism concepts, CAD development, and initial prototyping. Further imagery and validation evidence are required to document the process responsibly.
Impact
The team produced an early adjustable-shaft prototype and a documented direction for continued development. Patent-related language and the project’s current status are intentionally withheld.
Designing for pediatric care is not a matter of shrinking an adult product. The project highlighted how anatomy, reach, handling, and procedural context must shape the mechanism from the beginning.