Imaging element cleaning device

Abstract

Embodiments of the present invention are directed to providing an effective and reliable method for cleaning exposed surfaces of imaging elements (e.g., lenses) of devices, including but not limited to medical imaging instruments such as endoscopes and laparoscopes and similar instruments. In the case of medical imaging instruments, a cleaning device configured in accordance with embodiments of the present invention can be used to clean the distal portion of the endoscope while it is in vivo. Such a device has a cleaning member (e.g., an elastic polymer wiper, sponge, absorbent pad, or the like) incorporated therein, which is used to clean the exposed surface of the imaging element. The device is preferably suitable for mounting on an imaging device, but can also be fully or partially integrated with one or more components of an imaging device or system to become a component of the imaging device or system.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This PCT application claims priority to the following patent applications: co-pending U.S. non-provisional patent application serial number 16 / 593,150, entitled “IMAGING ELEMENT CLEANING APPARATUS,” filed on October 4, 2019, and serial number 16 / 593,204, entitled “IMAGING ELEMENT CLEANING APPARATUS WITH STRUCTURE-MANDATED CLEANING MEMBER MOTION CONTROL,” filed on October 4, 2019, and co-pending U.S. non-provisional patent application serial number 16 / 593,244, entitled “IMAGING ELEMENT CLEANING APPARATUS,” filed on October 4, 2019, all of which have common applicants and are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0003] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0004] The present disclosure generally relates to the cleaning of equipment that utilizes a remote imaging element to visualize structures at a hidden location, and more specifically, to an imaging element cleaning device for cleaning an exposed surface of an imaging element when the exposed surface is within a hidden location (e.g., an in vivo environment of a human or animal).

[0005] background

[0006] Surgical procedures that use in vivo visualization of the target surgical site are well-known forms of surgical site concealment. Examples of these surgeries include, but are not limited to, endoscopic surgery, laparoscopic surgery, thoracoscopic surgery, and the like. These surgical procedures all use surgical instruments with integrated visualization devices to provide in vivo visualization of the target surgical site within the patient's surgical space. Although surgical instruments are often mentioned in the context of specific types of surgical procedures (e.g., endoscopes for endoscopic surgery, laparoscopes for laparoscopic surgery, and similar instruments), these surgical instruments are generally referred to herein as "endoscopes."

[0007] like Figure 1As shown in FIG. 1 , an endoscope 1 for use in these surgical procedures features a user interface portion 5 and an extension portion 10 connected to the user interface portion 5 at its proximal end 15. Endoscopes for use in endoscopic procedures typically have a substantially flexible extension portion, whereas endoscopes for use in other types of surgical procedures (e.g., for use in laparoscopic procedures, such as Figure 1 The endoscope (as shown) typically has a substantially rigid extension portion 10. The extension portion 10 has an imaging element 20, such as a lens, at its distal portion 25. The imaging element 20 can have an exposed surface, which is typically substantially flush with or defines an end face of the extension portion 10. The imaging element 20 is connected to an optical fiber or other image transmission element inside the endoscope. The optical fiber or other image transmission element extends along the length of the extension portion 10 and terminates at an eyepiece 30 on the user interface portion 5. The eyepiece 30 enables the imaging element 20 to be connected to a visualization device (e.g., a camera connected to a visual display console), through which the surgical staff can view the target surgical site.

[0008] During a surgical procedure using an endoscope, the exposed surface of the imaging element of the endoscope may be damaged due to one or more in vivo conditions. Examples of these conditions include that the exposed surface of the imaging element becomes unclear due to moisture in the surgical space, or the exposed surface of the imaging element may be soiled by blood or other body fluids or tissues (e.g., interstitial fluid, adipose tissue, or the like). Currently, there are two main different endoscope cleaning methods commonly used. The first of these cleaning methods is to remove the endoscope from the body, wipe the imaging element clean, and reinsert the endoscope into the body. Although this method is effective, it is time-consuming and causes the surgeon to lose visibility of the surgical site, which may be considered dangerous because the surgical instruments are usually left in the body. This method also puts the patient at a higher risk of infection. The second of these cleaning methods is to wipe the exposed surface of the imaging element on nearby organs or tissues. Although the endoscope remains in the body, requires less time to clean, and does not potentially damage the surgical site, this method is generally not effective enough because the "clean" surface does not provide effective cleaning performance or only further contaminates the exposed surface of the imaging element. Furthermore, when using any of these cleaning methods, the surgeon must take the time to reposition the endoscope to the surgical site after cleaning the imaging element.

[0009] At the very least, current methods for cleaning the exposed surfaces of imaging elements can be an obstacle and annoyance to surgeons and can provide poor cleaning performance. In addition, the action of cleaning the exposed surfaces of imaging elements increases the length of time required for surgical procedures, thereby reducing the amount of operating room (OR) time available to hospitals. It is also expensive for hospitals, patients, and insurance companies due to the wasted time, as well as possible surgical complications and postoperative infection rates. In addition, as patients undergo longer surgeries, the time they are under anesthesia also increases. It has been shown that an increase in anesthesia time is associated with an increase in surgical complication rates and postoperative infection rates. Therefore, the increased time associated with the current common methods for cleaning the exposed surfaces of imaging elements is not only an obstacle, but also potentially medically and economically expensive.

[0010] Therefore, in order to maintain the desired visualization of the target surgical site, it is desirable that the exposed surface of the imaging element of the device be cleaned while the distal portion of the device remains in a concealed surgical site (e.g., an endoscope in vivo). Known methods and devices that are intended to provide cleaning of the surfaces of such devices while the surfaces of the device remain in a concealed surgical site (e.g., an endoscope in vivo) have one or more disadvantages (e.g., lack of effectiveness, interference with the surgical procedure, requiring significant changes to the surgeon's preferred surgical technique, etc.). Therefore, an effective, efficient, simple and reliable method for allowing the exposed surface of the imaging element of a device (e.g., an endoscope) to be cleaned while the distal portion of the device remains in a concealed surgical site (e.g., in vivo) would be advantageous, desirable and useful.

[0011] Summary of the Disclosure

[0012] Embodiments of the present invention are directed to providing an effective and reliable method for allowing an exposed surface of an imaging element (e.g., a lens) of a device (e.g., an endoscope) to be cleaned while a distal portion of the device is located within a concealed surgical site (e.g., in vivo). More specifically, one or more embodiments of the present invention provide a device for use with an endoscope in one or more types of surgical procedures (e.g., endoscopic, laparoscopic, thoracoscopic, and similar procedures), the device comprising a cleaning member (e.g., an elastic polymer wipe, sponge, absorbent pad, or the like) for cleaning the exposed surface of the imaging element of the device while the imaging element is within the concealed surgical site. The device is preferably adapted to have the device mounted thereon, but may also be fully or partially integrated with one or more components of the device (e.g., a robotic arm configured to carry, operate, and manipulate an endoscope).

[0013] A cleaning device according to one or more embodiments of the present invention may be configured for use with a commercially available endoscope. The dimensions of such an endoscope are either published or publicly determinable. Since the dimensions of a target endoscope intended for use with a cleaning device according to one or more embodiments of the present invention are known, a cleaning device configured according to one or more embodiments of the present invention may be designed to be device-specific. Therefore, engaging a device such as an endoscope on an intended device in these device-specific cleaning devices preferably results in the device having a seated configuration on the cleaning device, which exhibits a high level of dimensional accuracy between the device and the cleaning device.

[0014] Despite exhibiting such a high level of dimensional accuracy, both the device and the cleaning device have their own manufacturing tolerances, which may affect the efficiency, effectiveness, and predictability of the cleaning member cleaning the imaging element. For example, given that the cleaning device configured according to an embodiment of the present invention relies on contact with a portion of the device including the imaging element (e.g., direct surface contact between the imaging element and the cleaning member), these manufacturing tolerances may affect the force and / or degree of deflection exhibited by the cleaning member when in contact with the imaging element, thereby affecting the cleaning performance. Similarly, in some cases (e.g., the speed rate at which the cleaning member contacts the imaging element, the direction of movement of the cleaning member, etc.), other considerations may also affect the force and / or degree of deflection exhibited by the cleaning member when in contact with the imaging element.

[0015] Advantageously, a cleaning device configured in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention may include a mechanism for selectively adjusting the axial position of a cleaning member, i.e., an axial position adjuster. The axial position of the cleaning member corresponds to a distal portion of the device (e.g., a distal portion of an extension of an endoscope). In most cases, the axial position will correspond to the face of the imaging element exposed at the end face of the extension. By such adjustment of the axial position of the cleaning member, a user can change the degree of force and / or deflection exhibited by the cleaning member when in contact with the end portion of the endoscope and / or imaging element, thereby optimizing the cleaning function.

[0016] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, an intravital endoscope cleaning device includes a base, a cleaning member, and a cleaning member controller. The base is suitable for mounting an endoscope thereon. When the endoscope is mounted on the base, the cleaning member is attached to the base at a position adjacent to an imaging element of the endoscope. The cleaning member controller is connected between the base and the cleaning member for selectively moving the cleaning member relative to the base. The cleaning member controller includes a plurality of cleaning member control mechanisms. When the endoscope is mounted on the base, at least one of the cleaning member control mechanisms moves the cleaning member between a stowed position and a use position relative to a position adjacent to the imaging element of the endoscope. When the endoscope is mounted on the base, at least one of the cleaning member control mechanisms moves the cleaning member in the use position to contact the imaging element or to not contact the imaging element. At least one of the cleaning member control mechanisms adjusts the level of contact force that the cleaning member exerts on the imaging element when in contact with the imaging element.

[0017] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, an intravital endoscope cleaning device includes an elongated body, a cleaning member, a user interface body, a coupling element, an axial position adjuster, and a cleaning member control mechanism. The elongated body includes a central channel, and the central channel is suitable for placing an extension of the endoscope therein. The distal portion of the elongated body has an opening located therein, and when the extension of the endoscope is in a placement configuration in the central channel of the elongated body, an imaging element attached to the extension of the endoscope can be approached through the opening. The cleaning member is adjacent to the opening at the distal portion of the elongated body. The user interface body is connected to the proximal end of the elongated body. The coupling element is fixedly attached to the cleaning member at the distal portion of the coupling element. The cleaning member control mechanism is movably mounted on the user interface body. The axial position adjuster is movably attached to the cleaning member control structure and fixedly attached to the proximal end of the coupling element. The movement of the axial position adjuster adjusts the distance between the cleaning member control mechanism and the cleaning member. The first cleaning member manipulation mode of the cleaning member control mechanism enables the cleaning member to move between a stowed position and a use position relative to the distal portion of the elongated body. A second cleaning member manipulation mode of the cleaning member control mechanism enables the cleaning member to be moved into contact with the imaging element or out of contact with the imaging element when the cleaning member is in the use position.

[0018] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, a cleaning member controller for an endoscope cleaning device is provided. The endoscope cleaning device has a base and a cleaning member attached to the base. The base is suitable for mounting an endoscope thereon in a placement position. The cleaning member controller includes a first cleaning member control mechanism and a second cleaning member control mechanism. The first cleaning member control mechanism is attached to the base. The first cleaning member control mechanism has a plurality of cleaning member manipulation modes. When the endoscope is mounted on the base, a first manipulation mode in the cleaning member manipulation mode moves the cleaning member between a stowed position and a use position relative to a position of an imaging element adjacent to the endoscope. When the endoscope is mounted on the base, a second manipulation mode in the cleaning member manipulation mode moves the cleaning member in the use position to contact with the imaging element and to not contact with the imaging element. The second cleaning member control mechanism has a portion movably attached to the first cleaning member control mechanism and has a portion fixedly attached to the cleaning member. The user interface portion of the second cleaning member control mechanism changes the distance between the cleaning member and the first cleaning member control mechanism relative to the movement of the first cleaning member control mechanism to adjust the level of contact force applied by the cleaning member on the imaging element when the cleaning member contacts the imaging element.

[0019] It is an object of one or more embodiments of the present invention to provide a cleaning member that is at least one of a resilient wiper, a semi-rigid wiper, an absorbent pad, and a sponge.

[0020] It is an object of one or more embodiments of the present invention to provide a single control mechanism that provides multiple cleaning member movement modes.

[0021] It is an object of one or more embodiments of the present invention to provide selective adjustment of the axial position of a cleaning member.

[0022] It is an object of one or more embodiments of the present invention to provide such axial distance adjustability through a control device that is integrated with a single control mechanism that provides multiple cleaning member movement modes.

[0023] One or more embodiments of the present invention aim to provide a position indicating structure which provides a user with an endpoint indication when a cleaning member is axially displaced a distance defined by the position indicating structure from an end position of the use position to a stowed position.

[0024] It is an object of one or more embodiments of the present invention that such user endpoint indication includes at least one of a tactile indication and an audible indication.

[0025] This application also involves the following aspects:

[0026] 1) An intravital endoscope cleaning device, comprising:

[0027] a base adapted to mount the endoscope thereon,

[0028] a cleaning member coupled to the base and positioned adjacent an imaging element of the endoscope when the endoscope is mounted on the base; and

[0029] A cleaning member controller connected between the base and the cleaning member, for selectively moving the cleaning member relative to the base, wherein the cleaning member controller includes a first cleaning member control mechanism and a second cleaning member control mechanism, wherein the first cleaning member control mechanism is movably attached to the base so that when the endoscope is mounted on the base, the cleaning member can be moved between a stowed position and a use position relative to the position of the imaging element adjacent to the endoscope, wherein the first cleaning member control mechanism is movably attached to the base so that the cleaning member can be moved into contact with the imaging element and out of contact with the imaging element, and wherein the second cleaning member control mechanism is movably attached to the first cleaning member control mechanism so that the position of the cleaning member relative to the first cleaning member control mechanism can be selectively adjusted.

[0030] 2) The intravital endoscope cleaning device according to 1), wherein:

[0031] said first cleaning member control mechanism including a position indicating feature integral therewith; and

[0032] The base includes a mating position indication feature integral therewith, the mating position indication feature engaging the position indication feature of the first cleaning member control mechanism to tactilely indicate when the cleaning member is axially displaced from the end position of the use position by a distance jointly defined by the position indication feature of the first cleaning member control mechanism and the mating position indication feature of the base.

[0033] 3) The intravital endoscope cleaning device according to 2), wherein:

[0034] said position indicating feature of said first cleaning member control mechanism comprises a circumferential groove within a cylindrical extension thereof;

[0035] The cylindrical extension is disposed in a matching channel of the base to allow the first cleaning member control mechanism to translate axially relative to the base for moving the cleaning member between the stowed position and the use position, and to allow the first cleaning member control mechanism to translate rotationally relative to the base for moving the cleaning member into and out of contact with the imaging element; and

[0036] The mating position indicating feature of the base is positively biased against the cylindrical extension.

[0037] 4) The intravital endoscope cleaning device according to 1), further comprising:

[0038] a coupling element having a distal portion and a proximal portion;

[0039] wherein the coupling element is fixedly attached to the cleaning member at the distal end portion of the coupling element;

[0040] wherein the second cleaning member control mechanism comprises a user interface portion and a coupling element engagement structure;

[0041] wherein the user interface portion is rotatably attached to the first cleaning member control mechanism to allow the user interface portion to rotate relative to the first cleaning member control mechanism while inhibiting unrestricted axial displacement between the user interface portion and the first cleaning member control mechanism;

[0042] wherein the coupling element engagement structure is fixedly attached to the proximal portion of the coupling element;

[0043] wherein the coupling element engagement structure is mounted on the first cleaning member control mechanism to allow axial translation of the coupling element engagement structure relative to the first cleaning member control mechanism and to inhibit unrestricted rotational movement between the coupling element engagement structure and the first cleaning member control mechanism;

[0044] Wherein the coupling element engagement structure is threadably attached to the user interface portion to cause axial translation of the coupling element engagement structure relative to the first cleaning member control mechanism when the user interface portion is rotated.

[0045] 5) The intravital endoscope cleaning device according to 4), wherein:

[0046] said first cleaning member control mechanism including a position indicating feature integral therewith; and

[0047] The base includes a mating position indication feature integral therewith, the mating position indication feature engaging the position indication feature of the first cleaning member control mechanism to tactilely indicate when the cleaning member is axially displaced from the end position of the use position by a distance jointly defined by the position indication feature of the first cleaning member control mechanism and the mating position indication feature of the base.

[0048] 6) The intravital endoscope cleaning device according to 1), further comprising:

[0049] a coupling element having a distal portion and a proximal portion;

[0050] wherein the coupling element is fixedly attached to the cleaning member at the distal end portion of the coupling element;

[0051] wherein the first cleaning member control mechanism is movably mounted on the base to realize the movement of the cleaning member between the stowed position and the use position and to realize the movement of the cleaning member to contact with the imaging element or to not contact with the imaging element;

[0052] wherein the second cleaning member control mechanism is movably mounted on the first cleaning member control mechanism to enable said adjustment of the level of contact force applied by the cleaning member on the imaging element;

[0053] wherein the second cleaning member control mechanism comprises a user interface portion and a coupling element engagement structure;

[0054] wherein the user interface portion is rotatably attached to the first cleaning member control mechanism to allow the user interface portion to rotate relative to the first cleaning member control mechanism while inhibiting unrestricted axial displacement between the user interface portion and the first cleaning member control mechanism;

[0055] wherein the coupling element engagement structure is fixedly attached to the proximal portion of the coupling element;

[0056] wherein the coupling element engagement structure is mounted on the first cleaning member control mechanism to allow axial translation of the coupling element engagement structure relative to the first cleaning member control mechanism and to inhibit unrestricted rotational movement between the coupling element engagement structure and the first cleaning member control mechanism; and

[0057] Wherein the coupling element engagement structure is threadably attached to the user interface portion to cause axial translation of the coupling element engagement structure relative to the first cleaning member control mechanism when the user interface portion is rotated.

[0058] 7) The intravital endoscope cleaning device according to 6), wherein:

[0059] said first cleaning member control mechanism including a position indicating feature integral therewith; and

[0060] The base includes a mating position indication feature integral therewith, which engages the position indication feature of the first cleaning member control mechanism to indicate when the cleaning member is axially displaced from the end position of the use position by a distance jointly defined by the position indication feature of the first cleaning member control mechanism and the mating position indication feature of the base.

[0061] 8) The intravital endoscope cleaning device according to 1), wherein:

[0062] the first cleaning member control mechanism being translatably attached to the base to enable the cleaning member to move between the stowed position and the use position;

[0063] The first cleaning member control mechanism is rotatably attached to the base for enabling the cleaning member to be moved into and out of contact with the imaging element;

[0064] The first cleaning member control mechanism is translatably attached to the base and rotatably attached to the base, including the first cleaning member control mechanism being translatable and rotatable about a longitudinal axis; and

[0065] The second cleaning member control mechanism being movably attached to the first cleaning member control mechanism includes a user interface portion of the second cleaning member control mechanism being rotatable about the longitudinal axis.

[0066] 9) The intravital endoscope cleaning device according to 8), wherein:

[0067] said first cleaning member control mechanism including a position indicating feature integral therewith; and

[0068] The base includes a mating position indication feature integral therewith, the mating position indication feature engaging the position indication feature of the first cleaning member control mechanism to tactilely indicate when the cleaning member is axially displaced from the end position of the use position by a distance jointly defined by the position indication feature of the first cleaning member control mechanism and the mating position indication feature of the base.

[0069] 10) The intravital endoscope cleaning device according to 8), further comprising:

[0070] a coupling element having a distal portion and a proximal portion;

[0071] wherein the coupling element is fixedly attached to the cleaning member at the distal end portion of the coupling element;

[0072] wherein the second cleaning member control mechanism comprises a user interface portion and a coupling element engagement structure;

[0073] wherein the user interface portion is rotatably attached to the first cleaning member control mechanism to allow the user interface portion to rotate relative to the first cleaning member control mechanism while inhibiting unrestricted axial displacement between the user interface portion and the first cleaning member control mechanism;

[0074] wherein the coupling element engagement structure is fixedly attached to the proximal portion of the coupling element;

[0075] wherein the coupling element engagement structure is mounted on the first cleaning member control mechanism to allow axial translation of the coupling element engagement structure relative to the first cleaning member control mechanism and to inhibit unrestricted rotational movement between the coupling element engagement structure and the first cleaning member control mechanism;

[0076] Wherein the coupling element engagement structure is threadably attached to the user interface portion to cause axial translation of the coupling element engagement structure relative to the first cleaning member control mechanism when the user interface portion is rotated.

[0077] 11) The intravital endoscope cleaning device according to 10), wherein:

[0078] said first cleaning member control mechanism including a position indicating feature integral therewith; and

[0079] The base includes a mating position indication feature integral therewith, the mating position indication feature engaging the position indication feature of the first cleaning member control mechanism to tactilely indicate when the cleaning member is axially displaced from the end position of the use position by a distance jointly defined by the position indication feature of the first cleaning member control mechanism and the mating position indication feature of the base.

[0080] 12) The intravital endoscope cleaning device according to 8), further comprising:

[0081] a coupling element having a distal portion and a proximal portion;

[0082] wherein the coupling element is fixedly attached to the cleaning member at the distal end portion of the coupling element;

[0083] wherein the first cleaning member control mechanism is movably mounted on the base to realize the movement of the cleaning member between the stowed position and the use position and to realize the movement of the cleaning member to contact with the imaging element or to not contact with the imaging element;

[0084] wherein the second cleaning member control mechanism is movably mounted on the first cleaning member control mechanism to enable said adjustment of the level of contact force applied by the cleaning member on the imaging element;

[0085] wherein the second cleaning member control mechanism comprises a user interface portion and a coupling element engagement structure;

[0086] wherein the user interface portion is rotatably attached to the first cleaning member control mechanism to allow the user interface portion to rotate relative to the first cleaning member control mechanism while inhibiting unrestricted axial displacement between the user interface portion and the first cleaning member control mechanism;

[0087] wherein the coupling element engagement structure is fixedly attached to the proximal portion of the coupling element;

[0088] wherein the coupling element engagement structure is mounted on the first cleaning member control mechanism to allow axial translation of the coupling element engagement structure relative to the first cleaning member control mechanism and to inhibit unrestricted rotational movement between the coupling element engagement structure and the first cleaning member control mechanism; and

[0089] Wherein the coupling element engagement structure is threadably attached to the user interface portion to cause axial translation of the coupling element engagement structure relative to the first cleaning member control mechanism when the user interface portion is rotated.

[0090] 13) The intravital endoscope cleaning device according to 12), wherein:

[0091] The first cleaning member control mechanism includes a position indicating feature integral therewith;

[0092] The base includes a mating position indication feature integral therewith, which engages the position indication feature of the first cleaning member control mechanism to indicate when the cleaning member is axially displaced from the end position of the use position by a distance jointly defined by the position indication feature of the first cleaning member control mechanism and the mating position indication feature of the base.

[0093] 14) The intravital endoscope cleaning device according to 1), wherein the position of the cleaning member relative to the first cleaning member control mechanism is an axial position.

[0094] 15) The intravital endoscope cleaning device according to 14), wherein a user interface portion of the second cleaning member control mechanism is rotatably mounted on the first cleaning member control mechanism.

[0095] 16) The intravital endoscope cleaning device according to 15), wherein:

[0096] said first cleaning member control mechanism including a position indicating feature integral therewith; and

[0097] The base includes a mating position indication feature integral therewith, the mating position indication feature engaging the position indication feature of the first cleaning member control mechanism to tactilely indicate when the cleaning member is axially displaced from the end position of the use position by a distance jointly defined by the position indication feature of the first cleaning member control mechanism and the mating position indication feature of the base.

[0098] 17) The intravital endoscope cleaning device according to 16), wherein:

[0099] said position indicating feature of said first cleaning member control mechanism comprises a circumferential groove within a cylindrical extension thereof;

[0100] The cylindrical extension is disposed in a matching channel of the base to allow the first cleaning member control mechanism to translate axially relative to the base for moving the cleaning member between the stowed position and the use position, and to allow the first cleaning member control mechanism to translate rotationally relative to the base for moving the cleaning member into and out of contact with the imaging element; and

[0101] The mating position indicating feature of the base is positively biased against the cylindrical extension.

[0102] 18) The intravital endoscope cleaning device according to 14), wherein the coupling element engagement structure of the second cleaning member control mechanism is fixedly connected to the cleaning member and movably mounted on the first cleaning member control mechanism so that the coupling element engagement structure can be axially translated relative to the first cleaning member control mechanism.

[0103] 19) The intravital endoscope cleaning device according to 18), wherein the coupling element engagement structure is fixedly coupled to the cleaning member via a coupling element extending between the coupling element engagement structure and the cleaning member.

[0104] 20) The intravital endoscope cleaning device according to 19), wherein:

[0105] The coupling element engagement structure is fixedly attached to a proximal portion of the coupling element; and

[0106] The cleaning member is fixedly attached to a distal portion of the coupling element.

[0107] 21) An intravital endoscope cleaning device according to 18), wherein the user interface portion of the second cleaning member control mechanism is rotatably mounted on the first cleaning member control mechanism and is interlocked with the coupling element engagement structure so that rotational movement of the user interface portion can cause the axial translation of the coupling element engagement structure.

[0108] 22) The intravital endoscope cleaning device according to 21), wherein:

[0109] The first cleaning member control mechanism is axially translatable along a longitudinal reference axis of the base and rotationally translatable about the longitudinal reference axis;

[0110] said user interface portion being rotatable about said longitudinal axis;

[0111] The coupling element engagement structure is axially translatable along the longitudinal axis; and

[0112] The user interface portion is interlocked with the coupling element engagement structure such that rotation of the user interface portion about the longitudinal reference axis causes axial translation of the coupling element engagement structure along the longitudinal reference axis.

[0113] 23) The intravital endoscope cleaning device according to 22), wherein the coupling element engagement structure is fixedly coupled to the cleaning member via a coupling element extending between the coupling element engagement structure and the cleaning member.

[0114] 24) The intravital endoscope cleaning device according to 23), wherein:

[0115] The coupling element engagement structure is fixedly attached to a proximal portion of the coupling element; and

[0116] The cleaning member is fixedly attached to a distal portion of the coupling element.

[0117] 25) The intravital endoscope cleaning device according to 1), wherein:

[0118] The first cleaning member control mechanism includes a cleaning member motion assembly, and the cleaning member motion assembly includes a control body and a motion control device;

[0119] The motion control device is attached to the control body and the cleaning member; and

[0120] The motion control device includes a motion control structure that defines an axial position of the cleaning member based on an angular position of the control body.

[0121] 26) The intravital endoscope cleaning device according to 25), wherein:

[0122] The motion control device also includes a cleaning member coupling element;

[0123] The motion control structure of the motion control device includes a cam body and a control body;

[0124] The cleaning member coupling element is translationally and rotatably engaged with the cam body and fixedly connected to the cleaning member;

[0125] the control body being engaged with the cleaning member coupling element, whereby rotation of the control body causes corresponding rotational movement of the cleaning member coupling element;

[0126] The cam body is engaged with the base and includes a motion control surface having a profile that defines an axial position of the cleaning member according to an angular position of the control body; and

[0127] At least one of the control body and the cleaning member coupling element has a motion control member engaged with the motion control surface whereby rotation of the control body causes translational and rotational movement of the cleaning member relative to the base in accordance with a contour of the motion control surface.

[0128] 27) An intravital endoscope cleaning device according to 26), wherein the engagement of the control body with the cleaning member coupling element enables the cleaning member coupling element to translate axially relative to the control body and inhibits unrestricted rotational displacement between the cleaning member coupling element and the control body.

[0129] 28) The intravital endoscope cleaning device according to 27), wherein the control body is coupled to a control body mounting portion of the base, thereby suppressing unrestricted axial displacement of the control body relative to the base.

[0130] 29) The intravital endoscope cleaning device according to 26), wherein:

[0131] The motion control surface is defined by a groove in the cam body; and

[0132] The motion control member is engaged within the slot.

[0133] 30) The intravital endoscope cleaning device according to 29), wherein:

[0134] The cleaning member coupling element is located in the central passage of the cam body;

[0135] The engagement of the control body with the cleaning member coupling element inhibits unrestricted rotational displacement between the control body and the cleaning member coupling element; and

[0136] The control body is coupled to a control body mounting portion of the base such that unrestricted axial displacement of the control body relative to the base is inhibited.

[0137] 31) The intravital endoscope cleaning device according to 26), wherein:

[0138] The cleaning member coupling element is located in the central passage of the cam body;

[0139] The engagement of the control body with the cleaning member coupling element inhibits unrestrained rotational displacement of the control body relative to the cleaning member coupling element and permits axial displacement between the control body and the cleaning member coupling element; and

[0140] The control body is coupled to a control body mounting portion of the base such that unrestricted axial displacement of the control body relative to the base is inhibited.

[0141] 32) A cleaning member controller for an endoscope cleaning device, wherein the endoscope cleaning device has a base and a cleaning member connected to the base by a connecting element, wherein the base is suitable for mounting an endoscope on the base, wherein the cleaning member controller comprises:

[0142] a first cleaning member control mechanism attached to the base, wherein the first cleaning member control mechanism has a plurality of cleaning member manipulation modes, wherein a first of the cleaning member manipulation modes moves the cleaning member between a stowed position and a use position relative to a position adjacent an imaging element of the endoscope when the endoscope is mounted on the base, and wherein a second of the cleaning member manipulation modes moves the cleaning member in the use position into and out of contact with the imaging element when the endoscope is mounted on the base; and

[0143] A second cleaning member control mechanism, which is attached to the first cleaning member control mechanism, wherein the second cleaning member control mechanism includes a user interface portion and a coupling element engagement structure, wherein the user interface portion is movably coupled to the first cleaning member control mechanism, wherein the coupling element engagement structure is attached to the coupling element, wherein the coupling element engagement structure is movably coupled to the first cleaning member control mechanism, wherein the coupling element engagement structure is interlockingly attached to the user interface portion for causing axial translation of the coupling element engagement structure relative to the first cleaning member control mechanism when the user interface portion moves relative to the first cleaning member control mechanism, wherein movement of the user interface portion causes axial movement of the coupling element to change the distance between the cleaning member and the first cleaning member control mechanism.

[0144] 33) A cleaning component controller according to 32), wherein:

[0145] The first of the cleaning member manipulation modes comprises axially translating the first cleaning member control mechanism relative to the base; and

[0146] The second of the cleaning member manipulation modes includes rotationally translating the first cleaning member control mechanism relative to the base.

[0147] 34) The cleaning member controller according to 32), wherein the first cleaning member control mechanism is attached to the base and comprises:

[0148] the first cleaning member control mechanism being axially movable along a longitudinal axis for implementing the first of the cleaning member manipulation modes; and

[0149] The first cleaning member control mechanism is rotationally movable along the longitudinal axis for achieving the second one of the cleaning member manipulation modes.

[0150] 35) A cleaning member controller according to 34), wherein the user interface portion of the second cleaning member control mechanism is movably attached to the first cleaning member control mechanism, including that the user interface portion of the second cleaning member control mechanism is capable of rotating about the longitudinal axis.

[0151] These and other objects, embodiments, advantages and / or differences of the present invention will become apparent upon further review of the following description, the associated drawings and the appended claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0153] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a prior art endoscope.

[0154] Figure 2 is a first perspective view showing an endoscope cleaning device according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0155] Figure 3 It shows Figure 2 Second perspective view of the endoscope.

[0156] Figure 4 It is along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view taken along line 4-4 in FIG.

[0157] Figure 5 yes Figure 2 A partial perspective view of an endoscope cleaning device shown in FIG. 1 , wherein the control body of the first cleaning member control mechanism is in an extended configuration.

[0158] Figure 6 yes Figure 2 A partial perspective view of an endoscope cleaning device shown in FIG. 1 , wherein the control body of the first cleaning member control mechanism is in a retracted configuration.

[0159] Figure 7 yes Figure 2 A partial perspective view of an endoscope cleaning device is shown with its cleaning components in a stowed position.

[0160] Figure 8 yes Figure 2 A partial perspective view of an endoscope cleaning device is shown with its cleaning components in a use position.

[0161] Fig. 9 yes Figure 2 A partial perspective view of an endoscope cleaning device is shown with its cleaning member moved to its imaging element contacting position.

[0162] Fig.10 yes Figure 2 A partial perspective view of an endoscope cleaning device is shown with its cleaning member moved beyond its imaging element contacting position.

[0163] Fig.11 It is along Figure 6 A cross-sectional view taken along line 11-11 in FIG.

[0164] Fig.12 is a partial cross-sectional view showing a structural arrangement for providing a cleaning member biasing function according to one or more embodiments of the present invention.

[0165] Fig.13 is a perspective view showing an endoscope cleaning device according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0166] Fig.14 It is along Fig.13A cross-sectional view taken along line 14-14 in FIG.

[0167] Fig.15 yes Fig.13 A perspective view of the cam body of the cleaning device is shown.

[0168] Fig.16 yes Fig.15 A first plan view of a cam body.

[0169] Fig.17 yes Fig.15 A second plan view of the cam body.

[0170] Fig.18 It is shown Fig.15 Schematic diagram of the profile of the cam segment of a cam body.

[0171] Detailed Description

[0172] Figure 2-10 Various aspects of an intravital endoscope cleaning device configured in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention are illustrated, which is designated as cleaning device 100. Cleaning device 100 is preferably, but not necessarily, configured to be compatible with commercially available endoscopes (e.g., Figure 1 Examples of such commercially available endoscopes include, but are not limited to, endoscopes manufactured under the brand names of Karl Storz, Linvatec, Olympus, Richard Wolf, Stryker, and Intuitive Surgical (i.e., DaVinci). To this end, in a preferred embodiment, the cleaning device 100 can be designed as a cleaning device specific to a given model of endoscope from one or more manufacturers based on the dimensional attributes of such commercially available endoscopes. A fundamental consideration in the manner in which the endoscope cleaning device 100 is designed for a predetermined brand or model of endoscope is that there is a high level of dimensional accuracy between the endoscope and the cleaning device. Such dimensional accuracy can be characterized by including the following two points: suppressing any unacceptable level of relative motion between the endoscope and the cleaning device 100, and suppressing any unacceptable level of relative placement of key structural elements of the endoscope relative to key structural elements of the cleaning device 100.

[0173] Still reference Figure 2, the cleaning device 100 has an elongated body 102 that is adapted to be inserted into the extension portion 10 of the endoscope 1. As shown, in its fully installed position, a dimensionally predictable surface or feature of the endoscope 1 (e.g., a surface or feature of the user interface portion 5 (e.g., a handle and / or an optical interface portion)) abuts a matching dimensionally predictable surface or feature of the endoscope cleaning device 100. This matching surface or feature of the cleaning device 100 (e.g., a surface or feature of its user interface body 103) serves as a reference structure for the cleaning device 100. When the endoscope 1 is in this fully installed position on the cleaning device 100 relative to the reference structure, the distal portion 25 of the endoscope protrudes a known, predictable amount from the opening 104 in the distal portion 106 of the elongated body 102. Through such an interface arrangement and dimensional tolerances, a high level of dimensional accuracy between the endoscope 1 and the cleaning device 100 can be achieved. As discussed in more detail below, such dimensional accuracy is beneficial to the cleaning performance provided by the cleaning device 100.

[0174] As above reference Figure 1 As described, the distal portion 25 of the endoscope 1 carries an imaging element 20 (e.g., a lens). The imaging element 20 is exposed at the distal portion 25 of the extension portion 10 of the endoscope 1 and is substantially flush with or defines an end face at the distal portion 25. The distal portion 25 of the endoscope 1 is exposed at an opening 104 in the distal end 106. Due to the placement of the endoscope 1 on the cleaning device 100, the imaging element 20 is in a known and predictable position relative to the reference structure of the cleaning device 100. Therefore, for an endoscope designed for a specific cleaning device, the components of the cleaning device 100 can similarly be in a known and predictable position relative to the structure of the endoscope 1, thereby providing accurate placement and configuration of the components of the cleaning device 100 to achieve a desired and predictable level of cleaning performance.

[0175] Reference now Figure 3-6 , the elongated body 102 and the user interface body 103 together define a base of the cleaning device. The base serves as a platform on which the endoscope 1 can be mounted in a predictable placement position. It is disclosed herein that the base can be a base of a robot that provides robot-assisted surgery, or can be adapted to be operatively connected to a matching mounting portion of such a robot. For example, the elongated body 102 and / or the user interface body 103 can be an arm or other structure of a robot, or can be adapted to be operatively connected to an instrument mounting portion of a robot arm.

[0176] The elongated body 102 of the base may be a central channel 110 (eg Figure 3The elongated body 102 may be a tube having a central channel 110 having a circular or substantially circular cross-sectional shape. The central channel 110 is sized and contoured to allow the extension portion 10 of the endoscope 1 to be placed in the central channel 110 by inserting the extension portion into the central channel 110 and sliding the extension portion 10 along the length of the elongated body 102 until the endoscope 1 is in a resting position on the base. The user interface body 103 may include a retaining tool 111 for securing the endoscope 1 in a resting position on the base. Alternatively, the elongated body 102 may be a non-tubular structure, such as a skeletal structure, which engages the extension portion 10 of the endoscope at discrete spaced locations of the extension portion 10 of the endoscope.

[0177] The base can include a plurality of structural elements that provide a known and predictable position of the endoscope 1 when the endoscope 1 is mounted in a resting position on the base. One of these structural elements is an effective inner diameter (e.g., for a ribbed or textured inner surface) or an actual inner diameter (e.g., a smooth inner wall) of the elongated body 102 relative to the outer diameter of the extension 10 of the endoscope 1 and the elongated body 102 of the base. Preferably, a tight fit is maintained between the outer wall of the elongated body 102 and the matching outer wall of the extension 10 to provide a fluid-resistant interface between the elongated body 102 and the extension 10 and to limit the off-axis pitch between the longitudinal axis of the elongated body 102 and the extension 10. Another of these structural elements is a resting surface 112 (e.g., a seat surface 112) on the user interface body 103. Figure 3 and Fig.11 The mounting surface may be a reference surface of the cleaning device 100 that engages a matching reference surface 35 of the endoscope 1 (e.g. Figure 1 The engagement of the seating surface 112 on the user interface body 103 with the matching reference surface 35 of the endoscope 1 is used to define a predictable seating orientation of the endoscope 1 on the base.

[0178] The cleaning device 100 includes a cleaning member 114 disposed proximate to the opening 104 in the distal end portion 106 of the elongated body 102 (at Figure 2 and Figure 3 ). As discussed in more detail below, when the cleaning member 114 contacts the imaging element 20 of the endoscope, the cleaning member 114 is used to clean contaminants and debris from the surface of the imaging element 20. The cleaning member 114 can be fixedly attached to the distal portion of the coupling element 116. Figure 4As best shown, the coupling element 116 extends through a passage 118 in the elongated body 102. Preferably, the passage 118 and the central passage 110 extend substantially parallel to each other in the elongated body 102. In some embodiments, the coupling element 116 is characterized by an elongated small diameter structure, which provides a combination of at least a limited degree of bendability and high torsional stiffness. In other embodiments, the coupling element 116 is characterized by an elongated small diameter structure that provides quantitative torsional compliance. Based on these characteristic attributes, the example of the coupling element 116 includes but is not limited to solid wire, spiral wire, polymer filament, composite filament or the like.

[0179] The user interface body 103 can be configured as a handle for the cleaning device 100, and the user interface body 103 carries a cleaning member controller 120. The cleaning member controller 120 is connected between the user interface body 103 and the cleaning member 114 to achieve the selective movement of the cleaning member 114. The cleaning member controller 120 includes a first cleaning member control mechanism 122 (i.e., a cleaning member movement mechanism) and a second cleaning member control mechanism 124 (i.e., a cleaning member adjustment mechanism). The first cleaning member control mechanism 122 includes a control body 125 (i.e., a first control body 125), which is rotatably and translationally mounted on (i.e., attached to) the user interface body 103, as shown in FIG. Figure 5 and Figure 6 As best shown, the first and second cleaning member control mechanisms 124 are rotatably mounted on the first cleaning member control mechanism 122. The first and second cleaning member control mechanisms 122, 124 provide various cleaning member manipulation modes.

[0180] Through the movement capability of the first cleaning member control mechanism 122, the first cleaning member control mechanism provides at least a first cleaning member manipulation mode and a second cleaning member manipulation mode. The first cleaning member manipulation mode may include translational movement, such as provided by the translation of the coupling element 116, to move the cleaning member 114 in the stowed position S (in the Figure 7 best shown in ) and the use position U (in Figure 8The stowed position S is a position where the cleaning member 114 is retracted from the use position U (e.g., retracted to a maximum travel distance between the use position U and the stowed position S). The second cleaning member manipulation mode may include a rotational movement to move the cleaning member 114 into contact with the imaging element 20 or out of contact with the imaging element 20 (e.g., when the cleaning member 114 is in the use position) when the cleaning member 114 is in the use position. Figure 6 and Figure 8-10 14, and the like. The cleaning member 114 is preferably positioned in a first cleaning member manipulation mode, or as described below, an offset use position adjacent to the use position. In this manner, the first cleaning member manipulation mode of the first cleaning member control mechanism 122 allows manipulation of the cleaning member 114 to enable in vivo cleaning of the imaging element 20 in conjunction with in vivo surgical cavity visualization using the imaging element 20.

[0181] As described above, the cleaning member 114 and the endoscope 1 are configured together so that the imaging element 20 is in a known and predictable position relative to the reference structure of the base of the cleaning device 100. Therefore, due to the dimensional characteristics of the endoscope 1 and the cleaning device 100, the cleaning member 114 is in a known and predictable position relative to the imaging element 20. In at least one aspect, this known and predictable position of the cleaning member 114 relative to the imaging element 20 can be characterized by an axial distance between a reference portion of the cleaning member 114 (e.g., an edge portion of the cleaning member 114) and the exposed surface of the imaging element 20. This axial distance is a design parameter of the cleaning device that enables the cleaning member 114 to remove (i.e., clean) debris and contaminants from the exposed surface of the imaging element 20 in response to the cleaning member 114 being moved to contact (e.g., rub against) the exposed surface of the imaging element 20 when the cleaning member 114 is in the use position U during the implementation of the second cleaning member manipulation mode.

[0182] Some situations may occur that affect the position of the cleaning member 114 relative to the imaging element 20, the effect reaching the extent that the desired cleanliness of the imaging element 20 may be impaired. One such situation is that the dimensional tolerances of the cleaning member 114 and / or the endoscope 1 result in a dimensional stack-up that affects the axial distance between the reference portion of the cleaning member 114 and the exposed surface of the imaging element 20, the effect reaching the extent that the cleaning performance is adversely affected. For example, the extension portion 10 of the endoscope 1 may have a length at the lower end of its tolerance range, while the matching reference surface 35 of the endoscope 1 may be at the upper end of its tolerance range. In this case, the axial distance between the reference portion of the cleaning member 114 and the exposed surface of the imaging element 20 may become greater than the distance required to provide acceptable cleaning performance. Another such situation is that the end user technique (e.g., rate, rhythm and / or rotational direction) of the user to move the cleaning member 114 on the imaging element 20 may adversely affect the cleaning performance.

[0183] Advantageously, a cleaning device configured in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention includes at least one backup plan for mitigating the extent to which the desired cleanliness of the imaging element 20 is compromised in situations that may affect the position of the cleaning member 114 relative to the imaging element 20. To this end, the second cleaning member control mechanism 124 provides a corresponding cleaning member manipulation mode (i.e., a third cleaning member manipulation mode) for selectively varying the axial distance between the reference portion of the cleaning member 114 and the exposed surface of the imaging element 20.

[0184] like Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the second cleaning member control mechanism 124 includes a control body 126 (i.e., a second control body) rotatably (i.e., movably) attached to the first cleaning member control mechanism 122. By rotating the second control body 126 in a given direction, the axial distance between the reference portion of the cleaning member 114 and the exposed surface of the imaging element 20 changes accordingly (e.g., clockwise rotation provides a smaller distance, while counterclockwise rotation provides a larger distance, or vice versa). In this way, the user terminal can change the axial distance between the cleaning member 114 and the exposed surface of the imaging element 20 to affect the load applied by the cleaning member when in contact with the imaging element 20, thereby affecting the cleaning performance of the imaging element.

[0185] Reference now Fig.11, describes aspects of a specific embodiment of the first cleaning member control mechanism 122 and the second cleaning member control mechanism 124. The first control body 125 includes a user interface portion 128 and a mounting portion 130 connected to the user interface portion 128. The mounting portion 130 is translatably and rotatably attached to a matching portion of the user interface body 103. For example, the mounting portion 130 may include a cylindrical extension portion 131 that is disposed in a matching channel 133 of the user interface body 103 to allow the first cleaning member control mechanism 122 to be in the extended position E ( Figure 5 ) and retracted position R( Figure 6 ) relative to the user interface body 103 for axial translation between the stowed position S and the use position U for correspondingly moving the cleaning member 114, and rotatably translatable relative to the user interface body 103 for correspondingly moving the cleaning member 114 into contact with or out of contact with the imaging element 20 of the endoscope 1. The size of the mounting portion 130 and the size of the matching channel of the user interface body 103 can jointly define the amount of translational motion exhibited by the cleaning member control mechanism 122.

[0186] Still reference Fig.11 , the second control body 126 includes a user interface portion 132 and a mounting portion 134 connected to the user interface portion 132. The mounting portion 134 is rotatably (i.e., movably) attached to a matching portion of the user interface portion 132 of the first cleaning member control mechanism 122 (e.g., control body 125) for enabling the second control body 126 to rotate relative to the first control body 125 while inhibiting unrestricted axial translation between the second control body 126 and the first control body 125 (i.e., an interface capable of rotation and inhibiting translation). The coupling element engagement structure 136 of the second cleaning member control mechanism 124 is disposed on the first control body 125 to allow the coupling element engagement structure 136 to translate axially relative to the first cleaning member control mechanism 122 and inhibit unrestricted rotational movement between the coupling element engagement structure 136 and the first cleaning member control mechanism 122 (i.e., an interface inhibiting rotation and allowing translation). For example, the coupling element engagement structure 136 may have a rectangular lateral shape (eg, a rectangle) and be located within a matching elongated cavity having a rectangular lateral shape of the first control body 125, thereby allowing relative axial translation of the coupling element engagement structure 136 and inhibiting unrestricted relative rotational movement thereof.

[0187] The extension 138 of the coupling element engagement structure 136 (e.g., the first structural element of the interlocking interface structure) is threadedly engaged in the matching central channel 140 (e.g., the second structural element of the interlocking interface structure) of the second control body 126. This threaded engagement is an example of interlocking engagement, in which axial movement depends on rotational movement. The mounting portion 130 of the first cleaning member control mechanism 122 has a coupling element channel 142 extending longitudinally therethrough, and the coupling element engagement structure 136 has a coupling element channel 144 extending longitudinally therethrough at least partially therethrough. The mounting portion 130 and the coupling element engagement structure 136 of the first cleaning member control mechanism 122 are configured together so that the coupling element channels 142, 144 are longitudinally aligned. The proximal portion of the coupling element 116 extends through the coupling element channel 142 of the first cleaning member control mechanism 122 into the coupling element channel 144 of the coupling element engagement structure 136. The coupling element engagement structure 136 includes a fixing structure 146 (e.g., a threaded fixing screw) for fixing the coupling element 116 in a fixed position relative to the coupling element engagement structure 136.

[0188] As described above, through the threaded engagement between the extension portion 138 of the connecting element engagement structure 136 and the second control body 126, the rotation of the second control body 126 relative to the first cleaning member control mechanism 122 causes the connecting element engagement structure 136 to translate axially relative to the first cleaning member control mechanism 122, thereby providing a corresponding axial displacement of the cleaning element 114, thereby adjusting the axial distance between the reference portion of the cleaning member 114 and the exposed surface of the imaging element 20 (for example, clockwise rotation provides a smaller distance, while counterclockwise rotation provides a larger distance, or vice versa).

[0189] The user can use the cleaning member adjustment capability provided by the second cleaning member control mechanism 124 in any number of ways. For example, before a surgical procedure, the user can use this cleaning member adjustment capability to set the initial contact degree between the cleaning element 114 and the imaging element. After the endoscope is mounted on the base of the cleaning device, the user can adjust the axial distance between the cleaning member 114 and the imaging element 20 so that when the cleaning member 114 passes over the exposed surface of the imaging element 20, there is no contact between the cleaning member 114 and the exposed surface of the imaging element 20. Using the cleaning member adjustment capability provided by the second cleaning member control mechanism 124, the user can make the cleaning member 114 contact the imaging element 20 for the first time, and then apply a given degree of "preload" to the cleaning member by using the cleaning member adjustment capability. The cleaning member adjustment capability can also be used during the surgical procedure to further adjust the cleaning member axial distance (i.e., make the contact load on the cleaning member 114 larger or smaller) to affect the cleaning performance.

[0190] One or more embodiments of the present invention may provide a cleaning member biasing functionality. Fig.12 Shown by Figure 2-11 When the first control body 125 is at the limit of its retracted stroke (ie, fully retracted) in the retracted position R (see Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 6 ), this cleaning member offset function is used to precisely offset the position of the cleaning member 114 from its use position. To this end, a circumferential groove 148 corresponding to the desired offset position can be set in the mounting portion 130 of the first cleaning member control mechanism 122. The user interface body 103 includes a displacement control structure 150, which indicates tactilely and optionally audibly when the first control body 125 has been translated from the retracted position R to a position defined by the position of the circumferential groove 148. The lateral distance between the groove 148 and the displacement control structure defines the offset distance of the cleaning member 114. In one or more embodiments, the displacement control structure 150 includes a contact member 151, which has a surface engagement portion that is biased to contact the outer surface of the mounting portion 130 of the first cleaning member control mechanism 122. The surface engagement portion is sized and / or shaped to engage the circumferential groove 148.

[0191] Reference now Figure 13-18 , discusses various aspects of an intravital endoscope cleaning device configured in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention, which device is designated as cleaning device 200. Cleaning device 200 may generally have the same features as those described above with reference to the present invention, except for the following distinguishing aspects of cleaning device 200: Figure 2-12 The same configuration as discussed above for cleaning device 100 can be connected to a commercially available endoscope and is intended to be used in the same manner as cleaning device 100 described above. However, as will be seen, cleaning device 200 includes a cleaning member controller structure that is different in function and structure from cleaning device 100. Similar elements in the first and second embodiments are represented by similar reference numerals and / or names (e.g., user interface body 103 and user interface body 203).

[0192] The user interface body 203 of the cleaning device 200 carries a cleaning member controller 220. The following description will describe the operation of the cleaning member controller 220, which provides a structure-enabling cleaning member motion arrangement. Figure 2-12 The cleaning member controller 120 of the cleaning device 100 discussed utilizes a user-authorized cleaning member movement arrangement.

[0193] The cleaning member controller 220 is connected between the user interface body 203 and the cleaning member of the cleaning device 200 to achieve selective movement of the cleaning member. (That is, the cleaning member controller 120 of the cleaning device 100 is connected to its cleaning member 114 in function and / or structure.) The cleaning member controller 220 includes a first cleaning member control mechanism 222 and a second cleaning member control mechanism 224. The first cleaning member control mechanism 222 and the second cleaning member control mechanism 224 each include respective control bodies 225, 226 (that is, first control body 225 and second control body 226), which are rotatably attached to the user interface body 203, such as Fig.13 and Fig.14 The first cleaning member control mechanism 222 utilizes its rotational motion to synchronously move the cleaning member to the stowed position S (see Figure 7 ) and use position U (see Figure 8 ) and moves between contacting with the imaging element of the endoscope 1 and moving out of contact with the imaging element of the endoscope 1 (see Figure 7-9 ). Thus, the first cleaning member control mechanism 222 combines the first and second cleaning member manipulation modes mentioned above. The second cleaning member control mechanism 224 uses its rotational motion to provide a cleaning member manipulation mode (i.e., the third cleaning member manipulation mode mentioned above) for adjusting the axial distance between the cleaning member and the imaging element of the endoscope when the cleaning member is in the use position. In this way, the first cleaning member manipulation mode of the first cleaning member control mechanism 222 allows manipulation of the cleaning member so that cleaning of the imaging element of the endoscope in vivo can be carried out in cooperation with visualization of the surgical cavity in vivo using the imaging element.

[0194] refer to Fig.14 and Fig.15 , the first cleaning member control mechanism 222 includes a first control body 225, a cam body 227 and a coupling element engagement structure 236, and the second cleaning member control mechanism 224 includes a second control body 226. The first control body 225 includes a user interface portion 228 and a mounting portion 230 connected to its user interface portion 228. The second control body 226 includes a user interface portion 232 and a mounting portion 234 connected to its user interface portion 232. Preferably, as shown in the figure, the first control body 225 and the second control body 226 are arranged in a nested manner.

[0195] The proximal portion of the coupling element 216 enters the coupling element passage 242 of the coupling element engagement structure 236. The coupling element engagement structure 236 includes a fixing structure 246 (e.g., a threaded set screw) for fixing the coupling element 216 in a fixed position relative to the coupling element engagement structure 236. Thus, as discussed in more detail below, axial displacement of the coupling element engagement structure 236 causes corresponding axial displacement of the coupling element 216 and a cleaning member attached to the distal portion of the coupling element 216.

[0196] The coupling element engagement structure 236 is translationally and rotatably disposed within the central channel 229 of the cam body 227. The mounting portion 234 of the second cleaning member control mechanism 224 (e.g., the first structural element of the interlocking interface structure) is disposed within the central channel 229 of the cam body 227 and is threadedly engaged with the cam body 227 (e.g., the second structural element of the interlocking interface structure), whereby rotation of the second control body 226 causes axial displacement of the cam body 227 relative to the mounting portion 234 of the second cleaning member control mechanism 224. The cam body 227 is mounted on the user interface body 203 and is configured together with the user interface body 203 to allow the cam body 227 to translate axially relative to the user interface body 203 and inhibit unrestricted rotational movement therebetween (i.e., an interface that allows translation and inhibits rotation). The mounting portion 234 of the second cleaning member control mechanism 224 engages with the user interface housing 203 to allow rotational movement of the second control body 226 relative to the user interface housing 203 while inhibiting unrestricted axial displacement therebetween (i.e., an interface that allows rotation and inhibits translation). The mounting portion 230 of the first cleaning member control mechanism 222 is rotatably disposed within the central passage 229 of the cam body 227 and extends through the central passage 231 of the second control body 226.

[0197] The coupling element engagement structure 236 includes an extension 238 that is engaged in the central channel 240 of the first control body 225. The mating surface of the extension 238 and the central channel 240 are configured to allow relative axial translation between the extension 238 and the first control body 225, while suppressing relative rotation between them (that is, allowing translation, suppressing the interface of rotation). For example, the extension 238 can have a non-circular cross-sectional profile (for example, a square or star-shaped cross-sectional profile), and the central channel 240 can have a non-circular cross-sectional profile accordingly. An elastic member 243 (for example, a spring) is engaged between the cam body 227 and the coupling element engagement structure 236, for biasing the extension of the coupling element engagement structure 236 toward the central channel 240 of the first cleaning member control mechanism 222.

[0198] The mounting portion 230 of the first cleaning member control mechanism 222 includes a stroke limiting element 245 that is fixedly attached to the mounting portion 230 and engages one or more surfaces of the mounting portion 234 of the second cleaning member control mechanism 224. For example, the stroke limiting element 245 may, as shown, abut an end surface of the mounting portion 234 of the second cleaning member control mechanism 224, or may engage a groove at a mid-position of the mounting portion 234. This engagement of the stroke limiting element 245 with one or more surfaces of the second cleaning member control mechanism 224 fixes the first cleaning member control mechanism 222 in an axial position relative to the second cleaning member control mechanism 224 while allowing rotational movement therebetween. This fixation of the first cleaning member control mechanism 222 and the second cleaning member control mechanism 224 and the threaded engagement of the mounting portion 234 of the second cleaning member control mechanism 224 with the cam body 227 provide axial displacement of the cam body 227 relative to the first cleaning member control mechanism 222 and the second cleaning member control mechanism 224 when the second control body 226 rotates (for example, clockwise rotation provides axial movement in one direction, while counterclockwise rotation provides axial movement in the opposite direction).

[0199] Reference now Figure 15-18 The cam body 227 includes a cam drive structure 247 (i.e., a structure provided by a cam surface) that defines the axial position of the cleaning member according to the angular position of the first control body 225. In one or more embodiments, the cam drive structure 247 can be a groove (i.e., including a channel and a recessed portion), and the groove can extend completely through the wall defining the central channel 229. In one or more other embodiments, the function of the cam drive structure 247 can be provided by a track or other structure, which includes a contoured surface that defines the axial position of the cleaning member according to the angular position of the control portion of the cleaning member controller. The motion control member 249 (e.g., a pin) has a first end portion thereof and a second end portion thereof, the first end portion being fixedly attached to the coupling element engagement structure 236, and the second end portion being slidably engaged with the cam drive structure 247 (e.g., a pin in a groove). The cam drive structure 247 has a profile that at least partially defines the travel path of the motion control member 249. Thus, in use, rotation of the first control body 225 causes the motion control member 249 to travel along such a path and thereby provide corresponding axial movement of the coupling element engagement structure 236 to which the cleaning member is attached via the coupling element 216 .

[0200] The cam body 227, the coupling element engagement structure 236 and the motion control member 249 together define a motion control device. The cam body 227 includes a motion control structure that defines the axial position of the coupling element engagement structure 236 according to the angular position of the first control body 225. The motion control device provides rotational and axial movement of the cleaning member, and thereby the cleaning member is attached thereto via the coupling element 216.

[0201] In one or more embodiments, Figure 15-18 As shown, the cam drive structure 247 of the cam body 227 is circumferential so that it extends around the entire circumference of the cam drive structure 247. The cam drive structure 247 has a plurality of cam segments. The first of these cam segments (the first cam segment 252) can be a dwell segment during which the cleaning member rotates while being relatively to the elongated body 202 ( Fig.13 ) is in the stowed position. The second of these cam segments (second cam segment 254) can be a deployment segment during which the cleaning member is deployed from the stowed position to the use position (i.e., axially displaced away from the distal portion of the elongated body 202). The third of these cam segments (third cam segment 256) can be a contact segment during which the cleaning member is rotated into contact with the imaging element of the endoscope and rotated out of contact with the imaging element of the endoscope while the cleaning member remains completely or partially axially away from the distal portion of the elongated body 202, and the distance of the axial displacement is at least partially defined by the second cam segment 254 and the third cam segment 256. For example, the third cam segment 256 can have an inclined surface for causing the cleaning member to present a corresponding axial displacement. The fourth of these cam segments (fourth cam segment 258) can be a retraction segment during which the cleaning member returns to the stowed position. The elastic member provides a biasing force for urging the coupling element engagement structure 236 toward the fully retracted position and, therefore, the cleaning member toward the stowed position.

[0202] The motion control member 249 defines a common instance of the cleaning cycle through the movement of these cam segments. The next instance of the cleaning cycle 260 is initiated when the first control body 225 rotates. The retraction segment 258 can also be used as an anti-rotation tool, for example, the retraction segment 258 and the stop segment 252 have a steep vertical profile (for example, a 90 degree angle between them) to prevent the motion control member 249 from moving in an unintended rotational direction.

[0203] In one or more other embodiments of the present invention, the second cleaning member control mechanism 224 may be omitted. The omission of the second cleaning member control mechanism 224 enables the first control body 225 to be rotatably mounted on the base, and enables the first control body 225 to be attached to the coupling element engagement structure 236 in a manner that inhibits rotational and axial movement of the first control body 225 relative to the coupling element engagement structure 236. Such an embodiment provides the above-described combined first and second control member manipulation modes while omitting the above-described third control member manipulation mode.

[0204] Although the present invention has been described with reference to several exemplary embodiments, it is to be understood that the words which have been used are words of description and illustration, rather than words of limitation. Changes may be made within the scope of the appended claims, as presently described and as amended, without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention in all its aspects. Although the present invention has been described with reference to particular apparatus, materials, and embodiments, the invention is not intended to be limited to the details disclosed; rather, the invention extends to all functionally equivalent techniques, structures, methods, and uses such as are within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. An intravital endoscope cleaning device, comprising: a base adapted to seat the endoscope thereon; a cleaning member located at a distal portion of the base; and a cleaning member movement mechanism located at a proximal end portion of the base, wherein the cleaning member movement mechanism includes a control body and a motion control device, wherein the control body is rotatably coupled to the base, wherein the motion control device includes a cleaning member coupling element and a cam body, wherein the cleaning member is fixedly attached to the cleaning member coupling element, wherein the cleaning member coupling element is coupled to the control body to inhibit unrestricted rotational movement between the cleaning member coupling element and the control body throughout a rotational range of the control body, whereby rotation of the control body causes a corresponding rotation of the cleaning member throughout a rotational range of the control body, wherein the cam body has a motion control surface that engages with the cleaning member coupling element, wherein the cleaning member coupling element is rotationally movable and axially movable relative to the motion control surface of the cam body, wherein a profile of the motion control surface defines an axial position of the cleaning member coupling element relative to the base according to an angular position of the control body, such that fixed attachment of the cleaning member to the cleaning member coupling element causes each specific angular position of the cleaning member coupling element to be associated with a corresponding axial position of the cleaning member.

2. The intravital endoscope cleaning device according to claim 1, wherein: When the endoscope is seated on the base, the cleaning member is located at a position of the base adjacent to an imaging element of the endoscope.

3. The intravital endoscope cleaning device according to claim 1, wherein: The base includes a user interface body and an elongated body attached to the user interface body; The elongated body is suitable for mounting the endoscope thereon; and The cleaning member is located adjacent to an imaging element of the endoscope when the endoscope is disposed on the elongate body.

4. The intravital endoscope cleaning device according to claim 1, wherein: At least one of the control body and the cleaning member coupling element has a motion control member engaged with the motion control surface whereby rotation of the control body causes axial translational and rotational movement of the cleaning member relative to the base in accordance with the profile of the motion control surface.

5. The intravital endoscope cleaning device according to claim 4, wherein: The engagement of the control body with the cleaning member coupling element enables axial translation of the cleaning member coupling element relative to the control body and inhibits unrestrained rotational displacement between the cleaning member coupling element and the control body.

6. The intravital endoscope cleaning device according to claim 5, wherein: The control body is coupled to a control body mounting portion of the base to inhibit unrestrained axial displacement of the control body relative to the base.

7. The intravital endoscope cleaning device according to claim 4, wherein: The base includes a user interface body and an elongated body attached to the user interface body; The elongated body is suitable for mounting the endoscope thereon; and The cleaning member is located adjacent to an imaging element of the endoscope when the endoscope is disposed on the elongate body.

8. The intravital endoscope cleaning device according to claim 4, wherein: The motion control surface is defined by a groove in the cam body; and The motion control member is engaged within the slot.

9. The intravital endoscope cleaning device according to claim 8, wherein: The coupling element engagement structure of the cleaning member coupling element is located within the central passage of the cam body; said engagement of said control body with said cleaning member coupling element inhibits unrestrained rotational displacement between said control body and said cleaning member coupling element; and The control body is coupled to a control body mounting portion of the base to inhibit unrestrained axial displacement of the control body relative to the base.

10. The intravital endoscope cleaning device according to claim 4, wherein: The coupling element engagement structure of the cleaning member coupling element is located within the central passage of the cam body; said engagement of said control body with said cleaning member coupling element inhibits unrestrained rotational displacement of said control body relative to said cleaning member coupling element and permits axial displacement between said control body and said cleaning member coupling element; and The control body is coupled to a control body mounting portion of the base to inhibit unrestrained axial displacement of the control body relative to the base.

11. An intravital endoscope cleaning device, comprising: a base adapted to seat the endoscope thereon; cleaning components; a coupling element engaged with the base and having a distal end, the distal end of the coupling element being fixedly attached to the cleaning member; and A cleaning member movement mechanism comprising a cam body, a control body and a cleaning member coupling element, wherein the control body is rotatably attached to the base, wherein the cam body engages with the base and comprises a motion control surface having a profile that limits axial movement of the cleaning member coupling element relative to the cam body according to the angular position of the control body, wherein the cleaning member coupling element is translationally and rotatably engaged with the cam body and has the proximal end of the coupling element fixedly attached to the cleaning member coupling element, wherein the control body is attached to the cleaning member coupling element to inhibit unrestricted rotational movement between the cleaning member coupling element and the control body throughout the rotational range of the control body, whereby rotation of the control body causes corresponding rotation of the cleaning member throughout the rotational range of the control body, and wherein the cleaning member coupling element has a motion control member engaged with the motion control surface, whereby rotation of the control body causes axial movement of the cleaning member relative to the base according to the profile of the motion control surface.

12. The intravital endoscope cleaning device according to claim 11, wherein: When the endoscope is placed on the base, the cleaning member is located at a position of the base adjacent to an imaging element of the endoscope.

13. The intravital endoscope cleaning device according to claim 11, wherein: The base includes a user interface body and an elongated body attached to the user interface body; The elongated body is suitable for mounting the endoscope thereon; and The cleaning member is located adjacent to an imaging element of the endoscope when the endoscope is disposed on the elongate body.

14. The intravital endoscope cleaning device according to claim 11, wherein: The engagement of the control body with the cleaning member coupling element enables axial translation of the cleaning member coupling element relative to the control body and inhibits unrestrained rotational displacement between the cleaning member coupling element and the control body.

15. The intravital endoscope cleaning device according to claim 14, wherein: The control body is coupled to a control body mounting portion of the base to inhibit unrestrained axial displacement of the control body relative to the base.

16. The intravital endoscope cleaning device according to claim 15, wherein: The base includes a user interface body and an elongated body attached to the user interface body; The elongated body is suitable for mounting the endoscope thereon; and The cleaning member is located adjacent to an imaging element of the endoscope when the endoscope is disposed on the elongate body.

17. The intravital endoscope cleaning device according to claim 14, wherein: The motion control surface is defined by a groove in the cam body; and The motion control member is engaged within the slot.

18. The intravital endoscope cleaning device according to claim 17, wherein: The coupling element engagement structure of the cleaning member coupling element is located within the central passage of the cam body; said engagement of said control body with said cleaning member coupling element inhibits unrestrained rotational displacement of said control body relative to said cleaning member coupling element and permits axial displacement between said control body and said cleaning member coupling element; and The control body is coupled to a control body mounting portion of the base to inhibit unrestrained axial displacement of the control body relative to the base.

19. The intravital endoscope cleaning device of claim 14, wherein: The cleaning member coupling element is located in the central passage of the cam body; said engagement of said control body with said cleaning member coupling element inhibits unrestrained rotational displacement of said control body relative to said cleaning member coupling element and permits axial displacement between said control body and said cleaning member coupling element; and The control body is coupled to a control body mounting portion of the base to inhibit unrestrained axial displacement of the control body relative to the base.

20. A cleaning member controller of an intravital endoscope cleaning device, the intravital endoscope cleaning device having a base and a cleaning member, the cleaning member controller comprising: a cleaning member coupling element fixedly coupled to the cleaning member of the intravital endoscope cleaning device; a control body rotatably attached to the base and to the cleaning member coupling element to inhibit unrestricted rotational movement between the cleaning member coupling element and the control body throughout the entire rotational range of the control body, whereby rotation of the control body causes corresponding rotational movement of the cleaning member throughout the entire rotational range of the control body; and a cam body having a base engaging portion engaged with the base of the intravital endoscope cleaning device, wherein the cam body includes a motion control surface having a profile that limits axial movement of the cleaning member coupling element relative to the cam body according to the angular position of the control body, wherein the cleaning member coupling element is translationally and rotatably engaged with the cam body, and wherein the cleaning member coupling element has a motion coupling element engaged with the motion control surface, whereby rotation of the control body causes axial movement of the cleaning member relative to the cam body according to the profile of the motion control surface.

21. The cleaning member controller according to claim 20, wherein: When the endoscope is attached to the base, the cleaning member is located at a location of the base adjacent to an imaging element of the endoscope.

22. The cleaning member controller according to claim 20, wherein: The base includes a user interface body and an elongated body attached to the user interface body; The elongated body is suitable for mounting an endoscope thereon; and The cleaning member is located adjacent to an imaging element of the endoscope when the endoscope is disposed on the elongate body.

23. The cleaning member controller according to claim 20, wherein: The attachment of the control body to the cleaning member coupling element enables axial translation of the cleaning member coupling element relative to the control body and inhibits unrestrained rotational displacement between the cleaning member coupling element and the control body.

24. The cleaning member controller according to claim 23, wherein: The control body is coupled to a control body mounting portion of the base to inhibit unrestrained axial displacement of the control body relative to the base.

25. The cleaning member controller according to claim 24, wherein: The base includes a user interface body and an elongated body attached to the user interface body; The elongated body is suitable for mounting an endoscope thereon; and The cleaning member is located adjacent to an imaging element of the endoscope when the endoscope is disposed on the elongate body.

26. The cleaning member controller according to claim 20, wherein: The motion control surface is defined by a groove in the cam body; and The motion control member is engaged within the slot.

27. A cleaning member controller according to claim 26, wherein: The coupling element engagement structure of the cleaning member coupling element is located within the central passage of the cam body; said attachment of said control body to said cleaning member coupling element inhibits unrestricted rotational displacement of said control body relative to said cleaning member coupling element and permits axial displacement between said cleaning member coupling element and said control body; and The control body is coupled to a control body mounting portion of the base to inhibit unrestrained axial displacement of the control body relative to the base.

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