Devices, systems, and methods for controlling fluid in an endoscope system

Abstract

Various embodiments generally relate to devices, systems, and methods for controlling fluid flow in an endoscope system, such as an endoscope-enabled endoscopic ultrasound (EUS). Some embodiments specifically relate to valve sets and / or valve interface mechanisms for controlling air, water, and / or suction flow through a valve well of an endoscope system. Several embodiments relate to user interface mechanisms and techniques for enabling an operator to interact with and control endoscope valves. Many embodiments relate to mechanisms and techniques for translating interface input motions into valve control motions. In one or more embodiments, the valve set and / or valve interface mechanism can be disposable.

Description

[0001] priority

[0002] Pursuant to 35 USC §119, this application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial Nos. 62 / 994,008, 62 / 994,015, 62 / 994,018, 62 / 994,019, 62 / 994,021 and 62 / 994,024, filed March 24, 2020, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to the field of medical devices. In particular, this disclosure relates to means, systems, and methods for controlling flow through a valve well for an endoscope. Background Technology

[0004] Endoscopic procedures are used in medicine to access the body for diagnostic and / or therapeutic procedures. Typically, endoscopic procedures use an endoscope to examine or manipulate the interior of a hollow organ or body cavity. Unlike many other medical imaging techniques, an endoscope is inserted directly into an organ. Typically, an endoscope includes one or more channels for the flow of one or more fluids through it. For example, one or more of aspiration, air, and water can flow through the endoscope. Valve assemblies can be configured and used in various ways to control the flow of one or more fluids through the endoscope. In the case of echo-endoscopy or ultrasound endoscopy, fluid control may also be used to inflate and deflate a balloon at the endoscope tip.

[0005] Taking these factors into account, a variety of advantageous results can be achieved through the apparatus, system and method of this disclosure. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In one aspect, this disclosure relates to a medical device including an air / water (AW) valve assembly and a valve interface mechanism. The valve assembly may include a main control valve, an air input valve, and an atmospheric valve. The main control valve is configured to control flow between a water input passage, a water output passage, and a balloon passage in a valve well. The air input valve is configured to control flow through the air input passage in the valve well. The atmospheric valve is configured to control flow through the atmospheric passage. In many embodiments, the main control valve includes the air input valve. The valve interface mechanism may include one or more biasing members and a user interface mechanism. The user interface mechanism is operable between a first state, a second state, a third state, and a fourth state. The first state may include a valve assembly configured to fluidly communicate the air input passage with the atmospheric passage; the second state may include a valve assembly configured to fluidly communicate the air input passage with the air output passage; the third state may include a valve assembly configured to fluidly communicate the water input passage with the water output passage; and the fourth state may include a valve assembly configured to fluidly communicate the water input passage with the balloon passage. In various embodiments, the main control valve includes a set of radial seals, wherein a first subset of the set of radial seals includes the air input valve. In various such embodiments, each seal in a first subset of the set of seals may form a seal with one or more portions of the valve interface mechanism. In several embodiments, the main control valve may include a set of seals, wherein a first subset of the set of seals is configured to control flow through an air input passage in a valve well, and a second subset of the set of seals is configured to control flow between a water input passage, a water output passage, and a balloon passage in the valve well. In several such embodiments, the set of seals may include a set of radial seals having two or more different diameters. In some such embodiments, each seal in a first subset of the set of seals forms a seal with a valve well, and each seal in a second subset of the set of seals forms a separate seal with one or more portions of the valve interface mechanism. In many embodiments, the main control valve includes a top, a bottom, and a length therebetween, wherein the set of seals is disposed along the length of the main control valve. In one or more embodiments, the set of seals is concentric. In various embodiments, the main control valve may include radial seals having a first side and a second side, wherein the first side of the seal is configured to control air flow in the valve well and the second side of the seal is configured to control water flow in the valve well. In some embodiments, the valve interface mechanism includes a cap having a top side and a bottom side, and the group of one or more biasing members includes a first biasing member and a second biasing member disposed on the top side of the cap. In several embodiments, the group of one or more biasing members may include a cantilever biasing member having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is coupled to a main control valve. In some such embodiments, the second end of the cantilever biasing member is disposed in two or more vertical slots included in the valve interface mechanism. In many such embodiments, the second end of the cantilever biasing member is disposed in a circumferential slot included in the valve interface mechanism.In one embodiment, the main control valve includes a duckbill seal. In such an embodiment, the duckbill seal is configured to control the flow through the water output channel.

[0007] In another aspect, this disclosure relates to a medical device including a suction valve assembly and a valve interface mechanism. The suction valve assembly may include a working channel valve, a balloon valve, and an atmospheric valve. The working channel valve controls flow through a working channel in a valve well. The balloon valve controls flow through a balloon channel in a valve well. The atmospheric valve controls flow through an atmospheric channel. The suction valve assembly can be configured between a first state, a second state, and a third state. The first state allows fluid communication between the suction channel and the atmospheric channel, the second state allows fluid communication between the suction channel and the working channel, and the third state allows fluid communication between the suction channel and the balloon channel. The valve interface mechanism may include a set of one or more biasing members, an interface member, and a valve mechanism having a top and a bottom. In many embodiments, the bottom of the valve mechanism is coupled to the balloon valve and the working channel valve. In some embodiments, the valve mechanism is configured to move the balloon valve and the working channel valve in unison. Many embodiments include a link coupled to the bottom of the valve mechanism, and the set of one or more biasing members includes at least one biasing member coupled to the link. In several embodiments, at least one biasing member coupled to the link includes a cantilever biasing member. In one or more embodiments, the top of the valve mechanism is coupled to an interface member.

[0008] In another aspect, this disclosure relates to a method. The method may include, based on operation of a valve interface mechanism to a first state, fluidly communicating an air input passage of a valve well with an atmospheric passage, the valve assembly including a main control valve, an air input valve, and an atmospheric valve, wherein the main control valve includes the air input valve. The method may include, based on operation of the valve interface mechanism to a second state, fluidly communicating the air input passage with an air output passage of the valve well. The method may include, based on operation of the valve interface mechanism to a third state, fluidly communicating a water input passage with a water output passage of the valve well. The method may include, based on operation of the valve interface mechanism to a fourth state, fluidly communicating the water input passage with a balloon passage of the valve well. In some embodiments, the method may include rotating an interface member in a first direction to operate a user interface mechanism to a second state and rotating the interface member in a second direction to operate the user interface mechanism to a third and / or fourth state. In many embodiments, the method may include adjusting one or more valves in an air / water valve assembly by rotating the interface member via a cam. In several embodiments, the method may include one or more of an operating lever, a rocker switch, and an interface member to adjust between one or more of the first, second, third, and fourth states.

[0009] In another aspect, this disclosure relates to a method. The method may include configuring a valve assembly to fluidly communicate an air input passage of a valve well with an atmospheric passage based on operation of the valve interface mechanism to a first state, the valve assembly including a main control valve, an air input valve, and an atmospheric valve, wherein the main control valve includes the air input valve. The method may include configuring the valve assembly to fluidly communicate an air input passage with an air output passage of the valve well based on operation of the valve interface mechanism to a second state. The method may include configuring the valve assembly to fluidly communicate a water input passage with a water output passage of the valve well based on operation of the valve interface mechanism to a third state. The method may include configuring the valve assembly to fluidly communicate a water input passage with a balloon passage of the valve well based on operation of the valve interface mechanism to a fourth state. In some embodiments, the method may include configuring a set of seals along the length of the main control valve to control flow through the air input passage of the valve well. In various embodiments, the method may include configuring a first side of a radial seal included in the main control valve to control airflow through the valve well, and configuring a second side of a radial seal included in the main control valve to control water flow through the valve well. Attached Figure Description

[0010] Non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure have been described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are schematic and not intended to be drawn to scale. In the drawings, each identical or substantially identical component shown is generally represented by a single number. For clarity, not every component is labeled in every drawing, nor is every component of every embodiment indicated, so that those skilled in the art can understand the disclosure without explanation. In the drawings:

[0011] Figure 1 A block diagram including an exemplary suction valve assembly according to one or more embodiments described herein.

[0012] Figure 2 A block diagram including an exemplary air / water (AW) valve assembly according to one or more embodiments described herein.

[0013] Figures 3A-3D Various aspects of an exemplary suction valve well according to one or more embodiments described herein are shown.

[0014] Figures 4A-4E Various aspects of an exemplary AW valve well according to one or more embodiments described herein are shown.

[0015] Figure 5 An exemplary suction valve assembly is shown according to one or more embodiments described herein.

[0016] Figure 6A-8C Various aspects of an exemplary valve in a suction valve assembly according to one or more embodiments described herein are shown.

[0017] Figure 9 An exemplary AW valve assembly is shown according to one or more embodiments described herein.

[0018] Figure 10A-12C Various aspects of an exemplary valve in an AW valve assembly according to one or more embodiments described herein are shown.

[0019] Figure 13 Exemplary AW valve assemblies according to one or more embodiments described herein are shown in various aspects.

[0020] Figures 14A-14D Exemplary AW valve assemblies according to one or more embodiments described herein are shown in various aspects.

[0021] Figures 15A-15C Exemplary AW valve assemblies according to one or more embodiments described herein are shown in various aspects.

[0022] Figures 16A-16C Exemplary AW valve assemblies according to one or more embodiments described herein are shown in various aspects.

[0023] Figures 17A-17D Exemplary AW valve assemblies according to one or more embodiments described herein are shown in various aspects.

[0024] Figures 18A-18C Exemplary AW valve assemblies according to one or more embodiments described herein are shown in various aspects.

[0025] Figure 19 Exemplary AW valve assemblies according to one or more embodiments described herein are shown in various aspects.

[0026] Figures 20A-20C Various aspects of an exemplary suction valve assembly according to one or more embodiments described herein are shown.

[0027] Figures 21A-21D Exemplary AW valve assemblies according to one or more embodiments described herein are shown in various aspects.

[0028] Figures 22A-22H Exemplary AW valve assemblies according to one or more embodiments described herein are shown in various aspects.

[0029] Figures 23A-23D Exemplary AW valve assemblies according to one or more embodiments described herein are shown in various aspects. Detailed Implementation

[0030] Various embodiments generally relate to means, systems, and methods for controlling fluid flow in endoscopic systems, such as endoscopes enabling endoscopic ultrasound (EUS). In particular, some embodiments relate to valve assemblies and / or valve interface mechanisms for controlling air, water, and / or suction flow through a valve well for an endoscope system. Several embodiments relate to user interface mechanisms and techniques for enabling an operator to interact with and control an endoscope valve. Many embodiments relate to mechanisms and techniques for translating interface input motion into valve control motion. In one or more embodiments, the valve assembly and / or valve interface mechanism may be disposable. These and other embodiments are described and claimed.

[0031] Some challenges in controlling fluid flow through an endoscope include unreliable valves prone to failure. For example, many valves and valve interface mechanisms are fragile and prone to leakage. These problems can be exacerbated when components are designed, constructed, and / or assembled economically for disposal after single use. Alternatively, they can be further complicated when reusable components wear down due to repeated use / cleaning cycles. Further increasing complexity can result in user interface mechanisms that are difficult to operate and require a steep learning curve. For example, fine and non-intuitive movements may be required to accurately control fluid flow. Additionally, little or no feedback may be provided to indicate how a set of valves is arranged. For example, an operator may not be able to easily discern from the user interface mechanism whether the set of valves is arranged to provide suction to the working channel or the balloon channel. These and other factors can lead to devices, systems, and methods for controlling fluid flow through an endoscope being difficult to use, inaccurate, inefficient, and unreliable, resulting in limited applicability and / or uncertain results. These limitations significantly reduce the reliability, ergonomics, and intuitiveness of flow control in endoscopes, as well as the procedures performed therefrom, leading to reduced usability, adverse consequences, excessive fatigue, and lost revenue.

[0032] The various embodiments described herein include one or more components of a valve assembly, such as valves and / or valve interface mechanisms, that provide reliable and intuitive control over fluid flow through an endoscope. In several embodiments, these components provide reliable operation while providing enough valves to allow for use-and-discard (e.g., single-use). In many embodiments, the components provide accurate and intuitive interfaces to improve the operator experience. For example, embodiments may utilize one or more of up / down, front / back, left / right, and rotary interfaces to provide ergonomic and intuitive control over fluid flow through an endoscope. Some such embodiments may include one or more interface components, such as push / pull switches, bellows, rotary switches, knobs, buttons, and toggle switches. In many embodiments, one or more of the components may provide / enable tactile feedback. For example, one or more components of a valve interface mechanism may provide tactile feedback to indicate how a set of valves are arranged (e.g., arranged to allow / block flow between individual channels). In some examples, the force applied to the user interface mechanism may vary to indicate transitions between valve states. In various embodiments, tactile feedback may be generated due to contact between different components of the valve assembly, such as due to the receipt of input.

[0033] In various embodiments, one or more components of the assembly may be designed to simplify manufacturability. For example, the positioning of one or more biasing members can simplify assembly. In these and other ways, the components / techniques described herein can improve operator experience, reduce the learning curve, increase reliability, and / or reduce manufacturing complexity by enabling more efficient and valuable means, systems, and methods for controlling fluid flow in an endoscope. In many embodiments, one or more of the advantageous features can produce several technical effects and advantages over conventional techniques, including increased capability and improved adaptability.

[0034] This disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments described. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing specific embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope beyond the appended claims. Unless otherwise defined, all technical terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains.

[0035] While embodiments of this disclosure may be described with specific reference to particular medical devices and systems (e.g., endoscopes), it should be understood that such medical devices and systems can be used in a variety of medical procedures requiring the navigation of one or more assistive instruments through catheters, lumens, or vascular anatomy, including, for example, interventional radiology procedures, balloon angioplasty procedures, thrombolysis procedures, angiography procedures, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) procedures, etc. The disclosed medical devices and systems can be inserted through various access points and methods, such as percutaneously, endoscopically, laparoscopically, or some combination thereof.

[0036] As used herein, the singular forms “a” and “the” are also intended to include the plural forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should be further understood that the terms “comprising” or “including” as used herein specify the presence of the said feature, region, step, element, and / or component, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, regions, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0037] As used in this article, the term "distal" refers to the end furthest from the medical professional / operator when the device is introduced into the patient, while the term "proximal" refers to the end closest to the medical professional when the device is introduced into the patient.

[0038] Referring now to the accompanying drawings, wherein the same reference numerals are consistently used to refer to the same elements. In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth for purposes of explanation to provide a thorough understanding thereof. However, it will be apparent that novel embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form for the purpose of description. It is intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions within the scope of the claims.

[0039] Figure 1 and 2 Block diagrams are shown of exemplary valve assemblies in environments 100, 200 according to one or more embodiments described herein. In some embodiments, one or more components of environment 100 and / or environment 200 may be the same as or similar to one or more other components described herein. Environment 100 may include a suction valve assembly 102 having a suction valve well 104, a suction valve assembly 118, and a valve interface mechanism 126. Environment 200 may include an air / water (AW) valve assembly 202 having an AW valve well 204, an AW valve assembly 218, and a valve interface mechanism 226. In one or more embodiments described herein, various components of the suction valve assembly 102 and / or the AW valve assembly 202 may interoperate to provide reliable and intuitive control over fluid flow through the endoscope system. For example, one or more components of valve assemblies 118, 218 and valve interface mechanisms 126, 226 may provide reliable and intuitive control over fluid flow through the suction valve well 104 or the AW valve well 204. In many embodiments, components of a valve assembly may be classified as, belong to, include, or implemented as one or more of a valve well, valve manifold, and valve interface mechanism, and / or interoperate with therewith. For example, a valve interface mechanism may include one or more portions of a valve. Embodiments are not limited to this context.

[0040] In environment 100, suction valve well 104 may include suction channel 106, working channel 108, balloon channel 114, and atmospheric channel 116; suction valve assembly 118 may include working channel valve 120, balloon valve 122, and atmospheric valve 124; and valve interface mechanism 126 may include biasing member assembly 128 and user interface mechanism 130. In various embodiments, the channels of suction well 104 may be connected to other components of the endoscope system, such as via tubing or conduit. In one or more embodiments described herein, suction channel 106 may be connected to a suction source, working channel 108 may be connected to the working channel of an endoscope device (e.g., an endoscope or a component disposed therethrough), and balloon channel 114 may be connected to the balloon of the endoscope device. In several embodiments, suction valve assembly 118 and valve interface mechanism 126 may control the suction flow through suction valve well 104 (e.g., caused by a negative pressure relative to atmospheric pressure). In several such embodiments, the suction flow from one of the working channel 108, the balloon channel 114, and the atmospheric channel 116 to the suction channel 106 can be controlled.

[0041] In environment 200, AW valve well 204 may include an air inlet channel 206, a water inlet channel 208, an air outlet channel 210, a water outlet channel 212, a balloon channel 214, and an atmospheric channel 216; AW valve assembly 218 may include a main control valve 220, an air inlet valve 222, and an atmospheric valve 224; and valve interface mechanism 226 may include a biasing component assembly 228 and a user interface mechanism 230. In various embodiments, the channels of AW well 204 may be connected to other components of the endoscope system, for example, via tubing or pipes. In one or more embodiments described herein, air inlet channel 206 may be connected to a pressurized air source, water inlet channel 208 may be connected to a water source, air outlet channel 210 may be connected to the air channel of the endoscope device (e.g., the endoscope or a component disposed therethrough), water outlet channel 212 may be connected to the water channel of the endoscope device, and balloon channel 214 may be connected to the balloon of the endoscope device. In several embodiments, the AW valve assembly 218 and valve interface mechanism 226 can control the flow of air and water through the AW valve well 204. In several such embodiments, the flow of air from the air input channel 206 to one of the air output channel 210 and the atmospheric channel 216 can be controlled or blocked, and / or the flow of water from the water input channel 208 to one of the water output channel 212 and the balloon channel 214 can be controlled or blocked.

[0042] In many embodiments, the aspiration valve assembly 102 and / or the AW valve assembly 202 may be used in conjunction with an endoscope system (e.g., an EUS system). In various embodiments, reference to a balloon may refer to a balloon in an EUS system that can be inflated / contracted to provide a medium to facilitate sound wave transmission and ultrasound image capture. For example, valve interface mechanism 126 may receive input to control flow through aspiration valve well 104, thereby causing balloon contraction by arranging aspiration valve assembly 118 to fluidly communicate aspiration channel 106 with balloon channel 114. In another example, valve interface mechanism 226 may receive input to control water flow through an AW valve well, thereby causing balloon inflation by arranging an AW valve assembly 218 to fluidly communicate a water input channel 208 with balloon channel 214. In other embodiments, one or more components of the valve assembly for AW and / or aspiration may be implemented in configurations that do not require or do not include a balloon, such as a video endoscope with ultrasound capabilities.

[0043] More generally, in several embodiments, each channel in the valve well may refer to a flow path including an input of fluid from the corresponding entity and an output of fluid to the corresponding entity. For example, suction channel 106 may refer to a flow path including an input from a suction source. In another example, atmospheric channel may refer to a flow path including an output to the atmosphere. These and other aspects of this disclosure will be described in more detail below, for example, with reference to Figures 3A-4E In various embodiments, each valve in the valve assembly may refer to a component that physically controls flow through one or more channels or between one or more channels. For example, when closed, atmospheric valve 124 may prevent air from flowing out of atmospheric channel 116. In another case, in a first position or first state, main control valve 220 may fluidly communicate water inlet channel 208 with water outlet channel 212, and in a second position, main control valve 220 may fluidly communicate water inlet channel 208 with balloon channel 214. These and other aspects of this disclosure will be described in more detail below, for example, with reference to Figure 5-12C .

[0044] In various embodiments, the valve interface mechanism may include one or more components to control the arrangement of valves in a valve manifold. In such embodiments, the biasing member assembly may include one or more of a torsion spring, lever spring, coil spring, baffle, damper, clamp, etc., which provides a force to bias one or more components in a particular orientation or position. For example, biasing member assembly 228 may allow air to flow out of an atmospheric passage when no input is received. In additional or alternative examples, biasing member assembly 128 may provide different resistances to the operation of user interface mechanism 130 between different states, for example, to provide tactile indication of the state. In various embodiments, each of user interface mechanisms 130, 230 may include one or more of an interface, interface component, user interface, housing, linkage, knob, lever, rocker switch, push / pull switch, knob, button, diaphragm switch, toggle switch, etc. In some embodiments, the interface, interface component, and / or user interface may be the same or similar.

[0045] In several embodiments, the user interface mechanism may include one or more components to receive input and / or implement valve arrangements. For example, user interface mechanism 130 may include a user interface comprising a lever and one or more links to translate movement of the lever into appropriate movement of one or more valves to achieve desired flow. In various embodiments, the user interface mechanism may include one or more biasing members and / or the biasing members may include one or more user interface mechanisms. It should be understood that one or more components described herein in the context of a suction valve assembly can be used or applied to an AW valve assembly, and vice versa, without departing from the scope of this disclosure. For example, the rotary user interface mechanism described with respect to a suction valve interface mechanism can be used or applied to an AW valve interface mechanism. These and other aspects of this disclosure will be described in more detail below.

[0046] Figures 3A-4E This document illustrates various aspects of an exemplary valve well block diagram of an exemplary valve assembly in environments 300A-D, 400A-E, according to one or more embodiments described herein. In some embodiments, Figures 3A-4E One or more components may be identical or similar to one or more other components described herein. Environments 300A-D show a suction valve well 304, which includes a suction passage 306, a working passage 308, a balloon passage 314, and an atmospheric passage 315. Environments 400A-E show an AW valve well 404, which has an air inlet passage 406, a water inlet passage 408, an air outlet passage 210, a water outlet passage 212, a balloon passage 214, and an atmospheric passage 216. In one or more embodiments described herein, fluid may flow through the valve well based on an arrangement of one or more valves positioned by one or more valve interface mechanisms. The embodiments are not limited to this context.

[0047] refer to Figure 3AThe illustration 300A shows various components of a suction valve well 304. The suction valve well 304 may include a top 345 and a bottom 335. Suction passage 306, working passage 308, and balloon passage 314 may include corresponding inlets / outlets facing the bottom 355, while atmospheric passage 316 may include an inlet facing the top 345. In the illustrated embodiment, balloon passage 314 includes a necking portion 334, working passage 308 includes a well radial aperture 336, and atmospheric passage 316 includes a lip 332. In one or more embodiments, the necking portion 334 may enable the valve to prevent fluid flow through balloon passage 314, for example, by blocking the necking portion 334. In various embodiments, the well radial aperture 336 may enable the working passage 308 to be positioned in fluid communication with the suction passage 306. In several embodiments, the lip 332 may enable one or more suction valve assemblies and / or valve interface mechanisms to be coupled to the suction valve well 304. In many embodiments, the valve and / or valve interface mechanism can be inserted through atmospheric passage 316 to assemble the suction valve assembly. It should be understood that the orientation and / or arrangement of one or more of the passage and / or flow can be modified in various embodiments without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0048] refer to Figure 3B Environment 300B illustrates the flow 338-1 through the suction valve well 304 in atmospheric suction state 305-1. In atmospheric suction state 305-1, flow 338-1 can enter through atmospheric passage 316 and exit through suction passage 306. For example, suction passage 306 can be an input in a medical endoscope handle connected to a vacuum system, for example, for hospitals, homes, and / or mobile devices.

[0049] Furthermore, in some embodiments, flow through the balloon passage 314 may be blocked at the necking portion 334, and flow through the working passage 308 may be blocked at the well radial orifice 336. As discussed in more detail below, in operation, fluid communication with the atmosphere may be provided or created by, or provided by, one or more components (e.g., a valve inserted into the atmospheric passage 316). Additionally, one or more components may be used to seal portions of the atmospheric passage 316 to block fluid communication with the atmosphere via an atmospheric valve.

[0050] Referring to 3C, environment 300C illustrates the flow 338-2 through the suction valve well 304 in the working channel suction state 305-2. In the working channel suction state 305-2, the flow 338-2 can enter through the working channel 308, pass through the well radial orifice 336, and exit through the suction channel 306. Furthermore, in many embodiments, the flow through the balloon channel 314 and the flow through the atmospheric channel 316 can be blocked at the necking portion 334.

[0051] refer to Figure 3DEnvironment 300D illustrates the flow 338-3 through the suction valve well 304 in the balloon channel suction state 305-3. In the balloon channel suction state 305-3, the flow 338-3 can enter through the balloon channel 314 and exit through the suction channel 306. Furthermore, in several embodiments, flow through the working channel 308 and through the atmospheric channel 316 can be blocked at the well radial orifice 336.

[0052] refer to Figure 4A Environment 400A illustrates various components of an AW valve well 404. The AW valve well 404 may include a top 445 and a bottom 435 and / or an air section 425 and a water section 435. An air outlet passage 410, an air inlet passage 412, and an atmospheric passage 416 may be located in the air section 425. The atmospheric passage 416 may include a horizontally oriented outlet toward the top 345 and a lip 432, the air inlet passage 412 may include a horizontally oriented inlet toward the top 345, and the air outlet passage 410 may include a vertically oriented outlet toward the top. A water inlet passage 408, a water outlet passage 412, and a balloon passage 414 may be located in the water section 435. The balloon passage 414 may include a vertically oriented outlet near the center, the water inlet passage 408 may include a vertically oriented inlet toward the bottom 455, and the water outlet passage 412 may include a vertically oriented outlet toward the bottom 455. In several embodiments, the lip 432 may allow one or more suction valve assemblies and / or valve interface mechanisms to be coupled to the AW valve well 404.

[0053] In several embodiments, the diameter of the AW valve well 404 may be varied once or multiple times. For example, a diameter variation combined with the vertical displacement of the valve can allow flow to surround the valve and through the passage. In the illustrated embodiment, the AW valve well may have a first diameter forming the inlet / outlet of the air inlet / atmosphere passages 412, 416, a second diameter forming the outlet of the air outlet passage 410, a third diameter forming the inlet / outlet of the water inlet / balloon passages 408, 414, and a fourth diameter forming the outlet of the water outlet passage 412. It should be understood that the orientation, size, and / or arrangement of one or more of the passages and / or flows may be modified in various embodiments without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0054] refer to Figure 4B Environment 400B illustrates flow 438-1 through AW valve well 404 in air escape state 405-1. In air escape state 405-1, flow 438-1 can enter through air inlet channel 406 and exit through atmospheric channel 416. Furthermore, in some embodiments, flow can be prevented through one or more of the balloon channel 414, water inlet channel 408, and water outlet channel 412.

[0055] refer to Figure 4CEnvironment 400C illustrates flow 438-2 through AW valve well 404 in air delivery state 405-2. In air delivery state 405-2, flow 438-2 can enter through air inlet channel 406 and exit through air outlet channel 410. Furthermore, in various embodiments, flow can be prevented through one or more of the atmospheric channel 416, balloon channel 414, water inlet channel 408, and water outlet channel 412.

[0056] refer to Figure 4D Environment 400D illustrates the flow 438-3 through the AW valve well 404 in water delivery state 405-3. In water delivery state 405-3, flow 438-3 can enter through water inlet channel 408 and exit through water outlet channel 412. Furthermore, in various embodiments, flow can be blocked through one or more of the balloon channel 414, air outlet channel 410, air inlet channel 406, and atmospheric channel 416. In various embodiments, flow blockage at air inlet channel 406 may cause pressure to build up in the water source supplying water inlet channel 408. In various such embodiments, pressure in the water source can cause fluid to flow from the water source to water inlet channel 408.

[0057] refer to Figure 4E Environment 400E illustrates flow 438-4 through AW valve well 404 in balloon-filled state 405-4. In balloon-filled state 405-4, flow 438-4 can enter through water inlet channel 408 and exit through balloon channel 414. Furthermore, in many embodiments, flow can be prevented through one or more of water outlet channel 412, air outlet channel 410, air inlet channel 406, and atmospheric channel 413.

[0058] Figure 5-12C This document illustrates various aspects of exemplary valve assemblies in environments 500, 600A, 600B, 700A, 700B, 800A-C, 900, 1000A, 1000B, 1100A, 1100B, and 1200A-C, according to one or more embodiments described herein. In some embodiments, Figure 5-12C One or more components may be identical or similar to one or more other components described herein. An environment of 500-800°C illustrates various aspects of a suction valve assembly 518 combined with one or more components of a suction valve well 304. An environment of 900-1200°C illustrates various aspects of an AW valve assembly 918 combined with one or more components of an AW valve well 404. In one or more embodiments described herein, fluid may flow through a valve well based on an arrangement of one or more valves positioned by one or more valve interface mechanisms. In many embodiments, the one or more valves described herein may include multiple components configured to control fluid through the valve well. Embodiments are not limited to this context.

[0059] refer to Figure 5 The environment 500 shows a suction valve assembly 518 associated with a suction valve well 304. The suction valve assembly 518 may include a working channel valve 520, a balloon valve 522, and an atmospheric valve 524. The working channel valve 520 may include a working channel valve radial orifice 540 that allows fluid to flow from the bottom of the working channel valve 520 into the working channel valve 520. In several embodiments, the working channel valve 520 may be inserted into a working channel of the suction valve well 304 to control flow therethrough. The balloon valve 522 may be inserted into a balloon channel 314 of the suction valve well 304 to control flow therethrough. The atmospheric valve 524 may be inserted into an atmospheric channel of the suction valve well 304 to control flow therethrough. In many embodiments, one or more valves in the suction valve assembly 518 may be integrated with a housing and / or valve interface mechanism corresponding to one or more portions of the suction valve well 304.

[0060] In one or more embodiments, the atmospheric valve 524 may be configured to control fluid communication with the atmosphere inside the suction valve well 304. In many embodiments, the atmospheric valve 524 may include an orifice in the housing. In some embodiments, the atmospheric valve 524 may be operated by covering and / or exposing the orifice, for example, with a finger or other mechanism. In several embodiments, the positioning and / or configuration of the valves in the suction valve assembly 518 may be controlled by one or more components in the corresponding valve interface mechanism. For example, pressing the valve interface mechanism down to the first stop may simultaneously close the atmospheric suction by the seal on the underside of the cover and open the working channel suction by pushing down the center of the working channel valve 520 to align the radial orifice 540 of the working channel valve with the radial orifice of the well.

[0061] refer to Figure 6A Environment 600A shows the balloon valve in open state 615-1. In balloon valve open state 615-1, balloon valve 522 allows flow through balloon passage 314 via the necked portion 334 that allows flow through balloon passage 314. (See reference...) Figure 6B Environment 600B shows the balloon valve in a sealed state 615-2. In the balloon valve sealed state 615-2, the balloon valve 522 prevents flow through the balloon passage 314 by blocking flow through the necked portion 334 of the balloon passage 314. In an additional or alternative embodiment, the default state of the balloon valve 522 may be the balloon valve sealed state 615-2, and the balloon valve 522 may be pressed down toward the bottom 355 and below the necked portion 334 to transition to the balloon valve open state 615-1.

[0062] refer to Figure 7A Environment 700A shows the atmospheric valve in the open state 715-1. In the atmospheric valve open state 715-1, atmospheric valve 524 allows flow through atmospheric passage 316 of suction valve well 304. Reference Figure 7BEnvironment 700B illustrates an atmospheric valve sealed state 715-2. In atmospheric valve sealed state 715-2, atmospheric valve 524 prevents flow through atmospheric passage 316. As discussed in more detail below, in operation, fluid communication with the atmosphere can be provided through a passage / channel in one or more components, or created by one or more components. Furthermore, one or more components can be used to seal portions of atmospheric passage 316 to control fluid communication with the atmosphere via atmospheric valve 524. In some embodiments, atmospheric valve 524 may include multiple components configured to control fluid communication with the atmosphere.

[0063] refer to Figure 8A Environment 800A illustrates the first sealing state 815-1 of the working channel valve. In the first sealing state 815-1, the working channel valve 520 can prevent flow through the well radial bore 336 by misaligning the working channel valve radial bore 540 with the well radial bore 336, for example, by positioning the working channel valve 520 such that the working channel valve radial bore 540 is above the well radial bore 336. (See reference...) Figure 8B Environment 800B shows the working channel valve in the open state 815-2. In the working channel valve open state 815-2, the working channel valve radial orifice 540 and the well radial orifice 336 can be aligned to allow suction flow through the working channel 308. For example, flow can enter through the bottom of the working channel valve 520 and exit through the well radial orifice 336. Figure 8C In the image at 800°C, the second sealing state 815-3 of the working channel valve is shown. In the second sealing state 815-3 of the working channel valve, the working channel valve 520 can prevent flow through the well radial hole 336 by misaligning the working channel valve radial hole 540 with the well radial hole 336, for example, by positioning the working channel valve 520 such that the working channel radial hole 440 is below the well radial hole 336.

[0064] refer to Figure 9 Environment 900 illustrates an AW valve assembly 918 associated with an AW valve well 404. The AW valve assembly 918 may include a main control valve 920, an air input valve 922, and an atmospheric valve 924. In several embodiments, the main control valve 920 may be inserted into the AW valve well 404 to at least partially control flow through one or more passages of the AW valve well 404. In various embodiments, the air input valve 922 may be inserted into the air input passage of the AW valve well 404 to control flow through it. In many embodiments, the atmospheric valve 924 may be inserted into the atmospheric passage of the AW valve well 404 to control flow through it. In many embodiments, one or more valves in the AW valve assembly 918 may be integrated with a housing and / or valve interface mechanism corresponding to one or more portions of the AW valve well 404.

[0065] In one or more embodiments, atmospheric valve 924 may be configured to control fluid communication with the atmosphere inside AW valve well 404. In many embodiments, atmospheric valve 924 may include an orifice in the housing. In some embodiments, atmospheric valve 924 may be operated by covering and / or exposing the orifice, for example, with a finger or other mechanism. In several embodiments, the positioning and / or configuration of valves in AW valve assembly 918 may be controlled by one or more components of a corresponding valve interface mechanism. In some embodiments, one or more portions of atmospheric passage 416 may be included in main control valve 920. In some such embodiments, atmospheric passage 416 may include one or more passages through at least a portion of main control valve 920. For example, atmospheric passage 416 may include an orifice at the top of main control valve 920 that is in fluid communication with a radial orifice of main control valve 920 near air input passage 406. In such an example, covering the orifice may guide airflow into air output passage 410 and along the working passage of the endoscope.

[0066] refer to Figure 10A The ambient temperature display (Ambient 1000A) shows the atmospheric valve in the open position. With the atmospheric valve open, atmospheric valve 924 allows flow through the atmospheric passage of valve well 404. (Reference) Figure 10B Environment 1000B illustrates atmospheric valve sealing state 1015-2. In atmospheric valve sealing state 1015-2, atmospheric valve 924 prevents flow through the atmospheric passage of AW valve well 404. As discussed in more detail below, in operation, fluid communication with the atmosphere can be provided, or created, through a passage / channel in one or more components (e.g., main control valve 920). Furthermore, one or more components can be used to seal portions of atmospheric passage 316 to control fluid communication with the atmosphere via atmospheric valve 924. In some embodiments, atmospheric valve 924 may include multiple components configured to control fluid communication with the atmosphere.

[0067] refer to Figure 11A Environment 1100A shows the air input valve in the open state 1115-1. In the air input valve open state 1115-1, the air input valve 522 allows air flow through the air input passage of the AW valve well 404. Figure 11B In the diagram, environment 1100B shows an air input valve sealed state 1115-2. In the air input valve sealed state 1115-2, the air input valve 922 prevents flow through the air input passage of the AW valve well 404. In some embodiments, sealing the air input passage can cause a fluid source (e.g., a water reservoir) to be pressurized, thereby enabling / causing fluid to flow into the AW valve well 404 through the water input passage 408.

[0068] refer to Figure 12AEnvironment 1200A shows the main valve sealed state 1215-1. In the main valve sealed state 1215-1, the main control valve 920 prevents flow through one or more of the balloon passage 414, water inlet passage 408, and water outlet passage 412. Reference Figure 12B Environment 1200B illustrates the main valve water output state 1215-2. In the main valve water output state 1215-2, the main control valve 920 can be positioned to block flow through the balloon passage 414 and allow flow from the water inlet passage 408 to the water outlet passage 412. In various embodiments, the main control valve 920 can control flow using a diameter variation in the AW valve well 404. Reference Figure 12C The environment 1200°C shows the main valve balloon filling state 1215-3. In the main valve balloon filling state 1215-3, the main control valve 920 can be positioned to block flow through the water output channel 412 and allow flow from the water input channel 408 to the balloon channel 414. In various embodiments, one or more features of the main control valve 920 can operate as a valve for multiple channels. In some embodiments, one or more features of the main control valve 920 may include one or more channels, or one or more portions thereof. For example, the main control valve 920 may include an atmospheric channel 416.

[0069] Figure 13 This document illustrates various aspects of an exemplary AW valve assembly 1302 in environment 1300 according to one or more embodiments described herein. In many embodiments, cross-sections of one or more portions of the AW valve assembly 1302 may be shown in environment 1300. In some embodiments, Figure 13 One or more components may be the same as or similar to one or more other components described herein. The AW valve assembly 1302 includes an AW valve well 1304, an AW valve manifold, and a valve interface mechanism 1326. The illustrated portion of the AW valve well 1304 includes an air inlet passage 1306, a water inlet passage 1308, an air outlet passage 1310, a water outlet passage 1312, a balloon passage 1314, and a lip 1332. The illustrated portion of the AW valve manifold may include a main control valve 1320 and an air inlet valve 1322 included in the valve interface mechanism, such as a cap 1358 or an interface member 1350. Alternatively or additionally, the valve interface mechanism may include biasing members 1328-1, 1328-2, a cap 1358, a housing 1362, an interface member 1350, a connecting rod 1356, and an atmospheric passage 1314. In one or more embodiments, the biasing member 1328 may be disposed between the cap 1358 and the interface member 1350. In various embodiments, the biasing members 1328-1 and 1328-2 may be concentrically arranged. The embodiments are not limited to this context.

[0070] In several embodiments, biasing member 1328 may be configured to provide tactile feedback via interface member 1350 to indicate the state of AW valve assembly 1302. In many embodiments, biasing members 1328-1, 1328-2 may be configured to bias the AW valve assembly to a first state (e.g., atmospheric escape state). In the illustrated embodiment, AW valve assembly 1302 may be in a second state (e.g., air delivery state). Thus, as indicated by the illustrated arrows, flow may enter the AW valve assembly 1302 through air inlet channel 1306 and exit through air outlet channel 1310. In one or more embodiments, arranging biasing member 1328 and / or one or more portions of the housing, linkage, and valve above cap 1358 simplifies manufacturing or assembly. Furthermore, such an arrangement allows for more compact components, such as a shorter cap 1358.

[0071] In various embodiments, for a third state (e.g., water delivery state), the interface member 1350 can be pressed downward toward the cap 1358. In many embodiments, the interface member 1350 is pressed down to a first stop in the water delivery state to provide tactile feedback. For a fourth state (e.g., balloon filling state), the interface member 1350 can press both the interface member 1350 and the cap 1358 toward the bottom of the valve well 1304. In several embodiments, the interface member 1350 is pressed down to a second stop in the balloon filling state to provide tactile feedback. For example, the cap 1358 can be hard stopped against the link 1356 at the second stop.

[0072] In some embodiments, biasing member 1328-1 may provide a first resistance and biasing member 1328-2 may provide a second resistance. In one or more embodiments, biasing member 1328-2 may be compressible to fluidly communicate water inlet passage 1308 with water outlet passage 1312. In one or more such embodiments, the second resistance may be less than the first resistance. In various embodiments, biasing members 1328-1 and 1328-2 may be compressible to fluidly communicate water inlet passage 1308 with balloon passage 1314. In some embodiments, biasing member 1328 may position the AW valve assembly in an atmospheric escape state without user input. In several embodiments, biasing member 1328 may bias one or more components, such as main control valve 1320 and interface member 1350, toward the top of AW valve assembly 1302.

[0073] Figures 14A-14D Various aspects of an exemplary AW valve assembly 1402 in an environment 1400A-1400D according to one or more embodiments described herein are shown. In many embodiments, cross-sections of one or more components may be shown in an environment 1400A-1400D. In some embodiments, Figures 14A-14DOne or more components may be identical or similar to one or more other components described herein. For example, AW valve assembly 1402 may be identical or similar to AW valve assembly 1302. Environments 1400A-1400D may include one or more portions of AW valve assembly 1402. In one or more embodiments described herein, AW valve assembly 1402 may include a dual-spring configuration to provide reliable, intuitive, and ergonomic control of fluid passing through AW valve well 1404. Embodiments are not limited to this context.

[0074] refer to Figure 14A A perspective view of the AW valve assembly 1402 is shown in environment 1400A. In the illustrated embodiment, the AW valve assembly 1402 may include an interface 1452, biasing members 1428-1 and 1428-2, a housing 1462, and an AW valve well 1404 having an air input channel 1406, a water input channel 1408, an air output channel 1410, a water output channel 1412, and a balloon channel 1414. (Reference) Figure 14B Environment 1400B illustrates the assembly stage of the AW valve assembly 1402. The illustrated embodiment may include a rotary drum 1464 and a main control valve 1420 having a set of seals arranged along its length.

[0075] refer to Figure 14C Environment 1400C shows an exploded view of various components of the AW valve assembly 1402. The illustrated embodiment may include an interface 1452, a cap 1458, a thread 1459, a rotary drum 1464, a main control valve 1420, biasing members 1428-1 and 1428-2, connecting rods 1456-1 and 1456-2, and a rotary drum washer 1470. In some embodiments, one or more of connecting rods 1456-1 and 1456-2 may be included in and / or coupled to other components of the AW valve assembly 1402. For example, connecting rod 1456-1 may be included in interface 1452 and / or an atmospheric valve. In another example, connecting rod 1456-2 may include a portion of the main control valve 1420 or be coupled to at least a portion of the main control valve 1420.

[0076] refer to Figure 14D The environment 1400D shows a cross-sectional view of the AW valve assembly 1402. In the illustrated embodiment, the AW valve assembly 1402 may include an atmospheric valve 1424, a biasing member 1428, an atmospheric passage 1416, a cap 1458, a rotary cylinder 1464, and a main control valve 1420 having an internal passage 1421, radial vents 1466-1, 1466-2, and at least a portion of the atmospheric passage 1416.

[0077] Figures 15A-15CThis document illustrates various aspects of an exemplary AW valve assembly 1502 in environments 1500A, 1500B, and 1500C, according to one or more embodiments described herein. In many embodiments, cross-sections of one or more components may be shown in environments 1500A, 1500B, and 1500C. In some embodiments, Figures 15A-15C One or more components may be the same as or similar to one or more other components described herein. Environments 1500A, 1500B, and 1500C may include AW valve assembly 1502. Illustrated embodiments of AW valve assembly 1502 include interface 1552, biasing members 1528-1 and 1528-2, cap 1558, and a main control valve having a duckbill valve 1523. Environment 1500A may include AW valve assembly 1502 in an air delivery state, environment 1500B may include AW valve assembly 1502 in a water delivery state, and environment 1500C may include AW valve assembly 1502 in a balloon-filled state. The embodiments are not limited to this context.

[0078] In some embodiments, the duckbill valve 1523 provides a primary means of preventing water from entering the water outlet channel. Therefore, when the pressure from the water inlet channel is sufficient, the duckbill valve 1523 may allow only water to pass through the water outlet channel. In various embodiments, the cap 1558 may include an air inlet valve. Figure 15B and 15C As shown, cap 1558 can be displaced downwards due to input to cover and seal the air input valve. In one or more embodiments, biasing member 1528-2 can bias the main control valve 1520 toward the top of AW valve assembly 1502 when in water delivery mode. However, in the absence of input, air pressure from the air input passage can bias cap 1558 and / or main control valve 1520 toward the top of AW valve assembly 1502. In other embodiments, a spring can bias cap 1558 and / or main control valve 1520 toward the top of AW valve assembly 1502 in the absence of input. In many embodiments, biasing member 1528-2 can resist compression to a greater extent than biasing member 1528-1. In the balloon-filled state, biasing members 1528-1 and 1528-2 can be fully compressed, causing interface 1552 to reach a hard stop from further downward displacement.

[0079] Figures 16A-16C Various aspects of an exemplary AW valve assembly 1602 in environments 1600A, 1600B, and 1600C are shown according to one or more embodiments described herein. In many embodiments, cross-sections of one or more components may be shown in environments 1600A, 1600B, and 1600C. In some embodiments, Figures 16A-16COne or more components may be identical or similar to one or more other components described herein. Environments 1600A, 1600B, and 1600C may include an AW valve assembly 1602. Illustrated embodiments of the AW valve assembly 1602 include an atmospheric passage 1616, biasing members 1628-1 and 1628-2, a connecting rod 1656-1, and a main control valve 1620 having seals 1668-1, 1668-2, 1668-3, 1668-4, and 1668-5 disposed at the top, bottom, and along the length therebetween. In one or more embodiments, the main control valve 1620 may be vertically displaced to control flow through a valve well. The embodiments are not limited to this context.

[0080] In various embodiments, seals 1668-1 and 1668-2 may form separate seals with the valve interface mechanism. In many embodiments, seals 1668-3, 1668-4, and 1668-5 may form separate seals with the valve well. In several embodiments, one or more of the seals may have different diameters. In one embodiment, a first side of seal 1668-3 may be used to control the flow of air through the valve well, while a second side of seal 1668-3 may be used to control the flow of water through the valve well. In many embodiments, positioning seal 1668-1 above link 1656-1 allows atmospheric passage 1616 to be in fluid communication with air input passage.

[0081] refer to Figure 16A Ambient 1600A illustrates a main control valve 1620 configured to fluidly communicate an air input passage with an air output passage. In various embodiments, seal 1668-1 may seal with link 1656-1, and seal 1668-3 may seal with a valve well to fluidly communicate the air input and output passages. In various such embodiments, flow through the balloon passage may be restricted between seals 1668-3 and 1668-4, flow through the water input passage may be restricted between seals 1668-4 and 1668-5, and flow through the water output passage may be restricted by seal 1668-5. In many embodiments, the AW valve assembly 1602 may be in an air supply state in ambient 1600A. For example, atmospheric passage 1616 may be sealed with a finger and / or an atmospheric valve. However, opening atmospheric passage 1616, for example by removing a finger, may switch the AW valve assembly 1602 to an air escaping state.

[0082] refer to Figure 16BEnvironment 1600B shows a main control valve 1620 configured to fluidly communicate a water inlet passage with a water outlet passage and to prevent flow from an air inlet passage. In various embodiments, the AW valve assembly 1602 may be in a water-supply state in environment 1600B. In some embodiments, seal 1668-4 may form a seal with the valve well between the balloon inlet passage and the water inlet passage, and / or seal 1668-5 may be repositioned into a portion of the valve well having a wider diameter to fluidly communicate the water inlet and outlet passages. In various embodiments, seals 1668-1, 1668-2 may form a seal with link 1656-1 to prevent flow from the air inlet passage. As shown in the illustrated embodiments, seals 1668-1, 1668-2 may have different diameters to seal with link 1656-1 of different diameters. In many embodiments, tactile feedback may be generated in response to cap 1658 contacting link 1656-1 to indicate that the AW valve assembly is in a water-supply state.

[0083] refer to Figure 16C Ambient 1600C shows a main control valve 1620 configured to fluidly communicate a water inlet passage with a balloon passage and to block flow from an air inlet passage. In various embodiments, the AW valve assembly 1602 may be in a balloon-filled state in ambient 1600C. In some embodiments, seals 1668-3, 1668-4 may direct flow from the water inlet passage to the balloon-filled passage and / or seal 1668-5 may be movable into a wider diameter portion of the valve well to fluidly communicate the water inlet and outlet passages. In various embodiments, seals 1668-1, 1668-2 may form a seal with link 1656-1 to block flow from the air inlet passage. As shown in the illustrated embodiments, seals 1668-1, 1668-2 may have different diameters to seal with link 1656-1 of different diameters.

[0084] Figures 17A-17D Various aspects of an exemplary AW valve assembly 1702 in an environment 1700A-1700D according to one or more embodiments described herein are shown. In many embodiments, cross-sections of one or more components may be shown in an environment 1700A-1700D. In some embodiments, Figures 17A-17DOne or more components may be identical or similar to one or more other components described herein. For example, AW valve assembly 1702 may be identical or similar to AW valve assembly 1602. Environments 1700A-1700D may include one or more portions of AW valve assembly 1702. In one or more embodiments described herein, AW valve assembly 1702 may include a set of components for controlling fluid flow (e.g., air and / or water flow) through AW valve well. In one or more such embodiments, the use of this set of components provides reliable, intuitive, and ergonomic control over fluid through AW valve well 1704. In some embodiments, this set of components may include a set of seals included in or along the main control valve to control fluid flow through AW valve well 1704. Additionally or alternatively, utilizing seals to control fluid flow through AW valve well 1704 simplifies manufacturing and / or assembly. Embodiments are not limited to this context.

[0085] refer to Figure 17A A perspective view of the AW valve assembly 1702 is shown in environment 1700A. In the illustrated embodiment, the AW valve assembly 1702 may include an interface 1752, a biasing member 1728-2, a housing 1762, and an AW valve well 1704 having an air input channel 1706, a water input channel 1708, an air output channel 1710, a water output channel 1712, and a balloon channel 1714. (Refer to...) Figure 17B Environment 1700B illustrates the assembly stage of AW valve assembly 1702. The illustrated embodiment may include connecting rod 1756-2, cap 1758, main control valve 1720 with radial vents 1766, and seals 1768-1, 1768-2, 1768-3, 1768-4, and 1768-5.

[0086] refer to Figure 17C The illustrated diagram 1700C shows an exploded view of the various components of the AW valve assembly 1702. The illustrated embodiment may include a rotary cylinder 1764, a connecting rod 1756-2, biasing members 1728-1 and 1728-2, a main control valve 1720, seals 1768-1 and 1768-2, and a cap 1758. Figure 17D In the illustration, environment 1700D shows a cross-sectional view of various components of the AW valve assembly 1702. In the illustrated embodiment, the AW valve assembly 1702 may include connecting rods 1756-1, 1756-2, a cap 1758, biasing members 1728-1, 1728-2, a rotating cylinder 1764, and a main control valve 1720 having at least a portion of an atmospheric passage 1716 and seals 1768-1, 1768-2. In various embodiments, connecting rod 1756-1 may include a portion of the rotating cylinder 1764. For example, connecting rod 1756-1 may be a circumferential wall separating the biasing member seat from another area of ​​the rotating cylinder 1764 (see, for example...). Figure 22EThe offset component seat 2278-3 and the area 2280-1 of the rotating cylinder 2264 are located in the middle.

[0087] Figures 18A-18C This document illustrates various aspects of an exemplary AW valve assembly 1802 in environments 1800A, 1800B, and 1800C according to one or more embodiments described herein. In many embodiments, cross-sections of one or more components may be shown in environments 1800A, 1800B, and 1800C. In some embodiments, Figures 18A-18C One or more components may be the same as or similar to one or more other components described herein. Environments 1800A, 1800B, and 1800C may include AW valve assembly 1802. In many embodiments, AW valve assembly 1802 may be the same as or similar to AW valve assemblies 1602 and 1702, except for the vertical slot 1878 in the biasing member 1828-2 and the connecting rod 1856-1. In one or more embodiments described herein, the biasing member 1828-2 may include an assembly of one or more cantilever spring arms, the first end of which is coupled to the main control valve 1820. In one or more such embodiments, the assembly of one or more cantilever spring arms may have a second end disposed in a corresponding vertical slot in the connecting rod 1856-1. Furthermore, the one or more cantilever spring arms are capable of sliding up and down in the corresponding vertical slots. The embodiments are not limited to this context.

[0088] Environment 1800A may include an AW valve assembly 1802 in an air-vented state. However, the AW valve assembly 1802 may be switched to an air-supply state by sealing the atmospheric passage 1816, for example with an atmospheric valve or a finger. Environment 1800B may include an AW valve assembly 1802 in a water-supply state, and environment 1800C may include an AW valve assembly 1802 in a balloon-filled state. In various embodiments, the AW valve assembly 1802 may utilize a bias member 1828-2 to provide tactile feedback throughout the entire stroke of the main control valve 1820. Thus, contact of the bias member 1828-2 with the bottom of the vertical slot 1878 provides a first feedback, and reaching the bending limit of the bias member 1828-2 provides a second feedback. In many embodiments, the bias member 1828-1 may bias the AW valve assembly into environment 1800A ( Figure 18A The configuration shown in ).

[0089] Figure 19 Various aspects of an exemplary AW valve assembly 1902 in environment 1900 are shown according to one or more embodiments described herein. In many embodiments, cross-sections of one or more components may be shown in environment 1900. In some embodiments, Figure 19One or more components may be identical or similar to one or more other components described herein. In many embodiments, the AW valve assembly 1902 may be identical or similar to the AW valve assembly 1802, except for the circumferential groove 1978. Thus, instead of having one or more vertical grooves, the AW valve assembly 1902 may include a single groove extending around the inner circumference of the connecting rod 1956-1. In some embodiments, this simplifies assembly by eliminating the need for rotational control (e.g., aligning the cantilever with the vertical groove). The embodiments are not limited to this context.

[0090] Figures 20A-20C This document illustrates various aspects of an exemplary suction valve assembly 2002 in environments 2000A, 2000B, and 2000C according to one or more embodiments described herein. In many embodiments, cross-sections of one or more components may be shown in environments 2000A, 2000B, and 2000C. In some embodiments, Figures 20A-20C One or more components may be the same as or similar to one or more other components described herein. Environments 2000A, 2000B, and 2000C may include a suction valve assembly 2002. The illustrated embodiment of the suction valve assembly 2002 includes an interface 2052, a valve mechanism 2019, an atmospheric valve 2024, biasing members 2028-1 and 2028-2, a connecting rod 2056, a balloon valve 2022, a working channel valve 2020, and a suction valve well 2004. In one or more embodiments described herein, the valve mechanism 2019 may be configured to move the balloon valve 2022 and the working channel valve 2020 in a coordinated manner. In the illustrated embodiment, the valve mechanism 2019 is configured to move the balloon valve 2022, the working channel valve 2020, and the atmospheric valve 2024 in a coordinated manner. The embodiments are not limited to this context.

[0091] In several embodiments, the suction valve assembly 2002 may combine the shafts of the balloon valve 2022 and the working channel valve 2020 into a single body. As shown in environment 2000B, in many embodiments, tactile feedback of the first stop may be provided by a biasing member 2028-2 (e.g., a cantilever spring) for indicating when the valve is pushed / moved to the working channel suction state. Furthermore, as shown in environment 2000C, the biasing member 2028-2 may bend toward the link 2056 and at least partially enter the suction channel to indicate the balloon suction state.

[0092] Figures 21A-21D Various aspects of an exemplary AW valve assembly 2102 in an environment 2100A-2100D according to one or more embodiments described herein are shown. In many embodiments, cross-sections of one or more components may be shown in an environment 2100A-2100D. In some embodiments, Figures 21A-21DOne or more components may be the same as or similar to one or more other components described herein. Environments 2100A-2100D may include one or more portions of the AW valve assembly 2102. In one or more embodiments described herein, the AW valve assembly 2102 may include a skirt seal to provide reliable, intuitive, and ergonomic control of fluid passing through the AW valve well 2104. Embodiments are not limited to this context.

[0093] refer to Figure 21A Environment 2100A shows a perspective view of the AW valve assembly 2102. In the illustrated embodiment, the AW valve assembly 2102 may include an interface 2152, a biasing member 2128-2, a housing 2162, and an AW valve well 2104 having an air input channel 2106, a water input channel 2108, a water output channel 2112, and a balloon channel 2121. (Refer to...) Figure 21B Environment 2100B illustrates an assembly stage of the AW valve assembly 2102. The illustrated embodiment may include biasing members 2128-1, 2128-2, cap 2158, skirt seal 2168, connecting rod 2156, and main control valve 2120. In various embodiments, skirt seal 2168 provides a reliable shut-off mechanism to prevent backflow into the main control valve 2120. In many embodiments, skirt seal 2168 simplifies the design, geometry, assembly, and / or manufacture of one or more components of the AW valve assembly 2102, such as rotary drum 2164 and / or main control valve 2120.

[0094] refer to Figure 21C The illustrated diagram 2100C shows an exploded view of the various components of the suction valve assembly 2102. The illustrated embodiment may include a rotary drum 2164, a cap 2158, a main control valve 2120, biasing members 2128-1 and 2128-2, and a skirt seal 2168. (Refer to...) Figure 21D The environment 2100D shows a cross-sectional view of various components of the suction valve assembly 2102. In the illustrated embodiment, the AW valve assembly 2102 may include biasing members 2128-1, 2128-2, a rotary cylinder 2164, a cap 2158, a skirt seal 2168, a connecting rod 2156, and a main control valve 2120.

[0095] In various embodiments, when vented to the atmosphere (e.g., in an air escape state), flow can travel through the orifices in the drum 2164, enter the main control valve 2120, and exit from the top main control valve. When the top (e.g., an atmospheric passage) is covered, fluid is forced away from the inner circumference of the drum 2164 and below the skirt seal 2168, thereby pushing the skirt seal 2168 inward and opening it. This can be the opposite of the baffle 2267 of the AW valve assembly 2202, which will be discussed in more detail below. When the interface 2152 is actuated, the cap 2158 moves downward and seals the two orifices in the top of the drum and isolates the skirt seal 2168 from the drum 2164, thereby preventing flow and compressing the bias member 2128-2. This can also move the distal seal of the main control valve 2120 (see, for example...). Figures 12A-12C This allows flow from the water inlet channel to the water outlet channel (i.e., the water delivery state). The bias member 2128-1 can be compressed to transition to a bladder-filled state. In various embodiments, one or more components of the valve assembly can be fitted with sufficiently tight tolerances to provide a seal with one or more other components, for example, by assembling the valve assembly and / or valve interface mechanism into the valve well. The main control valve 2120 may also include a seal to prevent airflow into the water passage.

[0096] Figures 22A-22H Various aspects of an exemplary AW valve assembly 2202 in an environment 2200A-2200H are shown according to one or more embodiments described herein. In many embodiments, cross-sections of one or more components may be shown in an environment 2200A-2200H. In some embodiments, Figures 22A-22H One or more components may be identical or similar to one or more other components described herein. For example, AW valve assembly 2202 may be identical or similar to AW valve assembly 1602 and / or AW valve assembly 1702. Environments 2200A-2200H may include one or more portions of AW valve assembly 2202. In one or more embodiments described herein, AW valve assembly 2202 may include a set of components to control fluid flow (e.g., air and / or water flow) through the AW valve well when assembled into a valve well. In one or more such embodiments, using this set of components provides reliable, intuitive, and ergonomic control over fluid flow through the AW valve well (e.g., AW valve well 1704). Alternatively or additionally, utilizing seals to control fluid flow through the valve well simplifies manufacturing and / or assembly. The embodiments are not limited to this context.

[0097] refer to Figure 22AEnvironment 2200A shows a front view of an AW valve assembly 2202. In the illustrated embodiment, the AW valve assembly 2202 may include an interface member 2252, a rotary drum 2264, and a main control valve 2220. In various embodiments, the AW valve assembly 2202 may be inserted into an AW valve (e.g., an AW valve well 2104). In various such embodiments, the AW valve assembly 2202 may be operated via the interface member 2252 to control fluid flow through the AW valve well. Operation of the AW valve assembly 2202 via the interface member 2252 may move the main control valve 2220 up and / or down to control fluid flow through the AW valve well. In many embodiments, the AW valve assembly 2202 may include an AW valve well. In some embodiments, the rotary drum 2264 may include a housing for one or more components of the AW valve assembly 2202. As will be discussed in more detail below, in many embodiments, the rotary drum 2264 may include one or more features to align the AW valve assembly with and / or attach the AW valve assembly to the AW valve well.

[0098] refer to Figure 22B Environment 2200B illustrates the assembly stage of AW valve assembly 2202. The illustrated embodiment may include an atmospheric passage 2216, an interface member 2252, a cap 2258 having bias member seats 2278-1 and 2278-2, a seal 2268-1, a flow component 2269-1 having seals 2268-2 and 2268-3 and a baffle 2267, a seal 2268-4, a main control valve 2220, a stabilizer 2273, and a flow component 2269-2 having seals 2268-5 and 2268-6. In some embodiments, one or more of the interface member 2252, cap 2258, seal 2268-1, flow component 2269-1, seal 2268-4, stabilizer 2273, and flow component 2269-2 may be included in or disposed along the main control valve 2220. Alternatively, the main control valve 2220 may include a cavity including an atmospheric passage 2216. The biasing member seat 2278 may provide a surface for the biasing member to abut. For example, the biasing member may be included between the biasing member seat 2278 and the biasing member seat 2278-4 of the interface member 2252 (see [link]). Figure 22H In another example, the biasing member may be included between the biasing member seat 2278-2 and the biasing member seat 2278-3 of the rotating cylinder 2264 (see [link]). Figure 22E and 22H These and other aspects of the AW valve assembly 2202 will be described in more detail below.

[0099] refer to Figure 22CThe illustrated environment 2200C shows an exploded view of various components of the AW valve assembly 2202. The illustrated embodiment may include interface member 2252, cap 2258, seal 2268-1, main control valve 2220-1 with flanges 2271-1, 2271-2, 2271-3, 2271-4, a first group of one or more radial holes 2266-1 and a second group of one or more radial holes 2266-2, a rotating cylinder 2264 with one or more radial holes 2266-3, and seal 2268-7. The system includes a flow component 2269-1 with one or more radial holes 2266-4, a baffle 2267, and seals 2268-2, 2268-3, and 2268-4; a main control valve 2220-2 with a stabilizer 2273 and flanges 2271-5, 2271-6, 2271-7, 2271-8, and 2271-9; and a flow component 2269-2 with seals 2268-5 and 2268-6. In various embodiments, the distal end of the main control valve 2220-1 can be inserted into the proximal end of the main control valve 2220-2 to assemble the main control valve 2220. The stabilizer 2273 helps to keep the main control valve 2220 centered in the AW valve well. Furthermore, the shape of the stabilizer 2273 allows fluid flow to still pass around the stabilizer in the AW valve well.

[0100] In various embodiments, one or more of flanges 2271 may provide seats, attachment members, retaining members, positioning members, manufacturing jigs, and / or the like for one or more other components of the AW valve assembly 2202. For example, seal 2268-1 may be located between flanges 2271-1 and 2271-2. In another example, flow element 2269-2 may be overmolded onto the main control valve 2220-2, and flanges 2271-7 and 2271-9 may provide stops to prevent material flow during overmolding. Furthermore, flow element 2269-2 may be mounted on flange 2271-8. In yet another example, seal 2268-4 may be located between flanges 2271-5 and 2271-6. In yet another example, flow element 2269-1 may be mounted on flange 2271-4. The assembly relationships between the various components are as follows: Figure 22H As shown.

[0101] refer to Figure 22D and 22EEnvironments 2200D and 2200H illustrate various aspects of the rotating cylinder 2264. Environment 2200D includes a bottom perspective view of the rotating cylinder 2264, which has one or more radial holes 2266-3, one or more vertical holes 2276, one or more retaining members 2274, one or more alignment members 2276, and region 2280-2. Environment 2200E includes a top perspective view of the rotating cylinder 2264, which has one or more radial holes 2266-3, one or more vertical holes 2276, regions 2280-1, 2280-2, and offset member seat 2278-3. In various embodiments, regions 2280-1, 2280-2 may include separate portions of the rotating cylinder with different diameters. Figure 22E As shown, region 2280-1 may have a larger diameter than region 2280-2. Furthermore, one or more vertical holes 2276 provide a fluid passage into region 2280-1, while one or more radial holes 2266-3 provide a fluid passage into region 2280-2. In many embodiments, seal 2268-1 may have the same or similar diameter as region 2280-1 of the rotating cylinder 2264 to allow seal 2268-1 to prevent fluid flow within region 2280-1.

[0102] In various embodiments, the rotary drum 2264 may include one or more alignment members 2274 to guide the correct alignment of the AW valve assembly 2202 with the AW valve well. In many embodiments, one or more alignment members 2276 may be received by one or more corresponding slots in the AW valve well. One or more retaining members 2274 may secure the AW valve assembly 2202 to the AW valve well. The bias member seat 2278-3 may include a circumferential slot for accommodating a bias member, such as a spring. In some embodiments, the spring may be disposed between the bias member seat 2278-3 and the bias member seat 2278-2 of the cap 2258.

[0103] refer to Figure 22F and 22GEnvironments 2200F and 2200G illustrate various aspects of the flow element 2269-1. Environment 2200F includes a side perspective view of the flow element 2269-1 having one or more radial orifices 2266-4, seals 2268-2, 2268-3, and a baffle 2267. Environment 2200G includes a cross-section of the flow element 2269-1, showing a recess 2277. In various embodiments, the recess 2277 may be positioned above the flange 2271-4. In many embodiments, the seals 2268-2, 2268-3 may have the same or similar diameter as region 2280-2 of the drum 2264 to allow the seals 2268-2, 2268-3 to prevent fluid flow within region 2280-2. In one or more embodiments, the baffle 2267 may open outward to allow fluid escape when sufficient pressure is formed within the flow element 2269-1. This and other aspects of AW valve assembly 2202 will refer to Figure 22H To describe in more detail.

[0104] refer to Figure 22H A cross-sectional view of the AW valve assembly 2202 is shown in environment 2200H. In the illustrated embodiment, the assembly relationship between the components of the AW valve assembly 2202 is shown. In many embodiments, one or more vertical holes 2276 allow fluid from the air inlet passage of the AW valve well to enter region 2280-1 of the rotating drum 2264. In several embodiments, one or more radial holes 2266-3 allow fluid from region 2280-2 of the rotating drum 2264 to enter the air outlet passage of the AW valve well.

[0105] In many embodiments, the main control valve 2220 is movable vertically relative to the rotary drum 2264 and the AW valve well to control fluid flow through the AW valve well. As previously mentioned and described, fluid control through the AW valve well may include an air escape state, an air delivery state, a water delivery state, and a balloon filling state (see, for example...). Figures 4A-4E ).

[0106] In the air escape state, air from the air input channel can enter region 2280-1 of the rotating drum 2264 through one or more vertical holes 2276. Next, the air can exit through the radial holes 2266-4 of the flow member 2269-1, through the radial holes 2266-1 of the main control valve 22020, and out through the atmospheric passage 2216. In the air escape state, the pressure within the cavity of the main control valve 2220 may be insufficient to allow air to escape through the baffle 2267 of the flow member 2269-1.

[0107] Besides the blockage of atmospheric passage 2216, the air delivery state can include a flow path similar to the air escape state. Therefore, sufficient pressure can be built up within the cavity of the main control valve 2220 to allow air to escape through the baffle 2267 of the flow component 2269-1 into region 2280-2 of the rotary drum 2264. The air can then exit region 2280-2 through radial hole 2266-3 and enter the air output passage of the AW valve well. Furthermore, seal 2268-3 prevents air from moving into region 2280-1 of the rotary drum 2264 instead of exiting region 2280-2 through radial hole 2266-3 and entering the air output passage of the AW valve well.

[0108] In water delivery mode, the air inlet passage can be blocked by primarily confining air within region 2280-1 of the rotating drum 2264, located between seals 2268-1 and 2268-2 of the flow component 2269-1. Furthermore, by moving seal 2268-2 into region 2280-2 of the rotating drum 2264, air is prevented from passing through the radial hole 2266-4 of the flow component 2269-1 and entering the inner cavity of the main control valve 2220. In water delivery mode, for example, seals 2268-4 and 2268-5, 2268-6 of the flow component 2269-2 can be... Figure 12B Arranged in the same or similar manner as shown.

[0109] The balloon-filled state may include a flow path similar to that of the water delivery state. However, in the balloon-filled state, seals 2268-1 and 2268-2 of the flow component 2269-1 may be further moved toward the bottom of the AW valve assembly 2202. In some embodiments, seal 2268-1 may prevent air from entering region 2280-1 by contacting and sealing the vertical orifice 2276. In the balloon-filled state, seals 2268-4 and 2268-5, 2268-6 of the flow component 2269-2 may be... Figure 12C Arranged in the same or similar manner as shown.

[0110] Figures 23A-23D Various aspects of an exemplary AW valve assembly 2302 in an environment 2300A-2300D according to one or more embodiments described herein are shown. In many embodiments, cross-sections of one or more components may be shown in an environment 2300A-2300D. In some embodiments, Figures 23A-23DOne or more components may be identical or similar to one or more other components described herein. For example, AW valve assembly 2302 may be identical or similar to AW valve assembly 1702. Environments 2300A-2300D may include one or more portions of AW valve assembly 2302. In one or more embodiments described herein, AW valve assembly 2302 may include a set of components for controlling fluid flow (e.g., air and / or water flow) through the AW valve well when assembled into a valve well. In one or more such embodiments, using this set of components provides reliable, intuitive, and ergonomic control over fluid flow through the AW valve well (e.g., AW valve well 1704). Alternatively or additionally, utilizing seals to control fluid flow through the valve well simplifies manufacturing and / or assembly. The embodiments are not limited to this context.

[0111] refer to Figure 23A Environment 2300A shows a front view of an AW valve assembly 2302. In the illustrated embodiment, the AW valve assembly 2302 may include an interface member 2352, a rotary drum 2364, and a main control valve 2320. In various embodiments, the AW valve assembly 2302 may be inserted into an AW valve (e.g., an AW valve well 2104). In various such embodiments, the AW valve assembly 2302 may be operated via the interface member 2352 to control fluid flow through the AW valve well. Operation of the AW valve assembly 2302 via the interface member 2352 may move the main control valve 2320 up and / or down to control fluid flow through the AW valve well. In many embodiments, the AW valve assembly 2302 may include an AW valve well. In many embodiments, the rotary drum 2364 may include one or more mating features 2387 to align and / or attach the housing 2362 of the AW valve assembly to the AW valve well. In several embodiments, the housing 2362 may include one or more features to align and / or attach the AW valve assembly to the AW valve well.

[0112] refer to Figure 23BEnvironment 2300B illustrates an assembly stage of the AW valve assembly 2302. The illustrated embodiment may include an atmospheric passage 2316, an interface member 2352, main control valves 2320-1 and 2320-2, flow components 2369-1 and 2369-2, and a cap 2358. In some embodiments, one or more of the interface member 2352, cap 2358, seal 2368-1, flow component 2369-1, stabilizer 2373, and flow component 2369-2 may be included in or arranged along the main control valve 2320. Alternatively or additionally, the main control valve 2320 may include an interior containing the atmospheric passage 2316. In some embodiments, the flow component 2369-2 may be overmolded onto the cap 2358. One or more embodiments may include a biopsy port interface. In one or more such embodiments, the biopsy port interface may be press-fit. For example, the biopsy port interface can be press-fitted onto the main control valve 2320-1, for example, replacing interface member 2352. These and other aspects of the AW valve assembly 2302 will be described in more detail below.

[0113] refer to Figure 23C Environment 2300C shows an exploded view of various components of the AW valve assembly 2302. The illustrated embodiment may include a cap 2358, a flow component 2369-2 having seals 2368-1, 2368-2, a housing 2362, an interface member 2352, a main control valve 2320-1 having a connector 2389, a flange 2371 and one or more radial holes 2366-1, 2366-2, 2366-3, a seal 2368-8, a rotary drum 2364 having one or more radial holes 2366-4, a flow component 2369-1 having seals 2383-3 and a baffle 2367, seals 2368-4, 2368-5, 2368-6, a main control valve 2320-2 having a stabilizer 2373, and a stabilizer 2373. In various embodiments, the distal end of the main control valve 2320-1 can be inserted into the proximal end of the main control valve 2320-2 to assemble the main control valve 2320, for example, by press-fit. The stabilizer 2373 helps to keep the main control valve 2320 centered in the AW valve well. Furthermore, the shape of the stabilizer 2373 allows fluid flow to still pass around the stabilizer in the AW valve well.

[0114] In various embodiments, one or more components or features of the environment 2300C may provide seats, attachment members, retaining members, positioning members, manufacturing jigs, and / or the like for one or more other components of the AW valve assembly 2302. For example, flange 2371 may provide a seat for a biasing member. In another example, drum 2364, cap 2358, and / or main control valve 2320 may include one or more seats for flow element 2369 or seal 2368. In another example, flow element 2369-1 may be coupled to a feature of drum 2364.

[0115] In several embodiments, connector 2389 may enable or include a snap-fit ​​or press-fit with interface member 2352. In many embodiments, connector 2389 may enable or include a snap-fit ​​biopsy port interface. In some embodiments, flange 2371 and main control valve 2320-1 may be provided with spring supports. Assembly relationships between various components are as follows: Figure 23D As shown.

[0116] refer to Figure 23D The environment 2300D shows a cross-sectional view of the AW valve assembly 2302. In the illustrated embodiment, the assembly relationship between the components of the AW valve assembly 2302 is shown. In various embodiments, the interface member 2352 may include a first biasing member seat 2378-1, the flange 2371 of the main control valve 2320-1 may include a second biasing member seat 2378-2, the cap 2358 and / or the flow member 2369-2 may include a third biasing member seat 2378-3, and the rotary drum 2364 may include a fourth biasing member seat 2378-4. In one or more embodiments, the first biasing member (e.g., a spring) may be located between biasing member seats 2378-1 and 2378-3, while the second biasing member may be located between biasing member seats 2378-2 and 2378-4.

[0117] In many embodiments, the main control valve 2320 may be movable vertically relative to the rotary drum 2364 and the AW valve well to control fluid flow through the AW valve well. As previously mentioned or described, fluid control through the AW valve well may include an air escape state, an air delivery state, a water delivery state, and a balloon filling state (see, for example...). Figures 4A-4E ).

[0118] In the air escape state, air from the air input passage can enter the housing 2362 through one or more vertical holes 2376. Next, the air can flow out through the radial holes of the main control valve and out of the atmospheric passage 2316. In the air escape state, the pressure within the cavity of the main control valve 2320 may be insufficient to allow air to escape through the baffle 2367 of the flow component 2369-1.

[0119] Apart from the atmospheric passage 2316 being blocked, the air delivery state can include a flow path similar to the air escape state. Therefore, sufficient pressure can be built up within the cavity of the main control valve 2320 to allow air to escape through the baffle 2367 of the flow component 2369-1 and exit from the radial hole 2366-4 of the rotating cylinder 2364. The air can then flow into the air output passage of the AW valve well. Furthermore, seals 2368-3, 2368-4 and / or seal 2368-5 prevent air from moving to other parts of the valve well instead of into the air output passage of the AW valve well.

[0120] In the water-carrying configuration, the air inlet passage can be blocked by cap 2358 and flow component 2369-2 covering one or more vertical holes 2376. In the water-carrying configuration, seals 2368-5, 2368-6, and 2368-7 can be... Figure 12B Arranged in the same or similar manner as shown. The balloon-filled state may include an airflow path similar to that of the water-delivery state. Furthermore, in the balloon-filled state, seals 2368-5, 2868-6, and 2368-7 may be... Figure 12C Arranged in the same or similar manner as shown.

[0121] The medical devices disclosed herein are not limited and may include various medical devices for accessing the body, including, for example, duodenoscopes, catheters, ureteroscopes, bronchoscopes, colonoscopes, arthroscopes, cystoscopes, hysteroscopes, EUS endoscopes, etc. In various embodiments, the valve assemblies or components thereof described herein may include mounting points, mechanical couplings, bearings, seals, O-rings, actuators, valves, diaphragms, gaskets, housings, connectors, structural members, manifolds, ergonomic features (e.g., finger / thumb grooves, padding, gripping, application of mechanical advantages, etc.), springs, bellows, cantilever biasing members, torsional biasing members, linear biasing members, baffle valves, skirts, fins, discs, channels, cavities, interiors, etc. (e.g., as a single unit or group of units). In many embodiments, one or more components described herein may be constructed using various devices, techniques and / or processes, such as three-dimensional (3D) printing, multi-axis computer numerical control (CNC) machines, additive manufacturing, subtractive manufacturing, injection molding, secondary molding, computer-aided design (CAD) programs, path planning programs, machining, forging, casting, etc.

[0122] According to this disclosure, all the apparatuses and / or methods disclosed and claimed herein can be manufactured and performed without excessive experimentation. Although the apparatuses and methods of this disclosure have been described with reference to preferred embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that changes may be made to the apparatuses and / or methods, and to the steps or sequence of steps of the methods described herein, without departing from the concept, spirit, and scope of this disclosure. All such similar substitutions and modifications are considered to be within the spirit, scope, and concept of this disclosure as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A medical device comprising: A valve assembly comprising a main control valve, an air input valve, and an atmospheric valve, wherein the main control valve is configured to control flow between a water input channel, a water output channel, and a balloon channel in a valve well; the air input valve is configured to control flow through the air input channel of the valve well; and the atmospheric valve is configured to control flow through the atmospheric channel, wherein the main control valve includes the air input valve; and A valve interface mechanism includes a group having one or more biasing members and a user interface mechanism operable between a first state, a second state, a third state, and a fourth state. The first state includes a valve group configured to fluidly communicate the air input channel with the atmospheric channel; the second state includes a valve group configured to fluidly communicate the air input channel with the air output channel; the third state includes a valve group configured to fluidly communicate the water input channel with the water output channel; and the fourth state includes a valve group configured to fluidly communicate the water input channel with the balloon channel. The valve interface mechanism includes a cap having a top side and a bottom side, and the group of one or more biasing members includes a first biasing member and a second biasing member disposed on the top side of the cap.

2. The medical device of claim 1, wherein the main control valve comprises a group of radial seals, wherein a first subset of the group of radial seals comprises the air input valve.

3. The medical device of claim 2, wherein each seal in the first subset of the group of radial seals forms a seal with one or more portions of the valve interface mechanism.

4. The medical device of claim 1, wherein the main control valve includes a group of seals, wherein a first subset of the group of seals is configured to control flow through the air input channel of the valve well and a second subset of the group of seals is configured to control flow between the water input channel, the water output channel and the balloon channel of the valve well.

5. The medical device of claim 4, wherein the group of seals comprises a group of radial seals having two or more different diameters.

6. The medical device of claim 4, wherein each seal in a first subset of the group of seals forms a seal with the valve well, and each seal in a second subset of the group of seals forms a separate seal with one or more portions of the valve interface mechanism.

7. The medical device of claim 4, wherein the main control valve includes a top, a bottom, and a length therebetween, wherein the assembly of seals is disposed along the length of the main control valve.

8. The medical device of claim 7, wherein the assembly of the seals is concentric.

9. The medical device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the main control valve includes a radial seal having a first side and a second side, wherein the first side of the seal is configured to control the flow of air in the valve well and the second side of the seal is configured to control the flow of water in the valve well.

10. The medical device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the cap is pressed down when the user interface mechanism transitions from the third state to the fourth state.

11. The medical device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the group of one or more biasing members includes a cantilever biasing member having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is coupled to the main control valve.

12. The medical device of claim 11, wherein the second end of the cantilever biasing member is disposed in two or more vertical slots included in the valve interface mechanism.

13. The medical device of claim 11, wherein the second end of the cantilever biasing member is disposed in a circumferential groove included in the valve interface mechanism.

14. The medical device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the main control valve includes a duckbill seal.

15. The medical device of claim 14, wherein the duckbill seal is configured to control the flow through the water output channel.

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