Interface and motion conversion device, system, and method for endoscopic valves

Abstract

Various embodiments generally relate to devices, systems, and methods for controlling the flow of fluids in an endoscopy system, such as an endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) endoscope. Some embodiments specifically relate to valve sets and / or valve interface mechanisms for controlling the flow of air, water, and / or suction through a valve well for an endoscopy system. Several embodiments relate to user interface mechanisms and techniques for enabling an operator to interact with and control endoscopy valves. Many embodiments relate to mechanisms and techniques for translating interface input motions to 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 U.S.SC §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 entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. 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, the present invention relates to a medical device comprising an aspiration valve assembly and a valve interface mechanism. The aspiration valve assembly may include a working channel valve, a balloon valve, and an atmospheric valve. The working channel valve is configured to control flow through a working channel in a valve well, the balloon valve is configured to control flow through a balloon channel in a valve well, and the atmospheric valve is configured to control flow through an atmospheric channel in a valve well. The valve interface mechanism may include a group having one or more biasing members and a user interface mechanism. The user interface mechanism is operable between a first state, a second state, and a third state, wherein the first state includes the aspiration valve assembly configured to fluidly communicate the aspiration channel with the atmospheric channel, the second state includes the aspiration valve assembly configured to fluidly communicate the aspiration channel with the working channel, and the third state includes the aspiration valve assembly configured to fluidly communicate the aspiration channel with the balloon channel. In the first state, the working channel valve may block flow through the working channel, the balloon valve may block flow through the balloon channel, and the atmospheric valve may allow flow through the atmospheric channel. In the second state, the working channel valve allows flow through the working channel, the balloon valve blocks flow through the balloon channel, and the atmospheric valve blocks flow through the atmospheric channel. In the third state, the working channel valve blocks flow through the working channel, the balloon valve allows flow through the balloon channel, and the atmospheric valve blocks flow through the atmospheric channel. In various embodiments, the user interface mechanism may include a lever for receiving input to operate the user interface mechanism between the first, second, and third states. In various such embodiments, a group of one or more biasing members may include a tension or compression spring for biasing the lever to the first state. In some embodiments, the user interface mechanism may include a rocker switch for receiving input to operate the user interface mechanism between the first, second, and third states. In some such embodiments, in the first state, a first side of the rocker switch is parallel to a second side of the rocker switch; in the second state, the first side of the rocker switch is depressed; and in the third state, the second side of the rocker switch is depressed. In one or more embodiments, the user interface mechanism may include an interface member for receiving rotary input to operate the user interface mechanism between the first, second, and third states. In one or more such embodiments, the user interface mechanism may include a cam for converting rotation of the interface member into linear motion. In many embodiments, the user interface mechanism may include a flip-flop switch for providing mechanical resistance to the linear motion of the balloon valve. In various such embodiments, the flip-flop switch reverses in response to the linear motion of the balloon valve. In some such embodiments, the flip-flop switch biases the balloon valve to a position corresponding to a first state. In several embodiments, the user interface mechanism may include a flip-flop switch for providing mechanical resistance to the linear motion of the working channel valve. In several such embodiments, the flip-flop switch biases the working channel valve to a position corresponding to a first state.In various embodiments, the user interface mechanism may include a push-pull switch for receiving input to operate the user interface mechanism between one or more of a first state, a second state, and a third state. In some embodiments, transition from the first state to the second state generates haptic feedback via the user interface mechanism. In many embodiments, transition from the second state to the third state generates haptic feedback via the user interface mechanism.

[0007] In another aspect, the present invention relates to a medical device comprising an air / water 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 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 in the valve well; and the atmospheric valve is configured to control flow through the atmospheric channel in the valve well. The valve interface mechanism may include a group having 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 channel with the atmospheric channel; the second state may include a valve assembly configured to fluidly communicate the air input channel with the air output channel; the third state may include a valve assembly configured to fluidly communicate the water input channel with the water output channel; and the fourth state may include a valve assembly configured to fluidly communicate the water input channel with the balloon channel. In the first state, the air input valve allows flow through the air input channel, and the atmospheric valve allows flow through the atmospheric channel. In the second state, the air input valve allows flow through the air input channel to the air output channel, and the atmospheric valve blocks flow through the atmospheric valve. In the third state, the main control valve allows flow from the water input channel to the water output channel, blocks flow through the balloon channel, and the air input valve blocks flow through the air input channel. In the fourth state, the main control valve allows flow from the water input channel to the balloon channel, blocks flow through the water output channel, and the air input valve blocks flow through the air input channel. In some embodiments, the user interface mechanism may include one or more of a lever, a rocker switch, and an interface member for receiving input to operate the user interface mechanism in one or more of the first, second, third, and fourth states. In some such embodiments, the user interface mechanism may include an interface member for receiving rotary input to operate the user interface mechanism between the first, second, third, and fourth states. In some other such embodiments, the user interface mechanism may include a cam for converting rotation of the interface member into linear motion. In various embodiments, the user interface mechanism may include a sheet switch for providing mechanical resistance to the linear movement of the balloon valve. In many embodiments, transitions from one or more of the first state to the second state, from the second state to the third state, and from the third state to the fourth state generate haptic feedback via a user interface mechanism.

[0008] In another aspect, the present invention relates to a method. The method may include fluidly communicating a suction passage of a valve well with an atmospheric passage of a valve well based on operating a user interface mechanism to a first state. The method may include fluidly communicating a suction passage of a valve well with a working passage of a valve well based on operating the user interface mechanism to a second state. The method may include fluidly communicating a suction passage of a valve well with a balloon passage of a valve well based on operating the user interface mechanism to a third state. In some embodiments, the method may include rotating an interface member in a first direction to operate the user interface mechanism to the second state, and rotating the interface member in a second direction to operate the user interface mechanism to the third state. In many embodiments, the method may include rotating the interface member to adjust one or more valves in a suction valve assembly 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, and third states.

[0009] In another aspect, the present invention relates to a method. The method may include configuring a suction valve assembly to fluidly communicate a suction passage of a valve well with an atmospheric passage of a valve well based on operating a user interface mechanism to a first state. The method may include configuring the suction valve assembly to fluidly communicate a suction passage of a valve well with a working passage of a valve well based on operating the user interface mechanism to a second state. The method may include configuring the suction valve assembly to fluidly communicate a suction passage of a valve well with a balloon passage of a valve well based on operating the user interface mechanism to a third state. In some embodiments, the method may include rotating an interface member in a first direction to operate the user interface mechanism to the second state, and rotating the interface member in a second direction to operate the user interface mechanism to the third state. In some such embodiments, the method may include translating rotation of the interface member into linear movement of one or more valves in the suction valve assembly via a cam. In various embodiments, the method may include generating haptic feedback via the user interface mechanism in response to operating the user interface mechanism to one or more of the first, second, and third states. In several embodiments, the user interface mechanism may include one or more of a lever, a rocker switch, and an interface component for receiving input to operate the user interface mechanism to one or more of a first state, a second state, and a third state. 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 1A 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] Figures 13A-13C Various aspects of an exemplary suction valve assembly according to one or more embodiments described herein are shown.

[0020] Figure 14 An exemplary valve interface mechanism according to one or more embodiments described herein is shown.

[0021] Figure 15A and 15B This document illustrates various aspects of an exemplary user interface structure according to one or more embodiments described herein.

[0022] Figures 16A-16C Various aspects of an exemplary suction valve assembly according to one or more embodiments described herein are shown.

[0023] Figures 17A-17C Various aspects of an exemplary suction valve assembly according to one or more embodiments described herein are shown. Detailed Implementation

[0024] 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.

[0025] 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 / or unreliable, resulting in limited applicability and / or uncertain results. These limitations can significantly reduce the reliability, ergonomics, and intuitiveness of flow control in endoscopes, as well as the procedures performed therefrom, leading to reduced availability, adverse consequences, excessive fatigue, and / or lost revenue.

[0026] 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.

[0027] 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.

[0028] 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.

[0029] 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.

[0030] 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.

[0031] 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.

[0032] 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.

[0033] 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.

[0034] 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.

[0035] 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.

[0036] 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.

[0037] 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 .

[0038] 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.

[0039] 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.

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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.

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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.

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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.

[0052] Figure 5-12C The illustrations show one or more embodiments described herein in environments 500, 600A, 600B, 700A, 700B, 800A-C, 900, 1000A, 1000B, 1100A, 1100B,

[0053] Various aspects of the exemplary valve assembly in 1200A-C. In some embodiments, Figure 5-12COne 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.

[0054] 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.

[0055] 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.

[0056] 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 6BEnvironment 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.

[0057] 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 7B Environment 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.

[0058] 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.

[0059] refer to Figure 9Environment 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.

[0060] 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.

[0061] 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.

[0062] refer to Figure 11AEnvironment 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.

[0063] refer to Figure 12A Environment 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.

[0064] Figures 13A-13C Various aspects of an exemplary suction valve assembly 1302 in an environment 1300A-C are shown according to one or more embodiments described herein. In many embodiments, cross-sections of one or more portions and / or components may be shown in an environment 1300A-C. In some embodiments, Figures 13A-13COne or more components may be identical or similar to one or more other components described herein. The suction valve assembly 1302 includes an atmospheric valve 1324, atmospheric seals 1325-1 and 1325-2, a balloon valve 1322, a balloon valve seal 1323, a connecting rod 1330, a lip 1332, valve seals 1352-1 and 1352-3, a necking portion 1334, a balloon passage 1314, a working passage 1308, a rod 1350, an atmospheric passage 1316, and a suction passage 1306. Environment 1300A may show the suction valve assembly 1302 in a first position, environment 1300B may show the suction valve assembly 1302 in a second position, and environment 1300C may show the suction valve assembly 1302 in a third position. The embodiments are not limited to this context.

[0065] The embodiment shown with suction valve assembly 1302 utilizes a lever mechanism to drive the suction valve for the balloon and working channel downwards. In many embodiments, lever 1350 may include an interface member. A first position may include an open position, thereby allowing air to flow from the atmosphere into the suction channel (see...). Figure 13A Additionally, the balloon valve seal 1323 can be sealed against the necked portion 1334 in a first position. In various embodiments, the first position may be the same as or similar to one or more of the following: atmospheric suction state 305-1, balloon valve sealing state 615-2, atmospheric valve open state 715-1, and working channel valve first sealing state 815-1.

[0066] When the rod is hinged, the valve and / or valve interface mechanism can be switched to a second position depending on the rod position. The second position closes off the suction to the atmosphere, creating a vacuum that causes flow through the working channel (see...). Figure 13B Additionally, the balloon valve seal 1323 can seal against the necked portion 1334 in a first position. In many embodiments, the second position can be the same as or similar to one or more of the working channel suction state 305-2, the balloon valve sealing state 615-2, the atmospheric valve sealing state 715-2, and the working channel valve open state 815-2. In the second position, the atmospheric seal 1325-1 can seal against the upper portion of the balloon valve 1322, and the atmospheric seal 1325-2 can seal against the upper portion of the connecting rod 1330. In many embodiments, the atmospheric seals 1325-1 and 1325-2 can be a single seal, such as part of an O-ring.

[0067] In various embodiments, if the lever is released, one or more biasing members (e.g., tension, torsion, and / or compression springs) can force the user interface mechanism and / or one or more valves back to their original positions (e.g., a first position) based on the positioning of one or more biasing members. In some embodiments, in a third position, a hard stop can be advanced to move the balloon valve and open the balloon passage.

[0068] The third position can seal off the suction to the atmosphere and the working channel, thereby creating a vacuum that causes flow through the balloon channel (see...). Figure 13C In many embodiments, the third position may be the same as or similar to one or more of the following: working channel suction state 305-3, balloon valve open state 615-1, atmospheric valve sealed state 715-2, and working channel valve second sealed state 815-3. In many embodiments, the third position may include or utilize an internal spring mechanism.

[0069] Therefore, in one or more embodiments, moving from the first position to the second position provides a certain amount of mechanical feedback that can be distinguished from the certain amount of mechanical feedback provided when moving from the second position to the third position. In many embodiments, this feedback can provide the operator with an indication of the exact state they want to enter when using the lever. In another embodiment, moving from the first position to the second position may involve little or no resistance, and an external spring may provide resistance when moving from the second position to the third position.

[0070] Figure 14 Various aspects of an exemplary valve interface mechanism 1426 in environment 1400 are illustrated according to one or more embodiments described herein. In many embodiments, cross-sections of one or more portions and / or components may be shown in environment 1400. In some embodiments, Figure 14 One or more components may be the same as or similar to one or more other components described herein. The valve interface mechanism 1426 may have a biasing member assembly including biasing members 1428-1, 1428-2 (e.g., springs); and a user interface mechanism including a rocker switch 1430-1 having a first side 1431-1 and a second side 1431-2, and valve links 1430-2, 1430-3. Embodiments are not limited to this context.

[0071] Instead of controlling flow using an input that includes two movement positions (e.g., up and down) within the same plane, or alternatively, the valve interface mechanism 1426 can utilize lateral movement to switch between states / arrangements / functions. In various embodiments, the valve interface mechanism 1426 may appear as a circular switch to the operator. In many embodiments, the valve interface mechanism 1426 can provide an ergonomic and comfortable rest for the operator's fingers in various positions.

[0072] In some embodiments, in the first position, the first side 1431-1 and the second side 1431-2 may be horizontal. In some such embodiments, biasing members 1428-1, 1428-2 may hold the rocker switch 1430-1 in the first position when no input is received. In several embodiments, pressing down the first side 1431-1 of the rocker switch 1430-1 may cause the corresponding valve assembly to switch from the first position to the second position. In many embodiments, pressing down the second side 1431-2 of the rocker switch 1430-1 may cause the corresponding valve assembly to switch from the first position to the third position.

[0073] Figure 15A and 15B Various aspects of an exemplary user interface mechanism 1530 in environments 1500A, 1500B, according to one or more embodiments described herein, are illustrated. In many embodiments, cross-sections of one or more portions and / or components may be shown in environments 1500A-B. In some embodiments, Figure 15A and 15B One or more components may be identical or similar to one or more other components described herein. In environment 1500A, user interface mechanism 1530 may include a knob 1554 rotatable in a first direction 1531-1 and a second direction 1531-2 to control flow in one or more embodiments described herein. In environment 1500B, user interface mechanism 1530 may include a cam 1556 having a cam profile 1558. In one or more embodiments, cam 1556 may convert rotational motion of knob 1554 into linear motion of link 1560. In one or more such embodiments, vertical motion of link 1560 may adjust one or more valve states. Embodiments are not limited to this context.

[0074] Instead of using inputs including lateral movement to switch between states / arrangements / functions, or alternatively, the user interface mechanism 1530 may use rotary movement. In several embodiments, the valve interface mechanism 1530 may provide ergonomic and comfortable rest for the operator's fingers in various positions. In some embodiments, the user interface mechanism 1530 may include one or more portions of an atmospheric valve. For example, the knob 1554 may include a through-hole that, when covered, such as when covered by the operator's fingers, may block flow through the atmospheric valve.

[0075] In some embodiments, knob 1554 may be biased to a first position. For example, one or more torsion springs may hold knob 1554 in the first position. In many embodiments, rotating knob 1554 in a first direction 1531-1 may cause the corresponding valve assembly to transition from the first position to a second position. In many embodiments, rotating knob 1554 in a second direction 1531-2 may cause the corresponding valve assembly to transition from the first position to a third position. In one or more embodiments, the transition between different positions may be caused by the face and / or geometry of the cam profile 1558 when the abutment link 1560 is rotated.

[0076] Figures 16A-16C Various aspects of an exemplary suction valve assembly 1602 in an environment 1600A-C according to one or more embodiments described herein are shown. In many embodiments, cross-sections of one or more portions and / or components may be shown in an environment 1600A-C. In some embodiments, Figures 16A-16C One or more components may be identical or similar to one or more other components described herein. For example, one or more components of suction valve assembly 1302 may be identical or similar to one or more components of suction valve assembly 1602. Suction valve assembly 1602 includes a balloon valve 1622, a lip 1632, a blade switch 1662, a necking portion 1634, a balloon passage 1614, a working passage 1608, atmospheric valves 1624-1 and 1624-2, an atmospheric passage 1616, and a suction passage 1606. Environment 1600A may show suction valve assembly 1602 in a first position, environment 1600B may show suction valve assembly 1602 in a second position, and environment 1600C may show suction valve assembly 1602 in a third position. The embodiments are not limited to this context.

[0077] The embodiment shown for the suction valve assembly 1602 may utilize a flap switch 1662 (e.g., a snap-on mechanism) to provide mechanical resistance within the valve. Therefore, the flap switch 1662 may include one or more portions of a biasing member, a valve, and a valve interface mechanism. The energy required to reverse the flap switch may require displacing the flap towards the bottom of the valve well (see...). Figure 16C In several embodiments, the downward displacement process can result in one or more valves being opened or closed. For example, the downward displacement process can result in a valve being opened (e.g., balloon valve 1622) or the closure of suction from the atmosphere, such as a transition between positions or states. In some embodiments, the flap switch 1662 can provide resistance until reversed. In many embodiments, when the force associated with the operator's input is released, the flap switch 1662 can spring back to a first position, thereby moving upward to close an open valve (e.g., balloon valve 1622) or open a seal created for vacuum.

[0078] In several embodiments, the flap switch 1662 or the snap-on mechanism may lack the dual stability of a flap switch (e.g., reversing but not holding reversed). In many such embodiments, the flap switch 1662 prevents the balloon valve from remaining open in the absence of user input. In some embodiments, the flap switch can provide tactile feedback (e.g., continuous resistance) across its entire range of motion. In these and other ways, the suction valve assembly 1602 can provide intuitive and safe control (e.g., feedback via a user interface mechanism). In many embodiments, one or more flap switches may be utilized in the suction valve assembly 1602 to provide a biasing member, such as to return the valve or mechanism to its initial state when no input is received.

[0079] Figures 17A-17C This document illustrates various aspects of an exemplary suction valve assembly 1702 in an environment 1700A-C, according to one or more embodiments described herein. In some embodiments, Figures 17A-17C One or more components may be identical or similar to one or more other components described herein. In environment 1700A, the suction valve assembly 1702 includes a valve interface mechanism 1726, a suction valve group 1718, and a suction valve well 1704. Environment 1700B includes components of the suction valve assembly 1702, wherein the suction valve well 1704 and housing 1772 are removed. The valve interface mechanism 1726 and suction valve group 1718 shown in environment 1700B include a user interface mechanism 1730, a linkage 1730-1, biasing members 1728-1 and 1728-2, a balloon valve 1722, a working channel valve 1720 with a well radial bore 1736, atmospheric valves 1724-1 and 1724-2, and a push-pull switch 1770. Environment 1700C includes a different view of the valve interface mechanism 1726, wherein the biasing member 1728-1 is removed. The embodiments are not limited to this context.

[0080] refer to Figure 17B and 17B Environments 1700B and 1700C include a valve interface mechanism 1726, which includes a user interface mechanism 1730 and a suction valve assembly 1718. In the illustrated embodiments, the user interface mechanism 1730 may be one or more of a push-pull switch 1770, a linkage 1730-1, 1730-2, 1730-3, and 1730-4. One or more valves, such as an atmospheric valve 1724-1, and at least a portion of the biasing member assembly 1728 may include biasing members 1728-1 and 1728-2. In some embodiments, the valve interface mechanism 1726 may include a housing 1772.

[0081] In many embodiments, the valve interface mechanism 1726 can be used to control the flow through the suction valve well 1704. In several embodiments, biasing members 1728-1 and / or 1728-2 can be used to bias one or more components to a first position. Thus, input received via the user interface mechanism 1730 (e.g., push-pull switch 1770 and / or atmospheric valve 1724-1) can position one or more of the working channel valve 1720, the balloon valve 1722, and the atmospheric valves 1724-1, 1724-2. In various embodiments, links 1730-1, 1730-2, 1730-3, 1730-4 can convert the push-pull movement of switch 1770 into controlled linear displacement to arrange one or more of the working channel valve 1720, the balloon valve 1722, and the atmospheric valves 1724-1, 1724-2. In some embodiments, the biasing member 1728-2 can position the working channel valve 1720 in a first position without receiving input. In several embodiments, one or more of up / down, forward / backward, and lateral movements may be provided as inputs to control flow via the suction valve assembly 1718 and the valve interface mechanism 1729.

[0082] In some embodiments, the user interface mechanism 1730 may operate as follows: in a first position (e.g., atmospheric suction state), the well radial orifice 1736 is aligned with the well radial orifice 336 to allow flow from the suction channel to pull through the atmospheric valve 1724-2 (see, for example, Figure 3B and 8A Additionally, the balloon valve 1722 can seal the balloon passage in the first state (see, for example, Figure 6B In various embodiments, the suction valve assembly can be in a first position without user input.

[0083] To move to the second position (e.g., the working channel suction state), the user presses down the push-pull switch 1770 (rotates), causing the bottom surface of 1770 to align with the top surface of 1724-1. This causes the push-pull switch 1770 to rotate, and against the force of the bias member 1728-2, moves the connecting rod 1730-1 upward. When the push-pull switch 1770 is fully depressed, the atmospheric valve 1724-2 remains against the bottom surface of the push-pull switch 1770, effectively sealing the suction flow from the atmosphere. This same movement pulls the working channel valve 1720 upward, aligning the distal portion (i.e., the portion with half a tube) with the well radial orifice 336. This allows suction flow originating from the working channel (see, e.g., Figure 3C ).

[0084] To move to the third position (e.g., balloon channel aspiration state), the user linearly depresses the atmospheric valve 1724-1 against the biasing member 1728-1 (spring). This action forces the working channel valve 1720 downward, aligning the well radial orifice 1736 with the well radial orifice 336. Figure 8A In this state, air does not flow out from the atmosphere as in the first position because the atmospheric valve 1724-1 is sealed against the push-pull switch. In the third position, the balloon valve 1722 is also linearly depressed, passing through the necking feature in the valve well, thereby allowing suction to flow from the balloon passage (see, for example, Figure 3D ).

[0085] Therefore, in the illustrated embodiment, pulling causes rotation, and subsequently pushing causes a downward linear motion. However, other embodiments may include other configurations / movements. For example, such other configurations / movements may include rotational pushing and rotational pulling (which are similar to...). Figure 14 The rocker switch 1430-1 can be used, either by pushing which causes rotation, followed by a linear push. In another example, the sequence can be changed to a linear push, followed by a pull or a push that causes rotation.

[0086] 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 a variety of devices, techniques and / or processes, such as three-dimensional (3D) printing, multi-axis computer numerical control (CNC) machines, additive manufacturing, subtractive manufacturing, injection molding, computer-aided design (CAD) programs, path planning programs, machining, forging, casting, etc.

[0087] 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 suction valve assembly, comprising a working channel valve, a balloon valve, and an atmospheric valve, wherein the working channel valve is configured to control the flow through the working channel of the valve well, the balloon valve is configured to control the flow through the balloon channel of the valve well, and the atmospheric valve is configured to control the flow through the atmospheric channel of the valve well. A valve interface mechanism, comprising a group having one or more biasing members and a user interface mechanism, the user interface mechanism being operable between a first state, a second state, and a third state, wherein the first state includes a suction valve group configured to fluidly communicate a suction channel with an atmospheric channel, the second state includes a suction valve group configured to fluidly communicate a suction channel with a working channel, and the third state includes a suction valve group configured to fluidly communicate a suction channel with a balloon channel. In the first state, the working channel valve blocks flow through the working channel, the balloon valve blocks flow through the balloon channel, and the atmospheric valve allows flow through the atmospheric channel. In the second state, the working channel valve allows flow through the working channel, the balloon valve blocks flow through the balloon channel, and the atmospheric valve blocks flow through the atmospheric channel. In the third state, the working channel valve blocks flow through the working channel, the balloon valve allows flow through the balloon channel, and the atmospheric valve blocks flow through the atmospheric channel. The user interface mechanism includes a lever coupled to the atmospheric valve, the lever being configured to receive input to pivot the lever and adjust the atmospheric valve to operate the user interface mechanism between the first state, the second state, and the third state.

2. The medical device of claim 1, wherein one or more biasing members comprise a tension or compression spring for biasing the rod to the first state.

3. The medical device of claim 1, wherein the user interface mechanism includes a rocker switch for receiving input to operate the user interface mechanism between the first state, the second state, and the third state.

4. The medical device according to claim 3, wherein in the first state, a first side of the rocker switch is parallel to a second side of the rocker switch; in the second state, the first side of the rocker switch is pressed down; and in the third state, the second side of the rocker switch is pressed down.

5. The medical device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the user interface mechanism includes an interface member for receiving rotational input to operate the user interface mechanism between the first state, the second state, and the third state.

6. The medical device of claim 5, wherein the user interface mechanism includes a cam for converting the rotation of the interface member into linear motion.

7. The medical device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the user interface mechanism includes a thin-film switch for providing mechanical resistance to the linear movement of the balloon valve.

8. The medical device of claim 7, wherein the sheet switch reverses in response to the linear movement of the balloon valve.

9. The medical device of claim 7, wherein the sheet switch biases the balloon valve to a position corresponding to the first state.

10. The medical device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the user interface mechanism includes a sheet switch for providing mechanical resistance to the linear movement of the working channel valve.

11. The medical device of claim 10, wherein the sheet switch biases the working channel valve to a position corresponding to the first state.

12. The medical device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the user interface mechanism includes a push-pull switch for receiving input to operate the user interface mechanism between one or more of the first state, the second state, and the third state.

13. The medical device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein tactile feedback is generated via the user interface mechanism during the transition from the first state to the second state.

14. The medical device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein tactile feedback is generated via the user interface mechanism during the transition from the second state to the third state.

Images