Pipe assembly and method for fluid delivery

Abstract

The present disclosure relates generally to medical tubing assemblies and methods for fluid delivery from a single fluid reservoir. In one example, a tubing assembly can be configured to be coupled to an endoscope to distribute fluids between the endoscope and a fluid reservoir during an endoscopic procedure. The assembly can include a tubing manifold, a cap configured to be removably attached to the fluid reservoir, a portion of a gas supply tubing and a portion of a lens wash supply tubing in fluid communication between the manifold and the endoscope, a portion of the gas supply tubing in fluid communication between the cap and the manifold, and a portion of the lens wash supply tubing in fluid communication between the fluid reservoir and the manifold. Additional examples can include portions of an irrigation supply tubing and portions of a supply tubing for an alternative gas that are selectively connectable in fluid communication between the manifold, fluid reservoir, and endoscope.

Description

[0001] Related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 129,204, filed December 22, 2020, entitled “Integrated container and tubing for fluid delivery with an endoscope,” which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0003] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 129,199, filed December 22, 2020, entitled “Pipeline Assembly and Method for Fluid Transport,” which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0004] The present invention generally relates to medical piping assemblies and methods for fluid delivery, and particularly to piping assemblies for endoscopes having fluid delivery from a single water source. Background Technology

[0005] Traditionally, endoscopic devices have been widely used. Endoscopes are used to perform diagnosis and / or treatment by inserting the slender shaft of an endoscope into the body of a subject to observe the site to be examined within the body cavity and, when necessary, insert therapeutic instruments / tools into the working channel of the endoscope.

[0006] This endoscopic device includes fluid / lens cleaning capabilities, configured to supply fluids, such as gases (e.g., air, CO2), to the endoscope tip for purging the patient's interior at the target site. Lens cleaning provides sterile water under relatively high pressure to spray and remove debris from the camera lens. To rinse the target site of the subject independently of the air / water supply capability, the endoscopic device has a rinsing capability that provides a larger volume of water at lower pressure, supplied via a pump (e.g., a peristaltic pump) to clear the field of view for observation and treatment. The water source for lens cleaning and rinsing typically comprises one or more fluid reservoirs with piping and cap assemblies, forming a piping loop connected to the endoscope channels and valves to enable the aforementioned gas and water functions.

[0007] These piping and cap assemblies are available in a variety of configurations, typically involving a water bottle, a cap adapted to a particular bottle, and an array of piping extending through an opening in the cap. The piping is usually arranged to accommodate specific configurations of endoscope parts and valves, and is often not modular or optional.

[0008] Taking these factors into account, the improvements of the present invention may be useful. Summary of the Invention

[0009] A summary of the invention is provided to aid understanding, and those skilled in the art will understand that aspects and features of the invention may be used advantageously alone in some cases, or in combination with other aspects and features of the invention in others. The inclusion or exclusion of elements, components, etc., in this summary is not intended to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter. Therefore, while the following disclosure is presented by way of aspect or embodiment, it should be understood that individual aspects may be claimed alone or in combination with aspects and features of that embodiment or any other embodiment.

[0010] According to one aspect, a piping assembly can be arranged and configured to connect to an endoscope to dispense fluid between the endoscope and a fluid reservoir during endoscopic surgery. The assembly may include a piping manifold, a cap, a gas supply piping, and a lens cleaning piping. The cap may be configured to be removably attached to the fluid reservoir, a portion of the gas supply piping may be configured to be fluidly connected between the manifold and the endoscope, a portion of the lens cleaning supply piping may be configured to be fluidly connected between the manifold and the endoscope, a portion of the gas supply piping may be configured to be fluidly connected between the cap and the manifold, and a portion of the lens cleaning supply piping may be configured to be fluidly connected between the fluid reservoir and the manifold.

[0011] In various embodiments, the assembly may further include a flushing supply line. A portion of the flushing supply line may be configured to be fluidly connected between the endoscope and the manifold, and a portion may be configured to be connected between the manifold and a fluid reservoir, or both. In various embodiments, the portion of the lens cleaning supply line between the fluid reservoir and the manifold and the portion of the flushing supply line may be the same portion of the line. In various embodiments, a flow of fluid from the fluid reservoir through the same portion of the lens cleaning supply line and the flushing supply line to the manifold may be delivered to the endoscope for flushing purposes, lens cleaning purposes, or both. In various embodiments, the same portion of the lens cleaning supply line between the manifold and the fluid reservoir and the flushing supply line may be coaxially arranged within a portion of the gas supply line between the manifold and the cap. In various embodiments, a portion of the lens cleaning supply line between the endoscope and the manifold may be coaxially arranged within a portion of the gas supply line between the endoscope and the manifold. In various embodiments, the assembly may further include a shunt adapter. An adapter at one end is operatively connectable to a coaxially arranged portion of the lens cleaning supply piping and gas supply piping between the endoscope and the manifold. An adapter at the opposite end is configured to dock with the endoscope using a side-by-side connector. In various embodiments, the assembly may also include a replacement gas supply piping. A portion of the replacement gas supply piping may be configured to be fluidly connected between the replacement gas source and the manifold, a portion may be configured to be connected between the manifold and the cap, a portion may be configured to be connected between the manifold and the endoscope, or a combination thereof. In various embodiments, portions of the gas supply piping between the manifold and the endoscope and the replacement gas supply piping may be the same portion of piping, and portions of the gas supply piping between the manifold and the cap and the replacement gas supply piping may be the same portion of piping. In various embodiments, the directional gas flow from the replacement gas source between the manifold and the endoscope may be opposite to the directional gas flow from the endoscope to the manifold. In various embodiments, portions of the flushing supply piping between the manifold and the endoscope, portions of the alternative gas supply piping between the manifold and the alternative gas source, or both, may be selectively connected to the manifold. Each selectively connected portion of the piping may also include a penetrating member disposed at its respective manifold end. In various embodiments, the assembly may also include a flushing supply opening and an alternative gas supply opening disposed on the manifold. Each of the openings may also include a ruptureable seal that, when selectively connected thereto, can be punctured by a corresponding penetrating member of the corresponding portion of the flushing supply piping or the alternative gas supply piping. In various embodiments, portions of the flushing supply piping between the endoscope and the manifold, portions of the lens cleaning supply piping, or portions of the gas supply piping, or combinations thereof, may be connected to a one-way valve.In various embodiments, a portion of the flushing supply piping between the manifold and the endoscope, a portion of the alternative gas supply piping between the manifold and the alternative gas source, or both, may be fixed to the manifold and may include an adjustable fitting coupled thereto. The adjustable fitting can move between a closed position and an open position.

[0012] According to another aspect, a piping system can be arranged and configured to dispense fluids during endoscopic surgery. The system may include an endoscope, a fluid reservoir, and a piping assembly. The piping assembly may include a piping manifold, a gas supply piping, and a lens cleaning piping. A portion of the gas supply piping and a portion of the lens cleaning supply piping may be fluidly connected between the manifold and the endoscope. A portion of the gas supply piping and a portion of the lens cleaning supply piping may be fluidly connected between the fluid reservoir and the manifold.

[0013] In various embodiments, the system may further include a flushing supply piping. A portion of the flushing supply piping may be fluidly connected between the endoscope and the manifold, a portion may be connected between the manifold and a fluid reservoir, or both. In various embodiments, the portion of the lens cleaning supply piping between the fluid reservoir and the manifold and the portion of the flushing supply piping may be the same portion of the piping. In various embodiments, the system may further include a replacement gas supply piping. A portion of the replacement gas supply piping may be fluidly connected between a replacement gas source and the manifold, a portion may be connected between the manifold and the fluid reservoir, a portion may be connected between the manifold and the endoscope, or a combination thereof. In various embodiments, a portion of the flushing supply piping between the manifold and the endoscope, a portion of the replacement gas supply piping between the manifold and the replacement gas source, or both may be selectively connected to the manifold. Each selectively connected portion of the piping may further include a penetration member disposed on a corresponding manifold end of the piping. In various embodiments, the system may further include a flushing supply opening and a replacement gas supply opening disposed on the manifold. Each of the openings may include a ruptureable seal that, when selectively attached thereto, can be punctured by a corresponding penetrating member of the corresponding portion of the flushing supply piping or the supply piping for alternative gas.

[0014] According to another aspect, a modular piping assembly manifold can be arranged and configured for distributing fluid between a fluid reservoir and an endoscope. The manifold may include a portion of gas supply piping and a portion of lens cleaning supply piping that are fluidly connected between the manifold and the endoscope.

[0015] In various embodiments, the manifold may further include a portion of flushing supply piping selectively connected in fluid communication between the endoscope and the manifold, a portion of flushing supply piping selectively connected between the manifold and a fluid reservoir, or both. In various embodiments, portions of the lens cleaning supply piping and flushing supply piping between the fluid reservoir and the manifold may be the same portion of piping. In various embodiments, the manifold may further include a portion of alternative gas supply piping selectively connected in fluid communication between an alternative gas source and the manifold, a portion of alternative gas supply piping selectively connected between the manifold and the fluid reservoir, a portion of alternative gas supply piping selectively connected between the manifold and the endoscope, or a combination thereof. In various embodiments, portions of the flushing supply piping between the manifold and the endoscope, portions of the alternative gas supply piping between the manifold and the alternative gas source, or both may further include penetrating members disposed at their respective manifold ends. In various embodiments, the manifold may further include flushing supply openings and alternative gas supply openings disposed on the manifold. Each of the openings may include a ruptureable seal that, when selectively attached thereto, can be punctured by a corresponding penetrating member of the corresponding portion of the flushing supply piping or the supply piping for alternative gas.

[0016] According to another aspect, a tubing method for dispensing fluids during endoscopic surgery is disclosed. The method may include fluidly connecting a portion of a gas supply tubing and a portion of a lens cleaning supply tubing between an endoscope and a tubing manifold; fluidly connecting a portion of the gas supply tubing and a portion of the lens cleaning supply tubing between the tubing manifold and a fluid reservoir; supplying gas to the fluid reservoir via a portion of the gas supply tubing between the endoscope and the manifold and between the manifold and the fluid reservoir; and supplying lens cleaning fluid from the fluid reservoir via a portion of the lens cleaning supply tubing between the fluid reservoir and the manifold and between the manifold and the endoscope.

[0017] In various embodiments, the method may further include connecting a portion of a flushing supply line fluidly connected between the endoscope and the manifold, a portion of a flushing supply line connecting the manifold and a fluid reservoir, or both. In various embodiments, portions of the lens cleaning supply line and the flushing supply line between the fluid reservoir and the manifold may be the same portion of the same line. In various embodiments, the method may further include supplying a fluid flow from the fluid reservoir to the manifold through the same portion of the lens cleaning supply line and the flushing supply line for flushing purposes, lens cleaning purposes, or both. In various embodiments, the method may further include connecting a portion of a substitute gas supply line fluidly connected between a substitute gas source and the manifold, a portion of a substitute gas supply line connecting the manifold and the fluid reservoir, a portion of a substitute gas supply line connecting the manifold and the endoscope, or combinations thereof.

[0018] According to another aspect, a piping assembly can be arranged and configured to connect to an endoscope to dispense fluid between the endoscope and a fluid reservoir during endoscopic surgery. The assembly may include a fluid manifold and a gas / lens cleaning connector. The fluid manifold may include a coaxial piping port, a gas umbilical port, a lens cleaning umbilical port, and a flushing supply port. The coaxial piping port may be in fluid communication with the gas umbilical port, the lens cleaning umbilical port, and the flushing supply port. The gas / lens cleaning connector may be connected to the fluid manifold and configured to dock with the endoscope. The gas / lens connector may include a lens cleaning connector and a gas connector. The lens cleaning connector may include a first opening in fluid communication with the lens cleaning umbilical port, and the gas connector may include a second opening in fluid communication with the gas umbilical port.

[0019] Some embodiments include a coaxial tube coupled to a coaxial piping port, the coaxial tube comprising an inner tube and an outer tube. In some such embodiments, the lumen of the outer tube is in fluid communication with a gas umbilical port, and the lumen of the inner tube is in fluid communication with a lens cleaning umbilical port and a flush supply port. In various such embodiments, the outer tube extends around the exterior of the fluid manifold, and the inner tube extends into the interior of the fluid manifold. In many embodiments, the gas / lens cleaning connector comprises a polymer and the fluid manifold comprises metal. In several embodiments, the gas / lens cleaning connector includes an opening around the flush supply port. In some embodiments, the fluid manifold includes an alternative gas supply port in fluid communication with the gas umbilical port and the coaxial piping port.

[0020] According to another aspect, a piping assembly can be arranged and configured to be coupled to an endoscope to dispense fluid between the endoscope and a fluid reservoir during endoscopic surgery. The assembly may include a manifold, a first coaxial tube, and a second coaxial tube. The manifold may include a first coaxial piping port, a second coaxial piping port, a flushing supply port, and a replacement gas supply port. The first coaxial tube may be coupled to the first coaxial piping port and includes a first inner tube and a first outer tube. The second coaxial tube may be coupled to the second coaxial piping port and includes a second inner tube and a second outer tube. The first inner tube may be in fluid communication with the flushing supply port and the second inner tube, and the first outer tube may be in fluid communication with the replacement gas supply port and the second outer tube.

[0021] In some embodiments, a first outer tube surrounds a first coaxial piping port and a second outer tube surrounds a second coaxial piping port. In various embodiments, the first coaxial piping port includes a first liquid port and a first gas port, and the second coaxial piping port includes a second liquid port and a second gas port. In various such embodiments, one or more of the first gas port and the second gas port include a crescent-shaped opening. In several such embodiments, a first inner tube extends into the first liquid port, and a second inner tube extends into the second liquid port. In another such embodiment, the first outer tube may surround the first liquid port and the first gas port, and the second outer tube may surround the second liquid port and the second gas port. In many embodiments, the flushing supply port extends from the manifold at an obtuse angle relative to the second coaxial port.

[0022] These and other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following detailed description, in which the scope of the claimed invention is set forth in the appended claims. Attached Figure Description

[0023] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate various exemplary embodiments and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

[0024] Figure 1 The components of an endoscope are shown;

[0025] Figure 2 The components of an endoscope system for air and lens cleaning fluid delivery are shown, including an endoscope, a light source, a light source connector, a water reservoir, and piping assemblies.

[0026] Figure 3A An endoscope system comprising an endoscope, a light source, a water reservoir, and piping assemblies is shown for the delivery of mixing air, lens cleaning, and rinsing fluids, wherein the system is activated to deliver air to the atmosphere;

[0027] Figure 3B It shows Figure 3AAn endoscopic system in which the system is activated to deliver air to the patient through the patient end of the endoscope;

[0028] Figure 3C It shows Figure 3A An endoscopic system in which the system is activated to deliver lens cleaning fluid through the patient end of the endoscope;

[0029] Figure 3D It shows Figure 3A An endoscopic system in which the system is activated to deliver flushing fluid through the patient end of the endoscope;

[0030] Figure 4 An endoscope system comprising an endoscope, a light source, a water reservoir, and piping assemblies is shown for mixed air / lens cleaning, rinsing, and gaseous fluid delivery.

[0031] Figure 5A An endoscope system comprising an endoscope, a light source, a fluid reservoir, and a piping assembly is shown according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 5B A fitting with a piping manifold, a reservoir cap, and piping according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 5A A cross-sectional view of a piping assembly used with an endoscope system, in which a flow path for the gas supply is initiated to deliver lens cleaning and / or flushing fluid through the patient end of the endoscope.

[0033] Figure 5C An embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 5B Cross-sectional view of the piping assembly, in which an alternative gas supply flow is initiated to deliver lens cleaning and / or flushing fluid through the patient end of the endoscope;

[0034] Figure 6A A suitable fitting with a manifold, reservoir cap, and piping according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 5A A cross-sectional view of a piping assembly used with an endoscope system, in which a flow path for the gas supply is initiated to deliver lens cleaning and / or flushing fluid through the patient end of the endoscope.

[0035] Figure 6B An embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 6A A cross-sectional view of the piping assembly in which the flow path of the gas supply is initiated to deliver lens cleaning and / or flushing fluid through the patient end of the endoscope;

[0036] Figures 7A to 7B A perspective view and a cross-sectional view of a coaxial split connector as an adapter for a piping assembly, according to an embodiment of the present invention, are shown respectively.

[0037] Figure 8 A perspective view of a shut-off valve adapter for a piping assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown; and

[0038] Figure 9 A cross-sectional view of a check valve as an accessory for a piping assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0039] Figures 10A to 10F Various aspects of an endoscope system including a manifold assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention are shown.

[0040] Figures 11A to 11C Various aspects of an endoscope system including a shunt manifold are shown according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 12 A memory in a first state and a second state according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0042] The invention will now be described with reference to exemplary medical systems that can be used in endoscopic medical procedures. However, it should be noted that reference to this particular procedure is provided for convenience only and is not intended to limit the invention. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the deep concepts of the disclosed apparatus and related methods of use can be applied to any suitable procedure, medical procedure, or other aspect. The invention can be understood with reference to the following description and accompanying drawings, wherein like elements are indicated by like reference numerals.

[0043] Wherever possible, the same or similar reference numerals will be used in all accompanying drawings to refer to the same or similar parts. The term "distal" refers to the part furthest from the user when the device is inserted into the patient's body. Conversely, the term "proximal" refers to the part closest to the user when the device is placed into the patient's body. As used herein, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variation thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive contents such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not necessarily include only those elements, but may include other elements not expressly listed or not inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. The term "exemplary" is used in the sense of "example" rather than "exemplary." Furthermore, as used herein, the terms "about," "approximately," and "substantially" indicate a numerical range within + / - 10% of the said or implied value. Additionally, terms indicating the geometry of a component / surface refer to a precise and approximate shape.

[0044] Although embodiments of the invention are described specifically with reference to piping assemblies for dispensing liquids from reservoirs (e.g., containers, bottles, etc.) and dispensing one or more gases from various sources, it should be understood that such embodiments can also be used to supply liquids and / or gases to and / or from an endoscope for a variety of different purposes, including, for example, facilitating the blowing of a patient during endoscopic procedures, performing lens cleaning and / or rinsing the working end of the endoscope within the patient's body to aid in rinsing / washing body cavities and / or removing debris from the endoscope's field of view within body cavities. The use of "lens cleaning" refers to the purpose of liquid (e.g., water) flowing at a higher flow rate and pressure than rinsing to a nozzle or other opening at the distal end of the endoscope for the purpose of cleaning or otherwise clearing or rinsing the lens covering the imaging or light source at the distal end of the endoscope.

[0045] Although the present invention includes a description of bottles and tubing assemblies (e.g., piping assemblies) suitable for use with endoscopic systems to supply fluids and / or gases to endoscopes, the devices, systems, and methods described herein can also be implemented in other medical systems requiring fluid and / or gas delivery, as well as for a variety of other purposes.

[0046] It should be noted that the embodiments described by references to "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "other embodiments," etc., in the specification may include specific features, structures, or characteristics, but each embodiment may not necessarily include that specific feature, structure, or characteristic. Furthermore, such phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Moreover, when a specific feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, whether explicitly described or not, implementation of such a feature, structure, or characteristic in conjunction with other embodiments is within the knowledge of those skilled in the art, unless the contrary is explicitly stated. That is, even if not explicitly shown in a specific combination, the various individual elements described below are still considered to be combinable or arranged together to form other additional embodiments or to supplement and / or enrich the described embodiments, as will be understood by those skilled in the art.

[0047] Exemplary features that may be used to implement embodiments of the present invention (e.g., configuration and materials for fluid reservoirs, valves, fittings, etc.) include, but are not limited to, those described in U.S. Patent Application No. 8150.0744, entitled “Integrated Container and Tubing for Fluid Delivery with Endoscope”, filed on the same date thereon, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0048] refer to Figures 1 to 2The document describes an exemplary endoscope 100 and system 200, which may include an elongated shaft 100a insertable into a patient's body. A light source 205 supplies illumination light to a distal portion 100b of the endoscope 100, which may house an imager (e.g., a CCD or CMOS imager) (not shown). The light source 205 (e.g., a lamp) is housed in a video processing unit 210, which processes signals input from the imager and outputs the processed video signal to a video monitor (not shown) for viewing. The video processing unit 210 also acts as a component of an air / water supply loop by housing a pressure pump 215, such as an air supply pump, within the unit.

[0049] The endoscope axis 100a may include a distal tip 100c disposed at a distal portion 100b of the axis 100a, and a flexible bend 105 proximal to the distal tip 100c. The flexible bend 105 may include a hinge joint (not shown) to assist in directional turning of the distal tip 100c. On the end face 100d of the distal tip of the endoscope 100 is a gas / lens cleaning nozzle 220 for supplying gas to irrigate the patient's interior in the treatment area and for supplying water to clean the lens covering the imager. A flushing opening 225 in the end face 100d supplies flushing fluid to the patient's treatment area. The end face 100d of the distal tip 100c may also include an illumination window (not shown) for transmitting illumination light to the treatment area and an opening 230 leading to a working channel 235 extending along the axis 100a for passing tools to the treatment area. The working channel 235 extends along axis 100a to the proximal channel opening 110 located distal to the operating handle 115 of the endoscope 100. The channel opening 110 can be sealed using a biopsy valve 120 to prevent unwanted fluid leakage.

[0050] The operating handle 115 may be provided with a knob 125 for providing remote four-way steering of the distal tip via a line connected to a hinge joint in the flexible portion 105 (e.g., one knob controls up-and-down steering, and another knob controls left-and-right steering). A plurality of video switches 130 for remotely operating the video processing unit 210 may be arranged on the proximal side of the handle 115. Furthermore, the handle is provided with a dual-valve well 135, which receives a gas / lens cleaning valve 140 for operating the blow-in gas and lens water supply. Gas supply line 240a and lens cleaning (e.g., liquid) supply line 245a travel along axis 100a from the gas / water valve 140 distally and converge at the distal tip 100c proximal to the gas / cleaning nozzle 220. Figure 2Another valve well 135 receives a suction valve 145 for operating the suction procedure. A suction supply line 250a extends distally from the suction valve 145 along axis 100a to a junction in fluid communication with the working passage 235 of the endoscope 100.

[0051] The operating handle 115 is electrically and fluidly connected to the video processing unit 210 via a flexible umbilical tube 260 extending therebetween and a connector portion 265. The flexible umbilical tube 260 has a gas (e.g., air or CO2) supply line 240b, a lens cleaning supply line 245b, a suction supply line 250b, a flushing supply line 255b, a light guide (not shown), and an electrical signal cable. The connector portion 265 connects a light source 205 in the video processing unit to the light guide when inserted into the video processing unit 210. The light guide travels along the length of the umbilical tube 260 and the endoscope axis 100a to transmit light to the distal tip 100c of the endoscope 100. The connector portion 265 also connects an air pump 215 to the gas supply line 240b in the umbilical tube 260 when inserted into the video processing unit 210.

[0052] A fluid reservoir 270 (e.g., a water bottle) is fluidly connected to the endoscope 100 via a connector portion 265 and an umbilical tube 260. A portion of a gas supply line 240c extends from one end of an air gap 275 located between the top 280 (e.g., a bottle cap) of the reservoir 270 and the remaining water 285 in the reservoir, through to a removable gas / lens cleaning connector 290 on the outside of the connector portion 265. A gas supply line 240b from the umbilical tube 260 branches in the connector portion 265 to communicate fluidly with the gas supply line 240c at the removable gas / lens cleaning connector 290 and with the air pump 215. A portion of a lens cleaning line 245c, located at the bottom of the reservoir 270, extends through the top 280 of the reservoir to the same removable connector 290 as the gas supply line 240c on the connector portion 265. In other embodiments, the connectors may be separate and / or detachable from each other. Connector portion 265 also includes a detachable flushing connection 293 for a flushing supply piping (not shown) traveling from a flushing fluid source (not shown) to a flushing supply line 255b in the umbilicus 260. In some embodiments, flushing water is supplied via a pump (e.g., a peristaltic pump) from a water source (not shown) independent of the water reservoir 270. In other embodiments, the flushing supply piping and lens cleaning piping 245c may obtain water from the same reservoir. Connector portion 265 may also include a detachable suction connection 291 for fluidly connecting a vacuum source (e.g., hospital house suction) (not shown) to the suction supply lines 250b and 250a of the umbilicus 260 and endoscope 100.

[0053] Gas supply line 240b and lens cleaning supply line 245b are fluidly connected to the valve well 135 of the gas / water valve 140 and are configured such that the operation control of the gas / water valve in the well supplies gas or lens cleaning to the distal tip 100c of the endoscope 100. Suction supply line 250b is fluidly connected to the valve well 135 for the suction valve 145 and is configured such that the operation control of the suction valve in the well is applied to the suction of the working channel 235 of the endoscope 100.

[0054] refer to Figure 2 This explains the exemplary operation of an endoscope system 200, including an endoscope, such as the endoscope 100 described above. Air from the air pump 215 in the video processing unit 210 flows through the connection portion 265 and branches through the gas supply line 240b in the umbilical tube 260 to the air / water valve 140 on the operating handle 115, and reaches the water reservoir 270 via the gas supply piping 240c through the connector 290 on the connector portion 265. When the air / water valve 140 is in the neutral position, air is allowed to flow from the valve to the atmosphere if the user's finger is not on the valve. In the first position, the user's finger is used to block the vent to the atmosphere. Gas is allowed to flow down the gas supply line 240a from the valve 140 and out of the distal tip 100c of the endoscope 100 for, for example, blowing into the patient's treatment area. When the air / water valve 140 is pressed down to the second position, it blocks the gas from leaving the valve, thereby allowing the pressure of the air passing through the air pump 215 to rise in the water reservoir 270. Pressure is applied to the water source, causing water to exit from the lens cleaning hose 245c, through the connector portion 265, the umbilical tube 265, through the air / water valve 140, and down the lens cleaning supply line 245a, where it converges with the gas supply line 240a before exiting the distal tip 100c of the endoscope 100 via the gas / lens cleaning nozzle 220. The air pump pressure can be calibrated to provide lens cleaning water at a relatively low flow rate compared to the rinsing water supply.

[0055] The flow rate of lens cleaning is determined by the gas pressure in the water reservoir 270. As the gas pressure in the water reservoir 270 begins to decrease, an air pump 215 replaces the lost air supply in the reservoir 270 to maintain a substantially constant pressure, which in turn provides a substantially constant lens cleaning flow rate. In some embodiments, a filter (not shown) may be placed in the path of the gas supply pipe 240c to filter out unwanted contaminants or particles from entering the water reservoir 270. In some embodiments, an outflow check valve or other one-way valve configuration (not shown) may be placed in the path of the lens cleaning supply pipe to help prevent water from flowing back into the reservoir 270 after passing through the valve.

[0056] Rinsing water typically requires a relatively high flow rate compared to lens cleaning because its primary purpose is to remove debris obstructing the user's view in the treatment area within the patient's body. Rinsing is typically achieved using a pump (e.g., a peristaltic pump), as described. In embodiments with a separate water source for rinsing, piping positioned at the bottom of the water source passes through the top of the water source and through the head of the pump on the upstream side. Downstream of the pump, piping 255c connects via a rinsing connector 293 on connector portion 265 to the rinsing supply line 255b in the umbilicus 260 and the rinsing supply line 255a of the endoscope 100. When rinsing water is needed, fluid is pumped from the water source by operating the rinsing pump, such as by pressing a foot switch (not shown), and flows through the rinsing connector 293, through the rinsing supply line 255b in the umbilicus, and down the rinsing supply line in the axis 100a of the endoscope to the distal tip 100c. To balance the pressure in the water source as water is pumped out to flush the supply line, a vent (not shown) may be included in the top 280 of the water reservoir 270. The vent allows atmospheric air into the water source, preventing the buildup of negative pressure in the water source, which could create a vacuum that draws unwanted substances from the patient's body, causing them to move towards the water source through the endoscope. In some embodiments, a configuration similar to an outflow check valve or other one-way valve (not shown) similar to that of the lens cleaning line 245c may be placed in the path of the flushing supply line to help prevent water from flowing back into the reservoir after passing through the valve.

[0057] Figures 3A to 3D This is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of an embodiment of the mixing system 300, wherein supply piping for rinsing and lens cleaning is connected to and drawn from a single water reservoir. The mixing system 300 includes a single water reservoir 305, a cover 310 for the reservoir, a gas supply piping 240c, a lens cleaning supply piping 245c, a rinsing pump 315 with a foot switch 318, an upstream rinsing piping 320, and a downstream rinsing supply piping 255c. The cover 310 can be configured to be attached to the water reservoir 305 in a sealing manner by a typical threaded arrangement. The cover may include a gasket for sealing the cover 310 to the reservoir 305. The gasket may be an O-ring, flange, collar, etc., and can be formed from any suitable material. The cover 310 has a plurality of through holes (325a, 325b, 325c) to receive the gas supply piping 240c, the lens cleaning supply piping 245c, and the upstream rinsing supply piping 320, respectively. Figures 3A to 3D The system depicted includes separate piping for gas supply, lens cleaning, and rinsing.

[0058] In other embodiments, the gas supply piping 240c and the lens cleaning piping 245c may be combined in a coaxial arrangement. For example, the gas supply piping 240c may define a cavity with a diameter large enough to include the smaller diameter lens cleaning piping coaxially received within the gas supply piping, and to supply air to an annular space surrounding the lens cleaning piping to pressurize the water reservoir (see, for example, as in...). Figures 7A to 7B The gas and lens cleaning supply piping 240c, 245c is configured in accessory 700. The lens cleaning supply piping can be configured to exit the cavity defined by the coaxial gas supply piping in any suitable sealing manner, such as, for example, through a hole, fitting, collar, etc., to reach the endoscope connector portion (e.g., Figure 2 The detachable gas / lens cleaning connector has been changed from a coaxial arrangement to a side-by-side arrangement. Examples of suitable fittings for this conversion are shown in... Figures 7A to 7B It is described as accessory 700.

[0059] In various embodiments, different configurations of valves (not shown) can be incorporated into the piping of systems 200, 300. For example, an inflow check valve can be placed in the path of the gas supply piping 240c to help prevent backflow into the air pump 215. In this way, the pressure formed in the water reservoirs 270, 305 creates a pressure difference between the water source and the gas supply piping 240c, thereby helping to maintain positive pressure in the water source, even when a large amount of water can be removed from the water source during the flushing function. This arrangement compensates for any time lag in the delivery of air from the air pump 215 to the water reservoirs 270, 305, which could otherwise result in a negative pressure vacuum in the water reservoirs. Similarly, an outflow check valve, such as one with... Figure 9 The one-way valve 900 of the inlet / outlet 905a, 905b and valve insert 910 can be incorporated into the lens cleaning supply line 240c, the upstream flushing supply line 320 and / or the downstream flushing supply line 225c to help prevent water backflow from either or both of the lens cleaning and flushing lines, as described, in the event of negative pressure.

[0060] More generally, in many embodiments, a check valve can refer to any type of configuration that causes fluid to flow passively in only one direction. For example, a check valve can include or refer to one or more of the following: ball check valve, diaphragm check valve, swing check valve, swashplate check valve, baffle valve, shut-off check valve, lift check valve, straight-through check valve, duckbill valve, pneumatic check valve, reed valve, and flow check valve. Therefore, the check valve as used herein is intended to be separate from and distinct from active valves (e.g., shut-off plug valves, solenoid valves, peristaltic pumps) that operate in a binary manner as on / off valves or switches to allow flow to be started or stopped.

[0061] exist Figures 3A to 3D During system operation, the water flow for rinsing can be achieved by operating the rinsing pump 315. The water flow for lens cleaning can be achieved by pressing the air / water valve 140 on the operating handle 115 of the endoscope 100. These functions can be performed independently or simultaneously. When lens cleaning and rinsing are operated simultaneously, the pressure in the system can be controlled to maintain the lens cleaning supply piping 240c substantially at the pressure required to achieve lens cleaning at a lower flow rate, while compensating for the pressure drop in the water reservoirs 270 and 305 due to the supply of high-flow-rate rinsing, when the pressure in the water reservoir is reduced by using the lens cleaning function, the rinsing function, or both functions simultaneously, the reduced pressure can be compensated by the air pump 215 via the air supply piping 240c.

[0062] It has been highlighted Figures 3A to 3D The schematic arrangement illustrates the different flow paths of a mixing system 300, which has supply piping connected to and from a single water reservoir 305 for rinsing 320 and lens cleaning 240c. (See diagram for reference.) Figure 3A As shown, endoscope 100 is in a neutral state with air / water valve 140 in the open position. In this neutral state, neither gas nor lens cleaning is supplied to the distal tip of the endoscope. Instead, gas (pressure) is supplied along path A from pressurized air pump 215 and discharged to the atmosphere via connector portion 265 through gas supply line 240b in umbilical tube 260 and through air / water valve. Because the system is open at the vent in air / water valve 140, there is no buildup to pressurize water reservoir 305, and therefore no water is pushed across lens cleaning supply line 240c.

[0063] like Figure 3B As shown, the endoscope 100 is in a gas delivery state, with the gas / water valve 140 in the open position. When gas is needed at the distal tip 100c, for example, to clean the distal tip end face 100d or to blow into the patient's body in the treatment area, the user closes the vent in the gas / water valve 140 with their thumb, finger, etc. (first position). At this stage, gas (pressure) is delivered from the air pump 215 along path B and flows through the gas supply line 240b in the umbilicus 260 via the connector portion 265. The gas continues through the gas / water valve 140 to the gas supply line 240a in the endoscope shaft 100a and exits at the gas / lens cleaning nozzle 220 at the distal tip 100c. Because the system is open at the gas / lens water nozzle 220, there is no buildup to pressurize the water reservoir, and therefore no water is pushed through the lens cleaning supply line 240c.

[0064] like Figure 3CAs shown, the endoscope 100 is in the lens cleaning delivery state, with the air / water valve 140 in the second position. When gas is needed at the distal tip 100c, for example, to clean the end face 100d of the distal tip 100c, the user, keeping the vent in the air / water valve closed, presses the valve 140 down to the furthest point in its valve well 135. The second position blocks the gas supply to the atmosphere and the gas supply line 240a in the endoscope, and opens the air / water valve 140 to allow lens cleaning water to pass through the lens cleaning supply line 245a in the endoscope shaft 100a and exit at the gas / lens cleaning nozzle 220 at the distal tip 100c. In this state, gas (pressure) is delivered from the air pump 215 along path C, through the branch in the connector portion 265, and exits the gas supply piping 240c to the water reservoir 305. Gas (pressure) pressurizes the surface of the remaining water 285 in reservoir 305 and pushes the water upward along the lens cleaning supply line 245c to connector portion 265. The pressurized lens cleaning water is further propelled through the lens cleaning supply line 245b in umbilical tube 260 and through gas / water valve 140. Because system 300 is closed, gas pressure is allowed to build up and maintain a calibrated pressure level in water reservoir 305, rather than being released to the atmosphere or delivered to the patient. This pressure, along with the endoscope supply and supply lines and external piping, is converted into a range of lens cleaning flow rates.

[0065] like Figure 3D As shown, the endoscope 100 is in a flushing delivery state. This can be performed at the same or different times as the gas and / or lens cleaning delivery. When flushing is required at the distal tip 100c, for example, if visibility in the treatment area is poor or obstructed by debris, the user activates the flushing pump 315 (e.g., by pressing the foot switch 318) to deliver water along path D. With pump 315 activated, water is drawn through the upstream flushing supply line 320 and pumped along the downstream flushing supply line 255c to connector portion 265. The flushing pump head pushes the flushing water further through the flushing supply line 255b in the umbilicus 260, through the flushing supply line 255a in the endoscope shaft 100a, and exits at the flushing opening 225 at the distal tip 100c. The flushing pump pressure, along with the endoscope flushing supply and supply lines, can be calibrated to deliver a range of flushing fluid flow rates.

[0066] Figure 4This is a schematic diagram illustrating another embodiment of a hybrid system 400, which includes a video processing unit 210, a connector portion 265, a peristaltic flushing pump 315, a water reservoir 405 and a top 407, a coaxial gas and lens cleaning supply piping 410, upstream and downstream flushing supply piping 320, 255c, and a substitute gas supply piping 415 (e.g., CO2). A portion of the substitute gas supply piping 415 extends from one end of an air gap 275 located between the top 407 of the water reservoir 405 and the remaining water 285 in the reservoir, through a further opening 420 in the top of the reservoir to a detachable connection 425 for a substitute gas supply source (e.g., a CO2 hospital gas source). When a substitute gas supply, such as CO2, is required, the air pump 215 on the video processing unit 210 can be shut off, and CO2 gas, instead of air, flows to the water reservoir 405, thereby pressurizing the surface of the water. In a neutral state, CO2 gas flows upwards along the gas supply pipe 240c back to the connector portion 265, upwards along the gas supply line 240b, and is discharged to the atmosphere through the gas / water valve 140. In the first position, the user closes the vent in the gas / water valve 140, and CO2 gas flows through the gas / water valve to the gas supply line 240a in the endoscope shaft 100a and exits at the gas / lens cleaning nozzle 220 at the distal tip 100c. In the second position, the user presses the valve 140 down to the bottom of the valve well 135, thereby keeping the vent in the gas / water valve closed. The second position blocks the supply of CO2 gas to the atmosphere and the gas supply line 240a in the endoscope 100, and opens the gas / water valve 140 to allow lens cleaning water to flow through to the lens cleaning supply line 245a in the endoscope shaft 100a and exit at the gas / lens cleaning nozzle 220 at the distal tip 100c. The gas (pressure) in the reservoir 405 is maintained by gas supply via a substitute gas (e.g., CO2) supply pipe 415. The flushing function can be configured in accordance with the above. Figure 3D The described operation is implemented in a similar manner.

[0067] Regarding the above reference Figures 1 to 4Several challenges may exist with the systems under discussion. For example, in the case of a non-mixed system where fluid requirements are not combined in a single fluid source, if a user wants to provide lens cleaning and rinsing during an endoscopy, one bottle might be needed to provide the lens cleaning fluid, and a separate bottle for the rinsing fluid. This may not be the most efficient in terms of the cost and space requirements of having to fill / refill multiple bottles, using multiple bottles instead of a single fluid reservoir, etc. Conversely, when considering a mixed system with a single fluid reservoir, combining lens cleaning and rinsing functions in a single bottle could result in up to four openings on the cap, and up to four sets of piping through the openings. For example, rinsing and lens cleaning could have separate piping, as well as a gas supply for pressurizing the reservoir so that a separate piping could be used to deliver the lens cleaning flow. Typically, the gas supply is air for the endoscopy system delivered from an air pump included in the video processing unit. If an alternative gas supply, such as CO2, is required, this gas source is typically found in the endoscopy kit (“indoor gas”), and another set of piping is required. In some cases, the endoscope's lens cleaning and gas supply can be arranged coaxially with each other, which reduces the required cap opening to three, but still requires separate tubing (e.g., Figure 4 Each of the openings needs to be sealed so that the reservoir can maintain pressure, and piping systems with this arrangement typically have various pipes already screwed through the cap. Therefore, for users who may want to use a piping assembly solely for lens cleaning, the assembly may also include openings and piping for rinsing, as well as an unused alternative gas supply extending outside the bottle. This piping must be clamped or otherwise closed to maintain pressure. Unused piping can also result in handling variations, resource costs, etc. Therefore, the advantages of a single fluid reservoir that also addresses the challenges of caps with multiple openings and multiple piping sections passing through the cap may also be beneficial in terms of cost-effectiveness, setup, handling, and flexibility.

[0068] Addressing these considerations and in accordance with the general principles of the invention, an improved piping assembly is described, comprising an endoscope system that incorporates a piping assembly and method for distributing fluid between an endoscope and a fluid reservoir, utilizing embodiments of the piping assembly. Generally, a piping assembly according to embodiments of the invention may include a piping manifold in fluid communication with a fluid source or reservoir, such as a water reservoir, bottle, container, etc. (such terms are used interchangeably and are not intended to limit or otherwise convey different meanings or intentions), and one or more sources of gas via portions, groups of pipes, or assemblies of tubing (such terms are used interchangeably and are not intended to limit or otherwise convey different meanings or intentions). The manifold can be arranged and configured to be in fluid communication between the endoscope and the fluid reservoir and separate from the fluid reservoir, thereby allowing, among other advantages, different sections of piping for the various functions discussed above (e.g., lens cleaning, rinsing, gas supply, and alternative gas supply) to be managed efficiently with reduced openings and / or piping sections that must be accommodated by a cap on the reservoir.

[0069] In embodiments, in addition to the manifold, piping assemblies in various configurations may include a portion of gas supply piping configured to be fluidly connected between the manifold and the endoscope, a portion of lens cleaning supply piping configured to be fluidly connected between the manifold and the endoscope, a cap configured to be removably attached to a fluid reservoir, a portion of gas supply piping configured to be fluidly connected between the cap and the manifold, and a portion of lens cleaning (e.g., liquid) supply piping configured to be fluidly connected between the fluid reservoir and the manifold. In some cases, portions of flushing (e.g., liquid) piping and alternative gas supply piping may also be included, optionally and / or removably connected to the manifold, rather than components such as those required in customizable or modular piping assemblies or systems. Such customizable or modular assemblies or systems may have the advantage of allowing users to selectively choose which type and / or quantity of piping and / or fittings / filters / valve to use in a given procedure based on various surgical requirements or needs. Compared to existing systems that are typically configured with every type of tubing, this flexibility and control allows for efficiencies such as reduced price, savings in material and manufacturing costs, improved surgical setup and overall time, single-use (e.g., single-use), minimizing waste of unused tubing, and expanded compatibility across various endoscopic systems, etc., if all paths are required or desired. Therefore, embodiments with kits that may include manifolds, whose tubing portions may optionally be connected as needed by the user to manage flushing and alternative gas supplies, accessories (e.g., valves, filters, adapters) for use with the tubing portions, and endoscopic procedures and systems for implementing such tubing assemblies are contemplated within the scope of this invention.

[0070] Furthermore, in many embodiments formed according to the principles of the invention, aspects of the invention may include tubing systems and / or components that produce more efficient and / or environmentally friendly endoscope systems. In several embodiments, tubing systems and / or components may reduce waste, such as by promoting reusability. In some embodiments, tubing systems and / or components may reduce associated logistics and storage costs. For example, the reservoir may be collapsible to reduce the volume required to store or package the tubing systems and / or components. In various embodiments, tubing systems and / or components may reduce manufacturing complexity. For example, integrally forming one or more components may reduce assembly steps. In various embodiments, components of the tubing systems and / or components may include features for reducing cleaning and / or handling time, such as between procedures. For example, coaxial tubing may reduce the amount of surface area that must be cleaned.

[0071] refer to Figure 5AA piping system 500 according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The system includes a piping assembly 501 arranged and configured to dispense fluid during endoscopic procedures. Systems other than the piping assembly include those similar to those described above. Figures 1 to 4 The components of the endoscope and endoscope system are described; however, all features may not be described or shown herein if they are not relevant to the system's fluid circuitry. The endoscope is shown having a shaft, a handle portion, an umbilical tube 260, a connector portion 265, a video processing unit 210, and a fluid reservoir 570. The fluid reservoir is depicted as partially filled with fluid, resulting in residual fluid 585 at a gap 575 between the bottom and top of the reservoir 570, which may be filled with gas to pressurize the reservoir when it is sealed. The video processing unit 210 may include a light source 205 and a gas (e.g., air) pump 215. A portion of piping may be provided from the video processing unit 201 and the connector portion 265 through the umbilical tube 260 to the endoscope handle portion to deliver fluid to the endoscope for use during patient surgery.

[0072] Fluid for inflating the patient with gas (e.g., air from pump 215, CO2 from an alternative gas supply (not shown)) can be supplied via gas supply lines 240a and 240b, which are fluidly connected to the gas / water valve 140 and extend downstream and upstream therefrom, respectively. The gas travels along the umbilicus 260 through gas supply line 240b, through valve 140, and exits gas supply line 240a, thus extending along the axis of the endoscope through gas / lens cleaning nozzle 220. Fluid for cleaning the imaging lens distal to the patient from reservoir 570, such as water, can be supplied via lens cleaning supply lines 245a and 245b, which are fluidly connected to the gas / water valve and extend downstream and upstream therefrom, respectively. Lens cleaning travels along the umbilicus 260 through lens cleaning supply line 245b, through valve 140, and exits lens cleaning supply line 245a, thus extending along the axis of the endoscope through gas / lens cleaning nozzle 220. The gas / water valve 140 can be actuated by the user to switch between the delivery of a gas supply and the delivery of a lens cleaning supply, for example, by pressing down on and closing the valve 140 respectively. The fluid, such as liquid or water, provided as a flushing supply from the reservoir 570, can be supplied in a larger volume and / or flow rate to flush or remove debris in front of the endoscope, compared to the lens cleaning supply. The flushing fluid can be provided via flushing supply lines 255a and 255b, which are in fluid communication and extend along the umbilicus 260. The flushing fluid supply exits the endoscope along flushing supply line 255a, thus extending along the axis of the endoscope and through flushing opening 225. A flushing (e.g., peristaltic) pump 315, actuated by a foot switch 318, can be placed in the line to pump flushing fluid from the reservoir 570 and deliver it through the endoscope to the patient.

[0073] The piping assembly 501, which is part of the endoscope system 500, may be included in... Figure 5A The components are indicated within the dashed boundary. Fluid reservoir 570 is shown having a reservoir top 580, which can be removably attached to the remaining bottom portion of reservoir 570 (e.g., in a bottle and screw cap arrangement). The top 580 can be removably attached to replenish fluid in the reservoir when it is depleted. Alternatively, the bottom and top 580 of the reservoir can be sealed to each other, or they can be manufactured as a single integral unit (e.g., similar to a sealed, one-piece rigid or semi-rigid bottle or a softer IV bag or pouch). In such embodiments, a filling port can be included on another portion of the reservoir for replenishing fluid.

[0074] The reservoir top 580 can be connected in fluid communication with the piping manifold 502 via a portion of a shared gas supply / alternate gas supply piping 557. The same portion of the shared piping 557 extends from an opening in the manifold 502 through a single reservoir opening 548 in the reservoir top 580 (see...). Figure 5B The reservoir top 580 may also be fluidly connected to the piping manifold 502 via a portion of a shared lens cleaning supply / rinse supply piping 547. The same portion of the shared piping 547 extends from the opening in the manifold 502 through a single reservoir opening 548 in the top 580, terminating in the remaining fluid 585 located at or substantially at the bottom of the reservoir 570. In the arrangement shown in Figure 5, a portion of the shared lens cleaning and rinsing supply piping 547 is coaxially arranged within the shared gas supply / alternative gas supply piping 557, leaving an annular gap between the piping portions. This allows gas supply from the gas pump 215 or the alternative gas source to flow through the portion of piping 557, around the portion of piping 547, and into the gap 575, thereby pressurizing the remaining fluid 585 in the reservoir 570 and forcing the fluid upward through the portion of the shared lens cleaning / rinsing supply piping 547 to the manifold 502. Although shown in a coaxial arrangement, the shared portion of the gas / alternative gas supply piping 557 may extend through an opening in the top 580 to an opening in the manifold 502, while the shared portion of the lens cleaning / rinsing supply piping 547 extends through a separate opening in the top 580 to a separate opening in the manifold 502.

[0075] The piping assembly 501 may also include a portion of a substitute gas supply piping 515 extending from a substitute gas source (not shown) to an opening in the piping manifold 502. The substitute gas supply piping 515 may include a fitting 525 at the gas source at that portion of the piping 515. The fitting may be one or more of valves, adapters, filters, etc., for one or more of a variety of purposes, such as filtering particles from a fluid, shutting off flow through the piping, preventing flow through the piping in a particular direction, adapting to a source fitting, etc., as described below with respect to Figures 7 to 8. Figure 9 Further description.

[0076] A portion of the gas supply piping 540c and a portion of the lens cleaning supply piping 545c can extend from the opening of the manifold 502 and can be fluidly connected to the endoscope at the gas / lens cleaning connector 290 on the connector portion 265 of the umbilicus 260. Within the connector portion 265, a portion of the gas supply piping 540c is fluidly connected to the air pump 215 and the gas supply line 240b, and a portion of the lens cleaning supply piping 545c is fluidly connected to the lens cleaning supply line 245b. A portion of the gas supply piping 540c is fluidly connected via the piping manifold 502 to a portion of the shared gas supply / alternative gas supply piping 557. Similarly, a portion of the lens cleaning supply piping 545c is fluidly connected via the piping manifold 502 to the shared lens cleaning / rinsing supply piping 547.

[0077] A portion of the upstream flush supply line 520, extending from the opening of manifold 502, is in fluid communication with a portion of the downstream flush supply line 555c. The portion of flush supply line 520 is upstream of the inlet of pump 315 and is in fluid communication with a portion of the shared lens cleaning supply and flush supply line 547 via manifold 502. A portion of flush supply line 555c is downstream of the outlet of pump 315 and is in fluid communication with the endoscope at the flush connection 293 on the connector portion 265 of umbilical 260. Within connector portion 265, the portion of flush supply line 555c is in fluid communication with flush supply line 255b.

[0078] refer to Figures 5B to 5C A more detailed description Figure 5A A cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the piping assembly 501 of system 500. Piping manifold 502, reservoir cap 580, and various portions of the supply piping can be fluidly connected between a substitute gas source (not shown) and manifold 502, between manifold 502 and fluid reservoir 570, and between manifold 502 and endoscope video processing unit 210. Manifold 502 may have multiple openings 502a, 502b, 502c, 502d, 502e, 502f, arranged and configured to receive portions of gas supply piping 540c, upstream flushing supply piping 520, lens cleaning supply piping 545c, and substitute gas supply piping 515, as well as portions of a common lens cleaning / flushing supply piping 547 and portions of the common lens cleaning / flushing supply piping 547.

[0079] In one embodiment, the reservoir top 580 may be a threaded cap removably attached to the remainder of the reservoir 570. The cap may be arranged and configured to be compatible with a single type of reservoir (e.g., a bottle type) or with different types of reservoirs (e.g., a universal thread for accepting different bottle types). In a removable embodiment, the top 580 may include a reservoir gasket 581 to help ensure a pressure-sealed seal within the reservoir upon attachment.

[0080] A portion of the shared lens cleaning / rinsing supply piping 547 extends through the reservoir opening 548 to the manifold end of the piping fluidly connected to the lens cleaning / rinsing opening 502c in the manifold 502. A portion of the shared gas / alternative gas supply piping 557 extends through the reservoir opening 548 to the manifold end of the piping fluidly connected to the gas / alternative gas opening 502f in the manifold 502. In the coaxial arrangement of the portion of the shared lens cleaning / rinsing supply piping 547 within the shared gas / alternative gas supply 557, as shown, opening 502c may similarly be coaxial with opening 502f. Furthermore, as shown in the figure, a portion of the gas supply piping 540c extends from the endoscope to the manifold end of the piping connected in fluid communication to the gas / alternate gas opening 502e in the manifold 502; a portion of the lens cleaning supply piping 545c extends from the endoscope to the manifold end of the piping connected in fluid communication to the lens cleaning opening 502b in the manifold 502; a downstream portion of the flushing piping 555c extends from the endoscope to the outlet of the flushing pump 315; an upstream portion of the flushing piping 520 extends from the pump inlet to the manifold end of the piping 520 connected in fluid communication to the flushing opening 502d in the manifold 502; and a portion of the alternative gas supply piping 515 extends from the alternative gas source (not shown) to the manifold end of the piping connected in fluid communication to the alternative gas opening 502a in the manifold 502.

[0081] Some of the openings 502a to 502f in manifold 502 can be fluidly connected to other openings 502a to 502f in manifold 502 via channels in the manifold to establish flow paths for gas supply, alternative gas supply, flushing supply, and / or lens cleaning supply. For example, as Figure 5B As shown, regarding the flow path F used for gas supply, openings 502a, 502e, and 502f are fluidly connected to each other via a common channel within manifold 502. Furthermore, as... Figure 5B As shown, with respect to the flow path E for lens cleaning and rinsing supply, openings 502b, 502c and 502d are fluidly connected to each other through a common channel in manifold 502.

[0082] In an embodiment, when an endoscope is used during surgery with a fluid circuit having the same or similar piping as system 500, the use of piping assembly 501 can follow the... Figure 5B The flow paths E and F are depicted. For example, regarding flow path F, when the air pump 215 is activated and the gas / lens cleaning valve 140 is depressed, air flows from the video processing unit 210, along a portion of the gas supply piping 540c through the manifold opening 502e, exits the manifold through opening 502f, and flows along a portion of the common gas / alternative gas supply piping 557 through the opening 548 in the cover 580 and into the gap 575 in the fluid reservoir 570. The flow from the alternative gas source through piping 515 and opening 502a is closed, thereby allowing the gas supply to pressurize the fluid reservoir. Furthermore, regarding flow path E, when the gas supply pressurizes the fluid reservoir, fluid is forced along a portion of the common lens cleaning / rinsing supply piping, through the opening 548 in the cover 580, and into the manifold through opening 502c. Without activating the flushing pump 315 or without using or closing (e.g., a seal or diaphragm, fitting, or valve as described below) the flushing supply line, the fluid continues to flow as lens cleaning fluid, exiting opening 502b and flowing along pipe 545c to connector portion 265 of the umbilicus 260 connected to the video processing unit 210. With a portion of the flushing supply line 520 connected to manifold 502 and opened for flow when the flushing pump 315 is activated, fluid as lens cleaning fluid is drawn from the fluid reservoir into the manifold along a path, where it branches off from the lens cleaning fluid path and exits through opening 502d, flowing along the upstream portion of the flushing supply line 520 and pumped through the downstream portion of the flushing supply line 555c to connector portion 265 of the umbilicus 260 connected to the video processing unit 210. While the fluid for lens cleaning is propelled into the endoscope by the gas supply, the fluid for flushing can be drawn from the fluid reservoir by the pump, or this function can be performed independently.

[0083] refer to Figure 5C In an embodiment, when an endoscope is used during surgery with a fluid circuit identical or similar to that of the piping system 500, the use of the piping assembly 501 can follow the... Figure 5C The flow path G is depicted in the diagram. Figure 5C The configuration of piping assembly 501 and system 500 in Figure 5B The configurations are the same, therefore, for the sake of brevity, detailed descriptions of similar components are omitted here. Regarding... Figure 5CThe flow path F depicted in the diagram, when the air pump 215 is deactivated and the gas / lens cleaning valve 140 is depressed, opens the alternative gas supply (e.g., CO2) to flow from the alternative gas source (not shown), along a portion of the alternative gas supply piping 515 through the manifold opening 502a, exiting the manifold through opening 502f, and flowing along a portion of the shared gas / alternative gas supply piping 557 through the opening 548 in the cover 580 and into the gap 575 in the fluid reservoir 570. Because the flow from the gas supply (air pump 215) to the endoscope is closed, the flow from the alternative gas supply to the fluid reservoir 570 causes the remaining fluid 585 in the reservoir to react with the flow along the endoscope. Figure 5B The gas supply from the endoscope is pressurized in the same manner along the flow path F. The fluid flow for lens cleaning and / or rinsing also follows the same pattern. Figure 5B The same path E shown operates. When the user activates the gas / lens cleaning valve 140 to provide an alternative gas supply to the patient via the endoscope for use, for example as a blow-through gas instead of the required lens cleaning fluid, the flow of the alternative gas supply is also available to flow along the flow path F in opposite or opposite directions to the connector portion 265 of the video processing unit 210 connected to the endoscope.

[0084] refer to Figures 6A to 6B A cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the piping assembly 601 is described in more detail. The piping assembly 601 can be adapted into system 600, which can be configured and arranged in the same or substantially similar manner to system 500 in FIG. 5. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, detailed descriptions of some similar elements can be omitted here. The piping manifold 602, reservoir cap 580, and various portions of the supply piping can be connected in fluid communication between the alternative gas source (not shown) and manifold 602, between manifold 602 and fluid reservoir 570, and between manifold 602 and connector portion 265 of the umbilicus 260 connected to the video processing unit 210 of the endoscope (not shown). Manifold 602 may have multiple openings 602a, 602b, 602c, 602d, 602e, 602f, which are arranged and configured to receive portions of gas supply line 640c, upstream flushing supply line 520, lens cleaning supply line 645c, and alternative gas supply line 515, as well as portions of common lens cleaning / flushing supply line 547 and portions of common lens cleaning / flushing supply line 547.

[0085] A portion of the shared lens cleaning / rinsing supply piping 547 extends through the reservoir opening 548 to the manifold end of the piping fluidly connected to the lens cleaning / rinsing opening 602c in the manifold 602. A portion of the shared gas / alternative gas supply piping 557 extends through the reservoir opening 548 to the manifold end of the piping fluidly connected to the gas / alternative gas opening 602f in the manifold 602. In the coaxial arrangement of the portion of the shared lens cleaning / rinsing supply piping 547 within the shared gas / alternative gas supply 557, as shown, opening 602c can similarly be coaxial with opening 602f. Furthermore, as shown in the figure, a portion of the gas supply piping 640c extends from the endoscope to the manifold end of the piping connected in fluid communication to the gas supply opening 602e in the manifold 602, and a portion of the lens cleaning supply piping 645c extends from the endoscope to the manifold end of the piping connected in fluid communication to the lens cleaning opening 602b in the manifold 602. Figure 6A In the arrangement shown, a portion of the lens cleaning supply pipe 645c is coaxially arranged within a portion of the gas supply pipe 640c, thus leaving an annular gap between the pipe portions. This allows gas supply from the air pump 215 or alternative gas supply from the alternative gas supply pipe 515 to flow through the portion of the gas supply pipe 640c, surrounding the portion of the lens cleaning supply pipe 645c. In the coaxial arrangement of the portion of the lens cleaning supply pipe 645c within the portion of the gas supply pipe 640c, as shown, opening 602b can similarly be coaxial with opening 602e.

[0086] The downstream portion of flushing piping 555c extends from the endoscope to the outlet of flushing pump 315 (not shown), and the upstream portion of flushing piping 520 extends from the pump inlet to the manifold end of piping 520 fluidly connected to flushing opening 602d in manifold 602. A portion of replacement gas supply piping 515 extends from a replacement gas source (not shown) to the manifold end of piping fluidly connected to replacement gas opening 602a in manifold 602.

[0087] Some of the openings 602a to 602f in manifold 602 can be fluidly connected to other openings 602a to 602f in manifold 602 via channels in the manifold to establish flow paths for gas supply, alternative gas supply, flushing supply, and / or lens cleaning supply. For example, as Figure 6A As shown, regarding the flow path I used for gas supply, openings 602a, 602e, and 602f are fluidly connected to each other via a common channel within manifold 602. Furthermore, as... Figure 6AAs shown, with respect to the flow path H for lens cleaning and rinsing supply, openings 602b, 602c and 602d are fluidly connected to each other through a common channel in manifold 602.

[0088] In embodiments, when an endoscope is used during surgery with a fluid circuit having piping identical or similar to piping systems 500, 600, the use of piping assembly 601 can follow the... Figure 6A The flow paths H and I are depicted. For example, regarding flow path I, when the air pump 215 is activated and the gas / lens cleaning valve 140 is depressed, air flows from the video processing unit 210 (not shown), along a portion of the gas supply piping 640c through the manifold opening 602e, exits the manifold through opening 602f, and flows along a portion of the common gas / alternative gas supply piping 557 through the opening 548 in the cover 580 and into the gap 575 in the fluid reservoir 570. The flow from the alternative gas source through piping 515 and opening 602a is closed, thereby allowing the gas supply to pressurize the fluid reservoir. Furthermore, regarding flow path H, when the gas supply pressurizes the fluid reservoir, fluid is forced along a portion of the common lens cleaning / rinsing supply piping, through the opening 548 in the cover 580, and into the manifold through opening 602c. Without activating the flushing pump 315 or without using or closing (e.g., by a seal or diaphragm, fitting, or valve as described below) the flushing supply line, the fluid continues to flow as lens cleaning fluid, exiting opening 602b and flowing along pipe 645c to connector portion 265 of the umbilicus 260 connected to the video processing unit 210. With a portion of the flushing supply line 520 connected to manifold 602 and opened for flow when the flushing pump 315 is activated, fluid as lens cleaning fluid is drawn from the fluid reservoir into the manifold along a path, where it branches off from the lens cleaning fluid path and exits through opening 602d, flowing along the upstream portion of the flushing supply line 520 and through the downstream portion of the flushing supply line 555c to connector portion 265 of the umbilicus 260 connected to the video processing unit 210 (not shown). While the fluid for lens cleaning is propelled into the endoscope by the gas supply, the fluid for flushing can be drawn from the fluid reservoir by a pump, or this function can be performed independently.

[0089] refer to Figure 6B In embodiments, when an endoscope is used during surgery with a fluid circuit identical or similar to that of piping systems 500 and 600, the use of piping assembly 601 can follow the... Figure 6B The flow path J is depicted in the diagram. Figure 6B The configuration of piping assembly 601 and system 600 in Figure 6AThe configurations are the same, therefore, for the sake of brevity, detailed descriptions of similar components are omitted here. Regarding... Figure 6B As depicted in the flow path J, when the air pump 215 is deactivated and the gas / lens cleaning valve 140 is depressed, a replacement gas supply (e.g., CO2) opens to flow from a replacement gas source (not shown), along a portion of the replacement gas supply piping 515 through an opening 602a in the manifold, exiting the manifold through an opening 602f, and flowing along a portion of the shared gas / replacement gas supply piping 557 through an opening 548 in the cover 580 and into a gap 575 in the fluid reservoir 570. Because the flow from the gas supply (air pump 215) to the endoscope is blocked, the flow from the replacement gas supply to the fluid reservoir 570 causes the remaining fluid 585 in the reservoir to react with the flow along the endoscope. Figure 6A The gas supply from the endoscope is pressurized in the same manner along the flow path F. The fluid flow for lens cleaning and / or rinsing also follows the same pattern. Figure 6A The H path shown operates. When the user activates the gas / lens cleaning valve 140 to provide an alternative gas supply to the patient via the endoscope for use, for example, as a blow-through gas instead of the required lens cleaning fluid, the flow of the alternative gas supply can also flow along the flow path J in opposite or opposite directions to the connector portion 265 connected to the video processing unit 210 of the endoscope.

[0090] Depending on the needs of a specific application, other arrangements and configurations are contemplated in this invention for openings within a piping system, portions of supply piping, fluid reservoirs, reservoir covers, or manifolds, or combinations thereof. For example, regarding... Figures 6B to 8 One or more of the features and components described may be consistent with Figures 10 to 19. Figure 12 One or more of the embodiments are used in combination or incorporated therein. Figures 5A to 6B The manifolds 502 and 602, shown as squares, can be configured in any shape and size suitable for the desired application. The manifolds can be injection molded or formed using other known manufacturing techniques. The material of the manifolds can be various types of polymers or metals suitable for single-use applications. The various portions of the described piping can be secured within the openings by adhesives, ultrasonic welding, or other known manufacturing techniques. In some embodiments, customizable or modular piping assemblies or piping manifolds, flushing supply and / or replacement gas supply piping can be provided in the piping kit as piping selectively connected to the manifold. In such embodiments, the opening of the manifold receiving the flushing and replacement gas supply piping can be provided with a seal or membrane that can be pierced by a penetrating element of the piping during use. In other embodiments, fittings switchable between closed and open positions can be used as a replacement or supplement to the pierceable seal or membrane to seal the flow through the opening when the optional piping is not in use.

[0091] In embodiments, each of the various portions of the supply piping may include a manifold or cap end comprising a piercing or penetrating member arranged and configured to pierce the membrane or seal of the corresponding openings 502a to 502f, 602a to 602f of the manifolds 502, 602, or alternatively, the opening 548 of the cap 580 as piping or coaxial piping is inserted, pressed, etc., into the seal or membrane to open the opening for flow through the connected piping. The portion of the piping may be sealed to maintain a sterile environment prior to use. Additionally and / or alternatively, each of the portions of the piping may include, for example, a one-way valve (e.g., Figure 9 To prevent backflow into the fluid reservoir during use. For example, in one embodiment, each of the piping portions may include a one-way valve at the end of the piping portion opposite the manifold end to prevent fluid backflow into the container during use. Additionally and / or alternatively, one or more of the piping portions may include connectors or adapters, such as, for example, Tuohy Borst connectors, adjustable connectors, such as, for example, stopcock adapters, split connectors, such as, for example, coaxial split connectors, or endoscope adapters, arranged and configured to connect to connector portion 265 of the endoscope, etc., of systems 500, 600. In use, the adapters may be arranged and configured in a normally closed position to maintain a sterile environment before use. Thereafter, during use, the user may move one or more of the adapters from the closed position to the open position as needed to allow fluid to flow as required.

[0092] According to one or more embodiments of the invention, various portions of the supply piping may include ends opposite to the manifold ends. According to one or more aspects of the invention, the opposite ends of piping, such as flushing supply piping, lens cleaning supply piping, gas supply piping, and alternative gas supply piping, may be capped, closed, sealed, etc. (such terms are used interchangeably and are not intended to limit or otherwise convey different meanings or intentions) during manufacturing to form a permanently sealed assembly. Subsequently, in use, the opposite ends of the piping may be pierced, for example, by a piercing or penetrating member. For example, in one embodiment, the piercing or penetrating member may take the form of one or more of a check valve, connector, coaxial split connector, etc., coupled to the opposite ends of the piping. For example, in one embodiment and as... Figure 7A , Figure 7BAs schematically shown (and further described below), the coaxial split connector 700 can be arranged and configured to pierce or penetrate a sealing portion when the coaxial split connector is engaged with opposite ends of the piping. The capping or sealing portion can be configured along any length of the piping. For example, in one embodiment, the capping or sealing portion can be positioned near the end of opposite ends of the piping, or at a point inside the piping.

[0093] refer to Figures 7A to 7B In one embodiment, the adapter may take the form of a coaxial split connector 700 that is directly or indirectly connected to the conduit. For example, referring to the illustrated embodiment, the coaxial split connector 700 may be directly or indirectly connected to the coaxial conduit (e.g., Figure 4 Piping 410 and Figure 2 and Figures 6A to 6B The endoscopes (with lens cleaning supply piping 245c, 645c and gas supply piping 240c, 640c) are connected via a gas / lens cleaning connector 290, allowing the coaxial portion of the piping to be connected to the endoscope. In use, the coaxial split connector 700 allows flow to switch between coaxial and side-by-side arrangements, where the flow path K is... Figure 7B As shown in the image.

[0094] refer to Figure 8 In some embodiments, the adapter may take the form of, for example, an adjustable connector. For instance, in one embodiment, as shown, the adapter may take the form of a stopcock adapter 800 having an inlet opening 805, an outlet opening 810, and a switch 815. In use, the stopcock adapter may be directly or indirectly connected to one or more opposite ends of a piping system. For example, a substitute gas supply piping 515 may include a stopcock adapter. In use, the stopcock adapter can be operated by a user from a closed position to an open position. This arrangement allows a user to allow fluid to flow through the corresponding piping by operating the stopcock adapter between the closed and open positions. For example, a user can move the stopcock adapter from the closed position to the open position to allow a substitute gas supply (e.g., CO2) to flow from a substitute gas source to manifolds 502, 602 via the substitute gas supply piping 515.

[0095] refer to Figure 9 In some embodiments, each or any of the piping portions may include, for example, a one-way valve 900 at its opposite end. In use, the one-way valve 900 includes an inlet 905a, an outlet 905b, and a one-way valve insert 910. Figure 9A flow path M is shown, which leads through inlet 905a to valve 900, around valve insert 910, and through outlet 905b. Backflow of fluid in the direction of inlet 905a is prevented by valve insert 910. That is, incorporating check valve 900 into any one or each of the opposite ends of a portion of a gas supply, flushing supply, lens cleaning supply, or alternative gas supply piping ensures that the piping is sealed from the surrounding environment and that fluid reservoir 570 remains sterile until operation is performed or during extended operation (e.g., during 24 hours). In some embodiments, check valves, such as valve 900, may be arranged and configured with a penetration member to pierce or penetrate a seal or member in one of the various portions of the piping when the check valve is coupled thereto.

[0096] refer to Figures 10A to 11C Various embodiments and aspects of endoscope systems 1000 and 1100 are disclosed. According to one or more aspects of the invention, the endoscope systems 1000 and 1100 can be substantially similar to those described above. Figures 1 to 9 The disclosed endoscopes and tubing systems or components thereof, in addition to those outlined herein, are also included. Similarly, according to one or more aspects of the invention, the endoscope system 1000 or its components may be substantially similar to the combination... Figures 11A to 11C The disclosed endoscope system 1100 or its components, in addition to those outlined herein, may also, according to one or more aspects of the invention, be substantially similar to the combination of... Figures 10A to 10F The disclosed endoscope system 1000 or its components, in addition to those outlined herein, are examples of such components. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, detailed descriptions of similar elements may be omitted here.

[0097] Figures 10A to 10F Various aspects of an endoscope system 1000 including a manifold assembly 1002 according to an embodiment of the present invention are shown. Figure 10A In this system, the endoscope system 1000 includes a piping assembly 1001 having a manifold assembly 1002 and a connector portion 1065. It should be understood that the connector portion 1065 may be the same as or similar to the connector portion 265. Therefore, the connector portion 1065 can connect the piping assembly 1001 to... Figure 10A One or more parts of the endoscope system 1000 (not shown) (see, for example, Figure 5A ).

[0098] refer to Figure 10AThe piping assembly 1001 may include a reservoir 1070, coaxial piping 1010, manifold assembly 1002, alternative gas supply piping 1015, alternative gas connection 1025, upstream flushing supply piping 1020, flushing pump 1017, downstream flushing supply piping 1055c, and flushing connection 1093. The coaxial piping 1010 may include an outer pipe (e.g., gas supply piping 1057) and an inner pipe (e.g., liquid supply piping 1047). The reservoir 1070 may include a fluid 1085 with a gap 1075 above it.

[0099] In various embodiments, gas may be introduced into gap 1075, such as via gas supply piping 1057, to pressurize reservoir 1070 and cause fluid 1085 to flow out of reservoir 1070 via liquid supply piping 1047. In various such embodiments, gas may be introduced into gap from a source (e.g., air pump 215) coupled to connector portion 1065 or from an alternative gas connection 1025 (e.g., a bottle of carbon dioxide). Alternatively or additionally, flushing pump 1017 may be used to extract fluid 1085 from reservoir 1070. In many embodiments, introducing gas into gap 1075 may be used to remove fluid 1085 from reservoir 1070 for lens cleaning functions, while flushing pump 1017 may be used to remove fluid 1085 from reservoir 1070 for flushing functions. In some embodiments, upstream flushing supply piping 1020 may be more rigid or robust than downstream flushing supply piping 1055c. For example, upstream flushing supply piping can be more resistant to collapse than downstream flushing supply piping.

[0100] refer to Figure 10B Manifold assembly 1002 is shown connected to coaxial piping 1010 and upstream flushing supply piping 1020. Manifold assembly 1002 may include a gas / lens cleaning connector 1090 and a fluid manifold 1005. The gas / lens cleaning connector 1090 may be connected to connector portion 1065 of endoscope system 1000. As will be discussed in more detail below, fluid manifold 1005 may be used to separate or combine the inner and outer tubing of coaxial piping 1010 while preventing fluid communication between the inner and outer tubing. For example, fluid manifold 1005 may direct fluid from liquid supply piping 1047 of coaxial piping 1010 to upstream flushing supply piping 1020 while preventing fluid communication between gas supply piping 1057 of coaxial piping 1010 and upstream flushing supply piping 1020. In various embodiments, the fluid manifold 1005 may be made of a rigid material (e.g., metal, high-density polyurethane (HDPE), etc.) and the gas / lens cleaning connector 1090 may be made of a flexible material (e.g., polymer, etc.). As shown below... Figure 10EAs shown in further detail, the gas / lens cleaning connector 1090 can be mounted on and attached to a portion of the fluid manifold 1005.

[0101] like Figure 10C As shown, the fluid manifold 1005 may include a gas umbilical port 1031, a lens cleaning umbilical port 1033, a replacement gas supply port 1027, a flushing supply port 1029, and a coaxial piping port 1037. In various embodiments, the gas umbilical port 1031 may extend from the fluid manifold 1005 at an obtuse angle relative to the coaxial piping port 1037. In some embodiments, the replacement gas supply port 1027 and / or the flushing supply port 1029 may extend from the fluid manifold 1005 at a right angle relative to one or more of the gas umbilical port 1031, the lens cleaning umbilical port 1033, and the coaxial piping port 1037.

[0102] As in Figure 10D As shown, the gas / lens cleaning connector 1090 may include a gas connector 1021, a lens cleaning connector 1023, and openings 1047-1, 1047-2, and 1047-3. When assembled onto the fluid manifold 1005, an alternative gas supply port 1027 may extend from the first opening 1047-1, a flushing supply port 1029 may extend from the second opening 1047-2, and a coaxial piping port 1037 may extend from the third opening 1047-3. As previously mentioned, the gas / lens cleaning connector 1090 may be made of a flexible material. Therefore, the gas / lens cleaning connector 1090 may extend over a portion of the fluid manifold 1005 to assemble the gas / lens cleaning connector 1090 onto the fluid manifold 1005.

[0103] Figure 10E A cross-sectional view of the manifold assembly 1002 connected to the coaxial piping 1010 is shown. During assembly, the lens cleaning connector 1023 of the gas / lens cleaning connector 1090 can be aligned with and in fluid communication with the lens cleaning umbilical port 1033, and the gas connector 1021 of the gas / lens cleaning connector 1090 can be aligned with and in fluid communication with the gas umbilical port 1031. As shown in the illustrated embodiments, in various embodiments, the lens cleaning connector 1023 and / or the gas connector 1021 of the gas / lens cleaning connector 1090 may include one or more features (e.g., variations in diameter, shape, step, etc.) to facilitate a reliable and robust (e.g., leak-free) connection with the connector portion 1065.

[0104] refer to Figure 10EThe coaxial piping 1010 shown is connected to the fluid manifold 1005, with the inner pipe (liquid supply piping 1047) extending into the interior of the fluid manifold 1005 and the outer pipe (gas supply piping 1057) extending around the exterior of the fluid manifold 1005. Furthermore, the cavity of the liquid supply piping 1047 is in fluid communication with the lens cleaning connector 1023, the lens cleaning umbilical port 1033, and the rinse supply port 1029. The cavity of the gas supply piping 1057 is in fluid communication with the alternative gas supply port 1027, the gas umbilical port 1031, and the gas connector 1021.

[0105] Figure 10F A detailed view of the flushing connection 1093 and the downstream flushing supply piping 1055c is shown. In many embodiments, the flushing connection 1093 may be coupled to connector portion 1065. In some embodiments, the flushing connection 1093 may include one or more of a Luer connector, a check valve, and an on / off valve. More generally, one or more connections described herein may include one or more of a Luer connector, a check valve, and / or an on / off valve. For example, alternative gas connection 1025 may include an on / off valve and a Luer connector. In various embodiments, the flushing connection 1093 may be a threaded connection.

[0106] Figures 11A to 11C Various aspects of an endoscope system 1100 including a shunt manifold 1103 according to an embodiment of the present invention are shown. Figure 11A In this system, the endoscope system 1100 includes a piping assembly 1101 having a manifold 1103 and a connector portion 1165. It should be understood that the connector portion 1165 may be the same as or similar to connector portion 265. Therefore, connector portion 1165 can connect the piping assembly 1101 to... Figure 11A One or more parts of the endoscope system 1100 (not shown) (see, for example, Figure 5A ).

[0107] refer to Figure 11AThe piping assembly 1101 may include a branch manifold 1103, a first coaxial piping 1110-1, a gas / lens cleaning connector 1190, a second coaxial piping 1110-2, a reservoir 1170, a substitute gas supply piping 1115, a substitute gas connector 1125, an upstream flushing supply piping 1120, a flushing pump 1117, a downstream flushing supply piping 1155c, and a flushing connector 1193. Coaxial piping 1110-1 and 1110-2 may each include an inner tube and an outer tube. In many embodiments, the outer tube may be used to deliver gas, and the inner tube may be used to deliver liquid. The reservoir 1170 may include a fluid with a gap above it. In some embodiments, the gas / lens cleaning connector 1190 may be the same as or similar to the manifold assembly 1002, but without the substitute gas supply port 1027 and the flushing supply port 1029.

[0108] In an endoscope system 1100 similar to system 1000, gas may be introduced into the gap, for example, via the outer tube of coaxial piping 1110-2, to pressurize reservoir 1170 and allow fluid to flow out of reservoir 1170 via the inner tube of coaxial piping 1110-2. In various such embodiments, gas may be introduced into the gap from a source (e.g., air pump 215) coupled to connector portion 1165 or from an alternative gas connection (e.g., a bottle of carbon dioxide). Alternatively or additionally, flushing pump 1117 may be used to extract fluid from reservoir 1170. In many embodiments, introducing gas into the gap may be used to remove fluid from reservoir 1170 for lens cleaning functions, while flushing pump 1117 may be used to remove fluid from reservoir 1170 for flushing functions. In some embodiments, upstream flushing supply piping 1120 may be more rigid or robust than downstream flushing supply piping 1155c. For example, upstream flushing supply piping can be more resistant to collapse than downstream flushing supply piping.

[0109] refer to Figure 11B The manifold 1103 may include a first coaxial piping port 1104-1, a flushing supply port 1106, a replacement gas supply port 1108, and a second coaxial piping port 1104-2. The first coaxial piping port 1104-1 may include a first liquid port 1112-1 and a first gas port 1114-1. Similarly, as... Figure 11CAs shown, the second coaxial piping port 1104-2 may include a second liquid port 1112-2 and a second gas port 1114-2. In various embodiments, a flushing supply port 1106 may extend from the manifold 1103 at an obtuse angle (and / or an acute angle relative to the coaxial piping port 1104-1) relative to the coaxial piping port 1104-2. In some embodiments, an alternative gas supply port 1108 may extend from the manifold 1103 at a right angle relative to one or more of the coaxial piping ports 1104-1, 1104-2. In various embodiments, the manifold 1103 may be made of a rigid material (e.g., metal, high-density polyurethane (HDPE), etc.).

[0110] Figure 11C A manifold 1103 is shown, connecting to a first coaxial pipe 1110-1 at coaxial pipe port 1104-1 and to a second coaxial pipe 1110-2 at coaxial pipe port 1104-2. As will be discussed in more detail below, the manifold 1103 can be used to separate or combine the inner and outer pipes of the first coaxial pipe 1110-1 and the second coaxial pipe 1110-2, while preventing fluid communication between the inner and outer pipes. For example, manifold 1103 can direct fluid from the liquid supply line 1147-2 of coaxial line 1110-2 to the upstream flushing supply line 1120, while preventing fluid communication between the gas supply line 1157-1 of coaxial line 1101-1 and the upstream flushing supply line 1120, between the gas supply line 1157-2 of coaxial line 1110-2 and the upstream flushing supply line 1120, and between the alternative gas supply port 1108 and the upstream flushing supply line 1120. In other words, when connected to coaxial lines 1110-1 and 1110-2, manifold 1103 can position the liquid port 1112-2 in fluid communication with the flushing supply port 1106 and the liquid port 1112-2, and position the gas port 1114-1 in fluid communication with the alternative gas supply port 1108 and the gas port 1114-2.

[0111] refer to Figure 11C The coaxial piping 1110-1, 1110-2 shown is connected to the fluid manifold 1103. The inner pipes (liquid supply pipes 1147-1, 1147-2) can extend into the interior of the manifold 1103, and the outer pipes (gas supply pipes 1157-1, 1157-2) can extend around the exterior of the manifold 1103. Furthermore, the cavities of the liquid supply pipes 1147-1, 1147-2 can be in fluid communication with the flushing supply port 1106, and the gas supply pipes 1157-1, 1157-2 can be in fluid communication with the alternative gas supply port 1108.

[0112] Figure 12 A reservoir 1220 in a first state and a second state according to an embodiment of the invention is shown. More specifically, the first state includes the reservoir 1220 in an expanded state 1250-1, and the second state includes the reservoir 1220 in a collapsed state 1250-2. In various embodiments, collapseability can reduce the storage space requirement. Furthermore, collapseability can reduce the storage space requirement without sacrificing fluid retention capacity. In some embodiments, the bend in the neck can reduce or prevent backflow into the gas pipe connected thereto.

[0113] More generally, according to one or more aspects of the invention, the various fluid reservoirs disclosed herein can be arranged in a non-rigid configuration (e.g., fluid reservoir 570 can be arranged and configured as a compressible reservoir). For example, reservoir 570 can take the form of a pouch, bag, or other soft fluid container similar to a brine bag (such terms are used interchangeably and are not intended to limit or otherwise convey different meanings or intentions). In such an arrangement, non-rigid reservoir 570 or reservoir 1220 may be referred to herein as a bag. According to this embodiment, the bag serving as fluid reservoir 570 can be made of a suitable homogeneous material, including, for example, plastics, elastomers, or any other suitable material now known or developed thereafter.

[0114] In use, valves, connectors, adapters, etc., such as Figures 5A to 12 Examples can be arranged and configured to be connected to piping via any suitable mechanism or method now known or subsequently developed. For example, valves, connectors, or adapters can be press-fitted to the pipe. Alternatively, anchoring methods such as Luer joints, threaded connections, etc., can be utilized. In either case, once connected to piping, the valve, connector, or adapter is arranged and configured to form a seal with the piping to prevent leakage at the puncture point.

[0115] As should be understood, portions of the rinsing, lens cleaning, gas supply, and alternative gas supply piping can have any suitable size (e.g., diameter). Furthermore, the piping size (e.g., diameter) can vary depending on the application. In a non-limiting embodiment, the rinsing supply piping can have an inner diameter of approximately 6.5 mm and an outer diameter of 9.7 mm. The lens cleaning supply piping can have an inner diameter of approximately 5 mm and an outer diameter of 8 mm. The gas supply piping can have an inner diameter of approximately 2 mm and an outer diameter of 3.5 mm. The alternative gas supply piping can have an inner diameter of approximately 5 mm and an outer diameter of 8 mm.

[0116] In various embodiments, a tubing method according to the invention for distributing fluids during endoscopic surgery may include connecting a portion of a gas supply tubing and a portion of a lens cleaning supply tubing in fluid communication between the endoscope and a tubing manifold, and connecting a portion of the gas supply tubing and a portion of the lens cleaning supply tubing in fluid communication between the tubing manifold and a fluid reservoir. Gas can be supplied to the fluid reservoir through the gas supply tubing between the endoscope and the manifold and between the manifold and the fluid reservoir. Lens cleaning fluid from the fluid reservoir can be supplied through the lens cleaning supply tubing between the fluid reservoir and the manifold and between the manifold and the endoscope.

[0117] In some embodiments, the method may further include connecting a portion of the flushing supply piping in fluid communication between the endoscope and the manifold, between the manifold and the fluid reservoir, or both. Flushing fluid from the fluid reservoir can be supplied through the flushing supply piping between the fluid reservoir and the manifold, and between the manifold and the endoscope. In some embodiments, the portion of the lens cleaning supply piping between the fluid reservoir and the manifold and the portion of the flushing supply piping may be the same portion of the piping. Fluid flow can be supplied from the fluid reservoir to the manifold through separate portions or through the same portion of the lens cleaning supply piping and the flushing supply piping for flushing purposes, lens cleaning purposes, or both.

[0118] In some embodiments, the method may further include connecting a portion of a substitute gas supply piping in fluid communication between a substitute gas source and a manifold, between a manifold and a fluid reservoir, between a manifold and an endoscope, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the gas supply piping is used to supply gas (e.g., air) from the endoscope to the fluid reservoir via the manifold, while the substitute gas supply piping is closed to flow out from the substitute gas source. In other embodiments, the substitute gas supply piping is used to supply substitute gas (e.g., CO2) from the substitute gas source to the fluid reservoir via the manifold, while the substitute gas supply piping is closed to flow out from the endoscope (e.g., by turning off a pump in the video processing unit). In any arrangement, the gas supply or substitute gas supply pressurizes the fluid reservoir, thereby forcing fluid through the manifold and lens during surgery to flush a portion of the supply piping for use as lens cleaning fluid through the endoscope. Simultaneously or at different times, the flushing pump can be activated (e.g., via a foot switch) to draw fluid from the fluid reservoir through the manifold and a portion of the flushing supply piping for use via the endoscope as flushing fluid.

[0119] The flow rate and / or volume of the fluid supplied from the fluid reservoir via the manifold to be used as the rinsing fluid can be controlled (e.g., by a rinsing pump) to be different from that used for lens cleaning, even when the fluid originates from the same fluid reservoir. This is because the lens cleaning flow can be controlled by changing the gas supply. The gas supply that pressurizes the fluid reservoir can also be calibrated to maintain balance in the fluid reservoir when fluid is extracted for rinsing / or lens cleaning, even if both functions are performed simultaneously.

[0120] When a gas supply is required during surgery for use through the endoscope, for example as an insufflation gas, the gas / lens cleaning valve can be actuated to redirect the gas supply or alternative gas supply from the fluid reservoir to the endoscope.

[0121] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the disclosed apparatus without departing from the scope of the invention. Other embodiments of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art based on consideration of the description and practice of the invention disclosed herein. The description and examples are intended to be illustrative only, and the true scope and spirit of the invention are indicated by the following claims.

[0122] All devices and methods discussed herein are examples of devices and / or methods implemented according to one or more principles of the present invention. These examples are not the only ways to implement these principles, but are merely examples. Therefore, references to elements or structures or features in the drawings must be understood as references to examples of embodiments of the invention and should not be construed as limiting the invention to the specific elements, structures, or features shown. Other examples of ways of implementing the disclosed principles will occur to those skilled in the art upon reading this invention.

[0123] The following will be understood in the description above and the claims below. As used herein, the phrases “at least one,” “one or more,” and “and / or” are open-ended expressions that are operationally both conjunctions and non-conjunctions. The term “a” or “an” entity as used herein refers to one or more of that entity. Therefore, the terms “a” (or “one”), “one or more,” and “at least one” are used interchangeably herein. All directional references (e.g., proximal, distal, upper, lower, upward, downward, left, right, lateral, longitudinal, front, rear, top, bottom, above, below, vertical, horizontal, radial, axial, clockwise, counterclockwise, and / or similar) are used only for identification purposes to aid the reader’s understanding of the invention and / or to distinguish areas of associated elements from one another, and do not limit the associated elements, in particular not limiting the location, orientation, or use of the invention. Unless otherwise indicated, connection references (e.g., attachment, coupling, connection, and joining) are to be interpreted broadly and may include intermediate members between sets of elements and relative movement between elements. In this respect, a connection reference does not necessarily imply that two elements are directly connected and have a fixed relationship with each other. Identification references (e.g., primary, secondary, first, second, third, fourth, etc.) are not intended to signify importance or priority, but rather to distinguish one feature from another.

[0124] The foregoing discussion is for illustrative and descriptive purposes and is not intended to limit the invention to the forms disclosed herein. It should be understood that various additions, modifications, and substitutions can be made to the embodiments disclosed herein without departing from the concept, spirit, and scope of the invention. In particular, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the principles of the invention can be embodied in other forms, structures, arrangements, proportions, and with other elements, materials, and components without departing from its concept, spirit, scope, or characteristics. For example, to simplify the invention, various features of the invention are combined in one or more aspects, embodiments, or forms. However, various features of certain aspects, embodiments, or forms of the invention can be combined in alternative aspects, embodiments, or forms. Those skilled in the art will understand that the invention can be used with many changes to the structures, arrangements, proportions, materials, components, and others used in the practice of the invention, changes particularly suited to specific environments and operational requirements, without departing from the principles of the invention. For example, an element shown as integrally formed may be composed of multiple parts or elements shown as potentially integrally formed, the operation of the element may be reversed or otherwise varied, and the size or dimensions of the element may be varied. Therefore, the embodiments disclosed herein should be shown as illustrative rather than restrictive in all respects, and the scope of the claimed invention is indicated by the appended claims and is not limited to the foregoing description.

[0125] The following claims are incorporated herein by reference into the detailed description, wherein each claim stands independently as a separate embodiment of the invention. In the claims, the term "comprising / including" does not exclude the presence of other elements or steps. Furthermore, although listed separately, multiple manners, elements, or method steps may also be implemented by, for example, a single unit or processor. Additionally, although individual features may be included in different claims, these features may be advantageously combined, and inclusion in different claims does not imply that such combinations are impractical and / or advantageous. Furthermore, singular reference does not exclude plural. The terms "an," "a," "first," "second," etc., do not exclude plural. Reference numerals in the claims are provided only as clarifying examples and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims in any way.

Claims

1. A piping assembly arranged and configured to be coupled to an endoscope to dispense fluid between the endoscope and a fluid reservoir during endoscopic surgery, the assembly comprising: Piping manifold, the piping manifold comprising: A gas passage having a gas opening, a substitute gas opening, and a gas / substitute gas combination opening; A liquid channel having a rinsing opening, a lens cleaning opening, and a combined lens cleaning / rinsing opening; The gas / alternative gas combination opening and the lens cleaning / rinsing combination opening are the same opening; The gas opening, the alternative gas opening, the flushing opening, and the lens cleaning opening are respectively connected to the fluid reservoir and the endoscope via the piping manifold. A cover, configured to be removably attached to the fluid reservoir; A gas supply piping, a portion of which is configured to be fluidly connected between the manifold and the endoscope, and another portion of which is configured to be fluidly connected between the cap and the manifold; and A lens cleaning supply piping, a portion of which is configured to be fluidly connected between the manifold and the endoscope, and a portion of which is configured to be fluidly connected between the fluid reservoir and the manifold.

2. The component of claim 1, further comprising a flushing supply piping, a portion of which is configured to be fluidly connected between the endoscope and the manifold, and a portion of which is configured to be connected between the manifold and the fluid reservoir.

3. The assembly of claim 2, wherein the portion of the lens cleaning supply piping between the fluid reservoir and the manifold and the portion of the flushing supply piping are the same portion of the piping.

4. The component of claim 3, wherein the fluid flow from the fluid reservoir through the same portions of the lens cleaning supply piping and the flushing supply piping to the manifold can be delivered to the endoscope for flushing purposes, lens cleaning purposes, or both.

5. The assembly according to any one of claims 3 to 4, wherein the same portions of the lens cleaning supply piping and the flushing supply piping between the manifold and the fluid reservoir are coaxially arranged within the portion of the gas supply piping between the manifold and the cap.

6. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the portion of the lens cleaning supply piping between the endoscope and the manifold is coaxially arranged within the portion of the gas supply piping between the endoscope and the manifold.

7. The component of claim 6, further comprising a shunt adapter, said adapter at one end being operatively coupled to a portion of the coaxial arrangement of the lens cleaning supply piping and gas supply piping between the endoscope and the manifold, and said adapter at the opposite end being configured to dock with the endoscope using a side-by-side connector.

8. The component of claim 1, further comprising a supply piping for a substitute gas, a portion of which is configured to be fluidly connected between the substitute gas source and the manifold, a portion of which is configured to be connected between the manifold and the cap, and a portion of which is configured to be connected between the manifold and the endoscope.

9. The assembly of claim 8, wherein the portions of the gas supply piping and the alternative gas supply piping between the manifold and the endoscope are the same portions of the piping, and the portions of the gas supply piping and the alternative gas supply piping between the manifold and the cap are the same portions of the piping.

10. The component of claim 8, wherein the directional gas flow from the alternative gas source between the manifold and the endoscope is opposite to the directional gas flow from the endoscope to the manifold.

11. The assembly of claim 8, wherein a portion of the flushing supply piping between the manifold and the endoscope, a portion of the alternative gas supply piping between the manifold and the alternative gas source, or both, may be selectively connected to the manifold, each selectively connected portion of the piping further comprising a penetration member disposed at its respective manifold end.

12. The assembly of claim 11, further comprising a flushing opening and a replacement gas opening disposed on the manifold, each of the flushing opening and the replacement gas opening comprising a ruptureable seal, which, when selectively connected thereto, can be punctured by a corresponding penetrating member of a corresponding portion of the flushing supply piping or the replacement gas supply piping.

13. The component of claim 2, wherein the portion of the flushing supply piping between the endoscope and the manifold, the portion of the lens cleaning supply piping, or the portion of the gas supply piping, or a combination thereof, may be connected to a one-way valve.

14. The assembly of claim 8, wherein a portion of the flushing supply piping between the manifold and the endoscope, a portion of the alternative gas supply piping between the manifold and the alternative gas source, or both, is fixed to the manifold and includes an adjustable fitting coupled thereto, the adjustable fitting being movable between a closed position and an open position.

15. The component of claim 1, wherein the piping manifold includes a crescent-shaped opening.

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