Water reservoir comprising flexible extension

Abstract

Methods and systems for supplying gas and water to an endoscope system. An example container assembly (500) includes: a container (502) configured to contain a fluid and having a bottom and a top; a lens water supply tube (536) including a first end, a second end, and a first lumen extending therethrough; an air supply tube (534) including a first end, a second end, and a second lumen extending therethrough; a port (506) located near the top of the container (502); and a flexible tube (516) including a first end coupled to the top of the container, a second end, and a third cavity extending therethrough. The third cavity of the flexible tube (516) may be configured to be in selective fluid communication with the interior of the container (502).

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 401,443, filed on August 26, 2022, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to medical fluid containers and methods, and more particularly to containers and tubing sets for supplying fluids and / or gases to an endoscope. Background Art

[0003] Traditionally, endoscopic devices have been widely used to perform diagnostic and / or therapeutic procedures. During endoscopic procedures, physicians may use a combination of air, flushing, and lens cleaning as a means of flushing debris, cleaning optical devices, and blowing into the working cavity. To achieve these functions, compressed gas from a processor or other source is used to blow into the working cavity or increase the pressure within a fluid bottle used to clean the lens of the endoscope. In addition, a peristaltic pump may be used to flush debris from the working cavity. One of the challenges faced during endoscopic procedures is that the ordinary water bottles and tube sets used can hold up to 1 liter of water and are designed not to be refillable. This may force nurses / technicians to change water bottles multiple times a day. This may bring multiple opportunities for contamination to the tube set by contacting non-sterile surfaces or dropping the tubes on the floor. It is with these factors in mind that the improvements disclosed herein may be useful. Summary of the invention

[0004] The content of the invention of the present disclosure is intended to assist understanding, and those skilled in the art will appreciate that, in some cases, various aspects and features of the present disclosure may be used alone, or in other cases, in combination with other aspects and features of the present disclosure. The inclusion or exclusion of elements, components, etc. in the content of the present disclosure is not intended to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter. Therefore, although the present disclosure is presented in the form of multiple aspects or embodiments, it should be understood that various aspects may be claimed alone, or in combination with aspects and features of this embodiment or any other embodiment.

[0005] In a first example, a container arranged and configured to be coupled to an endoscope for use in endoscopic inspection procedures may include: a container configured to contain a fluid and having a bottom and a top; a lens water supply tube comprising a first end, a second end, and a first cavity extending therethrough, wherein the first cavity is fluidically connected to the bottom of the container and the second end of the lens water supply tube is located outside the container; an air supply tube comprising a first end, a second end, and a second cavity extending therethrough, wherein the second cavity is operably fluidically connected to the interior of the container and the second end of the air supply tube is located outside the container; a port located near the top of the container; and a flexible tube comprising a first end coupled to the top of the container, a second end, and a third cavity extending therethrough, wherein the third cavity of the flexible tube is configured to be selectively fluidically connected to the interior of the container.

[0006] Alternatively or in addition to the above example, in another example, the second end of the flexible tube may be configured to be selectively coupled to the port.

[0007] As an alternative or in addition to any of the above examples, in another example, the second end of the flexible tube can be configured to threadably engage with the port.

[0008] As an alternative or in addition to any of the above examples, in another example, the second end of the flexible tube may include a rotatable collar.

[0009] As an alternative or in addition to any of the above examples, in another example, the port can include a plurality of external threads.

[0010] As an alternative or in addition to any of the above examples, in another example, the first end of the flexible tube may be rotatably coupled to the container.

[0011] As an alternative or in addition to any of the above examples, in another example, the second end of the flexible tube may include an annular sealing plug in fluid communication with the third cavity of the flexible tube.

[0012] As an alternative or in addition to any of the above examples, in another example, the annular sealing plug can be configured to form a seal with the water bottle.

[0013] As an alternative or addition to any of the above examples, in another example, the annular sealing plug can be configured to be disposed in the mouth of the water bottle and can be configured to form a seal with the mouth of the water bottle.

[0014] As an alternative or supplement to any of the above examples, in another example, the outer surface of the annular sealing plug may be tapered.

[0015] As an alternative or addition to any of the above examples, in another example, the taper may be a conical shape.

[0016] As an alternative or supplement to any of the above examples, in another example, the annular sealing plug can be configured to be disposed on the mouth of the water bottle and can be configured to form a seal with the mouth of the water bottle.

[0017] As an alternative or supplement to any of the above examples, in another example, the inner surface of the annular sealing plug may be tapered.

[0018] As an alternative or addition to any of the above examples, in another example, the taper may be a conical shape.

[0019] As an alternative or addition to any of the above examples, in another example, the container may further include an actuatable cover disposed on the annular sealing plug.

[0020] As an alternative or in addition to any of the examples above, in another example, the actuatable lid can be configured to be opened to transfer water from the water bottle to the container, and closed during use of the container.

[0021] As an alternative or in addition to any of the above examples, in another example, the flexible tube can form a handle when the second end of the flexible tube is coupled to the port.

[0022] As an alternative or in addition to any of the above examples, in another example, when the second end of the flexible tube is disconnected from the port, the second end of the flexible tube can be configured to be coupled to a water bottle.

[0023] As an alternative or in addition to any of the above examples, in another example, the port may be recessed into the top of the container.

[0024] In another example, a container arranged and configured to be coupled to an endoscope for endoscopic procedures may include: a container configured to contain a fluid and having a bottom and a top; a lens water supply tube including a first end, a second end, and a first lumen extending therethrough, wherein the first lumen is in fluid communication with the bottom of the container, and the second end of the lens water supply tube is located outside the container; an air supply tube including a first end, a second end, and a second lumen extending therethrough, wherein the second lumen is operably fluidly connected to the interior of the container, and the second end of the air supply tube is located outside the container; a port located near the top of the container; and a flexible tube including a first end coupled to the top of the container, a second end, and a third lumen extending therethrough, wherein the third lumen of the flexible tube is configured to be selectively fluidly connected to the interior of the container. The second end of the flexible tube may be configured to selectively couple to the port, and the flexible tube may form a handle when the second end of the flexible tube is coupled to the port.

[0025] As an alternative or in addition to any of the above examples, in another example, the second end of the flexible tube can be configured to threadably engage with the port.

[0026] As an alternative or in addition to any of the above examples, in another example, the second end of the flexible tube may include a rotatable collar.

[0027] As an alternative or in addition to any of the above examples, in another example, the port can include a plurality of external threads.

[0028] As an alternative or in addition to any of the above examples, in another example, the first end of the flexible tube may be rotatably coupled to the container.

[0029] As an alternative or in addition to any of the above examples, in another example, when the second end of the flexible tube is disconnected from the port, the second end of the flexible tube can be configured to be coupled to a water bottle.

[0030] In another example, a container arranged and configured to be coupled to an endoscope for endoscopic procedures may include: a container configured to contain a fluid and having a bottom and a top; a lens water supply tube including a first end, a second end, and a first lumen extending therethrough, wherein the first lumen is in fluid communication with the bottom of the container and the second end of the lens water supply tube is located outside the container; an air supply tube including a first end, a second end, and a second lumen extending therethrough, wherein the second lumen is operably fluidly connected to the interior of the container and the second end of the air supply tube is located outside the container; a port located near the top of the container; a flexible tube including a first end coupled to the top of the container, a second end including an annular sealing plug, and a third lumen extending therethrough, wherein the third lumen of the flexible tube is configured to be in selective fluid communication with the interior of the container. The annular sealing plug may include a deformable material.

[0031] As an alternative or in addition to any of the above examples, in another example, the annular sealing plug can be configured to form a seal with the water bottle.

[0032] As an alternative or addition to any of the above examples, in another example, the container may further include an actuatable cover disposed on the annular sealing plug.

[0033] As an alternative or in addition to any of the examples above, in another example, the actuatable lid can be configured to be opened to transfer water from the water bottle to the container, and closed during use of the container.

[0034] As an alternative or in addition to any of the above examples, in another example, the actuatable cover may include a hinged cover.

[0035] As an alternative or in addition to any of the above examples, in another example, the actuatable cover may include a sliding cover.

[0036] These and other features and advantages of the present disclosure will be apparent from the following detailed description, and the scope of the claimed invention is set forth in the appended claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0037] 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 present disclosure.

[0038] Figure 1 The components of an endoscope are shown;

[0039] Figure 2 An assembly of an endoscope system is shown, which includes an endoscope, a light source, a light source connector, a water reservoir, and a tube assembly for delivering air and lens cleaning fluid;

[0040] Figure 3A An endoscope system is shown with an endoscope, a light source, a water reservoir, and a tube assembly for delivering mixed air, lens cleaning and flushing fluids, wherein the system is activated to deliver air to atmosphere;

[0041] Figure 3B Shows Figure 3A an endoscope system, wherein the system is activated to deliver air to a patient through a patient end of the endoscope;

[0042] Figure 3C Shows Figure 3A an endoscope system of claim 1, wherein the system is activated to deliver a lens cleaning fluid through a patient end of the endoscope;

[0043] Figure 3D Shows Figure 3A an endoscope system, wherein the system is activated to deliver an irrigation fluid through a patient end of the endoscope;

[0044] Figure 4 A hybrid endoscope system is shown, which includes a video processing unit, a connector portion, a peristaltic irrigation pump, a water reservoir and tip, coaxial gas and lens wash supply tubes, upstream and downstream irrigation supply tubes, and a backup gas supply tube;

[0045] Figure 5A shows a side view of an exemplary refillable fluid reservoir;

[0046] Figure 5B Shown is a water bottle connected Figure 5A An exemplary reservoir side view in FIG.

[0047] Figure 6 yes Figure 5A A side view of an exemplary reservoir having a spare port and a coupling mechanism for coupling the second end of the flexible tube to the port;

[0048] Fig. 7A shows a side view of another exemplary refillable fluid reservoir; and

[0049] Figure 7B Shown is a water bottle connected Fig. 7A Side view of an exemplary reservoir in .

[0050] Although the present disclosure is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, details thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail. However, it should be understood that it is not intended to limit the present invention to the specific embodiments described. On the contrary, it is intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives that fall within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0051] The present disclosure is now described with reference to an exemplary medical system that can be used for 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 present disclosure. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the concepts behind the disclosed apparatus and related methods of use can be used for any suitable procedure, whether medical or otherwise. The present disclosure may be understood with reference to the following description and accompanying drawings, in which the same or similar reference numbers will be used to refer to the same or similar parts.

[0052] The term "distal end" refers to the portion of the device that is farthest from the user when the device is introduced into the patient's body. In contrast, the term "proximal end" refers to the portion that is closest to the user when the device is placed into the patient's body. As used herein, the terms "include," "comprises," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusions, such that a process, method, article, or device that includes a list of elements does not necessarily include only these elements, but may include other elements that are not explicitly listed or inherent in such processes, methods, articles, or devices. The term "exemplary" is used as an "example" rather than an "ideal." In addition, as used herein, the terms "about," "approximately," and "substantially" represent a range of values ​​within + / -10% of a stated or implied value. In addition, terms representing the geometry of a component / surface refer to precise and approximate shapes.

[0053] Embodiments of the present disclosure are described with particular reference to bottles (e.g., containers, reservoirs, etc.) and tube assemblies or kits. It should be understood that these embodiments can be used to supply fluids and / or gases to an endoscope for a variety of purposes, including, for example, to facilitate patient inflation, lens cleaning, and / or flushing of a working channel to help flush / aspirate debris during endoscopic procedures.

[0054] Although the present disclosure includes descriptions of containers and tubing sets suitable for use in endoscope systems to supply fluids and / or gases to an endoscope, the devices, systems, and methods herein may be implemented in other medical systems requiring fluid and / or gas delivery and for a variety of other purposes.

[0055] It is worth noting that references to "embodiments", "some embodiments", "other embodiments", etc. in the specification indicate that the embodiments may include specific features, structures or characteristics, but each embodiment does not necessarily include specific features, structures or characteristics. In addition, these phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. In addition, when specific features, structures or characteristics are described in conjunction with an embodiment, those skilled in the art may combine other embodiments to affect such features, structures or characteristics, whether or not explicitly described, unless otherwise explicitly stated. That is, as understood by those of ordinary skill in the art, the various individual elements described below, even if not explicitly shown as a specific combination, are considered to be combined or arranged with each other to form other additional embodiments or to supplement and / or enrich the embodiments.

[0056] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. As used in this specification and the appended claims, the term "or" is generally used in its sense, including "and / or," unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

[0057] Traditionally, endoscopic devices have been widely used to perform diagnostic and / or therapeutic procedures. During endoscopic procedures, doctors can use a combination of air, flushing, and lens washing as a means of flushing debris, cleaning optical devices, and inflating the working cavity. To achieve these functions, the endoscope umbilicus is connected to a water bottle by a set of tubes. One tube delivers pressurized air from a processor to the water bottle. The other tube is a water tube suspended in the water at the bottom of the water bottle. To ensure that the tube stays at the bottom of the water bottle, a weight can be connected to the distal tip to prevent the tube from floating to the top of the water surface. In addition, at the top of the bottle body, the cover is equipped with multiple features and components to ensure that preferred performance is achieved. This article discloses a container and a tube group that combines multiple components and functions into one component, which can reduce the number of components required to achieve the same performance.

[0058] refer to Figure 1-2 , an exemplary endoscope 100 and system 200 are shown, which may include an elongated shaft 100a inserted into a patient's body. A light source 205 feeds 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 the signal input from the imager and outputs the processed video signal to a video monitor (not shown) for viewing. The video processing unit 210 also serves as a component of an air / water feed circuit by housing a pressurizing pump 215 (e.g., an air feed pump) in the unit.

[0059] The endoscope shaft 100a may include a distal tip 100c disposed at a distal portion 100b of the shaft 100a and a flexible curved portion 105 located proximal to the distal tip 100c. The flexible curved portion 105 may include an articulated joint (not shown) to assist in manipulating the distal tip 100c. On the end surface 100d of the distal tip 100c of the endoscope 100 is a gas / lens wash nozzle 220 for supplying gas to insufflate the interior of the patient at the treatment area and for supplying water to wash the lens covering the imager. The irrigation opening 225 in the end surface 100d supplies irrigation fluid to the treatment area of ​​the patient. The surface 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 shaft 100a for transmitting tools to the treatment area. The working channel 235 extends along the shaft 100a to the proximal channel opening 110 located distally to the operating handle 115 of the endoscope 100. A biopsy valve 120 may be used to seal the channel opening 110 to prevent unwanted fluid outflow.

[0060] The operating handle 115 may be provided with a knob 125 for providing remote 4-way steering of the distal tip via a line body connected to an articulated joint in the bendable flexible portion 105 (for example, 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. In addition, the handle 115 is provided with two valve wells 135. One of the valve wells 135 may receive a gas / water valve 140 for operating the insufflation gas and lens water supply operations. The gas supply line 240a and the lens cleaning supply line 245a extend distally from the gas / water valve 140 along the axis 100a and merge at the distal tip 100c proximal to the gas / cleaning nozzle 220 ( Figure 2 ). Another valve well 135 receives a suction valve 145 for operating a suction operation. A suction supply line 250a extends distally from the suction valve 145 along the shaft 100a to a junction in fluid communication with the working channel 235 of the endoscope 100.

[0061] The operating handle 115 is electrically and fluidically connected to the video processing unit 210 through a flexible umbilicus 260 and a connector portion 265 extending therebetween. The flexible umbilicus 260 has a gas (e.g., air or CO2) feed line 240b, a lens cleaning feed line 245b, a suction feed line 250b, an irrigation feed line 255b, a light guide (not shown), and an electrical signal cable (not shown). The connector portion 265 connects the light source 205 in the video processing unit to the light guide when inserted into the video processing unit 210. The light guide extends along the length of the umbilicus 260 and the endoscope shaft 100a to transmit light to the distal tip 100c of the endoscope 100. When the connector portion 265 is inserted into the video processing unit 210, it also connects the air pump 215 to the gas feed line 240b in the umbilicus 260.

[0062] A water reservoir or container 270 (e.g., a water bottle) is fluidly connected to the endoscope 100 via the connector portion 265 and the umbilicus 260. A length of gas supply tube 240c passes from one end in an air gap 275 between the top 280 (e.g., a bottle cap) of the reservoir 270 and the remaining water 285 in the reservoir to a removable gas / lens wash connector 290 outside the connector portion 265. The removable gas / lens wash connector 290 can be removed from the connector portion 265 and / or the gas supply tube 240c. The gas feed line 240b from the umbilicus 260 branches in the connector portion 265 to be in fluid communication with the gas supply tube 240c at the removable gas / lens wash connector 290 and the air pump 215. A length of lens cleaning tube 245c, one end of which is located at the bottom of reservoir 270, passes through the top 280 of reservoir 270 to reach the same removable connector 290 as air supply tube 240c on connector portion 265. In other embodiments, the connectors may be independent and / or separate from each other. Connector portion 265 also has a removable irrigation connector 293 for an irrigation supply tube (not shown) extending from an irrigation water source (not shown) to an irrigation feed line 255b in umbilicus 260. Removable irrigation connector 293 may be detached from connector portion 265 and / or irrigation supply tube (not shown). In some embodiments, irrigation water is supplied from a water source (not shown) independent of water reservoir 270 by a pump (e.g., a peristaltic pump). In other embodiments, the irrigation supply tube and lens cleaning tube 245c may obtain water from the same reservoir. The connector portion 265 may also include a removable suction connector 295 for a suction feed line 250b and a suction supply line 250a that fluidly connect a vacuum source (e.g., a hospital suction set) (not shown) to the umbilicus 260 and the endoscope 100. The removable suction connector 295 may be removable from the connector portion 265 and / or the suction feed line 250b and / or the vacuum source.

[0063] The gas feed line 240b and the lens wash feed line 245b are fluidly connected to the valve well 135 for the gas / water valve 140 and are configured such that operation of the gas / water valve in the well controls the supply of gas or lens wash to the distal tip 100c of the endoscope 100. The suction feed line 250b is fluidly connected to the valve well 135 for the suction valve 145 and is configured such that operation of the suction valve in the well controls the suction applied to the working channel 235 of the endoscope 100.

[0064] refer to Figure 2 , explains an exemplary operation of an endoscope system 200 (including an endoscope, such as the endoscope 100 described above). Air from an air pump 215 in a video processing unit 210 flows through a connector portion 265 and branches through a gas feed line 240b in an umbilicus 260 to a gas / water valve 140 on an operating handle 115, and through a gas supply tube 240c via a connector 290 on the connector portion 265 to a water reservoir 270. When the gas / water valve 140 is in a 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 downstream from the valve 140 to the gas supply line 240a and out of the distal tip 100c of the endoscope 100 so as to, for example, insufflate a treatment area of ​​a patient. When the gas / water valve 140 is depressed to the second position, gas is prevented from exiting the valve, thereby allowing the pressure of air flowing from the air pump 215 to rise in the water reservoir 270. Pressurizing the water source forces water to flow from the lens wash tube 245c, through the connector portion 265, the umbilicus 260, through the gas / water valve 140 and downstream to the lens wash supply line 245a to join the gas supply line 240a before exiting the distal tip 100c of the endoscope 100 through the gas / lens wash nozzle 220. The gas pump pressure can be calibrated to provide lens wash water at a relatively low flow rate compared to the flush water supply.

[0065] The lens wash flow rate is determined by the gas pressure in the water reservoir 270. When the gas pressure in the water reservoir 270 begins to drop, as water is pushed out of the reservoir 270 through the lens wash tube 245c, the 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 wash flow rate. In some embodiments, a filter (not shown) can be placed in the path of the air supply tube 240c to filter out unwanted contaminants or particles that enter the water reservoir 270. In some embodiments, an outflow check valve or other one-way valve configuration (not shown) can be placed in the path of the lens wash supply tube to help prevent water from flowing back into the reservoir 270 after passing through the valve.

[0066] Compared to lens cleaning, a relatively high flow rate of flushing water is usually required because the primary purpose is to remove debris that obstructs the user's field of view in the patient treatment area. As described, flushing is usually achieved using a pump (e.g., a peristaltic pump). In an embodiment with an independent flushing water source, a tube placed at the bottom of the water source passes through the top of the water source and through the head on the upstream side of the pump. The tube on the downstream side of the pump is connected to the flushing feed line 255b in the umbilicus 260 and the flushing supply line 255a of the endoscope 100 through the flushing connector 293 on the connector portion 265. When flushing water is needed, fluid is pumped from the water source by operating the flushing pump (e.g., by stepping on a foot switch (not shown)), and the fluid flows through the flushing connector 293, the flushing feed line 255b in the umbilicus, and flows downstream to the flushing supply line in the endoscope shaft 100a to reach the distal tip 100c. In order to balance the pressure in the water source when water is pumped out of the flushing supply tube, a vent (not shown) can be provided in the top 280 of the water reservoir 270. The vent allows atmospheric air to enter the water source to prevent negative pressure from being created in the water source, which could create a vacuum that could draw undesirable material from the patient back through the endoscope into the water source. In some embodiments, similar to the lens wash tube 245c, an outflow check valve or other one-way valve configuration (not shown) may be placed in the path of the irrigation supply tube to help prevent water from flowing back into the reservoir after passing through the valve.

[0067] Figures 3A-3D is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of an embodiment of a hybrid system 300 in which supply tubes for flushing and lens cleaning are connected to a single water reservoir and water is drawn therefrom. It is contemplated that fluids other than water may be used, such as, but not limited to, saline. The hybrid system 300 includes a single water reservoir 305, a reservoir cap 310, an air supply tube 240c, a lens cleaning supply tube 245c, a flushing pump 315 with a foot switch 318, an upstream supply tube 320 for flushing, and a downstream flushing supply tube 255c. The cap 310 may be configured to be attached to the water reservoir 305 in a sealing manner by a conventional threaded arrangement. The cap 310 may include a gasket to seal the cap 310 to the reservoir 305. The gasket may be an O-ring, a flange, a collar, etc., and may be made of any suitable material. A plurality of openings (325a, 325b, 325c) are provided in the cover 310 to receive the gas supply pipe 240c, the lens cleaning supply pipe 245c and the upstream flushing supply pipe 320, respectively. Figures 3A-3D In FIG. 1 , the system shown includes separate lines for gas supply, lens cleaning and flushing.

[0068] In other embodiments, the gas supply tube 240c and the lens cleaning tube 245c can be combined into a coaxial arrangement. Some exemplary coaxial arrangements are described in commonly assigned U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 558,239 (titled "Integrated Container and Tubing Assembly for Delivery of Fluids Through an Endoscope") and U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 558,256 (titled "Tubing Assembly and Method for Delivery of Fluids"), the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein. For example, the gas supply tube can define a cavity of sufficient diameter to contain a smaller diameter lens cleaning tube coaxially received within the gas supply tube, and to provide air to a water source in an annular space surrounding the lens cleaning tube to pressurize the water reservoir (see, e.g., gas and lens cleaning supply tubes 240c, 245c). The lens cleaning supply tube can be configured to exit the cavity defined by the coaxial gas supply tube in any suitable sealing manner, such as an aperture, a fitting, a collar, and / or the like, so as to facilitate connection between a removable gas / lens cleaning connector to an endoscope connector portion (e.g., Figure 2 The connector portion 265) transitions from a coaxial arrangement to a side-by-side arrangement.

[0069] In various embodiments, valves (not shown) of different configurations may be incorporated into the tubes of various embodiments disclosed herein, including systems 200, 300. For example, an inflow check valve may be provided in the path of the air supply tube 240c to help prevent backflow into the air pump 215. In this way, the pressure buildup within the water reservoir 305 creates a pressure differential between the water source and the air supply tube 240c, helping to maintain a positive pressure in the water source even though a large amount of water may be removed from the water source during a flushing function. This arrangement compensates for any time lag in the air delivered from the air pump 215 to the water reservoir 305, which may otherwise result in a negative pressure vacuum in the water reservoir. Similarly, an outflow check valve (e.g., a one-way valve having an inlet / outlet and a valve insert) may be incorporated into the lens wash supply tube 245c, the upstream rinse supply tube 320, and / or the downstream rinse supply tube 255c to help prevent backflow of water from either or both of the lens wash and rinse supply tubes when a negative pressure condition occurs, as described.

[0070] More generally, in many embodiments, a check valve may refer to any type of configuration for a fluid to flow in only one direction in a passive manner. For example, a check valve may include or refer to one or more of the following: a ball check valve, a diaphragm check valve, a swing check valve, a tilting disc check valve, a flapper valve, a stop check valve, a lift check valve, an in-line check valve, a duckbill valve, a pneumatic check valve, a reed valve, a flow check valve. Thus, the check valve used herein is intended to be separate and distinct from an active valve, which (e.g., a stop valve, a solenoid valve, a peristaltic pump operates in a binary manner as an on / off valve or switch to allow flow to be turned on or to allow flow to be turned off).

[0071] exist Figures 3A-3D During operation of the system, a flushing water flow may be achieved by operating the flushing pump 315. A lens wash water flow may be achieved by pressing the gas / water valve 140 on the operating handle 115 of the endoscope 100. These functions may be performed independently of each other or simultaneously. When lens washing and flushing are operated simultaneously, as fluid is removed from the water reservoir 305, the pressure in the system may be controlled to maintain the lens wash supply tube 245c substantially at the pressure required to achieve a lower flow rate lens wash while compensating for the pressure drop in the water reservoir 305 caused by supplying a high flow rate flush. When the pressure in the water reservoir is reduced by using the lens wash function, the flushing function, or both functions, the reduced pressure may be compensated by the air pump 215 through the air supply tube 240c.

[0072] Figures 3A-3D The schematic diagram in FIG. 3 has been highlighted to show the different flow paths that a hybrid system 300 may have, with a supply tube 320 for flushing and a lens cleaning supply tube 245c connected to and drawing water from a single water reservoir 305. Figure 3A As shown, the endoscope 100 is in a neutral state with the gas / water valve 140 in an open position. The neutral state does not deliver gas or lens wash to the distal end of the endoscope. Instead, gas (pressure) is delivered along path A from the pressurized gas pump 215 and exhausted through the gas feed line 240b in the umbilicus 260 via the connection 265 and exhausted to the atmosphere through the gas / water valve. Since the system is open at the vent of the gas / water valve 140, there is no accumulation of pressurization to the water reservoir 305, and therefore no water is pushed through the lens wash supply tube 245c.

[0073] like Figure 3B As shown, the endoscope 100 is in a gas delivery state, wherein the gas / water valve 140 is in a first position. When gas is needed at the distal tip 100c, for example, to clean the end surface 100d of the distal tip or to blow air into the patient's body in the treatment area, the user closes the vent hole in the gas / water valve 140 (first position) with a thumb, finger, etc. In this state, gas (pressure) is delivered from the air pump 215 along path B and flows through the gas feed line 240b in the umbilicus 260 through 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 flows out of the gas / lens wash nozzle 220 at the distal tip 100c. Since the system is open at the gas / lens water nozzle 220, there is no accumulation of pressurization of the water reservoir, and therefore no water is pushed through the lens wash supply tube 245c.

[0074] like Figure 3CAs shown, the endoscope 100 is in a lens cleaning delivery state, wherein the gas / water valve 140 is in the second position. When lens cleaning is required at the distal tip 100c, for example, to clean the end surface 100d of the distal tip 100c, the user keeps the vent hole in the air / water valve closed and presses the valve 140 to the farthest point in the 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 gas / water valve 140 to allow lens cleaning water to flow through the lens cleaning supply line 245a in the endoscope shaft 100a and out of the gas / lens cleaning nozzle 220 at the distal tip 100c. In this state, gas (pressure) is delivered from the air pump 215 along the path C, through the branch line in the connector portion 265, and out of the gas supply tube 240c to the water reservoir 305. The gas (pressure) pressurizes the surface of the remaining water 285 in the reservoir 305 and pushes the water up the lens wash supply tube 245c to the connector portion 265. The pressurized lens wash water is further pushed through the lens wash feed line 245b in the umbilicus 260 and the gas / water valve 140. Since the system 300 is closed, the gas pressure is allowed to build and maintain the calibrated pressure level in the water reservoir 305 instead of venting to the atmosphere or being delivered to the patient. This pressure, together with the endoscope feed and supply lines and external tubing, translates into a range of flow rates for lens wash.

[0075] like Figure 3D As shown, the endoscope 100 is in an irrigation delivery state. This can be performed simultaneously or separately with the delivery of gas and / or lens wash. When irrigation is required at the distal tip 100c, for example, if visibility of the treatment area is poor or obstructed by debris or the like, the user activates the irrigation pump 315 (e.g., by pressing the foot switch 318) to deliver water along the path D. With the pump 315 activated, water is drawn from the water reservoir 305 through the upstream irrigation supply tube 320 and pumped to the connector portion 265 along the downstream irrigation supply tube 255c. The irrigation pump head pressure pushes the irrigation water further through the irrigation feed line 255b in the umbilicus 260, the irrigation supply line 255a in the endoscope shaft 100a, and out of the irrigation opening 225 at the distal tip 100c. The irrigation pump pressure and the endoscope irrigation feed and supply lines and external tubing can be calibrated to deliver irrigation fluids within a range of flow rates.

[0076] Figure 42 is a schematic diagram showing 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 portion 407, a coaxial gas and lens cleaning supply tube 410, upstream and downstream flushing supply tubes 320, 255c, and a backup gas (e.g., CO2) supply tube 415. The backup gas supply tube 415 is long from one end thereof (which is located at the air gap 275 between the top portion 407 of the water reservoir 405 and the remaining water 285 in the reservoir (see FIG. 2 )). Figure 2 ) through an additional opening 420 in the top of the reservoir to a detachable connector 425 for an alternate gas supply source (e.g., a CO2 hospital gas source). When an alternate gas supply (e.g., CO2 gas) is needed, the air pump 215 on the video processing unit 210 can be turned off so that CO2 gas (rather than air) flows to the water reservoir 405, pressurizing the water surface. Generally, the flow of CO2 flow 100 through the endoscope is similar to the flow of air. In the neutral state, CO2 gas flows back along the gas supply tube 240c to the connector portion 265, flows upward along the gas feed line 240b, and is exhausted 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 the CO2 gas flows through the gas / water valve to flow to the gas supply line 240a in the endoscope shaft 100a and out of the gas / lens cleaning nozzle 220 at the distal tip 100c. In the second position, the user presses the valve 140 to the bottom of the valve well 135, 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, allowing lens wash water to flow through the lens wash supply line 245a in the endoscope shaft 100a and out of the gas / lens wash nozzle 220 at the distal end 100c. The gas (pressure) in the reservoir 405 can be maintained by delivering gas through the backup gas (e.g., CO2) supply tube 415. The flushing function can be used in the same manner as described above with respect to Figure 3D The described operations are implemented in a similar manner.

[0077] As described above, by providing a refillable and / or larger capacity water reservoir 270, 305, 405, it may be desirable to reduce the chance of contamination of the tubing set 240c, 245c, 320, 410, 415 during replacement of the water reservoir. Figure 5A A side view of an exemplary refillable fluid reservoir 500 is shown. Figure 5B A side view of an exemplary reservoir 500 coupled to a water bottle 528 is shown. The reservoir 500 can be configured for use with an endoscope system and include Figure 1-4Components similar to the endoscopes and endoscope systems described herein; however, if not relevant to the fluid circuit of the system, not all features may be described or shown herein. The reservoir 500 includes a container 502 configured to contain a fluid 504. The container 502 can be formed of a lightweight, flexible material, such as, but not limited to, low-density polyethylene (LDPE), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), silicone, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), aluminum, nylon, polyethylene (PE), or combinations thereof. In other embodiments, the reservoir 500 can be formed of a rigid or semi-rigid material. In some embodiments, the container 502 can be completely translucent, completely opaque, or a combination thereof.

[0078] The reservoir 500 may also include a port 506. In some embodiments, the port 506 may be in fluid communication with the interior 508 of the container 502. However, this is not required. In some embodiments, the port 506 may not provide access to the interior 508 of the container. The port 506 may extend from the top 510 of the container 502 in a direction opposite to the bottom 512 of the container 502. The port 506 may include a coupling mechanism 514, such as, but not limited to, a plurality of external threads. Other coupling mechanisms may be used as desired, such as, but not limited to, one or more grooves configured to receive one or more protruding protrusions, one or more protruding protrusions configured to be received in one or more mating grooves, friction fit, etc.

[0079] The reservoir 500 may also include a flexible tube 516. The flexible tube 516 may extend from a first end 518 to a second end 520, wherein the first end 518 is coupled to the top 510 of the container 502 adjacent to the opening 542 in the container 502, and the second end 520 defines a cavity 522 ( Figure 5A ). In some cases, the flexible tube 516 may be formed as a single unitary structure with the container 502. In other embodiments, the first end 518 of the flexible tube 516 may be coupled to the container 502. For example, the first end 518 of the flexible tube 516 can be rotatably coupled to the container 502. The cavity 522 may be configured to selectively fluidly communicate with the interior 508 of the container 502. The second end 520 of the flexible tube 516 may include a coupling mechanism 524, such as, but not limited to, a plurality of internal threads. Other coupling mechanisms may be used as desired, such as, but not limited to, one or more grooves configured to receive one or more raised protrusions, one or more raised protrusions configured to be received in one or more mating grooves, friction fit, etc. The second end 520 of the flexible tube 516 may be configured to selectively couple to the port 506 or the water bottle 528 ( Figure 5B). For example, when the reservoir 500 is in use, the second end 520 of the flexible tube 516 can be coupled to the port 506. This can seal the container 502 so that the interior 508 can be pressurized to provide lens cleaning fluid and maintain the sterility of the cavity 522 of the flexible tube. It is further contemplated that when the second end 520 of the flexible tube 516 is coupled to the port 506, the flexible tube 516 can be used as a handle. The flexible tube 516 can then receive a hand or hook through the opening 526, which is defined by the space between the flexible tube 516 and the top 510 of the container 502. In some embodiments, when the flexible tube 516 is coupled to the port 506, the flexible tube 516 can be configured to be coupled to a hook or other mechanism on the endoscope tower. This can elevate the reservoir to reduce the footprint on the operating room floor and improve ergonomics because the user may no longer need to bend down to the floor to interact with the reservoir.

[0080] When it is necessary to fill or refill the reservoir 500, the second end 520 of the flexible tube 516 can be disengaged from the port 506, so that the flexible tube 516 is disengaged from the port 506 and connected to the water bottle 528. The flexible tube 516 can be bent, rotated or otherwise manipulated to bring the second end 520 to the mouth 532 of the water bottle 528. Alternatively or additionally, in some cases, the mouth of the water bottle 528 can be oriented toward the second end of the flexible tube 516. It is contemplated that the second end 520 of the flexible tube 516 can be connected to the water bottle 528 while the water bottle 528 is maintained in an upright orientation. This can limit spillage that may occur when tilting the water bottle 528 for pouring and / or connection. Once the second end of the flexible tube 516 is connected to the water bottle 528, the water bottle 528 can be inverted to allow water to flow out of the interior of the water bottle 528, flow through the cavity 522 of the flexible tube 516, and flow into the interior 508 of the container 502, as shown in the flow path 530. In other examples, the water bottle 528 can be squeezed or compressed to move water from its interior through the cavity 522 of the flexible tube 516 and into the interior 508 of the container 502, as shown by the flow path 530. When the port 506 includes a through hole to provide fluid communication with the interior 508 of the container 502, the port 506 can be used as a vent or pressure relief when water flows into the container 502. In other embodiments, the port 506 is used to secure the second end 520 of the flexible tube 516, thereby protecting the second end 520 from contaminants that may be exposed in the room during the surgical procedure and allowing the container 502 to be pressurized without providing fluid communication with the interior 508 of the container 502.

[0081] The reservoir 500 can be in fluid communication with a gas supply / backup gas supply tube (or gas supply tube) 534 and a lens cleaning supply / rinsing supply tube (or water supply tube) 536. The gas supply tube 534 extends from a second end outside the reservoir 500 through a reservoir opening 538a in the container 502. The gas supply tube 534 can extend into the remaining fluid in the container 502. For example, the opening 538a can be located at the bottom or side of the container 502 so that the gas supply tube 534 ends in the fluid, where the gas bubbles through the fluid to pressurize the container. However, in some cases, the gas supply tube 534 can be located near the top 510 of the container 502 and can end in the reservoir gap, located at or below the opening through which the gas supply tube 534 extends, but does not extend into the remaining fluid in the container 502. A cavity extends through the gas supply tube 534 for receiving a flow of air and / or gas therethrough. The cavity of the gas supply tube 534 is in operable fluid communication with the interior 508 of the reservoir 500. The water supply pipe 536 extends from the second end outside the reservoir 500 through the reservoir opening 538b, terminating at the first end within the remaining fluid, at the bottom 512 of the container 502 or substantially at the bottom 512. In some embodiments, the water supply pipe 536 may terminate at the opening 538b. For example, when the opening 538b is located at the bottom 512 of the container 502 or adjacent to the bottom 512, a dip tube may not be required. However, when the opening 538b is adjacent to the top 510 of the container 502, a dip tube may be required. The cavity extends through the water supply pipe 536 for receiving the fluid flow therethrough. The cavity of the water supply pipe 536 is selectively operated in fluid communication with the bottom 512 of the container 502. In the illustrated embodiment, the air supply pipe 534 and the water supply pipe 536 can extend side by side and enter the container 502 through the separated openings 538a, 538b. However, this is not necessary. In some cases, the air supply pipe 534 and the water supply pipe 536 can enter the container through a single or common opening. For example, the air supply tube 534 and the water supply tube 536 can be coaxially arranged. The openings 538a, 538b can include a gasket or heat seal 540 configured to seal the container 502 around the tubes 534, 536 in a fluid and pressure-tight manner.

[0082] A portion of the gas supply tube 534 and a portion of the water supply tube 536 may each extend from the reservoir 500 and may be in fluid communication with the endoscope at a gas / lens wash connection on the connector portion 265 of the umbilicus. Within the connector portion 265, the gas supply tube 534 is in fluid communication with an air pump (not explicitly shown) and a gas feed line (not explicitly shown), while the water supply tube 536 is in fluid communication with a lens wash feed line (not explicitly shown). Although not explicitly shown, the irrigation supply tube may be coupled to the water supply tube 536 via a manifold to supply irrigation fluid from the reservoir 500, or a separate irrigation supply tube may be provided that terminates at the container 502 and is in fluid communication with the interior 508 of the container 502.

[0083] The water bottle 528 and flexible tube 516 may remain in place (if raised) until all of the water has been transferred from the water bottle 528 to the container 502 through the flexible tube 516. Once completed, the water bottle 528 may be discarded, and the second end 520 of the flexible tube 516 may be coupled to the port 506 to protect the second end 520 from contaminants that may be exposed to the room during surgery and to allow pressurization of the container 502. The second end 520 of the flexible tube 516 may not be disconnected from the port 506 until additional water needs to be transferred to the reservoir 500.

[0084] The reservoir 500 can be refilled as needed during or between surgeries. The water can be sterile or non-sterile as needed. For example, sterile water can be used for therapeutic surgeries, while non-sterile water can be used for diagnostic surgeries. It is contemplated that refilling the reservoir 500 with sterile or non-sterile water can create greater flexibility and reduce the need to store large amounts of sterile water. In addition, refilling the reservoir 500 through the flexible tube 516 can also eliminate the need to disconnect the reservoir 500 from the tubes 534, 536 throughout the day, thereby eliminating or greatly reducing the possibility of cross contamination because there is no need to change water containers.

[0085] Figure 6 yes Figure 5A 502, having a spare port 550 and a coupling mechanism 560 for coupling the second end 520 of the flexible tube 516 to the port 550. The port 550 can be disposed within a groove 558 formed in the top 510 of the container 502. The groove 558 can extend from an open first end 564 at the top 562 of the container 502 to a second end 566 offset from the top 562 of the container 502. The second end 566 of the groove 558 can be located between the top 562 and the bottom 568 of the container 502. The port 550 can also include a plurality of external threads 552.

[0086] The second end 520 of the flexible tube 516 may include a rotatable collar 554. The rotatable collar 554 may be configured to rotate or turn independently of the body of the flexible tube 516. For example, the rotatable collar 554 may be an annular collar disposed at least partially around the outer surface of the flexible tube 516. The rotatable collar 554 may extend distally beyond the second end 520 of the flexible tube 516. The rotatable collar 554 may also include a plurality of internal threads 556. The plurality of internal threads 556 may be configured to threadably engage with the external threads 552 on the port 550. It is contemplated that the rotatable collar 554 may also be threadedly engaged with the external threads 552 on the port 550. Figure 5A Use with port 506.

[0087] Fig. 7A A side view of another exemplary refillable fluid reservoir 600 is shown. Figure 7B A side view of an exemplary reservoir 600 coupled to a water bottle 654 is shown. The reservoir 600 may be configured for use with an endoscope system and include Figure 1-4 Components similar to the endoscope and endoscope system described herein; however, if not relevant to the fluid circuit of the system, all features may not be described or shown here. The reservoir 600 includes a container 602 configured to hold a fluid 604. The container 602 can be formed of a lightweight flexible material, such as but not limited to low-density polyethylene (LDPE), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), silicone, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), aluminum, nylon, polyethylene (PE), or combinations thereof. In other embodiments, the reservoir 600 can be formed of a rigid or semi-rigid material. In some embodiments, the container 602 can be completely translucent, completely opaque, or a combination thereof.

[0088] The reservoir 600 may also include a port 606 having a removable cover 608. The cover 608 may be formed of a rigid material and may be configured to form a fluid seal with the port 606. The cover 608 may be configured to threadedly engage with the port 606, form a friction fit with the port 606, form a snap fit with the port 606, or otherwise releasably engage the port 606. In some embodiments, the cover 608 may be a self-sealing one-way valve. In other embodiments, the cover 608 may be formed of a self-healing material. For example, a needle may be used to pierce the self-healing material, thereby providing access to the interior 610 of the container 602, and once the needle is removed, the hole formed by the needle can be sealed without user intervention. In some examples, the port 606 and / or the cover 608 may be formed of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene (PP), etc. Port 606 may extend into the container 602. The removable cap 608 can be removed to selectively fluidically connect the fluid source to the container 602 and allow the fluid to be poured into the container 602 through the cavity of the port 606. In the case where the cap 608 is formed of a self-healing material, a needle can be used to pierce the cap 608 and selectively fluidically connect the fluid source to the container 602 and allow the fluid to be poured into the container 602.

[0089] The reservoir 600 may also include a flexible tube 616. The flexible tube 616 may extend from a first end 618 coupled to the top 612 of the container 602 adjacent an opening 624 in the container 602 to a second end 620 defining a cavity 622 therethrough. In some cases, the flexible tube 616 may be formed as a single unitary structure with the container 602. In other embodiments, the first end 618 of the flexible tube 616 may be coupled to the container 602. For example, the first end 618 of the flexible tube 616 may be rotatably coupled to the container 602. The cavity 622 may be configured to be in selective fluid communication with the interior 610 of the container 602.

[0090] The second end 620 of the flexible tube 616 may include an actuable cover 626. The cover 626 may be disposed over the second end 620 of the flexible tube 616 and may be actuated to selectively expose the second end of the flexible tube 616. For example, the cover 626 may include a cover body 628 pivotally coupled to a body 630 of the cover 626. The cover body 628 may be pivotally coupled to a closed configuration ( Fig. 7A626 and the cover 626 can be pivoted between a closed configuration and an open configuration. In the closed configuration, the cover 628 can form a fluid seal with the body 630 so that the interior 610 can be pressurized to provide a lens cleaning fluid. The cover 628 can include a latch 634 to hold the cover 628 in the closed configuration. In some embodiments, the cover 628 can also include a sealing member disposed on an inner surface thereof. Although the cover 626 has been described as including a pivotable cover 628, it is contemplated that other actuation mechanisms can be used to move the cover 626 between a closed configuration and an open configuration. For example, in some embodiments, the cover 626 can be threadedly engaged with the second end 620 of the flexible tube 616. In other embodiments, the cover 626 can slide along the flexible tube 616 to expose its second end 620.

[0091] The second end 620 of the flexible tube 616 may also include an annular sealing plug 636. The annular sealing plug 636 may be formed of a soft-hard material that is capable of deforming around the bottle mouth 656 of the water bottle 654 or forming a fluid seal with the bottle mouth 656 of the water bottle 654 ( Figure 7B ). The annular sealing plug 636 may define a hole 638 extending through its thickness. The hole 638 is in fluid communication with the cavity 622 of the flexible tube. In some cases, the annular sealing plug 636 may include a tapered distal region 640. For example, the outer surface of the distal region 640 may reduce the cross-sectional size in the distal direction (e.g., in the direction opposite to the first end 618 of the flexible tube 616). In some embodiments, the distal region 640 may be conical or may be substantially similar to a truncated cone. An opposite configuration is also envisioned, in which the cross-sectional size of the outer surface of the distal region 640 increases in the distal direction. In yet another example, the distal region 640 may have a convex or concave shape. Alternatively or additionally, the inner surface of the distal region 640 may reduce or increase the cross-sectional size in the distal direction. For example, the inner surface 642 of the annular sealing plug 636 may be tapered. For example, the inner surface 642 may be tapered so that the cross-sectional size of the hole 638 decreases in the distal direction (e.g., in the direction opposite to the first end 618 of the flexible tube 616). The opposite configuration is also contemplated, wherein the cross-sectional size of the bore 638 of the annular sealing plug 636 increases in the distal direction.

[0092] When it is desired to fill or refill the reservoir 600, the actuatable lid 626 may be moved to an open configuration by actuating (e.g., unlocking, sliding, twisting, etc.) the lid 626. Once the lid 626 is open, the second end 620 of the flexible tube 616 may be exposed. The annular sealing plug 636 may be inserted over the mouth 656 of the water bottle 654, for example, with the cross-sectional size of the hole 638 of the annular sealing plug 636 increasing in the distal direction (e.g., in a direction opposite to the first end 618 of the flexible tube 616). Alternatively, the annular sealing plug 636 may be inserted into the mouth 656 of the water bottle 654, such as Figure 7B As shown, for example, the outer surface of the distal region 640 decreases in cross-sectional size in the distal direction (e.g., in a direction opposite to the first end 618 of the flexible tube 616). It is contemplated that the shape of the distal region 640 and / or the shape of the mouth 656 may determine whether the annular sealing plug 636 is disposed on or within the mouth 656 of the water bottle 654. The second end 620 of the flexible tube 616 may be coupled to the water bottle 654 with the second end 620 of the flexible tube 616 pointing downward, such as Fig. 7A As shown. The flexible tube 616 can be bent, rotated, or otherwise manipulated to bring the second end 620 to the mouth 656 of the water bottle 654. Alternatively or additionally, in some cases, the mouth of the water bottle can be oriented toward the second end of the flexible tube 616. It is contemplated that the second end 620 of the flexible tube 616 can be coupled to the water bottle 654 while the water bottle 654 is maintained in an upright orientation. This can limit spillage that may occur when the water bottle is tilted for pouring and / or connection. Once the second end of the flexible tube 616 is coupled to the water bottle 654, the water bottle 654 and the second end 620 of the flexible tube 616 can be inverted or rotated together, as shown by arrow 644, to maintain a seal between the annular sealing plug 636 and the mouth 656 of the water bottle 654 so that the flexible tube 616 is pointed upward, as shown. Figure 7B 616, and the like. This can allow water to flow from the interior of the water bottle 654 through the cavity 622 of the flexible tube 616 and into the interior 610 of the container 602, as shown in the flow path 646. This can allow the transfer of water to be activated by gravity. It is conceivable that the diameter of the flexible tube 616 can be large enough to allow a high volume flow rate without other factors other than gravity to assist the transfer. However, this is not required. In other examples, the water bottle 654 can be squeezed or compressed to move water from its interior through the cavity 622 of the flexible tube 616 to the interior 610 of the container 602, as shown in the flow path 646. It is conceivable that during the filling or refilling of the reservoir 600, the cover 608 can be removed from the port 606 to provide a vent.

[0093] The water bottle 654 and flexible tube 616 may remain in place until all of the water has been transferred from the water bottle 654 to the container through the flexible tube 616. Once completed, the water bottle 654 may be discarded and the actuatable cap 626 may be moved to a closed configuration to protect the annular sealing plug 636 from contaminants that may be exposed to the room during surgery and to allow the container 602 to be pressurized, and the actuatable cap 626 may not be opened again until additional water is needed to be transferred to the reservoir 600.

[0094] The reservoir 600 can be in fluid communication with a gas supply / backup gas supply tube (or gas supply tube) 648 and a lens cleaning supply / rinsing supply tube (or water supply tube) 650. The gas supply tube 648 extends from a second end outside the reservoir 600 through a reservoir opening 652 in the container 602. The shared gas supply tube 648 can be located near the top 612 of the container 602 and can terminate in the reservoir gap, at or below the opening 652, but does not extend into the remaining fluid in the container 602. However, in some cases, the shared gas supply tube 648 can extend into the remaining fluid in the container 602. For example, the opening 652 can be located at the bottom 614 or side of the container 602 so that the shared gas supply tube 648 terminates in the fluid, where the gas bubbles through the fluid to pressurize the container. The cavity extends through the gas supply tube 648 for receiving a flow of air and / or gas therethrough. The cavity of the gas supply tube 648 is in operable fluid communication with the interior 610 of the reservoir 600. The water supply tube 650 extends from a second end outside the reservoir 600 through the reservoir opening 652, terminating at a first end within the remaining fluid at or substantially at the bottom 614 of the container 602. In some embodiments, the water supply tube 650 may terminate at the opening 652. For example, when the opening 652 is located at or adjacent to the bottom 614 of the container 602, a dip tube may not be required. A cavity extends through the water supply tube 650 for receiving a flow of fluid therethrough. The cavity of the water supply tube 650 is selectively operatively fluidly connected to the bottom 614 of the container 602. In the illustrated embodiment, the air supply tube 648 and the water supply tube 650 may enter the container through a single or common opening 652. However, this is not required. For example, the air supply tube 648 and the water supply tube 650 may be coaxially arranged. In some cases, the air supply tube 648 and the water supply tube 650 may extend side by side and enter the container 602 through separate openings. The opening 652 may include a gasket or heat seal (not expressly shown) configured to seal the container 602 around the tubes 648, 650 in a fluid- and pressure-tight manner.

[0095] A portion of a gas supply tube 648 and a portion of a water supply tube 650 may each extend from the reservoir 600 and may be in fluid communication with the endoscope at a gas / lens wash connection on the connector portion 265 of the umbilicus. Within the connector portion 265, the gas supply tube 648 is in fluid communication with an air pump (not explicitly shown) and a gas feed line (not explicitly shown), while the water supply tube 650 is in fluid communication with a lens wash feed line (not explicitly shown). Although not explicitly shown, an irrigation supply tube may be coupled to the water supply tube 650 via a manifold to supply irrigation fluid from the reservoir 600, or a separate irrigation supply tube may be provided that terminates at the container 602 and is in fluid communication with the interior 610 of the container 602.

[0096] The reservoir 600 can be refilled as needed during or between surgeries. The water can be sterile or non-sterile as needed. For example, sterile water can be used for therapeutic surgeries, while non-sterile water can be used for diagnostic surgeries. It is contemplated that refilling the reservoir 600 with sterile or non-sterile water can create greater flexibility and reduce the need to store large amounts of sterile water. In addition, refilling the reservoir 600 through the flexible tube 616 can also eliminate the need to disconnect the reservoir 600 from the tubes 648, 650 throughout the day, thereby eliminating or greatly reducing the possibility of cross contamination because there is no need to change water containers.

[0097] It will be appreciated that the lengths of the flushing, lens cleaning, gas supply, and backup supply tubes can have any suitable size (e.g., diameter). In addition, the size (e.g., diameter) of the tubes can vary depending on the application. In one non-limiting embodiment, the flushing supply tube can have an inner diameter of approximately 6.5 mm and an outer diameter of 9.7 mm. The lens cleaning supply tube can have an inner diameter of approximately 5 mm and an outer diameter of 8 mm. The gas supply tube can have an inner diameter of approximately 2 mm and an outer diameter of 3.5 mm. The backup gas supply tube can have an inner diameter of approximately 5 mm and an outer diameter of 8 mm.

[0098] It will be clear to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations may be made to the disclosed device without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Other embodiments of the present disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the specification and practice of the invention disclosed herein. The description and examples should be regarded as exemplary only, and the true scope and spirit of the present invention are indicated by the following claims.

[0099] All devices and methods discussed herein are examples of devices and / or methods implemented according to one or more principles of the present disclosure. These examples are not the only way to implement these principles, but are merely examples. Therefore, references to elements or structures or features in the figures must be understood as references to examples of embodiments of the present disclosure, and should not be understood as limiting the present disclosure to the specific elements, structures or features shown. Other examples of the way to implement the disclosed principles will be thought of by those of ordinary skill in the art after reading the present disclosure.

[0100] In the foregoing description and the following claims, the following should be understood. The phrases "at least one", "one or more" and "and / or" used herein are open expressions, which are both conjunctions and disjunctions in operation. The term "one" or "an" entity used herein refers to one or more of the entity. Therefore, the terms "one" (or "one"), "one or more" and "at least one" can be used interchangeably in this article. All directional references (for example, proximal end, distal end, upper part, lower part, upward, downward, left side, right side, horizontal, longitudinal, front part, rear part, top, bottom, above, below, vertical, horizontal, radial, axial, clockwise, counterclockwise and / or similar directions) are only used for identification purposes to help readers understand the present disclosure, and / or for distinguishing the area of ​​related elements, and do not limit the related elements, particularly the position, direction or use of the present disclosure. Connection references (for example, attachment, connection, connection and engagement) should be understood broadly, and unless otherwise stated, relative motion between intermediate members and elements between element sets can be included. Therefore, connection references do not necessarily mean that two elements are directly connected and have a fixed relationship with each other. Identification references (eg, primary, secondary, first, second, third, fourth, etc.) are not intended to indicate importance or priority, but rather are used to distinguish one feature from another.

[0101] The above discussion is for illustration and description purposes only and is not intended to limit the present disclosure to the form 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 present disclosure. Specifically, it will be clear to those skilled in the art that the principles of the present disclosure can be embodied in other forms, structures, arrangements, proportions and with other elements, materials and components without departing from its concept, spirit or scope or features. For example, various features of the present disclosure are combined in one or more aspects, embodiments or configurations to simplify the present disclosure. However, it should be understood that various features of certain aspects, embodiments or configurations of the present disclosure can be combined in alternative aspects, embodiments or configurations. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the present disclosure can be used with many modifications of the structures, arrangements, proportions, materials, components, etc. used in the practice of the present disclosure, which are particularly suitable for specific environments and operating requirements without departing from the principles of the present disclosure. For example, an element shown as being formed as one piece can be composed of multiple parts, or an element shown as multiple parts can be formed as one piece, the operation of the element can be reversed or otherwise changed, the size or size of the element can be changed, and the features and components of various embodiments can be selectively combined. The presently disclosed embodiments are therefore to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, the scope of the claimed invention being indicated by the appended claims and not limited to the foregoing description.

[0102] The following claims are hereby incorporated by reference into this detailed description, and each claim stands alone as a separate embodiment of the present disclosure. In the claims, the term "comprises / comprising" does not exclude the presence of other elements or steps. In addition, although listed separately, multiple devices, elements or method steps may be implemented by, for example, a single unit or processor. In addition, although individual features may be included in different claims, these features may be advantageously combined, and inclusion in different claims does not mean that the combination of features is not feasible and / or disadvantageous. In addition, singular references do not exclude pluralities. The terms "one", "first", "second", etc. do not exclude pluralities. The reference symbols in the claims are provided only as clarifying examples and should not be interpreted as limiting the scope of the claims in any way.

Claims

1. A container arranged and configured to be coupled to an endoscope for use in an endoscopic procedure, the container comprising: The container is configured to contain a fluid and has a bottom and a top; a lens water supply tube including a first end, a second end, and a first cavity extending therethrough, wherein the first cavity is in fluid communication with the bottom of the container, and the second end of the lens water supply tube is located outside the container; an air supply tube comprising a first end, a second end, and a second lumen extending therethrough, wherein the second lumen is in operable fluid communication with an interior of the container and the second end of the air supply tube is located outside of the container; a port located near the top of the container; as well as a flexible tube comprising: a first end coupled to the top of the container; a second end; and a third lumen extending therethrough, wherein the third lumen of the flexible tube is configured to be in selective fluid communication with the interior of the container. 2 . The container of claim 1 , wherein the second end of the flexible tube is configured to be selectively coupled to the port.

3. The container of claim 2, wherein the second end of the flexible tube is configured to threadably engage the port.

4. The container of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the second end of the flexible tube comprises a rotatable collar.

5. The container of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first end of the flexible tube is rotatably coupled to the container.

6. The container of claim 1, wherein the second end of the flexible tube includes an annular sealing plug in fluid communication with the third chamber of the flexible tube.

7. The container of claim 6, wherein the annular sealing plug is configured to form a seal with a water bottle.

8. The container of claim 7, wherein the annular sealing plug is configured to be located within the mouth of the water bottle and to form a seal with the mouth of the water bottle.

9. The container according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein the outer surface of the annular sealing plug is tapered.

10. The container of claim 7, wherein the annular sealing plug is configured to be disposed over the mouth of the water bottle and to form a seal with the mouth of the water bottle.

11. A container according to any one of claims 6 to 7 or 10, wherein the inner surface of the annular sealing plug is tapered.

12. A container according to any one of claims 6 to 11, further comprising an actuatable cover disposed over the annular sealing plug.

13. The container of claim 12, wherein the actuatable lid is configured to be opened to transfer water from a water bottle into the container and to be closed during use of the container.

14. The container of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein when the second end of the flexible tube is coupled to the port, the flexible tube forms a handle, and when the second end of the flexible tube is detached from the port, the second end of the flexible tube is configured to be coupled to a water bottle.

15. The container of any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the port is recessed into the top of the container.

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