Leak prevention device, system and method for endoscope system

Abstract

Devices, systems, and methods are disclosed for mitigating leaks from a connector and tubing of an endoscope system when the connector and / or tubing of the endoscope system is disconnected from a fluid port of the endoscope system. A tubing assembly for connecting a fluid line to an endoscope and a fluid source may include an elongated tube having a lumen, a connector coupled to an end of the elongated tube and having a port in fluid communication with the lumen, and a fluid control component configured to selectively adjust fluid flow through the lumen and the port. The fluid control component may be located in one or more of a lid for the fluid source, tubing, connector, and / or other components in fluid communication with the cavity. The fluid control component may be a valve. The valve is manually actuatable from a closed position to an open position.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 374,334, filed on September 1, 2022, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention generally relates to leak prevention assemblies and methods, and more particularly to leak prevention devices, systems and methods for endoscope systems. Background Art

[0004] A wide variety of in vivo and in vitro medical devices and systems have been developed for medical use, for example, for endoscopic surgery. Some of these devices and systems include guide wires, catheters, catheter systems, endoscopic instruments, etc. These devices and systems are manufactured by any of a variety of different manufacturing methods and can be used according to any of a variety of methods. Each of the known medical devices, systems, and methods has certain advantages and disadvantages. There remains a need to provide alternative medical devices and systems and alternative methods for making and using medical devices and systems. Summary of the invention

[0005] The present invention provides design, materials, manufacturing methods and use alternatives for medical devices and medical systems. In a first example, a tubing assembly for connecting a fluid line and a fluid source to an endoscope may include an elongated tube having a lumen, a connector coupled to an end of the elongated tube and having a port in fluid communication with the lumen, and a fluid control component configured to selectively adjust fluid flow through the lumen and the port.

[0006] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the fluid control component can be configured to selectively depressurize the cavity.

[0007] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the fluid control component can be a valve configured to selectively regulate fluid flow through the cavity.

[0008] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the piping assembly may further include a cover configured to be coupled to a fluid source, and wherein the valve may be in fluid communication with the fluid source through the cover, and the valve is configured to be selectively actuated from a position external to the fluid source.

[0009] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, a valve can be in fluid communication with the cavity through a connector, and the valve is configured to be selectively actuated from a location external to the connector.

[0010] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, a valve may be located in the port and configured to be actuated in response to the port being coupled to the umbilicus of the endoscope.

[0011] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the valve may be biased to a closed position and configured to adjust from the closed position to an open position in response to coupling the connector to an accessory of the endoscope.

[0012] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, a fluid control component can include a clamp configured to selectively engage the elongated tube.

[0013] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the slender tube may include a bite valve connected to the cavity, and when in a static form, the bite valve blocks the flow of fluid through the cavity; and the clamp may be configured to engage the bite valve through the slender tube to adjust the bite valve to an open form allowing fluid to flow through the cavity.

[0014] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the clamp may be configured to block fluid flow through the lumen when engaging the elongated tube.

[0015] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the cavity can be a first cavity and the slender tube includes a second cavity, the first cavity and the second cavity can be coaxial, and the fluid control component can be configured to selectively adjust the fluid flow through the first cavity, the second cavity and the port.

[0016] In yet another example, a tubing assembly for connecting a fluid line and a fluid source to an endoscope may include an elongated tube having a lumen; a connector coupled to an end of the elongated tube, the connector being in fluid communication with the lumen; a port in fluid communication with the lumen, the port being configured to connect to the fluid line of the endoscope; and a valve at the connector and in fluid communication with the lumen, the valve being configured to adjust between a closed position and an open position, in which fluid passing through the valve is blocked and in which the fluid flows through the valve.

[0017] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the valve can be configured to vent fluid to atmosphere when in an open position and the connector is coupled to an endoscope or a fluid source.

[0018] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the valve can be configured to fluidly connect a fluid line of the endoscope to the lumen when the valve is adjusted from a closed position to an open position.

[0019] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the valve may be biased to a closed position.

[0020] In yet another example, a tubing assembly for connecting a fluid line and a fluid source to an endoscope may include an elongated tube having a lumen; a connector coupled to an end of the elongated tube, the connector being in fluid communication with the lumen; a port in fluid communication with the lumen, the port being configured to connect to the fluid line of the endoscope; and a clamp configured to engage the elongated tube.

[0021] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the slender tube may include a bite valve connected to the cavity, and when in a static form, the bite valve blocks the flow of fluid through the cavity; the clamp is configured to engage the bite valve through the slender tube to adjust the bite valve to an open form allowing fluid to flow through the cavity.

[0022] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the clamp may be configured to block fluid flow through the lumen when engaging the elongated tube.

[0023] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the clamp may include a detent member configured to releasably lock the clamp in one position relative to the elongated tube.

[0024] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, a clamp may extend from the connector and be configured to engage the elongated tube at a location proximal to the connector.

[0025] These and other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description, the scope of the claimed invention being set forth in the appended claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate various embodiments and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

[0027] Figure 1 A schematic diagram depicting components of an illustrative endoscope;

[0028] Figure 2 A schematic diagram depicting components of an illustrative endoscope system;

[0029] Figure 3A depicts a schematic diagram of an illustrative endoscope system, wherein the endoscope system is activated to deliver air to atmosphere;

[0030] Figure 3Bdepicts a schematic diagram of an illustrative endoscope system, wherein the endoscope system is activated to deliver air to a patient through a patient end of the endoscope;

[0031] Figure 3C depicts a schematic diagram of an illustrative endoscope system, wherein the endoscope system is activated to deliver a lens cleaning fluid through a patient end of the endoscope;

[0032] Figure 3D depicts a schematic diagram of an illustrative endoscope system, wherein the endoscope system is activated to deliver irrigation fluid through a patient end of the endoscope;

[0033] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of an illustrative endoscopy system is depicted;

[0034] Figure 5 depicts a schematic side view of an illustrative connector;

[0035] Figure 6 depicts a schematic cross-sectional view of an illustrative connector coupled to tubing;

[0036] Figure 7 depicts a schematic cross-sectional view of an illustrative connector coupled to tubing;

[0037] Figure 8 depicts a schematic cross-sectional view of an illustrative fluid reservoir;

[0038] Fig. 9A depicts a schematic side view of a connector with illustrative fluid control components and coupled to tubing;

[0039] Fig. 9B Depicted Fig. 9A A schematic end view of the connector depicted in , taken at a cross section of the tubing along line 9B-9B, with the fluid control component in a relaxed position;

[0040] Fig. 9C Depicted Fig. 9B A schematic end view of the connector depicted in , wherein the fluid control component is in an actuated position;

[0041] Fig.10 depicts a schematic end view of an illustrative fluid control component engaged on tubing, with the tubing shown in cross-section;

[0042] Fig.11A depicts a schematic top view of a connector with illustrative fluid control components and coupled to tubing;

[0043] Fig. 11B Depicted Fig.11AA schematic end view of the connector depicted in FIG. 1 , taken at a cross section of the tubing along line 11B-11B, with the fluid control component in a relaxed position;

[0044] Fig. 11C Depicted Fig. 11B A schematic end view of the connector depicted in , wherein the fluid control component is in an actuated position;

[0045] Fig. 12A depicts a schematic cross-sectional view of a connector having a fluid control component, wherein the connector is spaced apart from a fluid port;

[0046] Fig. 12B Depicted Fig. 12A A schematic cross-sectional view of a connector coupled to a fluid port;

[0047] Fig.13A a schematic cross-sectional view depicting an illustrative port of a connector spaced apart from a fluid port; and

[0048] Fig. 13B Depicted Fig.13A Schematic cross-sectional view of an illustrative port coupled to a fluid port.

[0049] Although the present invention is suitable for various modifications and alternative forms, its specific details have been shown in the drawings by way of example and will be described in more detail. However, it should be understood that the present invention 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 substitutes that fall within the spirit and scope of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0050] The present invention will now be described with reference to an illustrative medical system that can be used in an endoscopic medical procedure. However, it should be noted that reference to this particular procedure is provided for convenience only and is not intended to limit the present invention. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the concepts underlying the disclosed apparatus and related methods of use can be used in any suitable surgical, medical or other context. The present invention can be understood with reference to the following description and accompanying drawings, in which like elements are referred to by like reference numerals.

[0051] All numerical values ​​are assumed to be modified by the term "about" herein, whether or not explicitly indicated. In the context of numerical values, the term "about" generally refers to a numerical range that one skilled in the art considers to be equivalent to the quoted value (e.g., having the same function or result). In many cases, the term "about" may include numbers rounded to the nearest significant figure. Unless otherwise specified, the term "about" (e.g., in contexts other than numerical values) may be assumed to have its ordinary and customary definition, as understood and consistent with the context of this specification.

[0052] The recitation of numerical ranges expressed by endpoints includes all numbers within that range (including the endpoints) (e.g., 1 to 5 includes 1, 1.5, 2, 2.75, 3, 3.80, 4, and 5). Although some suitable sizes, ranges, and / or values ​​are disclosed for various components, features, and / or specifications, those skilled in the art to which the present invention relates will understand that the desired sizes, ranges, and / or values ​​can be derived from those explicitly disclosed.

[0053] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include plural referents unless the content clearly indicates otherwise. As used in this specification and the appended claims, the term "or" is generally used in a sense that includes "and / or", unless the content clearly indicates otherwise. It should be noted that, for ease of understanding, certain features of the present invention may be described in the singular, even if those features may be plural or repeated in the disclosed embodiments. Each instance in a feature may include and / or contain a singular disclosure unless explicitly indicated to the contrary. For simplicity and clarity, not all elements of the present invention will necessarily be shown in each figure or discussed in detail below. However, it should be understood that, unless explicitly stated to the contrary, the following discussion may be equally applicable to any and / or all of the components where there is more than one. Additionally, for clarity, not all instances of some elements or features are shown in each figure.

[0054] It should be noted that references to "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "other embodiments," etc. indicate that the described embodiments may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but not every embodiment necessarily includes the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Furthermore, these phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Furthermore, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in conjunction with an embodiment, it is within the knowledge of those skilled in the art to use the particular feature, structure, or characteristic in conjunction with other embodiments, whether or not explicitly described, unless explicitly stated to the contrary. That is, the various individual elements described below, even if not explicitly shown in a particular combination, may still be considered to be combinable or arranged with each other to form other additional embodiments, or to supplement and / or enrich the described embodiments, as will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art.

[0055] For the sake of clarity, certain identifying digital nomenclature (e.g., first, second, third, fourth, etc.) may be used throughout the specification and / or claims to name and / or distinguish various features described and / or claimed. It should be understood that the digital nomenclature is not intended to be limiting, but merely illustrative. In some embodiments, for simplicity and clarity, the digital nomenclature previously used may be changed and deviated from. That is, the feature identified as a "first" element may be referred to as a "second" element, a "third" element, etc., later, or may be omitted completely, and / or different features may be referred to as a "first" element. The meaning and / or name in each case will be apparent to the technician.

[0056] The detailed description is intended to illustrate, rather than limit, the present invention. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the various elements described may be arranged in various combinations and configurations without departing from the scope of the present invention. The detailed description describes example embodiments of the present invention.

[0057] An endoscope performs diagnosis and / or treatment by inserting the elongated shaft of the endoscope into a subject to observe the site to be examined in the subject's body cavity and inserting a therapeutic instrument / tool ​​into a working channel in the elongated shaft of the endoscope when necessary. Such an endoscope or endoscope system may include a fluid / lens cleaning capability, etc., which is configured to feed a fluid, such as a gas (e.g., air, CO2), to the end of the endoscope to insufflate the interior of the subject at the target site. The lens cleaning feature may provide sterile water at a relatively high pressure to spray and remove debris from the endoscope camera lens. In order to flush the target site of the subject independently of the air / water supply capability, the endoscope or endoscope system may have an irrigation capability, which provides a lower pressure, larger volume of water, which is supplied to the target site via a pump (e.g., a peristaltic pump) to clear the field of view for observation and treatment. The water source (e.g., fluid source) for the lens cleaning and / or irrigation features may include one or more fluid reservoirs having tubing and cap assemblies that create a tubing system loop that connects to endoscope channels, valves, and / or connectors to achieve the desired gas and water functions.

[0058] Such tubing and cap assemblies may have a variety of available configurations, which may include a water bottle, a cap adapted to fit the particular bottle, and a tubing arrangement that may extend through an opening in the cap. The tubing is typically arranged to accommodate a particular configuration of endoscope parts and valves and does not tend to be modular or selectable. In some cases, one or more connectors may be utilized to connect tubing for irrigation, lens cleaning, and / or insufflation features to an endoscope umbilicus in fluid communication with a working channel of the endoscope.

[0059] refer to Figure 1 , depicting an illustrative endoscope 100, Figure 2An illustrative endoscope system 200 is depicted. Endoscope 100 may include an elongated tube or shaft 100a configured to be inserted into a subject (e.g., a patient). Details of endoscope 100 and endoscope system 200 may be more fully described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2022 / 0192479A1, filed on December 21, 2021, entitled "Tubing Assembly and Method for Fluid Delivery," the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

[0060] The light source 205 of the endoscope system 200 can feed illumination light to the distal portion 100b of the endoscope 100. The distal portion 100b of the endoscope 100 can house an imager (e.g., a CCD or CMOS imager) (not shown). The light source 205 (e.g., a lamp) can be located in a video processing unit 210, which processes the signal from the imager input and outputs the processed video signal to a video monitor (not shown) for viewing. The video processing unit 210 can also be used as a component of the air / water supply circuit by housing a pressurizing pump or air pump 215, such as an air supply pump, in the unit 210. Other suitable pumps for the air / water supply circuit are contemplated.

[0061] The endoscope shaft 100a may include a distal tip 100c (e.g., a distal tip unit) disposed at a distal portion 100b of the shaft 100a, and a flexible curved portion 105 proximal to the distal tip 100c. The flexible curved portion 105 may include an articulated joint (not shown) to assist in steering the distal tip 100c. On the end face 100d of the distal tip 100c of the endoscope 100 is a gas / lens wash fluid nozzle 220 for supplying gas for insufflation of the interior of a subject at a treatment area, and for supplying water for washing the lens covering the imager. An irrigation opening 225 in the end face 100d supplies irrigation fluid to the treatment area of ​​the subject. An illumination window (not shown) for transmitting illumination light to the treatment area and an opening 230 to a working channel 235 extending along the shaft 100a for delivering tools to the treatment area may also be included on the face 100d of the distal tip 100c. The working channel 235 may extend along the shaft 100a to a proximal channel opening 110 positioned distally of an operating handle 115 (eg, a proximal handle) of the endoscope 100. A biopsy valve 120 may be utilized to seal the channel opening 110 to prevent unwanted fluid from flowing out.

[0062] The operating handle 115 may be provided with a knob 125 for providing remote four-way steering of the distal tip (e.g., one knob may control up and down steering, another knob may control left and right steering) via a wire connected to an articulated joint in the flexible bending portion 105. 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.

[0063] The handle 115 may be provided with a dual valve position 135. One of the valve positions 135 may receive a gas / water valve 140 for operating the insufflation gas and lens water supply operation. The gas supply line 240a and the lens cleaning fluid supply line 245a run distally from the gas / water valve 140 along the axis 100a and converge at the distal tip 100c proximal to the gas / cleaning fluid nozzle 220 ( Figure 2 ).

[0064] Another valve location 135 can receive a suction valve 145 for performing a suction operation. A suction supply line 250a can run 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.

[0065] The operating handle 115 can be electrically and fluidically connected to the video processing unit 210 via a flexible umbilicus 260 and a connector portion 265 extending therebetween. The flexible umbilicus 260 can have a gas (e.g., air or CO2) supply line 240b, a lens cleaning fluid supply line 245b, a suction supply line 250b, an irrigation supply line 255b, a light guide (not shown), an electrical signal cable (not shown), and / or other suitable wires, guides, and / or cables. 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 can travel along the length of the umbilicus 260 and the endoscope shaft 100a to transmit light to the distal tip 100c of the endoscope 100. The connector portion 265 can also connect the air pump 215 to the gas supply line 240b in the umbilicus 260 when inserted into the video processing unit 210.

[0066] A water reservoir or container 270 (e.g., a water bottle) may be fluidly connected to the endoscope 100 via the connector portion 265 and the umbilicus 260. A length of gas supply tubing 240c may pass from one end positioned in an air gap 275 between a top 280 (e.g., a bottle cap) of the reservoir 270 and water 285 remaining in the reservoir (e.g., remaining water 285) to a connector 290 external to the connector portion 265. The gas supply line 240b from the umbilicus 260 branches in the connector portion 265 to be in fluid communication with the gas supply tubing 240c at the removable connector 290 and the air pump 215. When the gas supply tubing 240c is on the connector portion 265, a length of lens cleaning fluid tubing 245c, one end of which is positioned at the bottom of the reservoir 270, may pass through the top 280 of the reservoir to the same removable connector 290. In other embodiments, the connections may be separate and / or separate from one another. The connector portion 265 may also have a removable irrigation connection 293 for irrigation supply tubing (not shown) running from an irrigation water source (not shown) to the irrigation supply line 255b in the umbilicus 260. In some configurations, irrigation water may be supplied from a water source (not shown) independent of the water reservoir 270 via a pump (e.g., a peristaltic pump). In some embodiments, the irrigation supply tubing and the lens cleaning fluid tubing 245c may obtain water from the same reservoir. The connector portion 265 may also include a removable suction connection 295 for fluidly connecting a vacuum source (e.g., hospital house suction) (not shown) to the umbilicus 260 and the suction supply line 250b and the suction supply line 250a of the endoscope 100.

[0067] Gas supply line 240b and lens cleaning fluid supply line 245b may be fluidly connected to valve position 135 of gas / water valve 140 and configured such that operation of gas / water valve 140 in the well controls the supply of gas or lens cleaning fluid to distal tip 100c of endoscope 100. Suction supply line 250b is fluidly connected to valve position 135 for suction valve 145 and configured such that operation of suction valve 145 in the well controls suction applied to working channel 235 of endoscope 100.

[0068] The gas supply conduit 240c and the lens cleaning fluid conduit 245c may be combined in a coaxial relationship, but this is not required. In one example, the gas supply conduit 240c may define a cavity having a diameter large enough to contain the smaller diameter lens cleaning fluid conduit 245c coaxially received in the gas supply conduit and provide air to a water source in an annular space around the lens cleaning fluid conduit to pressurize the water reservoir (e.g., as in Figure 6290). The lens cleaning fluid conduit 245c can be configured to exit the cavity defined by the coaxial gas supply conduit in any suitable sealing manner, such as, for example, a hole, fitting, collar and / or chain link to convert from a coaxial arrangement of the removable gas / lens cleaning fluid connector of the endoscope connector portion 265 to a side-by-side arrangement. In one example, the fittings for such conversion are depicted as Figure 5 and Figure 6 ) in a connector 290 (e.g., a coaxial breakaway connector, but other suitable connector configurations are also contemplated).

[0069] FIG. 3A to FIG. 3D is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of an embodiment of an endoscope system 300, which may be similar or different than the endoscope system 200, in which supply tubing for irrigation and lens cleaning is connected to and draws from a single water reservoir 270, 305. The hybrid system 300 may include a single water reservoir 270, 305, a cover or cap 310 for the reservoir, a gas supply tubing 240c, a lens cleaning fluid tubing 245c, an irrigation pump 315 that may be in communication with a foot switch 318 or other suitable switch, upstream irrigation tubing 255c, 320, and a downstream irrigation supply tubing 255c.

[0070] The cap 310 may be configured to be attached to the water reservoir 270, 305 in a sealing manner by a threaded arrangement and / or other suitable coupling mechanism. The cap 310 may include a gasket for sealing the cap 310 to the reservoir 270, 305. The gasket may be an O-ring, a flange, a collar, etc. and may be formed of any suitable material. A plurality of through holes (325a, 325b, 325c) in the cap 310 may be provided to receive the gas supply piping 240c, the lens cleaning fluid piping 245c, and the upstream irrigation supply piping 320, respectively. FIG. 3A to FIG. 3D , the system depicted includes separate piping for gas supply, lens cleaning and priming.

[0071] In other embodiments, the gas supply tubing 240c and the lens cleaning fluid tubing 245c may be combined in a coaxial arrangement. For example, the gas supply tubing may define a cavity having a diameter large enough to contain a smaller diameter lens cleaning fluid tubing coaxially received in the gas supply tubing, and provide air to the annular space around the lens cleaning fluid tubing to pressurize the water reservoir. The lens cleaning fluid tubing 245c may be configured to exit the cavity defined by the coaxial gas supply tubing in any suitable sealing manner, such as, for example, a hole, a fitting, a collar, etc., so as to be connected to the endoscope connector portion 265 (e.g., Figure 2 ) from a coaxial arrangement to a side-by-side arrangement at the removable gas / lens cleaning fluid connection of the Figure 5 and Figure 6 Connector 290 is depicted in FIG.

[0072] In various embodiments, different configurations of valves may be incorporated into the plumbing of the system 200, 300. For example, an inflow check valve may be provided in the path of the gas supply plumbing 240c to help prevent backflow into the air pump 215. In this manner, the pressure built up within the water reservoir 270, 305 may create a pressure differential between the water reservoir 270, 305 and the gas supply plumbing 240c, thereby helping to maintain a positive pressure in the water reservoir 270, 305, even when a large amount of water may be removed from the water source during an irrigation function. This arrangement may compensate for any time lag in delivering air from the air pump 215 to the water reservoir 270, 305 that may otherwise result in a negative pressure vacuum in the water reservoir 270, 305. Similarly, outflow check valves, such as one-way valves, may be incorporated into the lens cleaning fluid piping 245c, the upstream irrigation supply piping 320, and / or the downstream irrigation supply piping 225c to prevent water from flowing back from either or both of the lens cleaning fluid and irrigation piping in the event of negative pressure, as described.

[0073] More generally, in some configurations, a check valve may refer to any type of configuration that allows 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 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, a straight-through check valve, a duckbill valve, a pneumatic one-way valve, a reed valve, a flow check valve, a flapper valve, and / or other suitable check valves. Thus, a check valve as used herein may be intended to be separate and distinct from an active valve (e.g., a stop cock, a solenoid valve, a peristaltic pump, a blow-off valve) that operates in a binary manner as an on / off valve or switch to allow flow to be initiated or to allow flow to be shut off.

[0074] exist FIG. 3A to FIG. 3D During operation of the system, water flow for irrigation can be achieved by operating the irrigation pump 315 via the foot switch 318 and / or other suitable actuation mechanism. Water flow for lens cleaning can be achieved by depressing the air / water valve 140 on the operating handle 115 of the endoscope 100. These functions can be performed independently of each other or simultaneously. When operating lens cleaning and irrigation simultaneously, as fluid is removed from the water reservoir 270, 305, the pressure in the system can be controlled to maintain the lens cleaning fluid piping 245c substantially at the pressure required to achieve a lower flow rate of lens cleaning while compensating for the pressure drop in the water reservoir 270, 305 caused by supplying a high flow rate of irrigation. When the pressure in the water reservoir 270, 305 is reduced by using the lens cleaning function, the irrigation function, or both functions, the reduced pressure can be compensated by the air pump 215 via the gas supply piping 240c.

[0075] It has been highlighted in FIG. 3A to FIG. 3D 25 and 26 to illustrate different possible flow paths for a hybrid system 300 having supply tubing (e.g., irrigation tubing 255c, 320, lens cleaning fluid tubing 245c, and / or other suitable tubing) connected to and drawing from a single water reservoir 270, 305. For clarity, the flow paths in the schematic arrangement depicted in each of the FIGS. FIG. 3A to FIG. 3D All the features described in each of FIG. 3A to FIG. 3D Each of the FIG. 3A to FIG. 3D Features similarly depicted in FIG. 3A to FIG. 3D Each of the refers to the same or similar features.

[0076] like Figure 3A As shown, the endoscope 100 can be in a neutral state, wherein the gas / water valve 140 is in an open position. The neutral state delivers neither gas nor lens cleaning fluid to the distal tip of the endoscope. Instead, gas (pressure) is delivered along path A from the pressurized gas pump 215 and through the gas supply line 240b (e.g., in the umbilicus 260 via the connector portion 265, as shown in FIG. Figure 2 ) and exhausts to atmosphere through the air / water valve 140. Since the system is open at the vent in the air / water valve 140, there is no accumulation to pressurize the water reservoir 270, 305 and therefore no water is pushed through the lens cleaning fluid piping 245c.

[0077] like Figure 3B As shown in , the endoscope 100 may be in a gas delivery state, wherein the gas / water valve 140 is in the first position. When gas is needed at the distal tip 100c, for example, to clean the end face 100d of the distal tip 100c or to insufflate the patient's body in a treatment area, the user may close the vent 141 in the gas / water valve 140 with a thumb, finger, etc. (first position). At this stage, gas (pressure) may be delivered from the air pump 215 along path B and passed through the gas supply line 240b (e.g., in the umbilicus 260 via the connector portion 265, as shown in FIG. Figure 2 The gas can continue through the gas / water valve 140 to the gas supply line 240a in the endoscope shaft 100a and out the gas / lens wash fluid nozzle 220 at the distal tip 100c. Since the system is open at the gas / lens water nozzle 220, there is no accumulation to pressurize the water reservoir, so no water is pushed through the lens wash fluid tubing 245c.

[0078] like Figure 3C, the endoscope 100 may be in a lens cleaning fluid delivery state with the air / water valve 140 in the second position. When lens cleaning fluid is needed at the distal tip 100c, for example, to clean the end face 100d of the distal tip 100c, the user depresses the valve 140 to the furthest point in its valve well 135, leaving the vent 141 in the air / water valve 140 closed. The second position blocks the gas supply to both the atmosphere 100 and the gas supply line 240a in the endoscope 100, and opens the air / water valve 140 to allow lens cleaning water to pass through to the lens cleaning fluid line 245a in the endoscope shaft 100a and exit the gas / lens cleaning fluid 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 line in the connector portion 265, and exits the gas supply tubing 240c to the water reservoir 270, 305. The gas (pressure) pressurizes the surface of the remaining water 285 in the reservoir 270, 305 and pushes the water upward along the lens cleaning fluid tube 245c (e.g., to the connector portion 265 of the umbilicus 26, such as Figure 2 ). Pressurized lens cleaning water can be further pushed through the lens cleaning fluid supply line 245b and through 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 reservoirs 270, 305 instead of exhausting to the atmosphere or being delivered to the patient. This pressure, along with the endoscope feed and supply lines and external tubing, translates into a range of lens cleaning fluid flow rates.

[0079] like Figure 3D , the endoscope 100 is in an irrigation delivery state. This can be performed at the same or different time as the delivery of gas and / or lens cleaning fluid. When irrigation is required at the distal tip 100c, for example, if visibility in the treatment area is poor or blocked by debris, etc., the user can activate the irrigation pump 315 (e.g., by stepping on a foot switch 318 or other suitable actuation mechanism) to deliver water or other liquid along the path D. With the pump 315 activated, water is drawn from the water reservoir 270, 305 through the upstream irrigation supply tubing 255c, 320 and pumped along the downstream irrigation supply tubing 255c to the connector portion 265. The head pressure of the irrigation pump pushes the irrigation water further through the irrigation supply line 255b (e.g., extending through the umbilicus 260), through 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, along with the endoscope irrigation supply and supply lines and external tubing, can be calibrated to deliver a range of flow rates of irrigation fluid.

[0080] Figure 42 is a schematic diagram showing another configuration of a hybrid endoscope system 400, which includes a video processing unit 210, a connector portion 265, a peristaltic irrigation pump 315, a water reservoir 405 and a top 407 on the reservoir 405, coaxial gas and lens cleaning fluid piping 410, upstream and downstream irrigation supply piping 255c, and an alternative gas supply piping 415 (e.g., CO2). A portion of the alternative gas supply piping 415 is located at a top 407 (e.g., a cap or other suitable top) of the water reservoir 405 and the remaining water in the reservoir 405 (e.g., remaining water 285, as shown in FIG. 2). Figure 3A ) between the gas gaps (e.g., gas gaps 275, as depicted in Figure 3A 40c) through another opening 420 in the top 407 of the reservoir 405 to a removable connector 425 for an alternative gas supply source (e.g., a CO2 hospital gas source). When an alternative gas supply, such as CO2 gas, is needed, the video processing unit 210 and / or an air pump at another suitable location (e.g., air pump 215 or other suitable air pump) can be turned off and CO2 gas, rather than air, flows therefrom to the water reservoir 405, thereby pressurizing the surface of the water. In a neutral state, the CO2 gas flows back up along the gas supply piping 240c to the connector portion 265, up along the gas supply line (e.g., gas supply line 240b or other suitable gas supply line) and is discharged to the atmosphere through the gas / water valve.

[0081] In the first position, the user can close the vent in the air / water valve, and CO2 gas can flow through the air / water valve to the gas supply line in the endoscope shaft and out the gas / lens cleaning fluid nozzle at the distal tip 100c. In the second position, the user presses the valve 140 down to the bottom of the valve well, thereby keeping the vent in the air / water valve closed. The second position blocks the CO2 gas supply to both the atmosphere and the gas supply line 240a in the endoscope 100, and opens the air / water valve 140 to allow lens cleaning water to exit through the lens cleaning fluid supply line in the endoscope shaft and the gas / lens cleaning fluid nozzle at the distal tip. The gas (pressure) in the reservoir 405 can be maintained by gas delivery through the alternative gas (e.g., CO2) supply piping 415. The irrigation function can be similar to the above with respect to Figure 3D The described operations may be performed in a similar manner and / or in one or more other suitable manners.

[0082] refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6In one configuration, the connector 290 can take the form of a coaxial breakaway connector that is configured to be directly or indirectly coupled to the coaxial tubing 410 at a first end 290a (e.g., a proximal end) of the endoscope system 200, 300, 400 and to the umbilicus 260 (e.g., the connector 265 of the umbilicus 260) at a second end 290b (e.g., a distal end). For example, in combination with Figure 6 , the connector 290 can be directly or indirectly coupled to the endoscope end (e.g., distal end) of the coaxial tubing 410 so that the coaxial portion of the tubing 410 can be coupled to the endoscope 100 via the connector 290. In use, the connector 290 can allow flow to be switched between a side-by-side arrangement and a coaxial arrangement having a flow path K through ports 292 (e.g., a first port 292a for water and a second port 292b for gas), as shown in FIG. Figure 6 In some cases, the first port 292a and the second port 292b may be parallel to each other, but this is not required, and other suitable relative positions of the first port 292a and the second port 292b are contemplated. Figure 6 290 is depicted as a coaxial breakaway connector, but other suitable connectors 290 may be configured as desired to connect parallel tubing or a single tube to the umbilicus 260 of the endoscope system 200, 300, 400.

[0083] In some cases, port 292 may include one or more features configured to facilitate coupling of connector 290 to a fluid port of endoscope system 200, 300, 400. Figure 6 As depicted, port 292 may include features, such as coupling portion 299 (e.g., ribs, ridges, etc.), configured to engage a convex feature of a fluid port of an endoscope system. Alternatively or additionally, one or more features configured to engage a fluid port of an endoscope system 200, 300, 400 may employ one or more other suitable configurations, including but not limited to a one-way valve, a duckbill valve, a flapper valve, and / or other suitable features configured to engage a fluid port of an endoscope system 200, 300, 400.

[0084] In some cases and although other configurations are contemplated, connector 290 may include an overmolded device or fluidic device that supports structural components and connecting components (e.g., which may include port 292). Example configurations of connector 290 include, but are not limited to, connector configurations described in application Ser. No. 63 / 399,528, filed Aug. 19, 2022, entitled “Tube Connector for Endoscopic System,” which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety and for all purposes, and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2022 / 0192479A1, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety and for all purposes.

[0085] When tubing, caps, and / or connectors used for irrigation, lens cleaning, and / or insufflation features of an endoscope may be disconnected from other components of an endoscope system after use (or before and / or during use), while a fluid reservoir coupled to the tubing, cap, and / or connector is under pressure, water from the water reservoir may be discharged from the tubing and / or connector in an undesirable manner because the water is pressurized during use of the endoscope system. In some cases, the undesired discharge or discharge of water and / or other fluids may result in a hazardous working environment for nurses, technicians, physicians, and / or other personnel in an operating room or treatment room where an endoscope system is used.

[0086] Various illustrative cap configurations, connector configurations, tubing configurations, and cap, connector, and / or tubing assemblies are discussed herein, which are configured to address the problem of pressurization and / or irrigation lines leaking water or other fluids when removed from the connection with the endoscope umbilicus by providing an assembly having features that prevent or mitigate the discharge of a certain amount of unintended fluid from the tubing and / or connector when disconnected from the endoscope umbilicus. In some examples, the reservoir, cap, connector, tubing, and / or its assembly may be configured with valves, snaps, and / or other suitable features that are designed to prevent or mitigate the unintended release of liquids and / or other fluids from the connector and / or tubing. In some cases, the concepts discussed herein may facilitate flexibility in when and / or how the connector between the tubing and the endoscope umbilicus is coupled to the umbilicus during surgery, and may reduce the steps for connecting and disposing the connector and / or tubing when using existing endoscope system configurations.

[0087] One or more components of the endoscope system 200 may include a flow control component 700. The flow control component 700 may be configured to selectively adjust flow through at least one lumen and / or port of the connector 290 and / or the irrigation supply tubing 255c, 320 to prevent leakage of fluid from components of the endoscope system 200 (e.g., the connector 290, the irrigation supply tubing 255c, etc.). Example flow control components 700 may include, but are not limited to, blow-off valves (e.g., Figure 7 and Figure 8 ), a clip 708 (e.g., as depicted in FIG. 9A to FIG. 10 ), bite valve 710 (e.g., as depicted in FIG. 11A to FIG. 11C ), a one-way valve 712 (e.g., as depicted in Fig. 12A and Fig. 12B ), spring valves (e.g., Fig.13A and Fig. 13B ) and / or other suitable flow control components.

[0088] like Figure 7As depicted, the connector 290 may include a flow control component 700 configured to be selectively actuated from a location external to the connector 290 or from another location to depressurize the pressurized chamber and adjust the flow of fluid through the chamber. In some cases, the flow control component 700 may be in communication with the gas supply piping 240c, which may be a pressurized gas line and / or in communication with it, which pressurizes a water reservoir in communication with the lens cleaning fluid piping 245c. Thus, when in a resting or relaxed position, the flow control component 700 may allow gas to flow unimpeded through the gas supply piping 240c and allow the water reservoir to remain pressurized. When in an actuated position, the flow control component 700 may release gas from the gas supply piping 240c, which in turn depressurizes the water reservoir in fluid communication with the gas supply piping 240c. When the water reservoir is depressurized by actuating the flow control component 700 connected to the gas supply piping 240c, the water or other liquid in the lens cleaning fluid piping 245c connected to the water reservoir will no longer be pressurized, and unexpected water discharge or drainage through the first port 292a of the connector 290 can be alleviated.

[0089] In some cases, the flow control component 700 can be a blow-off valve 702, but this is not required. The blow-off valve 702 can be any suitable type of valve configured to allow the pressurized gas to be released (e.g., exhausted) to atmosphere or a less pressurized location. Example suitable types of blow-off valves 702 can include, but are not limited to, a reserve stopcock, a pressure relief valve, a Schrader or American valve, and / or other suitable types of valves configured to release pressure when actuated.

[0090] In some cases, the blow-off valve 702 may include an actuator 704 and a fluid passage 706. The fluid passage 706 may include a first opening 706a configured to communicate with the atmosphere, a second opening 706b configured to communicate with the gas supply tubing 240c when the actuator 704 is actuated, and a cavity 706c extending between the first opening 706a and the second opening 706b, such as Figure 7 Alternatively or additionally, the cavity 706c of the actuator 704 may be in selective communication with a cavity extending through the connector 290 to the atmosphere. Other suitable configurations of the blow-off valve 702 are contemplated.

[0091] In addition, the actuator 704 may be configured to have a first position and a second position. The first position of the actuator 704 may be a position where at least one of the first opening 706a and the second opening 706b is not connected to the atmosphere or the fluid in the gas supply piping 240c, respectively, so that the fluid cannot flow through the cavity 706c. The second position of the actuator 704 may be a position where the first opening 706a and the second opening 706b are connected to the atmosphere and the fluid in the gas supply piping 240c, respectively, so that the fluid does enter the second opening 706b from the gas supply piping 240c, pass through the cavity 706c, and flow out of the first opening 706a. In some cases, the first position may be a closed or relaxed position of the actuator 704, and the second position may be an open or actuated position of the actuator 704, but this is not required.

[0092] The actuator 704 can be configured to actuate in any suitable manner. In one example, when the actuator 704 includes a threaded connection to a component of the endoscope system 200, 300, 400 (e.g., the connector 290, the cap 310, and / or other suitable components), the actuator 704 can be actuated by rotating the actuator 704 to adjust the actuator 704 from a first position to a second position. In another example, when the actuator 704 is biased to a first position by a biasing mechanism (e.g., a spring, a bias of a material of the connector 290 (e.g., an overmolded material and / or other suitable material), and / or other suitable biasing mechanism), the actuator 704 can be actuated by applying a force to the actuator 704 and opposing the biasing force of the biasing mechanism to adjust the actuator 704 from the first position to the second position. Figure 7 In the depicted configuration, the actuator 704 can be actuated by rotation and / or by applying a force against a biasing force to place the second opening 706b in fluid communication with the gas supply conduit 240c, and thereby, fluid enters the second opening 706b from the gas supply conduit 240c, passes through the cavity 706c, and exits the first opening 706a until the pressure in the gas supply conduit 240c and the fluidly connected water reservoir is balanced with atmospheric pressure.

[0093] In additional or alternative configurations, a blow-off valve 702 may be formed in or from the material of the connector 290 that selectively communicates with the gas supply tubing 240c of the connector 290. In some cases, at least a portion of the connector 290 may be formed from an elastomeric material (e.g., a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), styrene-ethylene-butylene (SEB), rubber, silicone, and / or other suitable material), and the blow-off valve may include a cavity extending through the elastomeric material, wherein the elastomeric material biases the cavity to a first position (e.g., a closed or relaxed position) to block flow through the cavity between the gas supply tubing 240c and the atmosphere, and a user may squeeze the elastomeric material or otherwise apply a force to the elastomeric material to adjust the cavity to a second position (e.g., an open or actuated position) that allows fluid to flow from the gas supply tubing 240c through the cavity to the atmosphere until the pressure in the gas supply tubing 240c and the water reservoir is equalized with the atmosphere.

[0094] Figure 8 The flow control component 700 depicted in FIG. 1 may be incorporated into a cap 310 on a water reservoir 270, 305, 405 (e.g., a fluid source) that communicates with the gas supply tubing 240c, the lens cleaning fluid tubing 245c, and / or the irrigation tubing 255c, 320. Although the flow control component 700 has been incorporated into Figure 8 , but the flow control component 700 may be incorporated into other components of the water reservoir 270, 305, 405 or communicate with the water reservoir 270, 305, 405 and configured to remain above the waterline in the water reservoir 270, 305, 405.

[0095] Although not required, Figure 8 The flow control member 700 depicted in FIG. 7 may take the form of a blow-off valve 702. When so configured, Figure 8 The blow-off valve 702 depicted in FIG. 2 may be configured to be selectively actuated (e.g., from outside the water reservoir 270, 305, 405 and / or otherwise) to allow gas to flow from the water reservoir 270, 305, 405 to the atmosphere until the pressure in the water reservoir is equalized to atmospheric pressure. Figure 8 When the flow control component 700 depicted in FIG. 1 is in the form of a blow-off valve 702, the blow-off valve 702 may be similarly configured and / or operated in a manner similar to the configuration of the blow-off valve 702 discussed herein (e.g., with respect to Figure 7 ), to selectively reduce the pressure in the water reservoir 270, 305, 405 by releasing the gas to the atmosphere.

[0096] Furthermore, a blow-off valve 702 in communication with the cap 310 or other suitable portion of the water reservoir 270 , 305 , 405 may be formed in or from the material of the cap 310 or other portion of the water reservoir 270 , 305 , 405 . In some cases, at least a portion of the cap 310 may be formed from an elastic material (e.g., a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), styrene-ethylene-butylene (SEB), rubber, silicone, and / or other suitable materials), and the blow-off valve 702 may include a cavity extending through the elastic material, wherein the elastic material biases the cavity to a first position (e.g., a closed or rest position) to block flow through the cavity between the gas supply conduit 240c and the atmosphere, and a user may squeeze the elastic material or otherwise apply force to the elastic material to adjust the cavity to a second position (e.g., an open or actuated position) that allows fluid to flow from the water reservoir 270, 305, 405 through the cavity to the atmosphere until the pressure in the water reservoir 270, 305, 405 is balanced with the atmosphere.

[0097] 9A to 9C A schematic diagram of an illustrative flow control component 700 in the form of a clamp or clip 708 configured to engage tubing 410, lens cleaning fluid tubing 245c, gas supply tubing 240c, irrigation tubing 255c, and / or other suitable tubing of an endoscope system 200, 300, 400 is depicted. In some cases, the clamp or clip 708 can be adjusted (e.g., mechanically adjusted) from a first position to a second position to inhibit the flow of fluid into or out of tubing and / or connector 290 of the endoscope system 200, 300, 400.

[0098] The clamp or clip 708 can be selectively coupled to tubing and / or one or more connectors of the endoscope system 200, 300, 400, or can be at least partially fixed relative to the tubing and / or multiple connectors of the endoscope system 200, 300, 400. In one example, as Fig. 9A , the clamp or clip 708 may have a first end 708a coupled to the first end 290a of the connector 290 and may extend proximally from the connector 290 to a position above the coaxial tubing 410, at which position the second end 708b of the clamp or clip 708 may engage the coaxial tubing 408. Although not depicted, the clamp or clip 708 may be similarly configured to engage other tubing of the endoscope system 200, 300, 400, including, but not limited to, the irrigation supply tubing 255c.

[0099] The clamp or clip 708 may include an arm 716. 9A to 9C, the arm 716 of the clamp or clip 708 may include a first arm 716a and a second arm 716b. In operation, a user may apply force to the arm 716 to adjust the arm 716 from a first position where fluid may flow through the lumen of the coaxial tubing 410 to a second position where fluid may be blocked from passing through one or more of the gas supply tubing 240c and the lens cleaning fluid tubing 245c.

[0100] The arms 716 may terminate in a surface configured to engage the coaxial tubing 410. Although not required, the surface configured to engage the coaxial tubing 410 may have any suitable size and / or shape that facilitates closing the lumen or tube 240c, 245c. In one example, the surface configured to engage the coaxial tubing 410 may have a width sufficient to close the lumen of the coaxial tubing 410 and may have one or more sets of grips or teeth (e.g., Fig.10 410) is configured to engage a grip on an outer surface of the tubing 410 while retaining the tubing 410 in a second or closed position.

[0101] In some cases, the arm 716 may be biased toward one of the first position and the second position, but this is not required. When biased, the arm 716 may be biased using any suitable biasing technique described herein or otherwise, including but not limited to a spring, a spring constant of an elastic material of tubing, a spring constant of an elastic material of the clamp or clip 708, and / or other suitable biasing mechanisms.

[0102] The second end 708b of the clamp or clip 708 can be configured to engage tubing (e.g., tubing 410, 240c, 245c, 255c, and / or other suitable tubing) at any desired location. Although not required, the second end 708b of the clamp or clip 708 can be configured to engage tubing at a constriction in the tubing or at a location where the layers of the tubing are thinner than at other locations along the tubing to facilitate adjusting the tubing from an open position to a closed position.

[0103] Fig. 9B Depicted is a schematic end view of a clamp or clip 708 on a connector 290 and a view taken along line 9B-9B. Fig. 9A A cross-sectional view of the pipe 410. Fig. 9B As depicted in FIG. 2 , the clamp 708 and arms 716a and 716b are positioned in a first position such that fluid may flow through the gas supply tubing 240c and the lens cleaning fluid tubing 245c.

[0104] Fig. 9CA schematic end view of a clamp or clip 708 on a connector 290 and a cross-section of tubing 410 is depicted, wherein the clamp or clip is in a second position such that flow is blocked through a cavity or tubing (e.g., gas supply tubing 240c and lens cleaning fluid tubing 245c and / or other suitable tubing). In one example, a force in the direction of arrow A may be applied to the first arm 716a and / or a force in the direction of arrow B may be applied to the second arm 716b to adjust the clamp or clip 708 to the second position and block flow through the cavities or tubing 240c, 245c.

[0105] After adjusting the clamp or clip 708 to the second position to block flow through the cavities or tubing 240c, 245c, the force in the direction of arrows A and / or B can be removed from the arm 716, and the arm 716 and tubing 410 can be returned to the first position, as shown. Fig. 9B In some cases, the material of tubing 410 may be sufficiently resilient to bias tubing 410 and arm 716 to the first position. Alternatively or additionally, arm 716 may be biased to the first position by the material and / or biasing mechanism of clamp or clip 708 such that when the force in the direction of arrows A and / or B is removed from arm 716, arm 716 returns to the first position, but this is not required. When arm 716 is biased to the first position, the material of tubing 410 may be configured to at least bias tubing 410 to Fig. 9B The first position is depicted in the figure, but this is not required.

[0106] Fig.10 Depicted is a schematic diagram of a flow control component 700 configured as a clamp or clip 708 that is a separate component from tubing or connectors of an endoscope system 200, 300, 400, wherein the clamp or clip 708 is depicted in a side view and the tubing 410 is depicted in a cross-sectional view. Fig.10 The clamp or clip 708 in the embodiment is in a second position configured to block the flow of fluid through the tubing 410 (e.g., through the gas supply tubing 240c and / or the lens cleaning fluid tubing 245c) and is maintained in the second position, wherein the coupler 718 maintains the first arm 716a in a position relative to the second arm 716b. Fig.10 The clamp or clip 708 with the coupler 718 is depicted as a stand-alone clamp or clip 708 , but a clamp or clip 708 that forms part of tubing or a connector of the endoscope system 200 may include one or more couplers 718 .

[0107] The coupler 718 can have any suitable configuration. The coupler 718 can be or include a detent member (e.g., a detent clip), a hook and loop connector, a strap connector, and / or other suitable connector configured to releasably hold the first arm 716a in position relative to the second arm 716b. In one example, as Fig.10 As depicted in FIG. 1 , the coupler 718 may be or include a ratchet clamp having an extender 720 having a fixed connection to one of the first arm 716a and the second arm 716b (eg, Fig.10 and a first end of the second arm 716b in the embodiment of the present invention and a first end of the second arm 716b in the embodiment of the present invention and a first end of the second arm 716a in the embodiment of the present invention ... second end of the second Fig.10 Although not required, the second end of the extender 720 may include a catch 722 configured to engage a tooth 724 on one of the arms 716 (e.g., the first arm 716a), but this is not required, the tooth 724 may be located on the extender 720, the catch 722 may be located on the arm 716, and / or the coupler 718 may have one or more other suitable configurations.

[0108] FIG. 11A to FIG. 11C A schematic diagram of a fluid control component 700 in the form of a clamp or clip 708 is depicted, which is substantially similar to 9A to 9C , but wherein the coaxial tubing 410 forms a bite valve 726. In addition, although not depicted, the clamp or clip 708 may include a connector, such as Fig.10 Depicted in and related to Fig.10 The coupler 718 and / or other suitable couplers or engagement mechanisms discussed.

[0109] The bite valve 726 can be a necked portion of the coaxial tubing 410 that is biased to a first position (e.g., a closed position or a relaxed position) that blocks flow through the gas supply tubing 240c and / or the lens cleaning fluid tubing 245c (or other tubing disclosed herein). The second end 708b of the clamp or clip 708 can be configured to engage the coaxial tubing 410 at an outer surface of the bite valve 726, and when a force is applied to the bite valve 726 by the second end 708b of the clamp or clip 708, the bite valve 726 can be adjusted to a second position (e.g., an open configuration or an actuated position) and allow fluid to flow through the gas supply tubing 240c and / or the lens cleaning fluid tubing 245c (e.g., through the lumen of the tubing). Although the bite valve 726 and the clamp or clip 708 are depicted and discussed with respect to the coaxial tubing 410, it is contemplated that the bite valve 726 is only in the gas supply tubing 240c, only in the lens cleaning fluid tubing 245c, in the irrigation tubing 255c, in the connector 290, and / or in one or more other suitable connectors and / or tubing of the endoscope system 200, and that the clamp or clip 708 may be configured to engage the bite valve 726 at any suitable location within the endoscope system.

[0110] Fig. 11B Depicted is a schematic end view of a clamp or clip 708 on a connector 290 and a view taken along line 11B-11B. Fig.11A The cross section of the pipe 410 is as follows. Fig. 11B As depicted in FIG, the clamp 708 and arms 716a and 716b are positioned in a first position such that the bite valve 726 is in a closed position that blocks fluid flow through its tubing or cavity (e.g., the gas supply tubing 240c and the lens cleaning fluid tubing 245c and / or other suitable tubing).

[0111] Fig. 11C A cross-sectional view of a clamp or clip 708 on the connector 290 and tubing 410 is depicted, wherein the clamp or clip 708 is in a second position acting on the bite valve 726 so as to allow flow through the cavity or tubing (e.g., the gas supply tubing 240c and the lens cleaning fluid tubing 245c and / or other suitable tubing). In one example, a force in the direction of arrow A may be applied to the first arm 716a and / or a force in the direction of arrow B may be applied to the second arm 716b to adjust the clamp or clip 708 from the first position to the second position and allow fluid flow through the cavity or tubing 240c, 245c.

[0112] After adjusting the clamp or clip 708 to the second position to allow fluid flow through the cavities or tubing 240c, 245c, the forces in the directions of arrows A and B can be removed from the arm 716, and the arm 716 and tubing 410 can be returned to the first position, as shown. Fig. 11B, to close the bite valve 726 and block the flow of fluid through the cavities or tubing 240c, 245c. In some cases, the material of the tubing 410 may be sufficiently resilient to bias the tubing 410 and the arm 716 to the first position. Alternatively or additionally, the arm 716 may be biased to the first position by the material and / or biasing mechanism of the clamp or clip 708 so that when the force in the direction of arrows A and / or B is removed from the arm 716, the arm 716 returns to the first position. When the arm 716 is biased to the first position, the material of the tubing 410 may be configured to at least bias the tubing 410 to Fig. 11B The first position depicted in .

[0113] In some cases, tubing and / or connectors of the endoscope system 200, 300, 400 may include valves configured to block fluid flow through the connectors and / or tubing when the connectors and / or tubing are disconnected from a fluid port or other suitable connection point of the endoscope system 200, 300, 400, where the fluid port may be coupled to or configured to be coupled to a fluid line of the endoscope 100. Then, when the connectors and / or tubing including the valves are connected to the fluid port or other suitable connection point of the endoscope system 200, 300, 400, the valves may be opened as a result of the connection to the fluid port and / or other suitable connection point and allow fluid to flow through the connectors and / or tubing, through the valves, and into the fluid port or other suitable connection point.

[0114] The valve can be a passive anti-flow valve that is preset to a closed position and can be actuated to an open position. The valve can be any suitable type of passive anti-flow valve that is configured to adjust from a first state or position (e.g., a closed state or position) to a second state or position (e.g., an open state or position) in response to engagement with a fluid port or connection point of the endoscope system 200. Example suitable valves include, but are not limited to, check valves, ball check valves, diaphragm check valves, swing check valves, tilting disc check valves, flapper valves, stop check valves, lift check valves, straight-through check valves, duckbill valves, pneumatic one-way valves, reed valves, flow check valves, spring-loaded valves, flapper valves, kink systems, and / or other suitable passive anti-flow valves.

[0115] In some cases, the valve may be an actively regulated valve (e.g., a valve that may need to be actively regulated between an open position and a closed position) incorporated into the connector and / or tubing of the endoscope system 200, 300, 400. In one example, the valve may include a thread twist feature incorporated into the tubing and / or connector, which may be or may be similar to a Touhy-Borst adapter or connector. The actively regulated valve may be located proximate to a connection portion of the connector and / or tubing and / or at one or more other suitable locations. The connector and / or tubing of the endoscope system 200, 300, 400 may include only passive anti-flow valves, only actively regulated valves, and / or a combination of passive anti-flow valves and actively regulated valves.

[0116] In one example of an actively adjusted valve, a valve actuator may be rotated or otherwise adjusted in a first direction to close one or more cavities of a connector and / or tubing. A valve actuator may be rotated or otherwise adjusted in a second direction to open one or more cavities of a connector and / or tubing.

[0117] Fig. 12A and Fig. 12B A schematic diagram of an illustrative configuration of a fluid control component 700 that may take the form of a valve 728 incorporated into a connector 290 is depicted, wherein the fluid control component 700 includes a valve 728 in each port 292 that is configured to couple with and / or be in fluid communication with a fluid port 294 of an endoscope umbilicus (e.g., umbilicus 260 via connector 265). Fig. 12A and Fig. 12B As depicted in , valve 728 may be a duckbill valve, but this is not required and valve 728 may be another suitable type of valve configured to block flow in at least one direction when in a first position and to adjust to a second position when connected to fluid port 294 to allow fluid to flow through the valve in both directions. Fig. 12A and Fig. 12B While a valve 728 is depicted in each of the ports 292 , the valve 728 may be located in less than all of the ports 292 (eg, only in the first port 292a or only in the second port 292b ).

[0118] In some cases, connector 290 can be formed from a first component 296 and a second component 298. In one example, first component 296 can be a core or support structure, and second component 298 can be a device coupling member that is resilient and configured to couple with fluid port 294.

[0119] The portion of the port 292 formed by the second component 298 may include one or more features configured to facilitate engagement with the fluid port 294. For example, the port 292 may include a coupling portion 299 (e.g., ribs, ridges, etc.) configured to engage a male feature of the fluid port 294 of the endoscope system 200, 300, 400. The coupling portion 299 may be incorporated into the valve 728 or may be the valve 728 and / or may be separate from the valve 728.

[0120] The valve 728 incorporated into one or more ports 292 of the connector 290 may be formed of one or more materials configured to elastically adjust from a first position (e.g., a closed and / or rest position) to a second position (e.g., an open or actuated position) in response to engagement with the fluid port 294, and then return to the first position in response to disengagement from the fluid port 294. Example suitable materials for forming the valve 728 include, but are not limited to, thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), styrene-ethylene-butylene (SEB), rubber, silicone, and / or other suitable elastomeric and / or elastic materials.

[0121] Fig. 12A Depicted are first and second ports 292a, 292b disconnected from first and second fluid ports 294a, 294b of an endoscope umbilicus, wherein valves 728 in the first and second ports 292a, 292b are in a first position (e.g., in a closed or relaxed position, and the valves 728 may be biased to the first position), resulting in a blockage of fluid flow through the lens cleaning fluid tubing 245c and through the gas supply tubing 240c. The fluid force acting on the valve 728 (e.g., water moving from the water reservoir 270, 305, 405 to the first port 292a) may not be sufficient to open the valve, and therefore, the valve 728 blocks fluid flow therethrough.

[0122] To open the valve 728, the connector 290 can be coupled to the fluid ports 294 such that the first fluid port 294a is received within the first port 292a and / or the second fluid port 294b is received within the second port 292b. The received fluid ports 294a, 294b can engage the valve 728 in the first port 292a and the second port 292b, which can result in adjusting the valve 728 from the first position to the second position, in which the fluid can flow through the valve 728 and between the lens cleaning fluid piping 245c and the first fluid port 294a and between the gas supply piping 240c and the second fluid port 294b, as indicated by arrows F1 and F2, respectively. Fig. 12B The fluid port 294 may be formed of any suitable type of material having sufficient rigidity to adjust the valve 728 from the first position to the second position in response to engaging the valve 728.

[0123] Furthermore, after connecting the connector 290 to the fluid port 294, the connector 290 can be separated from the fluid port 294. Once the fluid port 294 is separated or otherwise disengaged from the valve 728, the valve 728 can automatically return to the first position due to a biasing force of the configuration of the valve 728 (e.g., due to the elastic properties of the material forming the valve 728, the shape of the valve 728, a biasing member acting on the valve 728, and / or due to one or more other suitable configurations or features of the valve 728).

[0124] Fig.13A and Fig. 13B Depicted is a fluid control component 700 that may take the form of a valve 728 incorporated into a connector 1390 coupled to the irrigation supply tubing 255c, wherein the connector 1390 includes a port 1392 configured to couple with and / or be in fluid communication with a fluid port 1394 of an endoscope umbilicus (e.g., umbilicus 260 via connector 265). Fig.13A and Fig. 13B As depicted, valve 728 can be a spring-loaded duckbill valve, but this is not required and valve 728 can be another suitable type of valve configured to block flow in at least one direction when in a first position and to be adjusted to a second position when connected to fluid port 1394 to allow fluid to flow through the valve in a desired direction.

[0125] In some cases, valve 728 can include a closure member 730 (e.g., a flapper, a cover, a cap, and / or other suitable closure mechanism) coupled to a biasing mechanism 732 (e.g., a spring and / or other suitable biasing mechanism). Biasing mechanism 732 can have a spring constant sufficient to keep closure member 730 closed on port 1392 when irrigation fluid (e.g., represented by arrow F3) acts against closure member 730, as shown in FIG. Fig.13A As depicted in .

[0126] To open valve 728 or adjust valve 728 from a first position (e.g., a closed or resting position) to a second position (e.g., an open and / or actuated position), connector 1390 can be coupled to fluid port 1394 such that fluid port 1394 can receive port 1392 of connector 1390, such as Fig. 13B. In some cases, connector 1390 may include threads 1391 configured to engage threads 1395 of fluid port 1394, which may facilitate coupling connector 1390 to fluid port 1934 and overcoming the biasing force of biasing mechanism 732. However, other suitable configurations for coupling connector 1390 to fluid port 1394 are contemplated, including, but not limited to, friction fit configurations, latch configurations, and the like. When connector 1390 is coupled to fluid port 1394, the force of the coupling may act on biasing mechanism 732 and resist its biasing force to compress biasing mechanism 732, causing closure member 730 to lift up away from port 1392 to allow fluid to flow from irrigation supply tubing 255c through valve 728 into fluid port 1394.

[0127] Furthermore, after the connector 1390 is connected to the fluid port 1394, the connector 1390 may be disconnected from the fluid port 1394. In response to disconnecting the fluid port 1394 from the connector 1390, the valve 728 may automatically return to the first position due to the biasing force of the biasing mechanism 732 acting on the closure member 730, and cause the closure member 730 to close the port 1932 and block the flow of irrigation fluid from the water reservoir.

[0128] It should be understood that the present invention is merely illustrative in many respects. Changes may be made in details, particularly in matters of arrangement of shape, size and steps, without exceeding the scope of the present invention. To the extent appropriate, this may include using any of the features used in one example embodiment in other embodiments. Of course, the scope of the present invention is defined by the language of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A tubing assembly for connecting to a fluid line and a fluid source of an endoscope, the tubing assembly comprising: an elongated tube having a lumen; a connector coupled to an end of the elongated tube, the connector having a port in fluid communication with the lumen; as well as A fluid control component is configured to selectively regulate fluid flow through the cavity and the port.

2. The tubing assembly of claim 1, wherein the fluid control component is configured to selectively depressurize the cavity.

3. The plumbing assembly of claim 1 or 2, wherein the fluid control component is a valve configured to selectively regulate fluid flow through the cavity.

4. The tubing assembly of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the fluid control component comprises a clamp configured to selectively engage the elongated tube.

5. The pipe assembly according to claim 4, wherein: The elongated tube includes a bite valve in communication with the lumen and, when in a rest configuration, the bite valve blocks fluid flow through the lumen; and The clamp is configured to engage the bite valve via the elongated tube to adjust the bite valve to an open configuration that allows fluid to flow through the cavity.

6. The pipe assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The lumen is a first lumen, and the elongated tube includes a second lumen; The first cavity and the second cavity are coaxial; and The fluid control component is configured to selectively regulate fluid flow through the first cavity, the second cavity, and the port.

7. A tubing assembly for connecting to a fluid line and a fluid source of an endoscope, the tubing assembly comprising: an elongated tube having a lumen; a connector coupled to an end of the elongated tube, the connector being in fluid communication with the lumen; a port in fluid communication with the lumen, the port configured to couple to the fluid line of the endoscope; as well as A valve is provided at the connector in fluid communication with the cavity, the valve being configured to adjust between a closed position in which fluid is blocked from passing through the valve and an open position in which fluid flows through the valve.

8. The tubing assembly of claim 7, wherein the valve is configured to vent fluid to atmosphere when in the open position and the connector is coupled to the endoscope or the fluid source.

9. The tubing assembly of claim 7 or 8, wherein the valve is configured to fluidly connect the fluid line of the endoscope to the lumen when the valve is adjusted from the closed position to the open position.

10. The plumbing assembly of any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein the valve is biased to the closed position.

11. A tubing assembly for connecting to a fluid line and a fluid source of an endoscope, the tubing assembly comprising: an elongated tube having a lumen; a connector coupled to an end of the elongated tube, the connector being in fluid communication with the lumen; a port in fluid communication with the lumen, the port configured to couple to the fluid line of the endoscope; as well as A clamp is configured to engage the elongated tube.

12. The pipe assembly according to claim 11, wherein: The elongated tube includes a bite valve in communication with the lumen and, when in a rest configuration, the bite valve blocks fluid from passing through the lumen; and The clamp is configured to engage the bite valve via the elongated tube to adjust the bite valve to an open configuration that allows fluid to flow through the cavity.

13. The tubing assembly of claim 11 or 12, wherein the clamp is configured to block fluid flow through the cavity when engaging the elongate tube.

14. The tubing assembly of any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein the clamp includes a detent member configured to releasably lock the clamp in position relative to the elongate tube.

15. The tubing assembly of any one of claims 11 to 14, wherein the clamp extends from the connector and is configured to engage the elongate tube at a location proximal to the connector.

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