Visual laryngoscope

Abstract

A visual laryngoscope (100) is provided to perform a cannulation process. A visual laryngoscope (100) includes a handle (10), a blade (20), a display unit (30), and an attachment assembly (25). The handle (10) includes a camera housing (16) in which an image sensor (161) and a light source (162) are disposed. An image sensor (161) is attached to the handle (10) through the camera channel (15) to visualize the path of the endotracheal tube. The camera housing (16) has a shutter (18) to avoid the generation of blurred and distorted visual data due to scattering of light from the light source (162). A blade (20) is provided on the handle (10) to cover the handle (10) and the camera channel (15). Furthermore, a display unit (30) is provided for better visibility of the display screen (34), thereby visualizing the path of the endotracheal tube.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a laryngoscope device, and more particularly to a videolaryngoscope. Background Art

[0002] A laryngoscope is a device, typically comprising a handle and a blade, used by clinicians during endotracheal intubation. A laryngoscope assists in intubation by allowing the clinician to visualize the path of the endotracheal tube as the laryngoscope is passed through the glottis toward the trachea.

[0003] Intubation is the process of inserting a tube called an endotracheal tube through the mouth and then into the airway. Intubation is a necessary procedure before any surgery that requires the patient to be given general anesthesia. Intubation is also done for patients who need to use a ventilator to assist with breathing. The endotracheal tube is connected to the anesthesia system or ventilator and pushes air into the lungs, delivering breaths to the patient. A laryngoscope is a device used for intubation.

[0004] Currently, conventional video laryngoscopes come in two configurations. In the first configuration, the display is separated from the handle and attached to a cart. The display attached to the cart has limited mobility. In addition, the display is 7-11 inches in size, and the cart is bulky and difficult to move around. When performing an intubation procedure, the clinician needs to look away from the patient and toward the display attached to the cart, and not looking at the patient increases the risk of procedure failure. In addition, cart-based systems tend to be more expensive, with hospitals purchasing some units for sharing by multiple operating rooms. This results in video laryngoscopes not being suitable for every intubation procedure. In the second configuration, the display is attached to the handle, but the display is small, the image quality is poor, and it is not manipulable. Both configurations result in increased risk to the patient and lead to repeated intubations.

[0005] In addition, conventional video laryngoscopes include reusable blades that are used repeatedly for intubation procedures. The reuse of blades results in a higher risk of infection, increased operational burden on hospitals, and high cost of ownership.

[0006] Therefore, there is a need for a video laryngoscope that overcomes some or all of the disadvantages of the prior art. Summary of the invention

[0007] According to the present invention, a video laryngoscope is provided. The video laryngoscope may include a handle having an upper end and a lower end. The upper end may be adapted to receive a display unit, and the handle may be adapted to receive a blade for an intubation process. The video laryngoscope may also include a camera channel extending from the lower end of the handle. The camera channel may be a flexible coupling having a first end connected to the handle and a second end including a camera housing. The camera housing may include an image sensor disposed within the housing and facing outward to capture visual data of the path of an endotracheal tube, larynx, trachea or airway. The camera housing may also include a light source disposed adjacent to the image sensor to illuminate the path of the endotracheal tube and the airway. In addition, the camera housing may include a baffle mounted on the camera housing and between the image sensor and the light source to minimize light scattering and reduce light directly irradiated to the image sensor.

[0008] Furthermore, the camera housing may be a rectangular box-like piece having a front portion and a rear portion. The rear portion may be configured to attach the camera housing to the camera channel, and the front portion may be adapted to house an image sensor, a light source, and a baffle, all positioned outwardly to capture visual data of the path of the endotracheal tube, larynx, trachea, or airway.

[0009] The front portion of the camera housing may include an image sensor opening and a light source opening adapted to expose an image sensor and a light source, respectively. These openings may allow visual data of the path of the endotracheal tube, larynx, trachea or airway to be captured.

[0010] The camera housing may have a first compartment and a second compartment arranged at the front portion. The first compartment may be adapted to receive an image sensor and hold the image sensor to face outward through the image sensor opening, while the second compartment is disposed adjacent to the first compartment and may be adapted to receive a light source and hold the light source to face outward through the light source opening.

[0011] The baffle may be a rectangular strip made of silicone material and may be attached to an outer surface of the camera housing and located between the image sensor and the light source to minimize light scattering and light directly irradiating the image sensor.

[0012] The barrier may include a rectangular portion and a plurality of legs extending from a distal end of the rectangular portion to mount the barrier on the camera housing.

[0013] The plurality of leg-shaped members of the baffle may include corresponding locking elements. The camera housing may have a corresponding plurality of openings to receive the leg-shaped members of the baffle, thereby securing the baffle to the camera housing. The plurality of openings may be configured to be located between the image sensor opening and the light source opening to receive the baffle and effectively separate the image sensor from the light source to minimize light scattering and light directly irradiating the image sensor.

[0014] In another aspect, the baffle may be a protrusion integrally extending from the outer surface of the camera housing portion. The protrusion may extend to separate the image sensor opening and the light source opening from each other to prevent light from the light source from directly irradiating the image sensor.

[0015] Furthermore, in the present invention, the blade of the video laryngoscope may be adapted to receive the camera channel and the camera receptacle within the cavity of the blade when attached to the handle.

[0016] The camera channel can be a flexible coupling extending from a tapered portion of the handle, and the camera channel can include circuitry configured to transmit visual data such as images and video from the image sensor to the display unit.

[0017] The video laryngoscope may further include a camera channel including a camera housing arranged at a distal end of the camera channel. The camera housing may include an image sensor and a light source arranged adjacent to each other, wherein a baffle is mounted between the image sensor and the light source. The baffle may have a rectangular shape and a plurality of legs extending from the rectangular portion to mount the baffle on the camera housing. The plurality of legs may include locking elements to secure the baffle to corresponding openings in the camera housing.

[0018] An object of the present invention is to provide a video laryngoscope.

[0019] Another object of the present invention is to provide a video laryngoscope suitable for controlling infection rates in hospitals.

[0020] Another object of the present invention is to provide a video laryngoscope adapted to capture clear and undistorted images of the path of the endotracheal tube, larynx, trachea or airway.

[0021] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a video laryngoscope that provides the clinician with better visualization of the path of the endotracheal tube. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent on reading the following detailed description, which is given by way of example only and not by way of limitation, and with reference to the following drawings:

[0023] Figure 1shows a side view of a video laryngoscope according to the present invention;

[0024] Figure 2 A front view showing a handle of a video laryngoscope according to the present invention;

[0025] Figure 3 A top view of the handle of the video laryngoscope according to the present invention is shown;

[0026] Figure 4 A perspective view showing a camera housing of a video laryngoscope according to the present invention;

[0027] Figure 5 A perspective view showing the interior of a camera housing of a video laryngoscope according to the present invention;

[0028] Figure 6 shows a rear view of the camera housing portion, showing an opening provided in the camera housing portion;

[0029] Figure 7 A perspective view showing a baffle of a video laryngoscope according to the present invention;

[0030] Figure 8 A perspective view of a camera housing is shown, showing a Figure 7 The opening of the baffle shown in ;

[0031] Fig. 9 shows a cross-sectional view of a camera housing of a video laryngoscope according to another embodiment;

[0032] Fig.10 A front view showing a display assembly of a video laryngoscope according to the present invention; and

[0033] Fig.11 A bottom view of the display cover of the video laryngoscope according to the present invention is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail to illustrate the features of the present invention. The words "include", "have", "include" and "contain" and other forms thereof are synonymous and open ended, as one or more items following any of these words are not meant to be an exhaustive list of such one or more items, or to be limited to the one or more items listed.

[0035] The present invention provides a video laryngoscope. The video laryngoscope is adapted to seamlessly attach and detach a display unit and a blade from a handle. The video laryngoscope is adapted to avoid blurring and distortion of visual data of the path of an endotracheal tube. Furthermore, the video laryngoscope is adapted to control infection rates spread by conventional laryngoscopes. Furthermore, the video laryngoscope allows a clinician to perform an intubation procedure without sacrificing visibility of the display unit.

[0036] The terms "first", "second", etc. herein do not indicate any order, quantity, or importance, but are used to distinguish one element from another, and the terms "one" and "an" herein do not indicate a limitation of quantity, but indicate the presence of at least one of the referenced items. The disclosed embodiments are merely examples of the present invention, which may be embodied in various forms.

[0037] Reference now Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 , shows a video laryngoscope (100) according to the present invention. The video laryngoscope (100) comprises a handle (10), a blade (20), a display unit (30) and an attachment assembly (25) for attaching the display unit (30) to the handle (10). The handle (10) is an elongated member having an ergonomic design that allows a clinician to easily hold the handle (10) during the intubation process. The handle (10) has an upper end (101) and a lower end (102). The upper end (101) of the handle (10) is provided with a receiving port (12) to receive the attachment assembly (25).

[0038] The lower end (102) of the handle (10) is provided with a tapered portion (14). Specifically, the lower end (102) of the handle (10) is provided with a camera channel (15) extending from the tapered portion (14) of the handle (10). The camera channel (15) is a flexible connector extending from the tapered portion (14) of the handle (10), and the camera channel (15) includes a circuit to transmit visual data such as images and videos to the receiving port (12). Specifically, the camera channel (15) is electrically connected to a first terminal (122) of the receiving port (12). The camera channel (15) has a first end connected to the tapered portion (14) of the handle (10) and a second end including a camera receiving portion (16). The camera receiving portion (16) of the camera channel (15) is configured to capture visual data of the path of the endotracheal tube, larynx, trachea or airway.

[0039] Reference now Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 6, the camera housing (16) includes an image sensor (161) and a light source (162). The image sensor (161) facilitates capturing visual data of the path of the endotracheal tube, larynx, trachea or airway, and the light source (162) is configured to illuminate the path of the endotracheal tube and the airway. The light source (162) is disposed in the camera housing (16) adjacent to the image sensor (161). The image sensor (161) disposed in the camera housing (16) faces outward to capture visual data of the path of the endotracheal tube, larynx, trachea or airway. Specifically, the camera housing (16) has an image sensor opening (1611) that allows the image sensor (161) to capture visual data of the path of the endotracheal tube, larynx, trachea or airway. In this aspect of the invention, the image sensor (161) is a 2 megapixel (MP) camera, but those skilled in the art may use any other image sensor (161) with different specifications.

[0040] In addition, the camera housing (16) includes a light source opening (1621) (such as Figure 4 and Figure 6 ) to allow the light source (162) to illuminate the path of the endotracheal tube and airway. In this embodiment, the camera housing (16) is a rectangular box-shaped member having a front portion (1601) and a rear portion (1602). The rear portion (1602) is configured to attach the camera housing (16) to the camera channel (15), while the front portion (1601) is suitable for accommodating an image sensor (161), a light source (162) and a baffle (18). The image sensor (161), the light source (162) and the baffle (18) are positioned to face outward from the camera housing (16) to capture visual data of the path of the endotracheal tube, larynx, trachea or airway. Specifically, the front portion (1601) of the camera housing (16) has an image sensor opening (1611) and a light source opening (1621), and the image sensor opening (1611) and the light source opening (1621) are respectively suitable for exposing the image sensor (161) and the light source (162).

[0041] In addition, the camera housing (16) has a first compartment (1603) and a second compartment (1604), the first compartment (1603) and the second compartment (1604) being arranged at the front portion (1601) in the camera housing (16), specifically corresponding to the image sensor opening (161) and the light source opening (1621) from the inner side of the camera housing (16), respectively. The first compartment (1603) is adapted to receive the image sensor (161) and hold the image sensor (161) in the housing (16), the image sensor (161) passing through the image sensor opening (1611) and facing outward, and the second compartment (1604) is arranged adjacent to the first compartment (1603) to receive the light source (162) and hold the light source (162) in the housing (16), the light source (162) passing through the light source opening (1604) and facing outward.

[0042] In addition, a baffle (18) is disposed on the outer surface of the camera housing (16) to separate the image sensor opening (1611) from the light source opening (1621). The baffle (18) prevents the light source (162) from directly irradiating the image sensor (161).

[0043] In an aspect of the present invention, the baffle (18) is a rectangular strip. The rectangular strip is made of silicone. A person skilled in the art can configure the baffle (18) into any other material, shape or size according to the size and position of the image sensor (161) and the light source (162). The baffle (18) is horizontally arranged between the light source opening (1621) and the image sensor opening (1611) to avoid scattering of light on the image sensor (161).

[0044] Reference now Figure 7 and Figure 8 The baffle (18) includes a rectangular portion (181) and a plurality of leg-shaped members (182) extending from the rectangular portion (181). The plurality of leg-shaped members (182) are provided with corresponding locking elements (1821) to attach the baffle (18) to the camera accommodating portion (16). In addition, the camera accommodating portion (16) has a plurality of openings (1682) to receive the corresponding plurality of leg-shaped members (182) of the baffle (18) so as to securely hold the baffle (18) on the camera accommodating portion (16). The plurality of openings (1682) are configured to be located between the image sensor opening (1611) and the light source opening (1682) to receive the baffle (18) so as to separate the image sensor (161) from the light source (162) so as to minimize light scattering and light directly irradiated to the image sensor (161).

[0045] In the present embodiment, the baffle (18) has two leg-shaped members (182a, 182b) extending from the distal end of the rectangular portion (181). The two leg-shaped members (182a, 182b) are provided with respective locking elements (1821a, 1821b) to attach the baffle (18) to the camera accommodating portion (16). Specifically, the camera accommodating portion (16) has two openings (1682a, 1682b) to receive the locking elements (1821a, 1821b) of the two leg-shaped members (182a, 182b), thereby retaining the baffle (18) on the outer surface of the camera accommodating portion (16). The baffle (18) is fixedly attached to the camera accommodating portion (16) using the locking elements (1821a, 1821b), but those skilled in the art may provide the baffle (18) to be detachable from the camera accommodating portion (16). Specifically, if the baffle (18) has been damaged or needs to be replaced, the baffle (18) can be removed from the camera housing (16).

[0046] exist Fig. 9 In another embodiment shown in , the baffle (18) is a protrusion extending from the outer surface of the camera housing (16). The protrusion is arranged between the image sensor opening (1611) and the light source opening (1621) to prevent the light from the light source (162) from directly irradiating the image sensor (161). The scattering of the light from the light source (162) distorts and blurs the image. The baffle (18) prevents the light source (162) from directly irradiating the image sensor (161) to prevent the image from being distorted and blurred.

[0047] In another aspect of the present invention, the baffle (18) is a thin sheet (not shown) arranged between the image sensor opening (1611) and the light source opening (1621). The sheet can be made of any material that absorbs light to prevent the light source (162) from directly shining on the image sensor (161).

[0048] Reference now Figure 1 and Fig.10A display unit (30) is provided, which can be attached to the handle (10) via an attachment assembly (25). The attachment assembly (25) includes a housing (27) and a second terminal (28) electrically connected to the display unit (30). The housing (27) is connected to the display unit (30) using a hinge (26). The hinge (26) is configured to allow the display unit (30) to pivot back and forth. The hinge (26) is connected to the display unit (30) and the housing (27). Specifically, the hinge (26) has a connecting element (not shown) suitable for attachment to the housing (27). The housing (27) receives the connecting element of the hinge (26) to allow the display unit (30) to rotate freely around the central axis of the handle (10). The hinge (26) allows the display unit (30) to rotate in all possible directions to configure the display unit (30) in a desired position, thereby providing better visibility for the clinician.

[0049] In addition, the housing (27) includes two spherical protrusions (271a, 271b) extending from the outer surface of the housing (27) and arranged opposite to each other to firmly attach the housing (27) to the handle (10) and remove it from the handle (10). The two spherical protrusions (271a, 271b) are offset to extend radially away from the central axis of the housing (27). The housing (271a, 271b) is attached to the receiving port (12) of the handle (10). Specifically, the receiving port (12) has two openings (121a, 121b) to receive the corresponding spherical protrusions (271a, 271b) of the housing (27), thereby firmly holding the housing (27) in the receiving port (12) of the handle (10). The two spherical protrusions (271a, 271b) ensure that the housing (27) is held in place until the two spherical protrusions (271a, 271b) are pressed to remove the housing (27) of the attachment assembly (25). Specifically, the two spherical protrusions (271a, 271b) are respectively provided with ball-shaped pieces at the end portions, so that the two spherical protrusions (271a, 271b) can be easily pressed when the housing (27) is removed from the handle (10).

[0050] When the display unit (30) is attached to the handle (10) via the attachment assembly (25), the second terminal (28) of the attachment assembly (25) is electrically connected to the first terminal (122) of the receiving port (12) of the handle (10), thereby establishing an electrical connection between the camera channel (15) and the display unit (30). Specifically, when the attachment assembly (25) is attached to the handle (10), the first terminal (122) and the second terminal (28) immediately establish an electrical connection between the image sensor (161) and the display unit (30), thereby enabling instant display of visual information of the path of the endotracheal tube, larynx, trachea or airway on the display screen (34).

[0051] In addition, the attachment assembly (25) includes a record button (29) (eg Fig.10 In one aspect of the present invention, the record button (29) is disposed on a portion of the housing (27). However, one skilled in the art may dispose the record button (29) on any other portion so that the clinician's thumb can easily reach the record button (29) to capture an image or record a video.

[0052] Reference now Fig.10 The display unit (30) includes a battery (not shown), a power button (32), an output port (33), a display screen (34), a touch user interface (TUI) (not shown), a processor (not shown), and a memory (not shown) to store visual information of the path of the endotracheal tube, larynx, trachea or airway. The battery is arranged in the display unit (30) to power the display screen (34), the image sensor (161) and the light source (162) ( Figure 4 The battery may be a replaceable battery or a rechargeable battery.

[0053] In another aspect of the present invention, the handle (10) includes a battery (not shown) that can be used to supply power to the image sensor (161) and the light sensor (162) when the display unit (30) is not attached to the handle (10). In this case, the handle (10) establishes a wireless connection with the display unit (30) or an external display (not shown) to transmit visual data of the path of the endotracheal tube, larynx, trachea or airway from the image sensor (161) to the display unit (30) or external display.

[0054] The power button (32) is disposed on any one of the sides of the display unit (30). The power button (32) is within the finger range of the clinician. In the current aspect of the present invention, the power button (32) is disposed at the lower left of the display unit (30). The power button (32) is used to turn on or off the display screen (34). Specifically, pressing and releasing the power button (32) turns on the display screen (34), while pressing the power button (32) for 3 to 4 seconds turns off the display screen (34). A person skilled in the art can configure the duration of pressing the power button (32) to turn off the display screen (34).

[0055] In another aspect of the present invention, when the display unit (30) is attached to the handle (10) and the display screen (34) is turned on using the power button (32), the display screen (34) begins to display visual data of the path of the endotracheal tube. The display screen (34) automatically begins to display visual data of the endotracheal tube without pressing the record button (29).

[0056] In another aspect of the present invention, the video laryngoscope (100) is adapted to start displaying visual data on the display screen (34) even if the display unit (30) is not attached to the handle (10). The display screen (34) displays the visual data by establishing a wireless connection between the handle (10) and the display unit (30).

[0057] In addition, an output port (33) is provided on any of the sides of the display unit (30) to connect the display unit (30) to an external display (not shown) to show visual information of the path of the endotracheal tube. The external display has a larger screen size than the display screen (34) of the display unit (30). It is obvious to those skilled in the art to provide multiple output ports on the display unit (30).

[0058] The display screen (34) of the display unit (30) is adapted to display visual data of the path of the endotracheal tube received from the image sensor (161). In the present aspect of the invention, the display unit (30) has a rectangular shape to accommodate the display screen (34). The display screen (34) has a size of 3.5 inches to provide better visibility from all angles. It is obvious to those skilled in the art to increase the size of the display screen (34) as needed.

[0059] In addition, a user touch interface is provided to allow the clinician to interact with the video laryngoscope (100). The user touch interface of the display screen (34) is suitable for viewing and managing previously recorded images or videos stored in the memory of the display unit (30). The user touch interface includes: a home page to display the current time and date; a menu icon to access multiple icons; and a battery icon to indicate the battery charge. The display screen (34) is turned on using the power button (32) to display the home page. The clinician interacts with the menu icon of the home page to access multiple icons by touching the menu icon displayed on the display screen (34). The menu icon is set in the lower left corner of the display screen (34) to allow the clinician to reach the menu icon with one hand. After touching the menu icon, the processor receives the touch input from the user touch interface and processes the command to display multiple icons on the display screen (34).

[0060] The plurality of icons are assigned specific actions to be performed upon receiving a command from a processor of the display unit (30). Specifically, the plurality of icons include setting icons to change the brightness of the display screen (34), the volume of the sound, turn the output port (33) on or off, etc. In addition, the plurality of icons include: a photo icon to view and manage previously recorded images; and a video icon to view and manage previously recorded videos. In another aspect of the present invention, the plurality of icons include a folder icon to view and manage previously recorded images and videos in one location. Those skilled in the art may add more icons to the plurality of icons to provide additional features and functions.

[0061] When the clinician presses the record button (29) to capture an image, the user touch interface is adapted to display an indication of the captured image on the display screen (34). Furthermore, when the record button (29) is pressed to record a video, the user touch interface is adapted to display a timer for the recording on the display screen (34). Furthermore, after pressing the record button (29) to stop recording, the timer disappears from the display screen (34).

[0062] In another aspect of the present invention, the display unit (30) includes a charging light (35) to indicate the charging state of the battery. When the battery is connected to a power source to charge the battery, the charging light (35) is turned on, and when the battery is not connected to a power source to charge, the charging light (35) is turned off. It is obvious to those skilled in the art to arrange the charging light (35) in any corner of the display unit (30).

[0063] Reference now Figure 1 , Fig.10 and Fig.11 , a display cover (40) is provided to prevent the display unit (30) and the attachment assembly (25) from being infected during the intubation process. The display cover (40) is made of a transparent material to allow the clinician to view the display screen (34) without any obstruction. The display cover (40) includes a lower panel (42) and an upper panel (44) hinged at a hinge point. The lower panel (42) and the upper panel (44) pivot around the hinge point to cover the display unit (30). After the display unit (30) is placed in the cavity of the display cover (40), the upper panel (44) and the lower panel (42) of the display cover (40) are pressed to snap fit each other. In addition, the upper panel (44) has a flexible sheath (not shown) extending from the free end of the upper panel (44) to cover a portion of the attachment assembly (25) and the handle (10). The display cover (40) is disposable and can be discarded when the intubation process is completed.

[0064] Reference again Figure 1 and Figure 2, the handle (10) is adapted to receive the blade (20) from the lower end (102) of the handle (10). The blade (20) is received around the outer surface of the handle (10) to completely cover the handle (10) and the camera channel (15). When performing the intubation process, the blade (20) is attached to the handle (10). The handle (10) is adapted to receive all types of blades, such as Macintosh and Miller. In addition, the handle (10) is adapted to receive both adult blades and pediatric blades. The camera channel (15) is adapted to receive all types of blades for both adults and children, such as Macintosh and Miller. The handle (10) does not require any other adjustment or installation to receive the adult blade and the pediatric blade. The blade (20) can be slid on the camera channel (15) to be attached to the handle (10) to perform the intubation process. The blade (20) is detachably attached to the handle (10), and the blade (20) can be detached from the handle (10) after the intubation process.

[0065] In this aspect of the invention, the blade (20) can be attached to the handle (10) by a double ball mechanism (21) of the handle (10). The double ball mechanism (21) includes two spherical protrusions (211a, 211b) arranged opposite to each other to firmly attach the blade (20) to the handle (10) and remove it from the handle (10). The two spherical protrusions (211a, 211b) are biased to extend radially away from the central axis of the handle (10). The two spherical protrusions (211a, 211b) engage with the blade (20). Specifically, the blade (20) has two openings (not shown) to engage with the two spherical protrusions (211a, 211b) of the handle (10), thereby firmly holding the blade (20) on the handle (10). The blade (20) has a first cavity (256) formed in the blade (20). The first cavity (256) has a shape suitable for being fitted on the handle (10) and covering the handle (10) during the intubation process. The first cavity (256) allows the blade (20) to accommodate the handle (10) during the intubation process and remain firmly in place. In addition, the blade (20) has a second cavity (257) formed at the tongue portion (253) of the blade (20). The second cavity (257) is configured to accommodate the camera channel (15) and the camera accommodating portion (16) in the second cavity (257). The second cavity (257) accommodates the camera channel (15) extending along the length of the tongue portion (253). The second cavity (257) provides space for the camera channel (15) to be accommodated in the blade (20).

[0066] The two knobs (211a, 211b) ensure that the blade (20) is held in place until the two knobs (211a, 211b) are pressed to remove the blade (20). The blade (20) is discarded after being removed from the handle (10) to reduce the chance of infection and cross contamination. Discarding the blade (20) after a single use allows the video laryngoscope (100) to control the spread of infection that may be spread by repeatedly using the same blade.

[0067] In addition, the blade (20) has an opening (165) to allow the image sensor (161) and the light source (162) to capture visual data of the path of the endotracheal tube. The image sensor (161) captures visual data of the path of the endotracheal tube, larynx, trachea or airway and transmits the visual data to the display unit (30).

[0068] Before performing the intubation process, the clinician attaches the blade (20) to the handle (10). The blade (20) can be an adult blade or a pediatric blade. The blade (20) can slide on the camera channel (15), and the blade (20) is attached to the handle (10) through a double ball mechanism (21) of the handle (10). In addition, the display unit (30) is placed in the lower panel (42) of the display cover (40), and the upper panel (44) is pivoted to close the display cover (40). The flexible sheath is wrapped around the attachment assembly (25) and the portion of the handle (10). When the flexible sheath is wrapped, the video laryngoscope (100) can be used for the intubation process. The display unit (30) is rotated to configure the position according to the clinician's requirements. The movement of the display unit (30) is facilitated by the hinge (26).

[0069] When performing an intubation procedure, the power button (32) is pressed to enable the display screen (34), the image sensor (161), and the light source (162). Visual data of the path of the endotracheal tube and the airway is displayed on the display screen (34). The baffle (18) of the camera housing (16) reduces the scattering of light from the light source (162). The baffle (18) helps to reduce distortion and blurring of the image. In addition, a record button (29) is provided to capture images and record videos. Press and release the record button (29) to capture images, and hold the record button (29) for 2 to 3 seconds to record videos. The video laryngoscope (100) is completely covered from the outside, thereby eliminating the risk of infection of the video laryngoscope (100). After the intubation procedure, the display cover (40) is removed from the display unit (30) and discarded to avoid spreading infection. In addition, the blade (20) is removed from the handle (10). The blade (20) that mainly contacts the body part is discarded after one use, which helps to reduce the infection rate or cross-contamination transmission rate caused by reusing the blade (20).

[0070] In addition, the video laryngoscope (100) allows the clinician to free one hand while operating the video laryngoscope (100) during the intubation process. In the operating room, the clinician needs to free one hand to use multiple devices or perform multiple actions at the same time. By placing the power button (32) at the lower left of the display unit (30), placing the menu icon at the lower left of the display screen (34), and placing the record button (29) below the display unit (30), the clinician can fully operate the video laryngoscope (100) with his left hand, thereby freeing up the right hand.

[0071] In another aspect of the present invention, a video laryngoscope (100) comprises a handle (10), a blade (20) and a display unit (30). The display unit (30) is attached to the handle (10) without using an attachment assembly (25). Specifically, the display unit (30) comprises an attachment element (not shown) extending from a bottom portion of the display unit (30) to attach to the handle (10). It will be apparent to a person skilled in the art that the attachment element of the display unit (30) can be configured to provide a threaded attachment or a snap-on attachment or the like to ensure a secure and functional connection between the display unit (30) and the handle (10).

[0072] Therefore, an advantage of the present invention is that a video laryngoscope (100) is provided to perform an intubation procedure. The video laryngoscope (100) is provided with a display unit (30) that rotates and moves back and forth to increase visibility for the clinician. In addition, the handle (10) of the video laryngoscope (100) is adapted to receive an adult blade as well as a pediatric blade, which reduces other requirements, such as requiring different handles for different blades or requiring mounting members on the same handle (10) for receiving different types of blades. In addition, the baffle (18) reduces distortion and blurring of the image, thereby achieving higher quality visualization. In addition, the handle (10) is covered by the blade (20) and the display unit (30) is covered by a display cover (40), thereby completely covering the video laryngoscope (100) and preventing the video laryngoscope (100) from being infected during the intubation procedure.

[0073] The above descriptions of specific embodiments of the present invention are given for the purpose of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed, and obviously, many modifications and changes can be made in view of the above teachings. These embodiments are selected and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical application, so that those skilled in the art can best utilize the invention and various embodiments with various modifications suitable for specific purposes. It is understood that, without departing from the scope of the claims of the present invention, various omissions and substitutions of equivalents may be considered when circumstances may suggest or make it convenient, but these are intended to cover applications or embodiments.

Claims

1. A video laryngoscope (100), comprising: A handle (10), the handle (10) having an upper end (101) and a lower end (102), the upper end (101) being adapted to receive a display unit (30) therein, the handle (10) being adapted to receive a blade (20) for an intubation procedure; a camera channel (15), the camera channel (15) extending from the lower end (102) of the handle (10), the camera channel (15) being a flexible coupling, the camera channel (15) having a first end connected to the handle (10) and a second end including a camera receiving portion (16), Wherein, the camera accommodating portion (16) comprises: an image sensor (161) disposed within the camera housing (16) and facing outwardly to capture visual data of the path of the endotracheal tube, larynx, trachea or airway; a light source (162) disposed within the camera housing (16) adjacent to the image sensor (161) to illuminate the endotracheal tube and the path of the airway; A baffle (18) can be mounted on the camera housing (16) and located between the image sensor (161) and the light source (162) to minimize light scattering and light directly irradiating the image sensor (161).

2. The video laryngoscope (100) according to claim 1, wherein: The camera housing (16) is a rectangular box-shaped member having a front portion (1601) and a rear portion (1602), wherein the rear portion (1602) is configured to attach the camera housing (16) to the camera channel (15), and the front portion (1601) is suitable for accommodating the image sensor (161), the light source (162) and the baffle (18), and the baffle is positioned to face outward for capturing visual data of the path of the endotracheal tube, larynx, trachea or airway.

3. The video laryngoscope (100) according to claim 2, wherein: The front portion (1601) of the camera housing (16) has an image sensor opening (1611) and a light source opening (1621), wherein the image sensor opening (1611) and the light source opening (1621) are respectively adapted to expose the image sensor (161) and the light source (162), thereby allowing visual data of the path of the endotracheal tube, larynx, trachea or airway to be captured.

4. The video laryngoscope (100) according to claim 3, wherein: The camera accommodating portion (16) has a first compartment (1603) and a second compartment (1604), wherein the first compartment (1603) and the second compartment (1604) are arranged at the front portion (1601) in the camera accommodating portion (16) and correspond to the image sensor opening (1611) and the light source opening (1621) respectively, wherein the first compartment (1603) is suitable for receiving the image sensor (161) and retaining the image sensor (161) in the camera accommodating portion (16), the image sensor (161) passing through the image sensor opening (1611) and facing outward, and the second compartment (1604) is arranged adjacent to the first compartment (1603) to receive the light source (162) and retain the light source (162) in the camera accommodating portion (16), the light source (162) passing through the light source opening (1621) and facing outward.

5. The video laryngoscope (100) according to claim 1, wherein: The baffle (18) is a rectangular strip made of silicone material. The baffle (18) can be attached to the outer surface of the camera housing (16) and is located between the image sensor (161) and the light source (162) to minimize light scattering from the light source (162) and light directly irradiating the image sensor (161).

6. The video laryngoscope (100) according to claim 1, wherein: The baffle (18) includes a rectangular portion (181) and a plurality of leg-shaped members (182) extending from a distal end of the rectangular portion (181) to be mounted on the camera accommodation portion (16).

7. The video laryngoscope (100) according to claim 6, wherein: The plurality of leg-shaped members (182) are provided with respective locking elements (1821a, 1821b) for attaching the baffle (18) to the camera accommodating portion (16), wherein the camera accommodating portion (16) has a plurality of openings (1682) for receiving the corresponding plurality of leg-shaped members (182) of the baffle (18), thereby firmly holding the baffle (18) on the camera accommodating portion (16).

8. The video laryngoscope (100) according to claim 7, wherein: The plurality of openings (1682) are configured between the image sensor opening (1611) and the light source opening (1621) to receive the baffle (18), thereby separating the image sensor (161) from the light source (162) to minimize light scattering and light directly irradiating the image sensor (161).

9. The video laryngoscope (100) according to claim 1, wherein: The baffle (18) is a protruding portion extending integrally from the outer surface of the camera accommodating portion (16), and the protruding portion extends from the outer surface to separate the image sensor opening (1611) and the light source opening (1621) from each other to prevent the light from the light source (162) from directly irradiating the image sensor (161).

10. The video laryngoscope (100) according to claim 1, wherein: When the blade (20) is attached to the handle (10), the blade (20) is adapted to receive the camera channel (15) and the camera receptacle (16) within a second cavity (257) of the blade (20).

11. The video laryngoscope (100) according to claim 1, wherein: The camera channel (15) is a flexible connector extending from the tapered portion (14) of the handle (10), and the camera channel (15) includes circuitry to transmit visual data, such as images and videos, from the image sensor (161) to the display unit (30).

12. A camera channel (15) for a handle (10) of a video laryngoscope (100), the camera channel (15) comprising: A camera accommodating portion (16), the camera accommodating portion (16) being arranged at the distal end of the camera channel (15); wherein the camera accommodating portion (16) comprises: An image sensor (161) and a light source (162), the image sensor (161) and the light source (162) being arranged adjacent to each other; A baffle (18) is installed between the image sensor (161) and the light source (162), the baffle (18) having a rectangular shape and a plurality of leg-shaped members (182), the plurality of leg-shaped members (182) extending from the rectangular portion (181) to install the baffle (18) on the camera accommodating portion (16), the plurality of leg-shaped members (182) having locking portions (1821), the locking portions (1821) being configured to lock the plurality of leg-shaped members (182) in the corresponding plurality of openings (1682) of the camera accommodating portion (16) to securely hold the baffle (18) on the camera accommodating portion (16).

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