Counterweight manifold for endoscope

Abstract

Methods and systems for coupling gas and water supply tubes to a container are disclosed. An illustrative container and tube stack may include a container configured to contain a fluid, the container having a bottom and a top; comprising a first end, a second end and a first cavity; a gas supply tube (240c) including a first end, a second end, and a second chamber; and a counterweight (500) coupled to a first end of the water supply pipe (245c) and a first end of the gas supply pipe (240c). The first cavity may be selectively in fluid communication with a bottom of the container, and a second end of the water supply tube (245c) is positioned outside of the container. The second cavity may be in operable fluid communication with the container, and a second end of the gas supply tube (240c) is positioned outside of the container.

Description

[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 400,980, filed on August 25, 2022, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates generally to medical fluid containers and methods, and more particularly to containers and tubing sets for supplying fluids and / or gases to an endoscope. Background Art

[0004] Conventionally, endoscopic devices have been widely used to perform diagnostic and / or therapeutic treatments. During endoscopic surgery, physicians can use a combination of air, irrigation, and lens cleaning as a way to flush debris, clean optical devices, and blow the working chamber. To achieve these features, the endoscope umbilicus is connected to a water bottle via a set of tubes. One of the tubes delivers pressurized air from the processor to the water bottle. The other tube is a water pipe suspended in the water at the bottom of the bottle. To ensure that the tube stays at the bottom of the water bottle, a counterweight can be connected to the distal top to prevent the tube from floating to the top of the water surface. Additionally, at the top of the bottle, the cap is equipped with multiple features and parts to ensure that preferred performance is achieved. Considering these factors, the improvements of the present invention may be useful. Summary of the invention

[0005] A summary of the invention is given to aid understanding, and those skilled in the art will appreciate that each of the various aspects and features of the invention may be advantageously used alone in some cases, or in combination with other aspects and features of the invention in other cases. The inclusion or exclusion of elements, components, etc. in this summary is not intended to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter. Therefore, while the invention is presented in terms of various aspects or embodiments, it should be understood that individual aspects may be claimed alone or in combination with various aspects and features of that or any other embodiment.

[0006] In a first example, a container and tube set arranged and configured to be coupled to an endoscope for use in endoscopic surgery may include a container configured to contain a fluid, the container having a bottom and a top; a water supply tube, the water supply tube including a first end, a second end, and a first cavity extending therethrough, wherein the first cavity is selectively fluidically connected to the bottom of the container and the second end of the water supply tube is positioned outside the container; a gas supply tube, the gas supply tube including a first end, a second end, and a second cavity extending therethrough, wherein the second cavity is operably fluidically connected to the container and the second end of the gas supply tube is positioned outside the container; and a counterweight, the counterweight being coupled to the first end of the water supply tube and the first end of the gas supply tube.

[0007] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the counterweight may include a housing having a housing cavity extending from a first end of the housing to a second end of the housing.

[0008] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the container and tube set can further include one or more holes extending through a sidewall of the housing, the one or more holes being positioned between the first and second ends of the housing.

[0009] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the housing cavity may have a cross-sectional dimension that gradually decreases from the first end to the second end.

[0010] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the housing cavity may have a first cross-sectional dimension from a first end of the housing to a first intermediate location between the first end and the second end of the housing.

[0011] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the housing cavity may have a second cross-sectional dimension from the first intermediate position to a second intermediate position located between the first end and the second end of the housing, and the second cross-sectional dimension may be smaller than the first cross-sectional dimension.

[0012] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the housing cavity may have a third cross-sectional dimension from the second intermediate position to the second end, and the third cross-sectional dimension may be smaller than the second cross-sectional dimension.

[0013] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the first transition in the cross-sectional dimension of the housing cavity may define a first flange.

[0014] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the first end of the gas supply tube may be configured to abut the first flange.

[0015] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, one or more holes may be positioned between the first flange and the second end of the housing.

[0016] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the second transition in the cross-sectional dimension of the housing cavity can define a second flange.

[0017] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the first end of the water supply tube may be configured to abut the second flange.

[0018] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the flow of gas through the second cavity can be configured to flow out of one or more holes.

[0019] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the flow of water can be configured to enter the first chamber through the second end of the housing when the container is pressurized.

[0020] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the container and tube set can further include a one-way valve coupled to one or more apertures.

[0021] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the one-way valve can include an umbrella valve.

[0022] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the one-way valve may be configured to allow airflow out of the housing and into the container.

[0023] In another example, a container and tube set arranged and configured to be coupled to an endoscope for use in endoscopic surgery may include a container configured to contain a fluid, the container having a bottom and a top; a water supply tube, the water supply tube including a first end, a second end, and a first cavity extending therethrough, wherein the first cavity is selectively fluidly connected to the bottom of the container, and the second end of the water supply tube is positioned outside the container; a gas supply tube, the gas supply tube including a first end, a second end, and a second cavity extending therethrough, wherein the second cavity is operably fluidly connected to the container, and the second end of the gas supply tube is positioned outside the container; and a counterweight, the counterweight being coupled to the first end of the water supply tube and the first end of the gas supply tube. The counterweight may include a housing having a first housing cavity extending from the first end of the housing to the second end of the housing, and a second housing cavity extending through a sidewall of the housing.

[0024] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the container and tube set may further include one or more holes formed in the second end of the housing.

[0025] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the first housing cavity may have a cross-sectional dimension that gradually decreases from the first end to the second end.

[0026] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the first transition in the cross-sectional dimension of the housing cavity may define a first flange.

[0027] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the first end of the gas supply tube may be configured to abut the first flange.

[0028] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the first opening of the second housing cavity may be positioned between the first flange and the second end of the housing.

[0029] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the second opening of the second housing cavity may be positioned proximate the second end of the housing.

[0030] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the first lumen of the water supply tube may be in fluid communication with the second housing lumen.

[0031] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the container and tube set can further include one or more holes extending through the second end of the housing.

[0032] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the second lumen of the gas supply tube may be in fluid communication with the one or more apertures.

[0033] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the container and tube set can further include a one-way valve coupled to one or more apertures.

[0034] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the one-way valve can include an umbrella valve.

[0035] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the one-way valve may be configured to allow airflow out of the housing and into the container.

[0036] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the second housing cavity may extend at a non-orthogonal angle relative to the first housing cavity.

[0037] In another example, a container and tube set arranged and configured to be coupled to an endoscope for use in endoscopic surgery may include a container configured to contain a fluid, the container having a bottom and a top; a water supply tube, the water supply tube including a first end, a second end, and a first cavity extending therethrough, wherein the first cavity is selectively fluidly connected to the bottom of the container, and the second end of the water supply tube is positioned outside the container; a gas supply tube, the gas supply tube including a first end, a second end, and a second cavity extending therethrough, wherein the second cavity is operably fluidly connected to the container, and the second end of the gas supply tube is positioned outside the container; and a counterweight, the counterweight being coupled to the first end of the water supply tube and the first end of the gas supply tube. The counterweight may include a housing having a first housing cavity extending from the first end of the housing to the second end of the housing, and one or more through holes radially spaced apart from the first housing cavity.

[0038] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, one or more through holes may be formed in the second end of the housing.

[0039] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the housing may have an inner cross-sectional dimension that gradually decreases from the first end to the second end.

[0040] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the first transition in the inner cross-sectional dimension of the housing can define a first flange.

[0041] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the first end of the gas supply tube may be configured to abut the first flange.

[0042] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the second transition in the inner cross-sectional dimension of the housing can define a second flange.

[0043] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the first end of the water supply tube may be configured to abut the second flange.

[0044] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the first lumen of the water supply tube may be in fluid communication with the first housing lumen.

[0045] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the second lumen of the gas supply tube may be in fluid communication with one or more through-holes in the second end of the housing.

[0046] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the container and tube set may further include a one-way valve coupled to the one or more through-holes.

[0047] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the one-way valve can include an umbrella valve.

[0048] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the one-way valve may be configured to allow airflow out of the housing and into the container.

[0049] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the one-way valve can be configured to prevent water from passing into the housing.

[0050] In another example, a container arranged and configured to be coupled to an endoscope for use in endoscopic surgery may include a flexible container configured to contain a fluid within a first receptacle thereof, the container having a bottom and a top; a water outlet positioned adjacent the bottom of the container; and a gas inlet in fluid communication with a second receptacle of the container. The second receptacle may include a hydrophobic membrane.

[0051] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the hydrophobic membrane can be configured to allow gas to pass from the second receptacle to the first receptacle.

[0052] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the hydrophobic membrane can be configured to prevent water from passing from the first receptacle to the second receptacle.

[0053] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the container may also include a water supply pipe, the water supply pipe comprising a first end, a second end, and a first cavity extending therethrough, wherein the first cavity is fluidically connected to a first receptacle in the bottom of the container, and the second end of the water supply pipe is positioned outside the container; and a gas supply pipe, the gas supply pipe comprising a first end, a second end, and a second cavity extending therethrough, wherein the second cavity is operably fluidically connected to the first receptacle, and the second end of the gas supply pipe is positioned outside the container.

[0054] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the container may also include a port positioned adjacent to the top of the container, wherein the port is configured to selectively fluidly connect the first receptacle of the container with an external water source; and a removable cap selectively connected to the port.

[0055] In another example, a container and tube set arranged and configured to be coupled to an endoscope for use in endoscopic surgery may include a container configured to contain a fluid, the container having a bottom and a top; a water supply tube, the water supply tube including a first end, a second end, and a first lumen extending therethrough, wherein the first lumen is selectively fluidly connected to the bottom of the container, and the second end of the water supply tube is positioned outside the container; and a gas supply tube, the gas supply tube including a first end, a second end, and a second lumen extending therethrough, wherein the second lumen is operably fluidly connected to the container, and the second end of the gas supply tube is positioned outside the container, and wherein the first end of the gas supply tube is positioned inside the container, extends to the bottom of the container and has a sidewall configured to allow gas to pass from the second lumen into the container while preventing water from flowing from the container into the second lumen. The water supply tube may extend coaxially with the gas supply tube, and the first end of the water supply tube is substantially aligned with the first end of the gas supply tube.

[0056] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the annular opening at the first end of the gas supply tube may be closed.

[0057] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the container and tube set may further include a weight coupled to the first end of the gas supply tube and / or the first end of the water supply tube.

[0058] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the sidewall may have a plurality of pinholes extending therethrough.

[0059] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the sidewalls may be formed from an elastomer.

[0060] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the sidewalls may be formed from a finely woven mesh.

[0061] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the sidewalls may include a hydrophobic film.

[0062] In another example, a container and tube set arranged and configured to be connected to an endoscope for use in endoscopic surgery may include an outer chamber; an inner chamber, which is disposed within the outer chamber and is configured to contain a fluid; a water supply tube, the water supply tube including a first end, a second end, and a first cavity extending therethrough, wherein the first cavity is in fluid communication with the inner chamber, and the second end of the water supply tube is positioned outside the container; and a gas supply tube, the gas supply tube including a first end, a second end, and a second cavity extending therethrough, wherein the second cavity is operably fluidically connected to the outer chamber, and the second end of the gas supply tube is positioned outside the container.

[0063] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the outer chamber can be configured to compress the inner chamber to expel fluid from the inner chamber.

[0064] In another example, a container arranged and configured to be coupled to an endoscope for use in endoscopic surgery may include a flexible container configured to contain a fluid within a first receptacle thereof, the container having a bottom and a top; a water outlet positioned adjacent the bottom of the container; and a gas inlet in fluid communication with an inner channel of the container. The inner channel may include a flow control mechanism disposed near a second end thereof.

[0065] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the flow control mechanism may include a duckbill valve.

[0066] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the flow control mechanism can include an umbrella valve.

[0067] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the flow control mechanism may include a hydrophobic membrane.

[0068] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the flow control mechanism can be configured to prevent water from passing from the first receptacle to the inner channel receptacle.

[0069] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the container may also include a water supply pipe, the water supply pipe comprising a first end, a second end, and a first cavity extending therethrough, wherein the first cavity is fluidically connected to a first receptacle in the bottom of the container, and the second end of the water supply pipe is positioned outside the container; and a gas supply pipe, the gas supply pipe comprising a first end, a second end, and a second cavity extending therethrough, wherein the second cavity is operably fluidically connected to the first receptacle, and the second end of the gas supply pipe is positioned outside the container.

[0070] 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

[0071] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate various exemplary embodiments and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present invention.

[0072] Figure 1 The components of an endoscope are depicted;

[0073] Figure 2 Depicted are components of an endoscope system having an endoscope, a light source, a light source connector, a water reservoir, and a tubing assembly for air and lens cleaning fluid delivery;

[0074] Figure 3A depicts an endoscope system having an endoscope, a light source, a water reservoir, and a tubing assembly for mixed air, lens cleaning, and flushing fluid delivery, wherein the system is activated to deliver air to atmosphere;

[0075] Figure 3B Depicted Figure 3A an endoscope system wherein the system is activated to deliver air to a patient through a patient end of the endoscope;

[0076] Figure 3C Depicted Figure 3A an endoscope system wherein the system is activated to deliver a lens cleaning fluid through a patient end of the endoscope;

[0077] Figure 3D Depicted Figure 3A an endoscope system, wherein the system is activated to deliver an irrigation fluid through a patient end of the endoscope;

[0078] Figure 4 Depicted is a hybrid endoscope system including a video processing unit, a connector section, a peristaltic irrigation pump, a water reservoir and tip, coaxial gas and lens wash supply tubing, upstream and downstream irrigation supply tubing, and alternative gas supply tubing;

[0079] Figure 5A depicts a perspective view of an illustrative distal pipe weight;

[0080] Figure 5B Depicted in Figure 5A The line 5B-5B is intercepted Figure 5A a perspective cross-sectional view of an illustrative distal pipe weight;

[0081] Figure 5C Depicted in Figure 5A a perspective cross-sectional view of an illustrative distal pipe weight taken at line 5C-5C;

[0082] Figure 5D Depicts the assembly with gas supply pipe and water supply pipe Figure 5A A cross-sectional view of an illustrative distal pipe weight;

[0083] Figure 5E Depicts the assembly with gas supply pipe, water supply pipe and reservoir Figure 5A A schematic diagram of an illustrative distal pipe weight;

[0084] Figure 6A depicts a perspective view of another illustrative distal pipe weight;

[0085] Figure 6B Depicted in Figure 6A The line 6B-6B is intercepted Figure 6A a perspective cross-sectional view of an illustrative distal pipe weight;

[0086] Figure 6C Depicted Figure 6A A top view of an illustrative distal pipe weight;

[0087] Figure 6D Depicts the assembly with gas supply pipe and water supply pipe Figure 6A A cross-sectional view of an illustrative distal pipe weight;

[0088] Figure 7A depicts a top perspective view of another illustrative distal pipe weight;

[0089] Figure 7B Depicted Figure 7A A bottom perspective view of an illustrative distal pipe weight;

[0090] Figure 7C Depicted Figure 7A A top view of an illustrative distal pipe weight;

[0091] Figure 7D Depicts the assembly with gas supply pipe and water supply pipe Figure 7A A cross-sectional view of an illustrative distal pipe weight;

[0092] Figure 8A depicts a top perspective view of another illustrative distal pipe weight;

[0093] Figure 8B Depicted in Figure 8A The line 8B-8B of Figure 8A a perspective cross-sectional view of an illustrative distal pipe weight;

[0094] Figure 8C Depicted Figure 8A A top view of an illustrative distal pipe weight;

[0095] Figure 8D Depicted Figure 8A A bottom view of an illustrative distal pipe weight;

[0096] Figure 8E Depicts the assembly with gas supply pipe and water supply pipe Figure 8A A cross-sectional view of an illustrative distal pipe weight;

[0097] Figure 9A depicts a top perspective view of another illustrative distal pipe weight;

[0098] Figure 9B Depicted in Figure 9A The line 9B-9B is intercepted Figure 9A a perspective cross-sectional view of an illustrative distal pipe weight;

[0099] Figure 9C Depicted Figure 9A A top view of an illustrative distal pipe weight;

[0100] Figure 9D Depicted Figure 9A A bottom view of an illustrative distal pipe weight;

[0101] Figure 9E Depicts the assembly with gas supply pipe and water supply pipe Figure 9A A cross-sectional view of an illustrative distal pipe weight;

[0102] Figure 10 depicts a side view of an illustrative refillable fluid reservoir;

[0103] Figure 11A depicts a side view of another illustrative refillable fluid reservoir and tube set;

[0104] Figure 11B Depicted Figure 11A An enlarged view of region B;

[0105] Figure 12 Another illustrative reservoir to be used with an endoscope system is depicted;

[0106] Figure 13A depicts a cross-sectional side view of an illustrative fluid reservoir in a first configuration; and

[0107] Figure 13B Depicts the second form Figure 13A A schematic side view of an illustrative reservoir.

[0108] 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 various aspects of 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

[0109] The present invention will now be described with reference to an exemplary 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 may be understood with reference to the following description and accompanying drawings, in which the same or similar reference numerals will be used to refer to the same or similar parts.

[0110] The term "distal" refers to the part farthest from the user when the device is introduced into the patient's body. Conversely, the term "proximal" refers to the part closest to the user when the device is placed in the patient's body. As used herein, the terms "include", "comprises" or any other variants thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive contents, so that the process, method, article or device including a list of elements does not necessarily include only those elements, but may include other elements that are not explicitly listed or inherent to such process, method, article or device. The term "exemplary" is used in the sense of "example" rather than "exemplary". In addition, as used herein, the terms "approximately", "roughly" and "substantially" represent a numerical range within + / -10% of the stated value or implied value. Additionally, terms representing component / surface geometry refer to exact shapes and approximate shapes.

[0111] Embodiments of the present invention are described with particular reference to a bottle (e.g., container, reservoir, etc.) and tube assembly or set. It should be appreciated that such embodiments may be used to supply fluids and / or gases to an endoscope for a variety of purposes, including, for example, facilitating patient insufflation, lens washing, and / or priming the working channel to help flush / aspirate debris during endoscopic surgery.

[0112] Although the present invention includes a description of containers and tubing sets suitable for use with endoscopic systems to supply fluids and / or gases to an endoscope, the devices, systems, and methods herein may also be implemented in other medical systems requiring fluid and / or gas delivery, and for a variety of other purposes.

[0113] It should be noted that references to "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "other embodiments," etc. indicate that the embodiments may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but not necessarily every embodiment. 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 affect such 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.

[0114] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. As used in this specification and the appended claims, the term "or" is generally employed in its sense including "and / or" unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

[0115] Conventionally, endoscopic devices have been widely used to perform diagnostic and / or therapeutic procedures. During endoscopic surgery, a physician may use a combination of air, irrigation, and lens cleaning as a means of flushing debris, cleaning the optics, and insufflating the working cavity. To achieve these features, the endoscopic umbilical tube is connected to a water bottle via a set of tubes. One of the tubes delivers pressurized air from a processor to the water bottle. Another tube is a water tube that is suspended in the water at the bottom of the bottle. To ensure that the tube remains at the bottom of the water bottle, a weight may be coupled to the distal tip to prevent the tube from floating to the top of the water surface. Additionally, at the top of the bottle, a cap is equipped with multiple features and components to ensure optimal performance. A container and a tube set are disclosed herein that combine multiple components and features into a single component, which can reduce the number of components required to achieve the same performance.

[0116] Reference Figures 1 to 2 , depicts an exemplary endoscope 100 and system 200 that may include an elongate shaft 100a inserted into a patient. A light source 205 feeds illumination light to a distal portion 100b of the endoscope 100, which may house an imager (e.g., a CCD or CMOS imager) (not shown). The light source 205 (e.g., a lamp) is housed in a video processing unit 210, which processes signals input from the imager and outputs the processed video signal to a video monitor (not shown) for viewing. The video processing unit 210 also serves as a component of a gas / water supply circuit by housing a pressurized pump 215 therein, such as an air supply pump.

[0117] The endoscopic shaft 100a may include a distal tip 100c disposed at the distal portion 100b of the shaft 100a, and a flexible bending portion 105 proximal to the distal tip 100c. The flexible bending portion 105 may include articulated joints (not shown) to assist in steering the distal tip 100c. On an end face 100d of the distal tip 100c of the endoscope 100 is a gas / lens cleaning nozzle 220, which is used to supply gas for insufflating the patient's interior in a treatment area, and to supply water for cleaning the lens covering the imager. A lavage opening 225 in the end face 100d supplies lavage fluid to the patient's treatment area. A lighting window (not shown) for transmitting illumination light to the treatment area and an opening 230 to a working channel 235 may also be included on the face 100d of the distal tip 100c. The working channel 235 extends along the shaft 100a for delivering tools to the treatment area. The working channel 235 extends along the shaft 100a to a proximal channel opening 110 located distal to an operating handle 115 of the endoscope 100. A biopsy valve 120 may be utilized to seal the channel opening 110 to prevent unwanted fluid from flowing out.

[0118] 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 controls up and down steering, and another knob controls left and right steering) via a wire connected to an articulated joint in the bendable flexible 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. In addition, the handle 115 is provided with a double valve hole 135. One of the valve holes 135 may receive a gas / water valve 140 to operate the insufflation gas and lens water supply operations. The gas supply line 240a and the lens cleaning supply line 245a travel distally from the gas / water valve 140 along the axis 100a and converge at the distal tip 100c proximal to the gas / cleaning nozzle 220 ( Figure 2 ). Another valve well 135 receives the suction valve 145 for suction operation. The suction supply line 250a runs 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.

[0119] The operating handle 115 is electrically and fluidically connected to the video processing unit 210 via a flexible umbilical tube 260 and a connector portion 265 extending therebetween. The flexible umbilical tube 260 has a gas (e.g., air or CO 2 ) supply line 240b, lens cleaning supply line 245b, suction supply line 250b, irrigation supply line 255b, light guide (not shown), and electrical signal cable (not shown). Connector portion 265 connects light source 205 in video processing unit to light guide when inserted into video processing unit 210. Light guide runs along the length of umbilicus 260 and endoscope shaft 100a to transmit light to distal tip 100c of endoscope 100. Connector portion 265 also connects air pump 215 to gas supply line 240b in umbilicus 260 when inserted into video processing unit 210.

[0120] A water reservoir or container 270 (e.g., a water bottle) is fluidly connected to the endoscope 100 through the connector portion 265 and the umbilicus 260. A length of gas supply tubing 240c passes from one end positioned in an air gap 275 between a top 280 (e.g., a bottle cap) of the reservoir 270 and the remaining water 285 in the reservoir to a removable gas / lens wash connection 290 external to the connector portion 265. The removable gas / lens wash connection 290 is removable from the connector portion 265 and / or the gas supply tubing 240c. 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 gas / lens wash connection 290 and the air pump 215. When the gas supply tubing 240c is on the connector portion 265, a length of lens cleaning tubing 245c, one end of which is positioned at the bottom of the reservoir 270, passes through the top 280 of the reservoir 270 to the same removable connector 290. In other embodiments, the connections may be separate and / or separate from each other. The connector portion 265 also has a removable irrigation connector 293 for the irrigation supply tubing (not shown) that travels from an irrigation water source (not shown) to the irrigation supply line 255b in the umbilicus 260. The removable irrigation connector 293 may be detached from the connector portion 265 and / or the irrigation supply tubing (not shown). In some embodiments, 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 other embodiments, the irrigation supply tubing and the lens cleaning tubing 245c may obtain water from the same reservoir. The connector portion 265 may also include a removable suction connector 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. The removable suction connector 295 may be removable from the connector portion 265 and / or the suction supply line 250b and / or the vacuum source.

[0121] The gas supply line 240b and the lens cleaning supply line 245b are fluidly connected to the valve hole 135 of the gas / water valve 140 and are configured so that operation of the gas / water valve in the hole controls the supply of gas or lens cleaning to the distal tip 100c of the endoscope 100. The suction supply line 250b is fluidly connected to the valve hole 135 of the suction valve 145 and is configured so that operation of the suction valve in the hole controls the suction applied to the working channel 235 of the endoscope 100.

[0122] refer to Figure 2, explains an exemplary operation of an endoscope system 200 including an endoscope, such as the endoscope 100 described above. Air from an air pump 215 in a video processing unit 210 flows through a connector portion 265 and branches through a gas supply line 240b in an umbilicus 260 to an air / water valve 140 on an operating handle 115, and through a gas supply conduit 240c via a connector 290 on the connector portion 265 to a water reservoir 270. When the air / water valve 140 is in a neutral position, air is allowed to flow from the valve to the atmosphere without the user having to place a finger on the valve. In the first position, the user's finger is used to block the vent to the atmosphere. Gas is allowed to flow from the valve 140 down the gas supply line 240a and out the distal tip 100c of the endoscope 100, for example, to insufflate a treatment area of ​​a patient. When the air / water valve 140 is depressed downward to the second position, air is blocked from flowing out of the valve, thereby allowing the pressure of air passing from the air pump 215 to rise in the water reservoir 270. Pressurizing the water source forces water out of the lens wash tubing 245c, through the connector portion 265, the umbilicus 265, through the air / water valve 140 and along the lens wash supply line 245a to converge with the gas supply line 240a before exiting the distal tip 100c of the endoscope 100 via the gas / lens wash nozzle 220. The air pump pressure may be calibrated to provide lens wash water at a relatively low flow rate compared to the irrigation water supply.

[0123] The magnitude of the lens wash flow rate is determined by the gas pressure in the water reservoir 270. When the gas pressure in the water reservoir 270 begins to drop, as water is pushed out of the reservoir 270 through the lens wash tubing 245c, the air pump 215 replaces the air supply lost in the reservoir 270 to maintain a substantially constant pressure, which in turn provides a substantially constant lens wash flow rate. In some embodiments, a filter (not shown) may be placed in the path of the gas supply tubing 240c to filter out unwanted contaminants or particulates from entering the water reservoir 270. In some embodiments, an outflow check valve or other one-way valve configuration (not shown) may be placed in the path of the lens wash supply tubing to help prevent water from flowing back into the reservoir 270 after passing through the valve.

[0124] Compared to lens cleaning, irrigation water generally requires a relatively high flow rate because the primary purpose is to remove debris that obstructs the user's field of view in the treatment area within the patient's body. Irrigation is generally achieved using a pump (e.g., a peristaltic pump), as described. In an embodiment with an independent water source for irrigation, tubing placed at the bottom of the water source passes through the top of the water source and through the head on the upstream side of the pump. The tubing on the downstream side of the pump is connected to the irrigation supply line 255b in the umbilicus 260 and the irrigation supply line 255a of the endoscope 100 via the irrigation connector 293 on the connector portion 265. When irrigation water is needed, the fluid is pumped out of the water source and flows through the irrigation connector 293 by operating the irrigation pump, such as depressing a foot switch (not shown), through the irrigation supply line 255b in the umbilicus and along the irrigation supply line in the shaft 100a of the endoscope to the distal tip 100c. To balance the pressure in the water source as water is pumped out of the irrigation supply tubing, a vent (not shown) may be included in the top 280 of the water reservoir 270. The vent allows atmospheric air to enter the water source, thereby preventing negative pressure buildup in the water source, which could create a vacuum that draws unwanted material through the endoscope toward the water source. In some embodiments, an outflow check valve or other one-way valve configuration (not shown) similar to the lens wash tubing 245c may be placed in the path of the irrigation supply tubing to help prevent water from flowing back into the reservoir after passing through the valve.

[0125] Figures 3A to 3D is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of an embodiment of a hybrid system 300 in which supply tubing for irrigation and lens cleaning is connected to and draws from a single water reservoir. It is contemplated that fluids other than water may be used, such as, but not limited to, saline. The hybrid system 300 includes a single water reservoir 305, a cap 310 for the reservoir, a gas supply tubing 240c, a lens cleaning supply tubing 245c, an irrigation pump 315 with a foot switch 318, an upstream irrigation tubing 320, and a downstream irrigation supply tubing 255c. The cap 310 may be configured to be attached to the water reservoir 305 in a sealing manner by a typical threaded arrangement. The cap 310 may include a gasket for sealing the cap 310 to the reservoir 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) are provided in the cap 310 to receive the gas supply piping 240c, the lens cleaning supply piping 245c and the upstream irrigation supply piping 320, respectively. Figures 3A to 3D , the system depicted includes separate plumbing for gas supply, lens cleaning and priming.

[0126] In other embodiments, the gas supply tubing 240c and the lens cleaning tubing 245c can be combined in a coaxial arrangement. Some illustrative coaxial arrangements are described in commonly assigned U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 558,239, entitled "Integrated Container and Tubing Set for Fluid Delivery with an Endoscope," and U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 558,256, entitled "Tubing Assembly and Method for Fluid Delivery," the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein. For example, the gas supply tubing can define a cavity having a diameter large enough to contain a smaller diameter lens cleaning tubing coaxially received in the gas supply tubing, and a water source that provides air to an annular space around the lens cleaning tubing to pressurize the water reservoir (see, e.g., gas and lens cleaning supply tubing 240c, 245c). The lens cleaning supply tubing can be configured to leave 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 sealed to the endoscope connector portion (e.g., Figure 2 The removable gas / lens cleaning connection of the connector portion 265) is converted from a coaxial arrangement to a side-by-side arrangement.

[0127] In various embodiments, different configurations of valves (not shown) may be incorporated into the plumbing of various embodiments disclosed herein, including systems 200, 300. For example, an inflow check valve may be disposed 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 305 creates a pressure differential between the water source and the gas supply plumbing 240c, thereby helping to maintain a positive pressure in the water source, even when a large amount of water may be removed from the water source during an irrigation function. This arrangement compensates for any time lag in the delivery of air from the air pump 215 to the water reservoir 305, which would otherwise result in a negative pressure vacuum in the water reservoir. Similarly, an outflow check valve, such as a one-way valve with an inlet / outlet and a valve insert, may be incorporated into the lens wash supply plumbing 240c, the upstream irrigation supply plumbing 320, and / or the downstream irrigation supply plumbing 225c to help prevent backflow of water from either or both of the lens wash and irrigation plumbing in the event of a negative pressure.

[0128] More generally, in many embodiments, 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 check valve, a reed valve, and a flow check valve. Thus, a check valve as used herein is intended to be separate and distinct from an active valve (e.g., a stop cock, a solenoid valve, a peristaltic pump) 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.

[0129] exist Figures 3A to 3D During operation of the system, water flow for irrigation can be achieved by operating the irrigation pump 315. 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 lens cleaning and irrigation are operated simultaneously, when fluid is removed from the water reservoir 305, the pressure in the system can be controlled to maintain the lens cleaning supply piping 240c substantially at the pressure required to achieve a lower flow rate of lens cleaning while compensating for the pressure drop in the water reservoir 305 caused by supplying a high flow rate of irrigation. When the pressure in the water reservoir is reduced by using the lens cleaning function, the irrigation function, or both functions simultaneously, the reduced pressure can be compensated by the air pump 215 via the gas supply piping 240c.

[0130] Already highlighted Figures 3A to 3D Schematic arrangement in to illustrate the different flow paths of a hybrid system 300 having supply tubing for irrigation 320 and lens wash 240c connected to and drawn from a single water reservoir 305. Figure 3A As shown, the endoscope 100 is in a neutral state, wherein the air / water valve 140 is in an open position. The neutral state delivers neither gas nor lens wash to the distal tip of the endoscope. Instead, gas (pressure) is delivered along path A from the pressurized air pump 215 and exhausted to atmosphere through the gas supply line 240b in the umbilicus 260 via the connector portion 265 and through the air / water valve. Since the system is open at the vent in the air / water valve 140, there is no accumulation to pressurize the water reservoir 305, and therefore no water is pushed through the lens wash supply tubing 240c.

[0131] like Figure 3B As shown, the endoscope 100 is in a gas delivery state, wherein the air / water valve 140 is in a first position. When gas is needed at the distal tip 100c, for example, to clean the end face 100d of the distal tip or to insufflate the patient's body at a treatment area, the user closes the vent in the air / water valve 140 with a thumb, finger, etc. (first position). In this state, gas (pressure) is delivered from the air pump 215 along path B and flows through the gas supply line 240b in the umbilicus 260 via the connector portion 265. The gas continues through the air / water valve 140 to the gas supply line 240a in the endoscope shaft 100a and exits the gas / lens wash nozzle 220 at the distal tip 100c. Since the system is open at the air / lens water nozzle 220, there is no accumulation to pressurize the water reservoir, and therefore no water is pushed through the lens wash supply tubing 240c.

[0132] like Figure 3CAs shown, the endoscope 100 is in a lens wash delivery state, with the air / water valve 140 in the second position. When lens washing is required 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 farthest point in its valve well 135 while keeping the vent hole in the air / water valve closed. The second position blocks the gas supply to both the atmosphere and the gas supply line 240a in the endoscope, and opens the air / water valve 140 to allow lens wash water to pass through the lens wash supply line 245a in the endoscope shaft 100a and exit from the gas / lens wash nozzle 220 at the distal tip 100c. In this state, gas (pressure) is delivered from the air pump 215 along the path C, through the branch line in the connector portion 265, and exits the gas supply tubing 240c to the water reservoir 305. The gas (pressure) pressurizes the surface of the remaining water 285 in the reservoir 305, pushing the water up the lens wash supply tube 245c to the connector portion 265. The pressurized lens wash water is further pushed through the lens wash supply line 245b in the umbilicus 260 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 reservoir 305 instead of exhausting to the atmosphere or delivering to the patient. This pressure, along with the endoscope feed and supply lines and external tubing, translates into a range of flow rates for lens wash.

[0133] like Figure 3D As shown, 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. When the distal tip 100c requires irrigation, for example, if visibility in the treatment area is poor or blocked by debris, etc., the user activates the irrigation pump 315 (for example, by stepping on the foot switch 318) to deliver water along the path D. With the pump 315 activated, water is drawn through the upstream irrigation supply tubing 320 and pumped along the downstream irrigation supply tubing 255c to the connector portion 265. The irrigation pump pressure head pushes the irrigation water further through the irrigation supply line 255b in 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 can be calibrated, together with the endoscope irrigation supply and supply lines and external tubing, to deliver irrigation fluids over a range of flow rates.

[0134] Figure 4FIG. 0 is a schematic view showing another embodiment of the hybrid system 400, which includes a video processing unit 210, a connector section 265, a peristaltic lavage pump 315, a water reservoir 405 and a top 407, a coaxial gas and lens cleaning supply pipe 410, upstream and downstream lavage supply pipes 320, 255c, and an alternative gas (e.g., CO2) supply pipe 415. A length of the alternative gas supply pipe 415 extends from one end in an air gap 275 (see Figure 2 ) located between the top 407 of the water reservoir 405 and the remaining water 285 in the reservoir through an additional opening 420 in the top of the reservoir to a detachable connector 425 for an alternative gas supply source (e.g., a hospital gas source). When an alternative gas supply, such as CO 2 gas, is required, the air pump 215 on the video processing unit 210 can be turned off and CO 2 gas instead of air then flows into the water reservoir 405, thereby pressurizing the surface of the water. Generally, the flow of CO 2 through the endoscope 100 is similar to the flow of air. In the neutral state, CO 2 gas flows back up along the gas supply pipe 240c to the connector section 265, up along the gas supply line 240b and is discharged to the atmosphere through the air / water valve 140. In the first position, the user closes the vent hole in the air / water valve 140, and CO 2 gas flows through the air / water valve to the gas supply line 240a in the endoscope shaft 100a and exits from the gas / lens cleaning nozzle 220 at the distal tip 100c. In the second position, the user presses the valve 140 down to the bottom of the valve well 135, thereby keeping the vent hole in the air / water valve closed. The second position blocks the CO 2 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 pass through to the lens cleaning supply line 245a in the endoscope shaft 100a and leave from the gas / lens cleaning nozzle 220 at the distal tip 100c. The gas (pressure) in the reservoir 405 is maintained by delivering gas through the alternative gas (e.g., CO 2 ) supply pipe 415. The lavage function can be implemented in a manner similar to the operation described above with respect to 2 . Figure 3D

[0135] As described above, it is desirable to reduce the number of parts in the system 200 while achieving the same performance. Figure 5A FIG. 25 is a perspective view depicting an illustrative distal pipe weight 500 used with the gas supply pipe 240c, the lens cleaning pipe 245c, and the reservoirs 270, 305, 405. Figure 5B FIG. 27 depicts along Figure 5AA perspective cross-sectional view of an illustrative distal tubing weight 500 taken along line 5B-5B. Figure 5C Depicted along Figure 5A A perspective cross-sectional view of the illustrative distal tubing weight 500 taken along line 5C-5C. Figure 5D A cross-sectional view of an illustrative distal piping weight 500 assembled with a gas supply tube 240c and a water supply tube 245c is depicted. Figure 5E A schematic diagram of an illustrative distal tubing weight 500 is depicted assembled with a gas supply tube 240c, a water supply tube 245c, and a reservoir 270. The distal tubing weight 500 can be configured to house the gas supply tube 240c and the water supply tube 245c within the reservoir 270, 305, 405, thereby reducing the complexity of the water bottle cap or top 280, 407 while also maintaining the gas supply tube 240c and the water supply tube 245c in a desired configuration.

[0136] The distal tubing weight 500 includes a housing 502 extending from a first or proximal end 504 to a second or distal end 506. In some cases, the first end 504 may be considered the top of the housing 502, while the second end 506 may be considered the bottom of the housing 502. The illustrative housing 502 includes a front 508, a back 510, and at least a first side 512 and an opposing second side 514. The first and second sides 512, 514 may each extend from the front 508 to the rear 510 or between the front 508 and the rear 510. The first and second ends 504, 506 may extend from or between the first and second sides 512, 514. The use of the terms "front", "rear", "first", "second", "top", and "bottom" is not intended to limit the distal tubing weight 500 to a particular orientation, but rather to facilitate discussion of relative orientations. In addition, the housing 502 is not limited to a rectangular or substantially rectangular structure. Other shapes may be used for housing 502 as desired, including cylindrical or pyramidal structures, etc.

[0137] The housing 502 may define a first housing cavity 520 extending distally from the first end 504 to a point proximal to the second end 506. The first housing cavity 520 may define an opening 524 at the first end 504 of the housing 502 and terminate at a second end 525 proximal to the second end 506 of the housing 502. The cross-sectional shape and / or size of the first housing cavity 520 may vary along its length. For example, the first housing cavity 520 may have a first cross-sectional shape having a first cross-sectional dimension 516 adjacent to the first end 504 of the housing 502, and a second cross-sectional shape having a second cross-sectional dimension 518 adjacent to the second end 506 of the housing 502. In the illustrated embodiment, the first cross-sectional shape of the first housing cavity 520 may be generally circular, while the second cross-sectional shape of the first housing cavity 520 may have a generally "C" shape or a crescent shape. However, the first cross-sectional shape and / or the second cross-sectional shape may have other cross-sectional shapes as desired. It is also contemplated that in some embodiments, the first cross-sectional shape and the second cross-sectional shape may be generally the same shape. The second cross-sectional dimension 518 may be smaller than the first cross-sectional dimension 516. The cross-sectional dimensions 516 , 518 (and / or shape) of the first housing cavity 520 may change abruptly or in a stepwise manner to define a first shoulder or ledge 526 .

[0138] The housing 502 may also define an air outlet 528 extending through its sidewalls. Although the air outlet 528 is shown as extending through the front sidewall 508, the air outlet 528 may also extend through any desired sidewalls 508, 510, 512, 514. In other embodiments, the air outlet 528 may extend through the second end 506 of the housing 502. The air outlet 528 may include a plurality of holes 530a-e. Although the first air outlet 528 is shown and described as having five holes 530a-e, the first air outlet 528 may have less than five or more than five holes as desired. The air outlet 528 is in fluid communication with the first housing cavity 520 and is configured to be in fluid communication with the cavity of the gas supply tube 240c via the first housing cavity 520.

[0139] Check valve 532( Figure 5D) may be positioned in or near the first air outlet 528. In some examples, the one-way valve 532 may be a flap valve, however other one-way valves may be used as desired, including those described elsewhere herein. The one-way valve 532 may be configured to allow air to move from the first housing cavity 520 of the housing 502 and exit via holes 530a-d, as shown by arrows 534. For example, air or gas flowing through the first housing cavity 520 may cause the flap 536 to deviate from the housing 502. However, the one-way valve 532 may prevent air from moving in the opposite direction. This may allow air to enter the reservoir and pressurize it. The one-way valve 532 may also prevent water from entering the first housing cavity 520 of the housing 502. The one-way valve 532 may be coupled to the first air outlet 528 using a variety of techniques, including but not limited to glue, adhesives, sonic welding, ultrasonic welding, etc. In some cases, the central post 538 of the one-way valve 532 can extend through the central hole 530e to secure the one-way valve 532 to the housing 502, for example, by a snap fit or a friction fit.

[0140] The gas supply pipe 240c may extend into the first housing cavity 520 of the housing 502, such as Figure 5D As shown. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the first end of the gas supply tube 240c may be adjacent to the first flange 526. However, this is not required. In some embodiments, the first end of the gas supply pipe 240c may be located proximal to the first shoulder 526. A variety of techniques can be used, including but not limited to friction fit, snap fit, glue, adhesive, etc. to fix the gas supply tube 240c to the housing 502. As described above, air from the air pump 215 (or gas from an alternative source) can flow through the connector portion 265 to the reservoir 270 (depending on the position of the air / water valve 140). When the air leaves the cavity of the gas supply tube 240c, the air enters the first housing cavity 520 and leaves the housing 502 via the gas outlet 528. The one-way valve 532 allows air to enter the reservoir 270, 305, 405 to pressurize it, but does not allow air to re-enter the housing 502 and / or the gas supply tube 240c. It is contemplated that the first end of the gas supply tube 240c and / or the air outlet 528 may be positioned proximal to the water inlet 542 such that air may enter the housing 502 and flow out into the reservoir but may not flow up the water supply tube 245c.

[0141] The housing 502 may also include a second housing cavity 522 that may extend distally from a point distal to the first end 504 to the second end 506. In some cases, a portion of the second housing cavity 522 may be defined by a tubular member 540 extending proximally from the first shoulder 526. However, this is not required. In some embodiments, the second housing cavity 522 may begin at the first shoulder 526 and extend distally therefrom. The outer diameter of the tubular member 540 may increase in a distal direction. Although this is not required, the increase in diameter may facilitate the connection of the water supply pipe 245c with the tubular member 540.

[0142] The second housing cavity 522 can be configured to be in fluid communication with the water supply pipe 245c. In some embodiments, the water supply pipe 245c can be disposed above the tubular member 540 to fluidly connect the cavity of the water supply pipe 245c with the second housing cavity 522. Figure 5D As shown. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the first end of the water supply pipe 245c may be adjacent to the first shoulder 526. However, this is not necessary. In other embodiments, the first end of the water supply pipe 245c may be inserted into the second housing cavity 522. When the water supply pipe 245c is fluidly coupled to the second housing cavity 522, the first housing cavity 520 and the second housing cavity 522 are fluidly isolated from each other. The water supply pipe 245c may extend through the cavity of the gas supply pipe 240c so that only a single opening is required in the cap 280, 407. The water supply pipe 245c may extend through the gas supply pipe 240c so that the longitudinal axis of the water supply pipe 245c is laterally offset from the longitudinal axis of the gas supply pipe 240c. In other examples, the water supply pipe 245c and the gas supply pipe 240c may extend coaxially. When the reservoir 270, 305, 405 is pressurized, water may enter the housing 502 via the water inlet 542 at the distal end of the second housing cavity 522. The water may then flow proximally through the second housing cavity 522 and into the cavity of the water supply tube 245c to provide a lens cleaning function.

[0143] The housing 502 may be formed of a material having a density greater than that of water. This may allow the housing 502 to act as a counterweight to prevent the gas supply tube 240c and the water supply tube 245c from floating to the top of the reservoir 270, 305, 405. The housing 502 may begin as a substantially solid member having separately formed cavities 520, 522 and holes 530a-e. For example, the cavities 520, 522 and holes 530a-e may be machined into a substantially solid housing. In other examples, the housing 502 may be molded as a single unitary structure to include the cavities 520, 522 and holes 530a-e.

[0144] Figure 6A A perspective view of another illustrative distal tubing weight 600 for use with gas supply tubing 240c, lens cleaning tubing 245c, and reservoirs 270, 305, 405 is depicted.Figure 6B Depicted along Figure 6A A perspective cross-sectional view of an illustrative distal tubing weight 600 taken along line 6B-6B. Figure 6C Depicted Figure 6A A top view of an illustrative distal piping weight 600 is shown. Figure 6D A cross-sectional view of an illustrative distal tubing weight 600 assembled with a gas supply tube 240c and a water supply tube 245c is depicted. The distal tubing weight 600 can be configured to house the gas supply tube 240c and the water supply tube 245c within the reservoir 270, 305, 405, thereby reducing the complexity of the water bottle cap or top 280, 407 while also maintaining the gas supply tube 240c and the water supply tube 245c in a desired configuration.

[0145] The distal tubing weight 600 includes a housing 602 that extends from a first or proximal end 604 to a second or distal end 606. In some cases, the first end 604 may be considered the top of the housing 602, while the second end 606 may be considered the bottom of the housing 602. The illustrative housing 602 may include a first portion 608 having a generally rectangular prism shape, and a second portion 610 having a generally truncated pyramid shape. However, the housing 602 is not limited to a rectangular or generally rectangular structure or a pyramidal structure. Other shapes or combinations of shapes may be used for the housing 602, including cylindrical structures, etc., as desired. The first portion 608 includes a front face 612, a back face 614, and at least a first side face 646 and an opposing second side face 648. The first and second sides 646, 648 may each extend from the front portion 612 to the rear portion 614 or between the front portion 612 and the rear portion 614. The first end 604 may extend from or between the first and second sides 646, 648. The second portion 610 can extend distally from the second end 644 of the first portion 608 and can include a plurality of faces. The use of the terms "front," "rear," "first," "second," "top," and "bottom" are not intended to limit the distal tubing weight 600 to a particular orientation, but rather facilitate discussion of relative orientations.

[0146] The housing 602 may define a first housing cavity 620 extending distally from the first end 604 to a point proximal to the second end 606. The first housing cavity 620 may define an opening 624 in the first end 604 of the housing 602 and terminate at a second end 625 proximal to the second end 606 of the housing 602. The cross-sectional shape and / or size of the first housing cavity 620 may vary along its length. For example, the first housing cavity 620 may have a first cross-sectional shape having a first cross-sectional dimension 616 at the first end 604 adjacent to the housing 602, and a second cross-sectional shape having a second cross-sectional dimension 618 at the second end 606 adjacent to the housing 602. In the illustrated embodiment, the first cross-sectional shape of the first housing cavity 620 may be generally circular, while the second cross-sectional shape of the first housing cavity 620 may be generally non-circular. In some cases, a portion of the second cross-sectional shape may be a semicircular portion having a linearly extending sidewall similar to a portion of a stadium or a capsule. However, the first cross-sectional shape and / or the second cross-sectional shape may adopt other cross-sectional shapes as desired. It is also contemplated that in some embodiments, the first and second cross-sectional shapes may be substantially the same shape.The cross-sectional dimensions 616 , 618 (and / or shape) of the first housing cavity 620 may change abruptly or in a stepwise manner to define a first shoulder or shoulders 626 .

[0147] The housing 602 may also define an air outlet 628 extending through its sidewalls. Although the air outlet 628 is shown as extending through the front sidewall 612, the air outlet 628 may also extend through any desired sidewalls 612, 614, 646, 648. In other embodiments, the air outlet 628 may extend through the face of the second portion 610 of the housing 606. The air outlet 628 may include a plurality of holes 630a-e. Although the first air outlet 628 is shown and described as having five holes 630a-e, the first air outlet 628 may have less than five or more than five holes as desired. The air outlet 628 is in fluid communication with the first housing cavity 620 and is configured to be in fluid communication with the cavity of the gas supply tube 240c via the first housing cavity 620.

[0148] Check valve 632( Figure 5D) may be positioned in or near the first air outlet 628. In some examples, the one-way valve 632 may be a flap valve, however other one-way valves may be used as desired, including those described elsewhere herein. The one-way valve 632 may be configured to allow air to move from the first housing cavity 620 of the housing 602 and exit via holes 630a-d, as shown by arrows 634. For example, air or gas flowing through the first housing cavity 620 may cause the flap 636 to deviate from the housing 602. However, the one-way valve 632 may prevent air from moving in the opposite direction. This may allow air to enter the reservoir and pressurize it. The one-way valve 632 may also prevent water from entering the first housing cavity 620 of the housing 602. The one-way valve 632 may be connected to the first air outlet 628 using a variety of techniques, including but not limited to glue, adhesives, sonic welding, ultrasonic welding, etc. In some cases, a central post 638 of the one-way valve 632 can extend through the central hole 630e to secure the one-way valve 632 to the housing 602, for example, via a snap fit or a friction fit.

[0149] The gas supply pipe 240c may extend into the first housing cavity 620 of the housing 602, such as Figure 6D As shown. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the first end of the gas supply tube 240c may be adjacent to the first shoulder 626. However, this is not required. In some embodiments, the first end of the gas supply pipe 240c may be located proximal to the first shoulder 626. A variety of techniques can be used, including but not limited to friction fit, snap fit, glue, adhesive, etc. to fix the gas supply tube 240c to the housing 602. As described above, air from the air pump 215 (or gas from an alternative source) can flow through the connector portion 265 to the reservoir 270 (depending on the position of the air / water valve 140). When the air leaves the cavity of the gas supply tube 240c, the air enters the first housing cavity 620 and leaves the housing 602 via the gas outlet 628. The one-way valve 632 allows air to enter the reservoir 270, 305, 405 to pressurize it, but does not allow air to re-enter the housing 602 and / or the gas supply tube 240c. It is contemplated that the first end of the gas supply tube 240c and / or the air outlet 628 may be positioned proximal to the water inlet 642 such that air may enter the housing and flow out into the reservoir but may not flow up the water supply tube 245c.

[0150] The housing 602 may also include a second housing cavity 622 that may extend distally from a first end 623 located distal to the first end 604 to a second end 606. In some cases, a portion of the second housing cavity 622 may begin at a second end 625 of the first housing cavity 622. In the absence of the water supply tube 245c, the second housing cavity 622 may be fluidly coupled to the first housing cavity 620. The cross-sectional shape and / or size of the second housing cavity 622 may be different from the second cross-sectional shape and / or size 618 of the first housing cavity 620. For example, the second housing cavity 622 may have a third cross-sectional shape with a third cross-sectional dimension 650. The third cross-sectional shape and / or the third cross-sectional dimension 650 may be substantially constant along the length of the second housing cavity 622. However, this is not required. The cross-sectional shape and / or size of the second housing cavity 622 may vary as needed. In the illustrated embodiment, the third cross-sectional shape of the second housing cavity 622 may be approximately. However, the third cross-sectional shape may adopt other cross-sectional shapes as needed. The third cross-sectional dimension 650 may be smaller than the second cross-sectional dimension 618. However, this is not required. The cross-sectional dimensions 618 , 650 (and / or shape) between the first housing cavity 620 and the second housing cavity 622 may change abruptly or in a stepwise manner to define a second shoulder or ledge 652 .

[0151] The second housing cavity 622 can be configured to be in fluid communication with the water supply pipe 245c. In some embodiments, the water supply pipe 245c can be at least partially disposed within the second housing cavity 622 to fluidly connect the cavity of the water supply pipe 245c with the second housing cavity 622. Figure 6D As shown. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the first end of the water supply pipe 245c may be adjacent to the second shoulder 650. However, this is not necessary. When the water supply pipe 245c is fluidly coupled to the second housing cavity 622, the first housing cavity 620 and the second housing cavity 622 are fluidly isolated from each other. The water supply pipe 245c may extend through the cavity of the gas supply pipe 240c so that only a single opening is required in the cap 280, 407. The water supply pipe 245c may extend through the gas supply pipe 240c so that the longitudinal axis of the water supply pipe 245c is coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the gas supply pipe 240c. In other examples, the water supply pipe 245c and the gas supply pipe 240c may extend so that their longitudinal axes are laterally offset. When the reservoir 270, 305, 405 is pressurized, water may enter the housing 602 via the water inlet 642 at the distal end of the second housing cavity 622. The water may then flow proximally through the second housing cavity 622 and into the cavity of the water supply tube 245c to provide a lens cleaning function.

[0152] The housing 602 may be formed of a material having a density greater than that of water. This may allow the housing 602 to act as a counterweight to prevent the gas supply tube 240c and the water supply tube 245c from floating to the top of the reservoir 270, 305, 405. The housing 602 may begin as a substantially solid member having separately formed cavities 620, 622 and holes 630a-e. For example, the cavities 620, 622 and holes 630a-e may be machined into a substantially solid housing. In other examples, the housing 602 may be molded as a single unitary structure to include the cavities 620, 622 and holes 630a-e.

[0153] Figure 7A A top perspective view of another illustrative distal tubing weight 700 for use with gas supply tubing 240c, lens cleaning tubing 245c, and reservoirs 270, 305, 405 is depicted. Figure 7B A bottom perspective view of an illustrative distal pipe weight 700 is depicted. Figure 7C Depicted Figure 7A A top view of an illustrative distal piping weight 700 is shown. Figure 7D A cross-sectional view of an illustrative distal tubing weight 700 assembled with a gas supply tube 240c and a water supply tube 245c is depicted. The distal tubing weight 700 can be configured to house the gas supply tube 240c and the water supply tube 245c within the reservoir 270, 305, 405, such that the complexity of the water bottle cap or top 280, 407 is reduced while also maintaining the gas supply tube 240c and the water supply tube 245c in a desired configuration.

[0154] The distal tubing weight 700 includes a housing 702 extending from a first or proximal end 704 to a second or distal end 706. In some cases, the first end 704 may be considered to be the top of the housing 702, while the second end 706 may be considered to be the bottom of the housing 702. The illustrative housing 702 may have a generally cylindrical structure. However, the housing 702 is not limited to a cylindrical structure. Other shapes or combinations of shapes may be used for the housing 702 as desired, including but not limited to a cubic structure, a rectangular or generally rectangular structure, or a pyramidal structure. The housing 702 includes a circumferentially extending sidewall 708. In some embodiments, the housing 702 may have a first portion 710 having a substantially constant outer diameter, and a second portion 712 having an outer diameter that increases in a distal direction. However, this is not required. In some cases, the outer diameter of the housing 702 may be substantially constant from the first end 704 to the second end 706. In other embodiments, the outer diameter may increase or taper from the first end 704 to the second end 706.

[0155] The housing 702 may define a first housing cavity 720 extending distally from the first end 704 to a point proximal to the second end 706. The first housing cavity 720 may define an opening 724 in the first end 704 of the housing 702 and terminate at a second end 725 proximal to the second end 706 of the housing 702. The cross-sectional shape and / or size of the first housing cavity 720 may vary along its length. For example, the first housing cavity 720 may have a first cross-sectional shape having a first cross-sectional dimension 716 adjacent to the first end 704 of the housing 702, and a second cross-sectional shape having a second cross-sectional dimension 718 adjacent to the second end 706 of the housing 702. In the illustrated embodiment, the first cross-sectional shape of the first housing cavity 720 may be generally circular, while the second cross-sectional shape of the first housing cavity 720 may also be generally circular. However, the first cross-sectional shape and / or the second cross-sectional shape may take other cross-sectional shapes as desired. It is also contemplated that in some embodiments, the first cross-sectional shape and the second cross-sectional shape may be different shapes. The cross-sectional dimensions 716 , 718 (and / or shape) of the first housing cavity 720 may change abruptly or in a stepwise manner to define a first shoulder or ledge 726 .

[0156] The housing 702 may also define an air outlet 728 extending through the bottom 706 of the housing 702. However, if desired, the air outlet 728 may extend through the sidewall 708. The air outlet 728 may include a plurality of holes 730a-d. Although the first air outlet 728 is shown and described as having four holes 730a-d, the first air outlet 728 may have less than four or more than four holes as required. The air outlet 728 is in fluid communication with the first housing cavity 720 and is configured to be in fluid communication with the cavity of the gas supply tube 240c via the first housing cavity 720. In some embodiments, at least some of the holes 730a-c may extend proximally from the second end 706 to the shoulder 726 to create air flow channels 760a-c. It is conceivable that the air flow channels 730a-c may form a portion of the second cross-sectional shape of the first housing cavity 720. In such a case, the second cross-sectional shape may be non-circular.

[0157] Check valve 732( Figure 7D) may be positioned in or near the first air outlet 728. In some examples, the one-way valve 732 may be a flap valve, however other one-way valves may be used as desired, including those described elsewhere herein. The one-way valve 732 may be configured to allow air to move from the first housing cavity 720 of the housing 702 and exit via holes 730a-d, as shown by arrows 734. For example, air or gas flowing through the first housing cavity 720 may cause the flap 736 to deviate from the housing 702. However, the one-way valve 732 may prevent air from moving in the opposite direction. This may allow air to enter the reservoir and pressurize it. The one-way valve 732 may also prevent water from entering the first housing cavity 720 of the housing 702. The one-way valve 732 may be coupled to the first air outlet 728 using a variety of techniques, including, but not limited to, glue, adhesives, sonic welding, ultrasonic welding, etc. In some cases, a central post 738 of the one-way valve 732 can extend through the central aperture 730d to secure the one-way valve 732 to the housing 702 , for example, via a snap fit or a friction fit.

[0158] The gas supply pipe 240c may extend into the first housing cavity 720 of the housing 702, such as Figure 7D As shown. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the first end of the gas supply tube 240c may be adjacent to the first shoulder 726. However, this is not required. In some embodiments, the first end of the gas supply pipe 240c may be located proximal to the first shoulder 726. A variety of techniques can be used, including but not limited to friction fit, snap fit, glue, adhesive, etc. to fix the gas supply tube 240c to the housing 702. As described above, air from the air pump 215 (or gas from an alternative source) can flow through the connector portion 265 to the reservoir 270 (this depends on the position of the air / water valve 140). When the air leaves the cavity of the gas supply tube 240c, the air enters the first housing cavity 720 and leaves the housing 702 via the gas outlet 728. The one-way valve 732 allows air to enter the reservoir 270, 305, 405 to pressurize it, but does not allow air to re-enter the housing 702 and / or the gas supply tube 240c. It is contemplated that the first end of the gas supply tube 240c and / or the air outlet 728 may be positioned proximal to the water inlet 742 such that air may enter the housing and flow out into the reservoir but may not flow up the water supply tube 245c.

[0159] The housing 702 may also include a notch or recess 768 formed in the first end 704 of the housing 702 at the opening 724. The recess 768 may be curved to provide a lead-in feature for the gas supply tube 240c and / or the water supply tube 245c. This may help prevent the gas supply tube 240c and / or the water supply tube 245c from kinking.

[0160] The housing 702 may also include a second housing cavity 722 that may extend distally from a first end 723 distal to the first end 702 toward a fluid outlet 742 that extends at least partially through the sidewall 708 of the housing 702. The second housing cavity 722 may extend along a longitudinal axis 764 that extends at an angle 766 to the longitudinal axis 762 of the first housing cavity 720. The angle 766 is generally non-orthogonal and may be in a range of greater than 0° to about less than 90°. In the absence of the water supply tube 245c, the second housing cavity 722 may be fluidly coupled to the first housing cavity 720.

[0161] The second housing cavity 722 can be configured to be in fluid communication with the water supply tube 245c. In some embodiments, the water supply tube 245c can be at least partially disposed within the second housing cavity 722 to fluidly connect the cavity of the water supply tube 245c with the second housing cavity 722. Figure 7D As shown. When the water supply tube 245c is fluidly coupled to the second housing cavity 722, the first housing cavity 720 and the second housing cavity 722 are fluidly isolated from each other. The water supply tube 245c can extend through the cavity of the gas supply tube 240c so that only a single opening is required in the cap 280, 407. When the reservoir 270, 305, 405 is pressurized, water can enter the housing 702 via the water inlet 742 at the distal end of the second housing cavity 722. The water can then flow proximally through the second housing cavity 722 into the cavity of the water supply tube 245c to provide a lens cleaning function.

[0162] The housing 702 may be formed of a material having a density greater than that of water. This may allow the housing 702 to act as a counterweight to prevent the gas supply tube 240c and the water supply tube 245c from floating to the top of the reservoir 270, 305, 405. The housing 702 may begin as a substantially solid member having separately formed cavities 720, 722 and holes 730a-d. For example, the cavities 720, 722 and holes 730a-d may be machined into a substantially solid housing. In other examples, the housing 702 may be molded as a single unitary structure to include the cavities 720, 722 and holes 730a-d.

[0163] Figure 8A A top perspective view of another illustrative distal tubing weight 800 for use with gas supply tubing 240c, lens cleaning tubing 245c, and reservoirs 270, 305, 405 is depicted. Figure 8B Depicted along Figure 8A A perspective cross-sectional view of the illustrative distal tubing weight 800 taken along line 8B-8B.

[0164] Figure 8C Depicted Figure 8A A top view of an illustrative distal piping weight 800 is shown. Figure 8D DepictedFigure 8A A bottom view of an illustrative distal piping weight 800. Figure 8E A cross-sectional view of an illustrative distal tubing weight 800 assembled with a gas supply tube 240c and a water supply tube 245c is depicted. The distal tubing weight 800 can be configured to house the gas supply tube 240c and the water supply tube 245c within the reservoir 270, 305, 405, such that the complexity of the water bottle cap or top 280, 407 is reduced while also maintaining the gas supply tube 240c and the water supply tube 245c in a desired configuration.

[0165] The distal pipe weight 800 includes a housing 802 extending from a first end or proximal end 804 to a second end or distal end 806. In some cases, the first end 804 can be considered to be the top of the housing 802, while the second end 806 can be considered to be the bottom of the housing 802. The illustrative housing 802 can have a generally cylindrical structure. However, the housing 802 is not limited to a cylindrical structure. Other shapes or combinations of shapes can be used for the housing 802 as desired, including but not limited to a cubic structure, a rectangular or generally rectangular structure, or a pyramidal structure. The housing 802 includes a circumferentially extending sidewall 808. In some cases, the outer diameter of the housing 802 can be substantially constant from the first end 804 to the second end 806. In other embodiments, the outer diameter can increase or taper from the first end 804 to the second end 806.

[0166] The housing 802 may define a first housing cavity formed by a plurality of channels 820a-d extending distally from the first end 804 to the second end 806. An annular cavity 824 may be positioned radially outward from the channels 820a-d. The annular cavity 824 may extend distally from the first end 804 to a point located proximal to the second end 806. The annular cavity 824 may terminate at a shoulder or shelf 826. The annular cavity 824 may be configured to receive the first end of the gas supply tube 240c. However, in the absence of the gas supply tube 240c, the annular cavity 824 may be fluidly coupled to the plurality of channels 820a-d. The plurality of channels 820a-d may each have a uniform cross-sectional shape from the first end 804 of the housing 802 to the second end 806 of the housing 802. In other embodiments, the cross-sectional shape and / or size of one or more of the plurality of channels 820a-d may vary along its length.

[0167] The housing 802 may also define an air outlet 828 extending through the bottom 806 of the housing 802. The air outlet 828 may be formed by the second ends 830a-d of the plurality of channels 820a-d. Although the first air outlet 828 is shown and described as having four channels 820a-d, the first air outlet 828 may have less than four or more than four channels 820a-d as desired. The air outlet 828 is in fluid communication with the plurality of channels 820a-d and is configured to be in fluid communication with the cavities of the gas supply tubes 820a-d via the plurality of channels 820a-d.

[0168] Check valve 832( Figure 8E ) may be positioned in or near the first air outlet 828. In some examples, the one-way valve 832 may be a flap valve, however other one-way valves may be used as desired, including those described elsewhere herein. The one-way valve 832 may be configured to allow air to move from the plurality of channels 820a-d of the housing 802 and exit via the second end 830a-d, as indicated by arrow 834. For example, air or gas flowing through the plurality of channels 820a-d may cause the flap 836 to deviate from the housing 802. However, the one-way valve 832 may prevent air from moving in the opposite direction. This may allow air to enter the reservoir and pressurize it. The one-way valve 832 may also prevent water from entering the plurality of channels 820a-d of the housing 802. The one-way valve 832 may be coupled to the first air outlet 828 using a variety of techniques, including but not limited to glue, adhesives, sonic welding, ultrasonic welding, and the like. In some cases, the center post 838 of the one-way valve 832 can extend through the second housing cavity 822 to secure the one-way valve 832 to the housing 802, for example, by a snap fit or friction fit. As will be described in more detail herein, the center post 838 can define a cavity 870 to allow fluid to enter the second housing cavity 822 and the water supply tube 245c.

[0169] The gas supply pipe 240c may extend into the annular cavity 824 of the housing 802, such as Figure 8EAs shown. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the first end of the gas supply tube 240c may be adjacent to the first shoulder 826. However, this is not required. In some embodiments, the first end of the gas supply tube 240c may be located proximal to the first shoulder 826. The inner surface of the gas supply tube 240c may contact the main body portion of the housing 802 that is generally disposed between the plurality of channels 820a-d. The main body portion 821 may be substantially solid and configured to isolate the plurality of channels 820a-d from the second housing cavity 822 fluid. A variety of techniques may be used, including but not limited to friction fit, snap fit, glue, adhesive, etc. to fix the gas supply tube 240c to the housing 802. As described above, air from the air pump 215 (or gas from an alternative source) may flow through the connector portion 265 and to the reservoir 270 (depending on the position of the gas / water valve 140). When the air leaves the cavity of the gas supply tube 240c, the air enters the plurality of channels 820a-d and leaves the housing 802 via the gas outlet 728. The one-way valve 832 allows air to enter the reservoir 270, 305, 405 to pressurize it, but does not allow air to re-enter the housing 802 and / or the gas supply tube 240c. It is contemplated that the first end of the gas supply tube 240c and / or the air outlet 828 may be positioned relative to the water inlet 842 so that air can enter the housing 802 and flow out into the reservoir, but will not flow up the water supply tube 245c.

[0170] The housing 802 may also include a second housing cavity 822 that may extend distally from the first end 804 of the housing 802 toward a fluid outlet 842 at the second end 806 of the housing 802. The cross-sectional shape and / or size of the second housing cavity 822 may change along its length. For example, the second housing cavity 822 may have a first cross-sectional shape having a first cross-sectional dimension 872 at the first end 804 adjacent to the housing 802, and a second cross-sectional shape having a second cross-sectional dimension 874 at the second end 806 adjacent to the housing 802. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second cross-sectional shapes of the second housing cavity 822 may be generally circular. However, the first cross-sectional shape and / or the second cross-sectional shape may adopt other cross-sectional shapes as desired. The second cross-sectional dimension 874 may be smaller than the first cross-sectional dimension 874. The cross-sectional dimensions 872, 874 (and / or shape) of the second housing cavity 822 may change suddenly or in a stepwise manner to define a second shoulder or flange 878. In some cases, a portion of the second housing cavity 822 may be defined by a tubular member 876 extending proximally from the second shoulder 878. However, this is not required. The outer diameter of the tubular member 876 may increase in the distal direction. Although this is not required, increasing the diameter may facilitate coupling the water supply tube 245c to the tubular member 876.

[0171] The second housing cavity 822 can be configured to be in fluid communication with the water supply pipe 245c. In some embodiments, the water supply pipe 245c can be disposed on the tubular member 876 to fluidly connect the cavity of the water supply pipe 245c with the second housing cavity 822, such as Figure 8E As shown. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the first end of the water supply pipe 245c may be adjacent to the second shoulder 878. However, this is not required. In other embodiments, the first end of the water supply pipe 245c may be inserted into the tubular member 876. When the water supply pipe 245c is fluidly coupled to the second housing cavity 822, a plurality of channels 820a-d and the second housing cavity 822 are fluidly isolated from each other. The water supply pipe 245c may extend through the cavity of the gas supply pipe 240c so that only a single opening is required in the cap 280, 407. The water supply pipe 245c may extend through the gas supply pipe 240c so that the longitudinal axis of the water supply pipe 245c is coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the gas supply pipe 240c. In other examples, the water supply pipe 245c and the gas supply pipe 240c may extend so that their longitudinal axes are laterally offset. When the reservoir 270, 305, 405 is pressurized, water may enter the housing 802 via the water inlet 842 at the distal end of the second housing cavity 822. The water may then flow through the cavity 870 of the valve 832 and into the cavity of the water supply tube 245c to provide a lens cleaning function.

[0172] The housing 802 may be formed of a material having a density greater than that of water. This may allow the housing 802 to act as a counterweight to prevent the gas supply tube 240c and the water supply tube 245c from floating to the top of the reservoir 270, 305, 405. The housing 802 may begin as a substantially solid member having a plurality of channels 820a-d and cavities 822, 824 formed separately. For example, the plurality of channels 820a-d and cavities 822, 824 may be machined into a substantially solid housing. In other examples, the housing 802 may be molded as a single unitary structure to include the plurality of channels 820a-d and cavities 822, 824.

[0173] Figure 9A A top perspective view of another illustrative distal tubing weight 900 for use with gas supply tubing 240c, lens cleaning tubing 245c, and reservoirs 270, 305, 405 is depicted. Figure 9B Depicted along Figure 9A A perspective cross-sectional view of an illustrative distal tubing weight 900 taken along line 9B-9B.

[0174] Figure 9C Depicted Figure 9A A top view of an illustrative distal piping weight 900 is shown. Figure 9D Depicted Figure 9A A bottom view of an illustrative distal piping weight 900 is shown. Figure 9EA cross-sectional view of an illustrative distal tubing weight 900 assembled with a gas supply tube 240c and a water supply tube 245c is depicted. The distal tubing weight 900 can be configured to house the gas supply tube 240c and the water supply tube 245c within the reservoir 270, 305, 405, such that the complexity of the water bottle cap or top 290, 407 is reduced while also maintaining the gas supply tube 240c and the water supply tube 245c in a desired configuration.

[0175] The distal pipe weight 900 includes a housing 902 extending from a first end or proximal end 904 to a second end or distal end 906. In some cases, the first end 904 can be considered to be the top of the housing 902, while the second end 906 can be considered to be the bottom of the housing 902. The illustrative housing 902 can have a generally cylindrical structure. However, the housing 902 is not limited to a cylindrical structure. As desired, other shapes or combinations of shapes can be used for the housing 902, including but not limited to a cubic structure, a rectangular or generally rectangular structure, or a pyramidal structure. The housing 902 includes a circumferentially extending sidewall 908. In some cases, the outer diameter of the housing 902 can be substantially constant from the first end 904 to the second end 906. In other embodiments, the outer diameter can increase or taper from the first end 904 to the second end 906.

[0176] The housing 902 may define a first housing cavity 920 including a first portion 916 and a second portion 918, the second portion including a plurality of channels 910a-d. The first housing cavity 920 may extend distally from the first end 904 of the housing 902 to the second end 906. The cross-sectional shape and / or size of the first housing cavity 920 may vary along its length. For example, the first portion 916 of the first housing cavity 920 may have a first cross-sectional shape having a first cross-sectional size adjacent to the first end 904 of the housing 902, and the second portion 918 may have a second cross-sectional shape having a second cross-sectional size adjacent to the second end 906 of the housing 902. In the illustrated embodiment, the first cross-sectional shape of the first housing cavity 920 may be substantially circular, and the second cross-sectional shape of the first housing cavity 920 may have a plurality of curved elliptical shapes. However, the first cross-sectional shape and / or the second cross-sectional shape may have other cross-sectional shapes as desired. It is also contemplated that in some embodiments, the first cross-sectional shape and the second cross-sectional shape may be substantially the same shape. The second cross-sectional size may be smaller than the first cross-sectional size. The first portion 916 of the first housing cavity 920 can transition to the second portion 918 of the first housing cavity 920 in an abrupt manner to define a first flange or shoulder 926. The first portion 916 of the first housing cavity 920 can be configured to receive the gas supply tube 240c. The plurality of channels 910a-d can each have a uniform cross-sectional shape from the first shoulder 926 of the housing 902 to the second end 906 of the housing 902. In other embodiments, the cross-sectional shape and / or size of one or more of the plurality of channels 910a-d can vary along its length.

[0177] The housing 902 may also define an air outlet 928 extending through the bottom 906 of the housing 902. The air outlet 928 may be formed by the second ends 930a-d of the plurality of channels 910a-d. Although the first air outlet 928 is shown and described as having four channels 910a-d, the first air outlet 928 may have less than four or more than four channels 910a-d as desired. The air outlet 928 is in fluid communication with the plurality of channels 910a-d and is configured to be in fluid communication with the cavity of the gas supply tube 240c via the plurality of channels 910a-d and / or the first housing cavity 920.

[0178] Check valve 932( Figure 9E) may be positioned in or near the first air outlet 928. In some examples, the one-way valve 932 may be a flap valve, however other one-way valves may be used as desired, including those described elsewhere herein. The one-way valve 932 may be configured to allow air to move from the plurality of channels 910a-d of the housing 902 and exit via the second end 930a-d, as indicated by arrow 934. For example, air or gas flowing through the plurality of channels 910a-d may cause the flap 936 to deviate from the housing 902. However, the one-way valve 932 may prevent air from moving in the opposite direction. This may allow air to enter the reservoir and pressurize it. The one-way valve 932 may also prevent water from entering the plurality of channels 910a-d of the housing 902. The one-way valve 932 may be coupled to the first air outlet 928 using a variety of techniques, including but not limited to glue, adhesives, sonic welding, ultrasonic welding, and the like. In some cases, the center post 938 of the one-way valve 932 can extend through the second housing cavity 922 to secure the one-way valve 932 to the housing 902, for example, by a snap fit or friction fit. As will be described in more detail herein, the center post 938 can define a cavity 970 to allow fluid to enter the second housing cavity 922 and the water supply tube 245c.

[0179] The gas supply tube 240c may extend into the first portion 916 of the first housing cavity 920 of the housing 902, such as Figure 9E As shown. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the first end of the gas supply tube 240c may be adjacent to the first shoulder 926. Since the housing 902 does not include a physical structure that fluidly isolates the gas supply tube 240c and the water supply tube 245c, the distal side of the gas supply tube 240c may be fixed to the shoulder 926 to provide an airtight seal to ensure that air does not leak into the water supply tube 245c. A variety of techniques can be used, including but not limited to friction fit, snap fit, glue, adhesive, etc. to fix the gas supply tube 240c to the housing 902. As described above, air from the air pump 215 (or gas from an alternative source) can flow through the connector portion 265 and to the reservoir 270 (depending on the position of the air / water valve 140). When the air leaves the cavity of the gas supply tube 240c, the air enters the plurality of channels 910a-d and leaves the housing 902 via the gas outlet 728. The one-way valve 932 allows air to enter the reservoir 270, 305, 405 to pressurize it, but does not allow air to re-enter the housing 902 and / or the gas supply tube 240c. It is contemplated that the first end of the gas supply tube 240c and / or the air outlet 928 may be positioned relative to the water inlet 942 so that air can enter the housing 902 and flow out into the reservoir, but will not flow up the water supply tube 245c.

[0180] The housing 902 may also include a second housing cavity 922 that may extend distally from a point distal to the first end 904 to a water inlet 942 at the second end 906. In some cases, a portion of the second housing cavity 922 may be defined by a tubular member 976 extending proximally from the second shoulder 978. However, this is not required. The outer diameter of the tubular member 976 may increase in the distal direction. Although this is not required, increasing the diameter may facilitate coupling the water supply pipe 245c to the tubular member 976.

[0181] The second housing cavity 922 can be configured to be in fluid communication with the water supply tube 245c. In some embodiments, the water supply tube 245c can be disposed on the tubular member 976 to fluidly connect the cavity of the water supply tube 245c with the second housing cavity 922, such as Figure 9E As shown. The distal side of the water supply pipe 245c can be fixed to the second shoulder 978 to provide a fluid and airtight seal to ensure that water does not leak into the gas supply pipe 240c. In other embodiments, the first end of the water supply pipe 245c can be inserted into the tubular member 976. When the water supply pipe 245c is fluidly coupled to the second housing cavity 922, the first housing cavity 920 and the second housing cavity 922 are fluidly isolated from each other. The water supply pipe 245c can extend through the cavity of the gas supply pipe 240c so that only a single opening is required in the cap 290, 407. The water supply pipe 245c can extend through the gas supply pipe 240c so that the longitudinal axis of the water supply pipe 245c is coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the gas supply pipe 240c. In other examples, the water supply pipe 245c and the gas supply pipe 240c can be extended so that their longitudinal axes are laterally offset. When the reservoir 270, 305, 405 is pressurized, water may enter the housing 902 via the water inlet 942 at the distal end of the second housing cavity 922. The water may then flow through the cavity 970 of the valve 932 and into the cavity of the water supply tube 245c to provide a lens cleaning function.

[0182] The housing 902 may also include a plurality of posts 980a-d positioned radially spaced from the tubular member 976. The posts 980a-d may extend proximally from the second end 906 of the housing 906. The posts may be configured to support the water supply tube 245c to maintain the position of the water supply tube 245c. For example, the posts 980a-d may have a surface configured to contact and conform to the outer surface of the water supply tube 245c. Although the housing 902 is shown as including four posts 980a-d, the housing 902 may also include less than four or more than four posts as desired.

[0183] The housing 902 may be formed of a material having a density greater than that of water. This may allow the housing 902 to act as a counterweight to prevent the gas supply tube 240c and the water supply tube 245c from floating to the top of the reservoir 270, 305, 405. The housing 902 may begin as a substantially solid member having a plurality of channels 910a-d and cavities 920, 922 formed separately. For example, the plurality of channels 910a-d and cavities 920, 922 may be machined into a substantially solid housing. In other examples, the housing 902 may be molded as a single unitary structure to include the plurality of channels 910a-d and cavities 920, 922.

[0184] Figure 10 A side view of an illustrative refillable fluid reservoir 1000 is depicted. The reservoir 1000 may be configured for use in an endoscopic system and include a reservoir similar to that described with respect to Figures 1 to 4 Components of the endoscope and endoscope system described; however, if not relevant to the fluid circuit of the system, not all features may be described or shown here. The reservoir 1000 can be configured to be coupled to the gas supply tube 240c and the water supply tube 245c, so that the complexity of the water bottle cap or top 280, 407 is reduced, while also maintaining the gas supply tube 240c and the water supply tube 245c in a desired configuration.

[0185] The reservoir 1000 includes a container 1002 that defines a first receptacle 1004 configured to hold a fluid 1034. The container 1002 may be made of a lightweight, flexible material such as, but not limited to, low-density polyethylene (LDPE), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), silicone, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), aluminum, nylon, polyethylene (PE), or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the container 1002 may be completely transparent, completely opaque, or a combination thereof. The reservoir 1000 may also include a port 1006 having a removable cap 1008. The cap 1008 may be formed of a more rigid material (relative to the container 1002) and may be configured to form a fluid-tight seal with the port 1006. The cap 1008 may be configured to threadably engage the port 1006, form a friction fit with the port 1006, form a snap fit with the port 1006, or otherwise releasably engage the port 1006. In some examples, port 1006 and / or cap 1008 may be formed from polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene (PP), etc. Portions of port 1006 may extend into first receptacle 1004. Removable cap 1008 may be removed to place a fluid source in selective fluid communication with first receptacle 1004 and allow fluid to be poured into first receptacle 1004 through cavity 1010 of port 1006.

[0186] The container 1000 may include a carrying handle 1012 positioned near a top 1014 thereof. The handle 1012 may define an opening or through hole 1016 to receive a hand or hook therethrough to pick up the container 1000. In some cases, the carrying handle 1012 may include an undulating carrying surface (not explicitly shown) configured to provide a more ergonomic grip to the user. It is contemplated that the handle 1012 may be formed of a similar material as the cap 1008 or the container 1002, as desired. In some examples, the handle 1012 may be formed of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene (PP), etc.

[0187] The reservoir 1000 can be in a collapsed storage configuration (not explicitly shown) and an expanded use configuration ( Figure 10 ) between. In the expanded use configuration, the width of the reservoir 1000 may increase from the top 1014 toward the bottom 1022. In the use configuration, the bottom 1022 may have a width that allows the reservoir 1000 to remain upright without user intervention. The bottom 1022 may include folds or pleats that allow the bottom 1022 to fold or collapse. In the collapsed storage configuration, the top 1014 and the bottom 1022 may have similar widths, which allow the reservoir 1000 to lie substantially flat so that the reservoir 1000 can be stacked with other fluid reservoirs 1000. In other examples, the reservoir 1000 may be rolled or folded to reduce the amount of storage space it occupies. In some cases, since the reservoir 1000 is sealed or capable of being sealed, a vacuum may be drawn during the packaging of the reservoir 1000 to further reduce the storage space required to store the reservoir 1000.

[0188] The reservoir 1000 can be connected in a fluid communication manner with a gas supply / alternative gas supply conduit (or gas supply conduit) 240c and a lens cleaning supply / irrigation supply conduit 245c (or water supply conduit 245c). The gas supply conduit 240c extends from a second end outside the reservoir 1000 to a first end connected to a coupling mechanism or adapter 1018. A cavity extends through the gas supply conduit 240c to receive air and / or gas flow therethrough. The cavity of the gas supply conduit 240c is operably fluidly connected to the interior of the reservoir 1000. The adapter 1018 can be positioned near the top 1014 of the container 1002. However, this is not required. The adapter 1018 can be positioned at any desired location. The adapter 1018 is configured to fluidly connect the gas supply conduit to an inner chamber 1020 positioned within the first receptacle 1004. Inner chamber 1020 may be formed of similar materials as container 1002, and may form a chamber separate from first receptacle 1004. In some embodiments, edge 1024 of inner chamber 1020 may be heat sealed to first receptacle 1004 to maintain the orientation of inner chamber 1020 relative to first receptacle 1004. Inner chamber 1020 may also include hydrophobic membrane 1026. In use, hydrophobic membrane 1026 may allow air / gas to pass from inner chamber 1020 to first receptacle 1004, as indicated by arrow 1036, to pressurize first receptacle 1004, while preventing water from flowing into inner chamber 1020.

[0189] The water supply conduit 245c extends from a second end external to the reservoir 1000 to a first end coupled to a second coupling mechanism or adapter 1032. The second adapter 1032 can be positioned near the bottom 1022 of the container 1002 so that when the container 1002 is pressurized, fluid can easily flow from the first receptacle to the water supply conduit 245c. A lumen extends through the water supply conduit 245c to receive a fluid flow therethrough, as indicated by arrow 1038. The lumen of the lens cleaning supply / irrigation supply conduit 245c is operably in selective fluid communication with the bottom of the container 1002. In the illustrated embodiment, the gas supply conduit 240c and the water supply conduit 245c can enter the container 1002 through separate adapters 1018, 1032. However, in some embodiments, the water supply conduit 245c can enter through other parts of the container 1002, such as, but not limited to, the top 1014 thereof. In this case, the water supply piping 245c may include a dip tube extending to the bottom 1022 of the container 1002.

[0190] A portion of the gas supply tubing 240c and a portion of the water supply tubing 245c may extend from the container 1002 and may be connected in fluid communication with the endoscope at a gas / lens wash connection on the connector portion 265 of the umbilicus. Within the connector portion 265, a portion of the gas supply tubing 240c is connected in fluid communication with an air pump (not explicitly shown) and a gas supply line (not explicitly shown), and a portion of the lens wash supply tubing 245c is connected in fluid communication with a lens wash supply line (not explicitly shown). Although not explicitly shown, the irrigation supply tubing may be coupled to the container 1002 via a separate adapter or port to supply irrigation fluid from the reservoir 1000.

[0191] It is contemplated that the reservoir 1000 can be filled and refilled as needed by removing the cap 1008 and pouring water into the first receptacle 1004. The reservoir 1000 can be refilled as needed during surgery or between surgeries. As needed, the water can be sterile or non-sterile. For example, sterile water can be used for therapeutic surgery, while non-sterile water can be used for diagnostic surgery. It is contemplated that refilling the reservoir 1000 with sterile or non-sterile water can create greater flexibility and reduce the need to store the same amount of sterile water. In addition, refilling the reservoir 1000 via the port 1006 and the removable cap 1008 can also eliminate the need to disconnect the reservoir 1000 from the connection of the piping 240c, 245c throughout the day, thereby eliminating or greatly reducing the possibility of cross contamination by eliminating the need to replace the water container.

[0192] Figure 11A A side view of another illustrative refillable fluid reservoir 1100 and tubing set is depicted. The reservoir 1100 may be configured for use in an endoscopic system and include a fluid reservoir similar to that described with respect to Figures 1 to 4 Components of the endoscope and endoscope system described; however, if not relevant to the fluid circuit of the system, not all features may be described or shown here. The reservoir 1100 can be configured to be coupled to the gas supply tube 240c and the water supply tube 245c, so that the complexity of the water bottle cap or top 280, 407 is reduced, while also maintaining the gas supply tube 240c and the water supply tube 245c in a desired configuration.

[0193] The reservoir 1100 includes a container 1102 that defines a first receptacle 1104 configured to hold a fluid 1134. The container 1102 may be made of a lightweight, flexible material such as, but not limited to, low-density polyethylene (LDPE), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), silicone, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), aluminum, nylon, polyethylene (PE), or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the container 1102 may be completely transparent, completely opaque, or a combination thereof. The reservoir 1100 may also include a port 1106 having a removable cap 1108. The cap 1108 may be formed of a more rigid material (relative to the container 1102) and may be configured to form a fluid-tight seal with the port 1106. The cap 1108 may be configured to threadably engage the port 1106, form a friction fit with the port 1106, form a snap fit with the port 1106, or otherwise releasably engage the port 1106. In some examples, port 1106 and / or cap 1108 may be formed from polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene (PP), etc. Portions of port 1106 may extend into first receptacle 1104. Removable cap 1108 may be removed to place a fluid source in selective fluid communication with first receptacle 1104 and allow fluid to be poured into first receptacle 1104 through cavity 1110 of port 1106.

[0194] The reservoir 1100 may include a carrying handle 1112 positioned near its top 1114. The handle 1112 may define an opening or through hole 1116 to receive a hand or hook through it to pick up the reservoir 1100. In some cases, the carrying handle 1112 may include an undulating carrying surface configured to provide a more ergonomic grip to the user. In some embodiments, the handle 1112 may be formed by the container 1102. For example, the opposite sides of the container 1112 may be heat sealed at the desired position of the handle 1112. Then, the opening 1116 may be formed by removing some of the heat-sealed areas. In other embodiments, the handle 1112 may be formed separately from a material similar to the cap 1108 or the container 1102 as desired and coupled to the container 1112. In some examples, the handle 1112 may be formed of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene (PP), etc.

[0195] The reservoir 1100 can be in a collapsed storage configuration (not explicitly shown) and an expanded use configuration ( Figure 11A) between. In the expanded use configuration, the width of the reservoir 1100 may increase from the top 1114 toward the bottom 1122. In the use configuration, the bottom 1122 may have a width 1128 that allows the reservoir 1100 to remain upright without user intervention. The bottom 1122 may include folds or pleats that allow the bottom 1122 to fold or collapse. In the collapsed storage configuration, the top 1114 and the bottom 1122 may have similar widths, which allow the reservoir 1100 to lie substantially flat so that the reservoir 1100 can be stacked with other fluid reservoirs 1100. In other examples, the reservoir 1100 may be rolled or folded to reduce the amount of storage space it occupies. In some cases, since the reservoir 1100 is sealed or capable of being sealed, a vacuum may be drawn during the packaging of the reservoir 1100 to further reduce the storage space required to store the reservoir 1100.

[0196] The reservoir 1100 can be connected in a fluid communication manner with a gas supply / alternative gas supply conduit (or gas supply conduit) 240c and a lens cleaning supply / irrigation supply conduit 245c (or water supply conduit 245c). The gas supply conduit extends from a second end outside the reservoir 1100 to a first end connected to a coupling mechanism or adapter 1118. A cavity extends through the gas supply conduit 240c to receive air and / or gas flow therethrough. The cavity of the gas supply conduit 240c is operably fluidly connected to the interior of the reservoir 1100. The adapter 1118 is positioned near the top 1114 of the container 1102. However, this is not required. The adapter 1118 can be positioned at any desired position. The adapter 1118 is configured to fluidly connect the gas supply conduit to an internal channel 1120 positioned within the first receptacle 1104. The internal channel 1120 can extend distally from a first end adjacent to the top 1114 of the container to a second end. The inner channel 1120 may be formed of a material similar to the container 1102 and may form a sub-chamber within the first receptacle 1104. In some embodiments, the opposing sides of the container 1102 may be heat sealed at the edges 1124 of the inner channel 1120 so that the inner channel 1120 is formed by the container 1102. The inner channel 1120 may also include a flow control mechanism 1126 disposed at the second end to control the air flow through the inner channel 1120 and prevent water 1134 from entering the inner channel 1120. Some illustrative flow control mechanisms 1126 may include, but are not limited to, a duckbill valve, an umbrella valve, a hydrophobic membrane, etc. The flow control mechanism 1126 is configured to allow air / gas to pass from the inner channel 1120 to the first receptacle 1104 to pressurize the first receptacle 1104 while preventing water from flowing into the inner channel 1120 and / or the gas supply tube 240c.

[0197] Figure 11B yes Figure 11AAn enlarged view of area B of FIG. 110 is shown, which shows the inner channel 1120 formed with a heat-sealed edge 1124. Figure 11B , the bottom 1122 of the container 1102 is not shown to more particularly illustrate how the opposing sides of the container 1102 are joined to form the inner channel 1120. Figure 11B As can be seen in FIG. 1 , the opposing sides 1102a, 1102b of the container 1102 are brought together and heat sealed to form the channel 1120. It is contemplated that other methods of securing the opposing sides 1102a, 1102b may be used as desired. The flow control mechanism 1126 may be secured within the inner channel 1120 at its second end.

[0198] refer to Figure 11A , the water supply conduit 245c extends from a second end external to the reservoir 1100 to a first end coupled to a second coupling mechanism or adapter 1132. The second adapter 1132 can be positioned near the bottom 1122 of the container 1102 so that when the container 1102 is pressurized, fluid easily flows from the first receptacle to the water supply conduit 245c. A cavity extends through the water supply conduit 245c to receive a fluid flow therethrough. The cavity of the lens cleaning supply / irrigation supply conduit 245c is operably in selective fluid communication with the bottom of the container 1102. In the illustrated embodiment, the gas supply conduit 240c and the water supply conduit 245c can enter the container 1102 through separate adapters 1118, 1132. However, in some embodiments, the water supply conduit 245c can enter through other parts of the container 1102, such as, but not limited to, the top 1114 thereof. In this case, the water supply conduit 245c can include a dip tube extending to the bottom 1122 of the container 1102.

[0199] A portion of the gas supply tubing 240c and a portion of the water supply tubing 245c may extend from the container 1102 and may be connected in fluid communication with the endoscope at a gas / lens wash connection on the connector portion 265 of the umbilicus. Within the connector portion 265, a portion of the gas supply tubing 240c is connected in fluid communication with an air pump (not explicitly shown) and a gas supply line (not explicitly shown), and a portion of the lens wash supply tubing 245c is connected in fluid communication with a lens wash supply line (not explicitly shown). Although not explicitly shown, the irrigation supply tubing may be coupled to the container 1102 via a separate adapter or port to supply irrigation fluid from the reservoir 1100.

[0200] It is contemplated that the reservoir 1100 can be filled and refilled as needed by removing the cap 1108 and pouring water into the first receptacle 1104. The reservoir 1100 can be refilled as needed during surgery or between surgeries. As needed, the water can be sterile or non-sterile. For example, sterile water can be used for therapeutic surgery, while non-sterile water can be used for diagnostic surgery. It is contemplated that refilling the reservoir 1100 with sterile or non-sterile water can create greater flexibility and reduce the need to store the same amount of sterile water. In addition, refilling the reservoir 1100 via the port 1106 and the removable cap 1108 can also eliminate the need to disconnect the reservoir 1100 from the connection of the piping 240c, 245c all day, thereby eliminating or greatly reducing the possibility of cross contamination by eliminating the need to replace the water container.

[0201] Figure 12 Another illustrative reservoir 1200 for use with an endoscope system is depicted. The reservoir 1200 is arranged and configured to dispense fluid to the endoscope system. Systems other than the reservoir 1200 include similar Figures 1 to 4 Components of endoscopes and endoscope systems are described; however, not all features may be described or shown here if they are not relevant to the fluid circuit of the system.

[0202] The fluid container 1202 is shown with a reservoir top or cap 1204 that can be removably attached to a top 1206 of the container 1202 (e.g., in a bottle and threaded cap arrangement). The cap 1204 can be removably attached to replenish the fluid in the reservoir when the fluid is depleted. Alternatively, the bottom of the reservoir and the cap 1204 can be sealed to each other or can be manufactured as a single unitary body (e.g., similar to a sealed, one-piece rigid or semi-rigid bottle or a softer IV bag or pouch). In such an embodiment, a fill port can be included on another portion of the reservoir for replenishing the fluid.

[0203] The gas supply piping 1210 extends from a second end outside the container 1202 to a first end 1212 adjacent to the bottom 1208 of the container 1202. The gas supply piping 1210 may extend through an opening 1220 in the cap 1204 and into the container 1202 so that the gas supply piping 1210 is in fluid communication with the interior 1214 container. A gasket or sealing member (not explicitly shown) may be positioned in the opening 1220 to provide an airtight seal between the gas supply piping 1210 and the cap 1204. A cavity 1216 extends through the gas supply piping 1210 to receive a flow of air and / or gas therethrough. The first end 1212 of the gas supply piping 1210 may include a sealing member 1226. The sealing member 1226 may prevent gas from leaving the first end 1212 of the gas supply piping 1210. Furthermore, the sealing member 1226 may be configured to act as a counterweight to retain the first end 1212 of the gas supply tubing 1210 at or near the bottom 1208 of the container 1202 .

[0204] The sidewall of the gas supply piping 1210 can be configured to allow gas to pass from the cavity 1216 of the gas supply piping 1210 into the container 1202 while prohibiting water from flowing from the container into the second cavity. For example, the gas supply piping 1210 can include a plurality of holes 1228 extending through the sidewall of the gas supply piping 1210. The holes 1228 can extend from the outer surface of the gas supply piping 1210 to the inner surface to fluidly connect the cavity 1216 with the interior 1214 of the container 1202. The plurality of holes 1228 can be sized so that air can flow from the cavity 1216 of the gas supply piping 1210 to the interior 1214 of the container 1202, but the surface tension of the water is sufficient to prevent water from entering the cavity 1216. In some cases, the plurality of holes 1228 can be considered pinholes. It is contemplated that the gas supply piping 1210 can include any number of holes 1228 as desired. For example, the gas supply tubing 1210 may include one or more, five or more, ten or more, twenty or more, fifty or more holes 1228. In addition, the plurality of holes 1228 may be evenly or eccentrically distributed around the circumference and / or length of the gas supply tubing 1210. In some embodiments, the gas supply tubing 1210 may be formed of an elastomeric or deformable material that expands the size of the plurality of holes 1228 when the gas pressure within the cavity 1216 increases and contracts the size of the plurality of holes 1228 when the gas pressure within the cavity 1216 decreases. Some illustrative materials for the gas supply tubing 1210 may include, but are not limited to, low density polyethylene (LDPE), high density polyethylene (HDPE), poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA), silicone, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), etc. In other embodiments, the plurality of holes 1228 may be gaps between filaments of a finely woven mesh.

[0205] The water supply tube 1218 may be coaxially disposed within the lumen 1216 of the gas supply tube 1210. The water supply tube 1218 extends from a second end outside the container 1202 to a first end adjacent to the bottom 1208 of the container 1202. The first end 1222 of the water supply tube 1218 and the first end 1212 of the gas supply tube 1210 may be positioned at similar locations within the container 1202. The first end 1222 of the water supply tube 1218 is in operable fluid communication with the interior 1214 of the container 1202. The lumen 1224 extends through the water supply tube 1218 to receive a fluid flow therethrough. However, with the first end 1212 of the gas supply tube 1210 closed, water is prevented from entering the gas supply tube 1210. The second ends of the gas supply tube 1210 and the water supply tube 1218 may be coupled to a manifold (if any) or connector portion 265 of the endoscope system.

[0206] Figure 13A depicts a cross-sectional side view of an illustrative fluid reservoir 1300 in a first configuration, Figure 13B Depicted Figure 13A 1300 is a schematic side view of an illustrative reservoir 1300 in a second configuration. The reservoir 1300 may be configured for use in an endoscope system and include a reservoir similar to that described with respect to Figures 1 to 4 however, not all features may be described or shown here if they are not relevant to the fluid circuit of the system. In the illustrated embodiment, different ways of performing insufflation may be required.

[0207] The reservoir 1300 may include an outer container 1302 configured to hold a first fluid chamber 1304. A gas supply conduit 240c extends from a second end outside the reservoir 1300 to a first end adjacent to an opening 1310 in the inner container 1302, such that the gas supply conduit 240c is in fluid communication with an interior or cavity 1312 of the outer container 1302. The cavity extends through the gas supply conduit 240c to receive a flow of air and / or gas therethrough. The outer container 1302 fluidly isolates the air / gas received from the gas supply conduit 240c from the water 1314 in the first chamber 1304. The outer container 1302 may be rigid such that the outer container 1302 resists expansion and increases the pressure of the cavity 1312 as air / gas flows into the cavity 1312 along a flow path 1316. In the absence of positive air flow, the pressure within the cavity 1312 may dissipate or the pressure may remain. It is contemplated that the outer container 1302 may include a one-way valve disposed at or near the entrance of the cavity 1312. Examples of one-way valves include the various check valves described above. The one-way valve may prevent air from leaving the outer container 1302 even in the absence of positive air flow.

[0208] A lens cleaning supply tube or shared water supply tube (e.g., supplying water for lens cleaning and irrigating) 245c extends from a second end outside the reservoir 1300 to a first end adjacent to an opening 1320 in the first chamber 1304, such that the water supply conduit 245c is operably fluidly connected to the interior or cavity 1322 of the first chamber 1304. The water supply conduit 245c may extend through the gas supply conduit 240c such that the longitudinal axis of the water supply conduit 245c is coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the gas supply conduit 240c. In other examples, the water supply conduit 245c and the gas supply conduit 240c may extend such that their longitudinal axes are laterally offset. The cavity extends through the water supply conduit 245c to receive a fluid flow therethrough. When air enters the outer container 1302, the pressure within the cavity 1312 of the outer container 1302 increases and applies pressure to the first chamber 1304, as Figure 13B When the pressure of the outer container 1302 increases, the first chamber 1304 may be compressed, causing the water 1314 in the first chamber 1304 to be discharged upward along the water supply tube 245c to reach the endoscope for lens cleaning and / or irrigation.

[0209] The first chamber 1304 may be formed from a lightweight, flexible material that does not necessarily stretch, such as, but not limited to, low-density polyethylene (LDPE), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), silicone, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), aluminum, nylon, polyethylene (PE), or combinations thereof.

[0210] A portion of the gas supply tubing 240c and a portion of the water supply tubing 245c may be connected in fluid communication with the endoscope at a gas / lens wash connection on the connector portion 265 of the umbilicus 260. Within the connector portion 265, the gas supply tubing 240c is connected in fluid communication with an air pump (not explicitly shown) and a gas supply line (not explicitly shown), and the water supply tubing 245c is connected in fluid communication with a lens wash supply line (not explicitly shown). In some examples, the gas supply tubing 240c may include a manifold to fluidly connect portions of the gas supply tubing 240c. Similarly, the lens wash supply tubing 245c may include a manifold to fluidly connect portions of the lens wash supply tubing with a shared lens wash / irrigation (or water) supply tubing 245c. Although not explicitly shown, an irrigation supply tubing may be connected to the manifold, if present, to supply irrigation fluid from the reservoir 1300. In other cases, a separate irrigation supply tube may be provided.

[0211] As will be appreciated, the lengths of the irrigation, lens wash, gas supply, and alternative gas supply tubing may have any suitable size (e.g., diameter). Additionally, the size (e.g., diameter) of the tubing may vary depending on the application. In one non-limiting embodiment, the irrigation supply tubing may have an inner diameter of approximately 6.5 mm and an outer diameter of 9.7 mm. The lens wash supply tubing may have an inner diameter of approximately 5 mm and an outer diameter of 8 mm. The gas supply tubing may have an inner diameter of approximately 2 mm and an outer diameter of 3.5 mm. The alternative gas supply tubing may have an inner diameter of approximately 5 mm and an outer diameter of 8 mm.

[0212] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations may be made to the disclosed apparatus without departing from the scope of the invention. Other embodiments of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice of the disclosed invention. It is intended that the specification and examples be considered exemplary only, with the true scope and spirit of the invention being indicated by the following claims.

[0213] All devices and methods discussed herein are examples of devices and / or methods implemented according to one or more principles of the present invention. These examples are not the only way to implement these principles, but are merely examples. Therefore, references to elements or structures or features in the accompanying drawings must be understood as references to examples of embodiments of the present invention, and should not be understood as limiting the present invention to the specific elements, structures or features shown. Other examples of the way in which the disclosed principles are implemented will come to mind for those of ordinary skill in the art when reading the present invention.

[0214] In the description above and the claims below, the following will be understood. As used herein, the phrases "at least one", "one or more" and "and / or" are open expressions, which are both conjunctions and non-conjunctions in operation. As used herein, the term "one" entity refers to one or more of the entities. Therefore, the terms "one", "one or more" and "at least one" are used interchangeably herein. All directional references (e.g., proximal, distal, upper, lower, upward, downward, left, right, lateral, longitudinal, front, rear, top, bottom, above, below, vertical, horizontal, radial, axial, clockwise, counterclockwise and / or similar) are only used for identification purposes to help readers understand the present invention, and / or for distinguishing the regions of the associated elements from each other, and do not limit the associated elements, particularly do not limit the position, orientation or use of the present invention. Unless otherwise indicated, connection references (e.g., attachment, connection, connection and combination) will be interpreted broadly, and may include intermediate members between element sets and relative movement between elements. In this regard, connection references do not necessarily imply that two elements are directly connected and are in a fixed relationship with each other. Identification references (eg, primary, secondary, first, second, third, fourth, etc.) are not intended to connote importance or priority, but rather are used to distinguish one feature from another.

[0215] The above discussion is presented for the purpose of illustration and description, and is not intended to limit the present invention to the form disclosed herein. It should be understood that various supplements, modifications and substitutions may be made to the embodiments disclosed herein without departing from the concept, spirit and scope of the present invention. In particular, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the principles of the present invention may be embodied in other forms, structures, arrangements, proportions and with other elements, materials and components without departing from its concept, spirit or scope or characteristics. For example, in order to simplify the present invention, various features of the present invention are combined together in one or more aspects, embodiments or forms. However, it should be understood that various features of certain aspects, embodiments or forms of the present invention may be combined in alternative aspects, embodiments or forms. Those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention may be used with many modifications to the structures, arrangements, proportions, materials, components and others used in the practice of the present invention, which are particularly suitable for specific environments and operational requirements without departing from the principles of the present invention. For example, an element shown as being formed as a whole may be composed of multiple parts or elements of multiple parts shown as being formed as a whole, the operation of the element may be reversed or otherwise changed, the size or dimensions of the element may be changed, and the features and components of various embodiments may be selectively combined. The presently disclosed embodiments are therefore to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, the scope of the invention being indicated by the appended claims, and not limited to the foregoing description.

[0216] The following claims are hereby incorporated into the detailed description by such reference, wherein each claim exists independently as a separate embodiment of the present invention. In the claims, the term "comprises / comprising" does not exclude the presence of other elements or steps. In addition, although listed separately, multiple devices, elements or method steps may also be implemented by, for example, a single unit or processor. Additionally, although individual features may be included in different claims, these features may be advantageously combined, and inclusion in different claims does not mean that the combination of features is not feasible and / or advantageous. In addition, singular references do not exclude pluralities. The terms "one", "first", "second", etc. do not exclude multiples. The reference symbols in the claims are provided only as examples of clarification and should not be interpreted as limiting the scope of the claims in any way.

Claims

1. A container and a tube set arranged and configured to be coupled to an endoscope for use in endoscopic surgery, the container and the tube set include: a container configured to contain a fluid, the container having a bottom and a top; a water supply tube including a first end, a second end, and a first cavity extending therethrough, wherein the first cavity is in selective fluid communication with the bottom of the container, and the second end of the water supply tube is positioned outside of the container; a gas supply tube including a first end, a second end, and a second lumen extending therethrough, wherein the second lumen is in operable fluid communication with the container, and the second end of the gas supply tube is positioned outside of the container; as well as A counterweight is coupled to the first end of the water supply pipe and the first end of the gas supply pipe.

2. The container and tube set of claim 1, wherein the counterweight comprises a housing having a housing cavity extending from a first end of the housing to a second end of the housing.

3. The container and tube set of claim 2, further comprising one or more holes extending through a side wall of the shell, the one or more holes being positioned between the first and second ends of the shell.

4. The container and tube set of any one of claims 2 to 3, wherein the housing cavity has a cross-sectional dimension that gradually decreases from the first end to the second end.

5. The container and tube set of any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the housing cavity has a first cross-sectional dimension from the first end of the housing to a first intermediate location between the first end and the second end of the housing.

6. The container and tube set of claim 5, wherein the housing cavity has a second cross-sectional dimension from the first intermediate position to a second intermediate position between the first end and the second end of the housing, the second cross-sectional dimension being smaller than the first cross-sectional dimension.

7. The container and tube set of claim 6, wherein the housing cavity has a third cross-sectional dimension from the second intermediate position to the second end, the third cross-sectional dimension being smaller than the second cross-sectional dimension.

8. The container and tube set of any one of claims 4 to 7, wherein a first transition in the cross-sectional dimension of the housing cavity defines a first flange.

9. The container and tube set of claim 8, wherein the first end of the gas supply tube is configured to abut the first flange.

10. The container and tube set of any one of claims 8 to 9, wherein the one or more holes are positioned between the first flange and the second end of the shell.

11. The container and tube set of any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein a second transition in the cross-sectional dimension of the housing cavity defines a second flange.

12. The container and tube set of claim 11, wherein the first end of the water supply tube is configured to abut the second flange.

13. A container and tube set according to any one of claims 3 to 12, wherein the flow of gas through the second cavity is configured to flow out of the one or more apertures.

14. The container and tube set of any one of claims 2 to 13, wherein the flow of water is configured to enter the first chamber through the second end of the housing when the container is pressurized.

15. The container and tube set of any one of claims 3 to 14, further comprising a one-way valve coupled to the one or more apertures.

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