Sterile filling techniques and systems for endoscopes

Abstract

The invention discloses a method and system for refilling a container during an endoscopic procedure. An illustrative reservoir may be placed in selective fluid communication with a water bottle. The water bottle may form a fluid seal with the reservoir to transfer water from the water bottle to the reservoir.

Description

Cross - Reference to Related Applications

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 399,543, filed on August 19, 2022, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Field of the Invention

[0002] The present invention generally relates to medical fluid containers and methods, and more particularly to methods and / or systems for refilling or providing a refillable container for supplying fluid and / or gas to an endoscope. Background of the Invention

[0003] Traditionally, 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 functions, compressed gas from a processor or alternative source is used to insufflate the working cavity or increase the pressure within a fluid bottle that cleans the lens of the endoscope. Additionally, a peristaltic pump may be used to irrigate debris from the working cavity. One of the challenges faced during endoscopic surgery is that typical water bottles and tubing sets used may contain up to 1 liter of water and are not designed to be refilled. This may force nurses / technicians to change the water bottle multiple times per day. This may introduce multiple opportunities for contamination of the tubing set by contact with non-sterile surfaces or dropping the tubing on the floor.

[0004] In view of these factors, improvements to 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 aspects and features of the invention may in some instances be advantageously used alone or in other instances in combination with other aspects and features of the invention. Inclusion or exclusion of elements, components, etc. in this summary is not intended to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter. Thus, while the invention is presented in terms of aspects or embodiments, it should be understood that individual aspects may be claimed separately or in combination with aspects and features of that embodiment or any other embodiment.

[0006] In a first example, an accessory configured and arranged to couple to one or more water bottles to refill a fluid reservoir for use in endoscopic surgery may include a first coupling member in fluid communication with a first fluid path, a second coupling portion in fluid communication with a second fluid path, a fluid outlet, and an actuatable valve in fluid communication with the first fluid path, the second fluid path, and the fluid outlet. The actuatable valve may be configured to selectively fluidly couple the first fluid path, the second fluid path, and the fluid outlet.

[0007] Alternatively or additionally, for any of the above examples, in another example, the fluid outlet may be disposed in a plane that is substantially orthogonal to the plane of the first and second fluid paths.

[0008] Alternatively or additionally, for any of the above examples, in another example, the fluid outlet may be disposed between the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion.

[0009] Alternatively or additionally, for any of the above examples, in another example, the actuatable valve may include a rotatable valve.

[0010] Alternatively or additionally, for any of the above examples, in another example, the first coupling portion may include a threaded coupling.

[0011] Alternatively or additionally, for any of the above examples, in another example, the first coupling member may be configured to engage the external threads of a water bottle.

[0012] Alternatively or additionally, for any of the above examples, in another example, the second coupling portion may include a threaded coupling.

[0013] Alternatively or additionally, for any of the above examples, in another example, the second coupling portion may be configured to engage the external threads of a water bottle.

[0014] Alternatively or additionally, for any of the above examples, in another example, the first coupling portion may include a blunt tip.

[0015] Alternatively or additionally, for any of the above examples, in another example, the blunt tip may be configured to pierce a pierceable cap of a water bottle.

[0016] Alternatively or additionally, for any of the above examples, in another example, the second coupling portion may include a blunt tip.

[0017] Alternatively or additionally, for any of the above examples, in another example, the blunt tip may be configured to pierce a pierceable cap of a water bottle.

[0018] In another example, a reservoir arranged and configured to be coupled to an endoscope for use in endoscopic surgery may include a container configured to contain a fluid therein, the container having a top and a bottom, a water outlet, a gas inlet, and a tubular port extending outwardly from the container at or near the top of the container. The tubular port may be configured to pierce a water bottle cap and form a fluid seal between the tubular port and the water bottle cap.

[0019] Alternatively or additionally, for any of the above examples, in another example, the reservoir may further include a removable cap releasably fixed to the tubular port.

[0020] Alternatively or additionally, for any of the above examples, in another example, the outer diameter of the tubular port may be substantially the same as the inner diameter of the neck of the water bottle.

[0021] Alternatively or additionally, for any of the above examples, in another example, the reservoir may be self - contained.

[0022] Alternatively or additionally, for any of the above examples, in another example, the reservoir may further include a water bottle fluidly coupled to the tubular port.

[0023] Alternatively or additionally, for any of the above examples, in another example, the volume of the water bottle may be in the range of about 0.5 liters to about 20 liters.

[0024] In another example, a method of filling a reservoir arranged and configured to be coupled to an endoscope for use in endoscopic surgery may include disconnecting a second end of a water supply pipe from a connector that is in fluid communication with the endoscope, the water supply pipe extending from the second end to a first end that is in fluid communication with a reservoir of an endoscopic system; positioning the second end of the water supply pipe in fluid communication with a water bottle; and activating a pump coupled to the water supply pipe to pump water from the water bottle to the reservoir through the water supply pipe.

[0025] Alternatively or additionally, for any of the above examples, in another example, the method may further include reversing the flow direction of the pump before activating the pump.

[0026] Alternatively or additionally, for any of the above examples, in another example, the water supply pipe may include a lens cleaning pipe.

[0027] Alternatively or additionally, for any of the above examples, in another example, the water supply pipe may include an irrigation supply pipe.

[0028] Alternatively or additionally, for any of the above examples, in another example, the method may further include bypassing a one - way valve in communication with the irrigation supply pipe before activating the pump.

[0029] In another example, a reservoir arranged and configured to be coupled to an endoscope for use in endoscopic surgery may include a container configured to contain fluid therein, the container having a top and a bottom, a water outlet, a gas inlet, and one or more threaded openings formed in the top of the container. The one or more threaded openings may be configured to threadedly engage a water bottle.

[0030] Alternatively or additionally, for any of the above examples, in another example, the reservoir may further include one or more removable caps. The one or more removable caps may be configured to selectively seal one or more threaded openings.

[0031] Alternatively or additionally, for any of the above examples, in another example, the one or more threaded openings may include at least two threaded openings.

[0032] Alternatively or additionally, for any of the above examples, in another example, the volume of the container may be less than the volume of a water bottle configured to be coupled to the one or more threaded openings.

[0033] In another example, a reservoir arranged and configured to be coupled to an endoscope for use in endoscopic surgery may include a first container configured to contain fluid therein, the first container having a first water outlet and a gas inlet; a second container configured to contain fluid therein, the second container having a second water outlet; and a chamber in fluid communication with the first and second containers. The chamber may include one or more ports configured to selectively fluidly couple the chamber with an external water source.

[0034] Alternatively or additionally, for any of the above examples, in another example, the first container may be threadedly engaged with the chamber.

[0035] Alternatively or additionally, for any of the above examples, in another example, the second container may be threadedly engaged with the chamber.

[0036] Alternatively or additionally, for any of the above examples, in another example, the reservoir may further include a water supply tube including a first end, a second end, and a first chamber extending therethrough, wherein the first chamber is in fluid communication with the first container and the second end of the water supply tube is positioned external to the chamber and the first container; and a gas supply tube including a first end, a second end, and a second chamber extending therethrough, wherein the second chamber is operably in fluid communication with the first container and the second end of the gas supply tube is positioned external to the chamber and the first container.

[0037] Alternatively or additionally, for any of the above examples, in another example, the first chamber may extend through the chamber.

[0038] Alternatively or additionally, for any of the above examples, in another example, the second chamber may extend through the chamber.

[0039] Alternatively or additionally for any of the above examples, in another example, the reservoir may further include a lavage supply tube including a first end, a second end, and a lavage lumen extending therethrough, wherein the lavage lumen is in fluid communication with the second container and the second end of the lavage supply tube is positioned external to the chamber and the second container.

[0040] Alternatively or additionally for any of the above examples, in another example, the lavage lumen may extend through the chamber.

[0041] Alternatively or additionally for any of the above examples, in another example, the reservoir may further include one or more supports coupled to the chamber. The one or more supports may be configured to engage one or more hooks.

[0042] Alternatively or additionally for any of the above examples, in another example, the reservoir may further include a partition positioned within the chamber, the partition dividing the chamber into a first sub-chamber and a second sub-chamber.

[0043] Alternatively or additionally for any of the above examples, in another example, the partition may be configured to fluidly isolate the first sub-chamber and the second sub-chamber.

[0044] Alternatively or additionally for any of the above examples, in another example, one or more ports may be configured to selectively fluidly couple the first sub-chamber or the second sub-chamber to an external water source.

[0045] Alternatively or additionally for any of the above examples, in another example, one or more ports may include a first port in fluid communication with the first sub-chamber and a second port in fluid communication with the second sub-chamber.

[0046] Alternatively or additionally for any of the above examples, in another example, the first sub-chamber may be in fluid communication with the first container and the second sub-chamber may be in fluid communication with the second container.

[0047] Alternatively or additionally for any of the above examples, in another example, the reservoir may further include one or more removable seals removably coupled to one or more ports.

[0048] These and other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description, and the scope of the claimed invention is set forth in the appended claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0049] The drawings incorporated in and forming a part of this specification illustrate various exemplary embodiments and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

[0050] Figure 1 depicts components of an endoscope;

[0051] Figure 2 depicts components of an endoscope system having an endoscope, a light source, a light source connector, a water reservoir, and a piping assembly for air and lens cleaning fluid delivery;

[0052] Figure 3A depicts an endoscope system having an endoscope, a light source, a water reservoir, and a piping assembly for mixing air, lens cleaning, and lavage fluid delivery, wherein the system is activated to deliver air to the atmosphere;

[0053] Figure 3B depicts Figure 3A an endoscope system wherein the system is activated to deliver air to a patient through the patient end of the endoscope;

[0054] Figure 3C depicts Figure 3A an endoscope system wherein the system is activated to deliver lens cleaning fluid through the patient end of the endoscope;

[0055] Figure 3D depicts Figure 3A an endoscope system wherein the system is activated to deliver lavage fluid through the patient end of the endoscope;

[0056] Figure 4 depicts a hybrid endoscope system including a video processing unit, a connector section, a peristaltic lavage pump, a water reservoir, and top, coaxial gas and lens cleaning supply piping, upstream and downstream lavage supply piping, and an alternative gas supply piping;

[0057] Figure 5A depicts a perspective view of an illustrative fitting for refilling a refillable fluid reservoir in an open configuration;

[0058] Figure 5B depicts Figure 5A an exploded perspective view of an illustrative fitting;

[0059] Figure 5C depicts a schematic cross-sectional view of the fitting taken at line 5C-5C of Figure 5A ;

[0060] Figure 5D is a schematic cross-sectional view of the fitting in a closed configuration of Figure 5A ;

[0061] Figure 6 depicts a perspective view of another illustrative coupling section that can be used with the fitting of Figures 5A to 5D ;

[0062] Figure 7 depicts a cross-sectional view of another illustrative refillable fluid reservoir;

[0063] Figure 8A depicts a perspective view of an illustrative pierceable cap;

[0064] Figure 8B depicts a perspective view of another illustrative pierceable cap;

[0065] Figure 9 depicts a perspective view of another illustrative refillable fluid reservoir;

[0066] Figure 10 depicts a perspective view of another illustrative refillable fluid reservoir system; and

[0067] Figure 11 is a flow chart of an illustrative method for filling a refillable water reservoir.

[0068] While the present invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific details thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in more detail. However, it should be understood that the invention is not intended to limit the aspects of the invention to the particular embodiments described. On the contrary, it is intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0069] The present invention will now be described with reference to an exemplary medical system that can be used in endoscopic medical procedures. However, it should be noted that the reference to this particular procedure is provided for convenience only and is not intended to limit the invention. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the concepts on which the disclosed devices and related methods of use are based can be used in any suitable surgical, medical, or other context. The present invention can be understood with reference to the following description and drawings, in which like or similar reference numerals will be used to refer to like or similar parts.

[0070] The term "distal" refers to the part that is farthest from the user when the device is introduced into the patient's body. Conversely, the term "proximal" refers to the part that is closest to the user when the device is placed in the patient's body. As used herein, the terms "comprises," "comprising," or any other variation thereof are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not necessarily include only those elements, but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. The term "exemplary" is used in the sense of "example" rather than "model." Additionally, as used herein, the terms "about," "substantially," and "essentially" denote a numerical range within + / - 10% of the stated value or the implied value. Additionally, terms denoting component / surface geometry refer to both the exact shape and approximate shape.

[0071] Embodiments of the present invention are described specifically with reference to bottles (e.g., containers, reservoirs, etc.) and tube assemblies or sets. It should be understood that such embodiments can be used to supply fluid and / or gas to an endoscope for various different purposes, including, for example, facilitating patient insufflation, lens cleaning, and / or lavaging a working channel to assist in flushing / aspirating debris during an endoscopic procedure.

[0072] Although the present invention includes a description of containers and tube sets suitable for use with an endoscopic system to supply fluid and / or gas to an endoscope, the devices, systems, and methods herein can also be implemented in other medical systems that require fluid and / or gas delivery and for various other purposes.

[0073] It should be noted that references to "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "other embodiments," etc., indicate that the described embodiments may include specific features, structures, or characteristics, but each embodiment may not necessarily include that specific feature, structure, or characteristic. Additionally, these phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Moreover, when a specific feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it is within the knowledge of those skilled in the art to affect such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments, whether or not expressly described, unless expressly stated to the contrary. That is, the various individual elements described below, even if not explicitly shown in a particular combination, can still be considered 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.

[0074] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. As used in this specification and the appended claims, the term "or" is generally employed in the sense of including "and / or" unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0075] Traditionally, endoscopic devices have been widely used to perform diagnostic and / or therapeutic procedures. During endoscopic surgery, a physician can 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 functions, compressed gas from a processor or other source is used to increase the pressure within a fluid bottle, which can insufflate the working cavity or clean the lens of the endoscope. Additionally, a peristaltic pump can be used to irrigate debris from the working cavity. One of the challenges faced during endoscopic surgery is that typical water bottles and tubing sets used can contain up to 1 liter of water and are not designed to be refilled. This may force nurses / technicians to change the water bottle multiple times per day. This may introduce multiple opportunities for contamination of the tubing set by contact with non-sterile surfaces or dropping the tubing on the floor. Methods and systems are disclosed herein for reducing or eliminating the need to disconnect the tubing set and use a second bottle.

[0076] 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 within a video processing unit 210 that 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 supply loop / water supply loop by housing a pressurizing pump 215, such as a gas supply pump, within the unit.

[0077] The endoscope 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 that is used to supply gas for insufflation inside the patient 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 treatment area of the patient. Also on the end face 100d of the distal tip 100c may be a lighting window (not shown) that transmits illumination light to the treatment area and an opening 230 to a working channel 235 that 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 accidental fluid outflow.

[0078] The operating handle 115 may be provided with knobs 125 for providing remote four-way steering of the distal tip via wires connected to articulation joints in the flexible flexible portion 105 (e.g., one knob controls up and down steering and another knob controls left and right steering). A plurality of video switches 130 for remotely operating the video processing unit 210 may be arranged on the proximal side of the handle 115. Additionally, the handle 115 is provided with a dual valve well 135. One of the valve wells 135 may receive a gas / water valve 140 for operating the insufflation gas and lens water supply operations. The gas supply line 240a and the lens cleaning supply line 245a travel distally along the shaft 100a from the gas / water valve 140 and converge at the distal tip 100c proximal to the gas / cleaning nozzle 220 ( Figure 2 ). Another valve well 135 receives a suction valve 145 for suction operations. The suction supply line 250a travels distally along the shaft 100a from the suction valve 145 to a junction point that is in fluid communication with the working channel 235 of the endoscope 100.

[0079] The operating handle 115 is electrically and fluidly 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 CO2) supply line 240b, a lens cleaning supply line 245b, a suction supply line 250b, an irrigation supply line 255b, an optical guide (not shown), and an electrical signal cable (not shown). The connector portion 265 connects the light source 205 in the video processing unit to the optical guide when inserted into the video processing unit 210. The optical guide travels along the length of the umbilical tube 260 and the endoscope shaft 100a to transmit light to the distal tip 100c of the endoscope 100. The connector portion 265 also connects the air pump 215 to the gas supply line 240b in the umbilical tube 260 when inserted into the video processing unit 210.

[0080] A water reservoir or container 270 (e.g., a water bottle) is fluidly connected to the endoscope 100 via a connector portion 265 and an umbilical tube 260. A length of gas supply tubing 240c extends from one end in an air gap 275 between the top 280 (e.g., the bottle cap) of the reservoir 270 and the remaining water 285 in the reservoir to a detachable gas / lens cleaning connector 290 outside the connector portion 265. The detachable gas / lens cleaning connector 290 can be detached from the connector portion 265 and / or the gas supply tubing 240c. The gas supply line 240b from the umbilical tube 260 branches in the connector portion 265 to be in fluid communication with the gas supply tubing 240c at the detachable gas / lens cleaning connector 290 and the gas pump 215. When the gas supply tubing 240c is on the connector portion 265, a length of lens cleaning tubing 245c with one end positioned at the bottom of the reservoir 270 passes through the top 280 of the reservoir to the same detachable connector 290. In other embodiments, the connections can be separate and / or disconnected from each other. The connector portion 265 also has a detachable irrigation connector 293 for an irrigation supply tubing (not shown) that travels from an irrigation water source (not shown) to an irrigation supply line 255b in the umbilical tube 260. The detachable irrigation connector 293 can be detached from the connector portion 265 and / or the irrigation supply tubing (not shown). In some embodiments, irrigation water can be supplied from a water source (not shown) independent of the water reservoir 270 via a pump (e.g., a peristaltic pump). In some embodiments, the irrigation supply tubing and the lens cleaning tubing 245c can obtain water from the same reservoir. The connector portion 265 can also include a detachable suction connector 295 for fluidly connecting a vacuum source (e.g., hospital house suction) (not shown) to a suction supply line 250b and a suction supply line 250a of the umbilical tube 260 and the endoscope 100. The detachable suction connector 295 can be detached from the connector portion 265 and / or the suction supply line 250b and / or the vacuum source.

[0081] The gas supply line 240b and the lens cleaning supply line 245b are fluidly connected to a valve well 135 of the gas / water valve 140 and are configured such that operation of the gas / water valve in the well controls the supply of gas or lens cleaning water to the distal tip 100c of the endoscope 100. The suction supply line 250b is fluidly connected to a valve well 135 of the suction valve 145 and is configured such that operation of the suction valve in the well controls the suction applied to the working channel 235 of the endoscope 100.

[0082] Reference Figure 2, an exemplary operation of an endoscopic system 200 including an endoscope, such as the endoscope 100 described above, is explained. Air from the air pump 215 in the video processing unit 210 flows through the connector portion 265 and branches through the gas supply line 240b in the umbilical tube 260 to the air / water valve 140 on the operating handle 115, and reaches the water reservoir 270 via the connector 290 on the connector portion 265 through the gas supply pipe 240c. When the air / water valve 140 is in the neutral position, without the user having to place a finger on the valve, air is allowed to flow out of the valve to the atmosphere. In the first position, the user's finger is used to block the vent to the atmosphere. Gas is allowed to flow downward along the gas supply line 240a from the valve 140 and out of the distal tip 100c of the endoscope 100 to, for example, insufflate a treatment area of a patient. When the air / water valve 140 is depressed downward to the second position, gas is prevented from flowing out of the valve, allowing the pressure of the air passing through from the air pump 215 to increase in the water reservoir 270. Pressing the water source forces water to exit from the lens cleaning pipe 245c, through the connector portion 265, the umbilical tube 265, through the air / water valve 140 and travel along the lens cleaning supply line 245a, converging with the gas supply line 240a before leaving the distal tip 100c of the endoscope 100 via the gas / lens cleaning nozzle 220. The air pump pressure can be calibrated to provide lens cleaning water at a relatively low flow rate compared to the supply of irrigation water.

[0083] The magnitude of the flow rate of lens cleaning 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 cleaning pipe 245c, the air pump 215 replenishes the lost air supply in the reservoir 270 to maintain a substantially constant pressure, which in turn provides a substantially constant lens cleaning flow rate. In some embodiments, a filter (not shown) can be placed in the path of the gas supply pipe 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) can be placed in the path of the lens cleaning supply pipe to help prevent water from flowing back into the reservoir 270 after passing through the valve.

[0084] Irrigation water typically requires a relatively high flow rate compared to lens cleaning water because its main purpose is to remove debris that obstructs the user's view in the treatment area within the patient. Irrigation is typically achieved using a pump (such as a peristaltic pump), as described. In embodiments having a separate water source for irrigation, the piping 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 piping on the downstream side of the pump is connected via a irrigation connector 293 on the connector portion 265 to the irrigation supply line 255b in the umbilical tube 260 and the irrigation supply line 255a of the endoscope 100. When irrigation water is needed, the fluid is pumped out of the water source by operating an irrigation pump, such as depressing a foot switch (not shown), and flows through the irrigation connector 293, through the irrigation supply line 255b in the umbilical tube, 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 when water is pumped out of the irrigation supply piping, 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 the accumulation of negative pressure in the water source, which could create a vacuum and suck unwanted substances from the patient back towards the water source through the endoscope. In some embodiments, a configuration of an outflow check valve or other one-way valve similar to the lens cleaning piping 245c (not shown) may be placed in the path of the irrigation supply piping to help prevent backflow into the reservoir after the water passes through the valve.

[0085] Figures 3A to 3D FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing the operation of an embodiment of a hybrid system 300 in which the supply piping for irrigation and lens cleaning is connected to and suctioned from a single water reservoir. It is contemplated that fluids other than water, such as but not limited to saline, may be used. The hybrid system 300 includes a single water reservoir 305, a cap 310 for the reservoir, a gas supply piping 240c, a lens cleaning supply piping 245c, an irrigation pump 315 having a foot switch 318, an upstream irrigation piping 320, and a downstream irrigation supply piping 255c. The cap 310 may be configured to be attached to the water reservoir 305 in a sealed 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, flange, 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. In Figures 3A to 3D FIG. 4, the depicted system includes separate piping for gas supply, lens cleaning, and irrigation.

[0086] In other embodiments, the gas supply pipe 240c and the lens cleaning pipe 245c may be combined in a coaxial arrangement. Some illustrative coaxial arrangements are described in the commonly assigned U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 558,239 entitled Integrated Container and Tube Set for Fluid Delivery with an Endoscope and U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 558,256 entitled Pipe Assembly and Method for Fluid Delivery, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference. For example, the gas supply pipe may define a cavity large enough in diameter to coaxially receive a smaller-diameter lens cleaning pipe therein, and a water source that supplies air to an annular space around the lens cleaning pipe to pressurize the water reservoir (see, e.g., gas and lens cleaning supply pipes 240c, 245c). The lens cleaning supply pipe may be configured to exit the cavity defined by the coaxial gas supply pipe in any suitable sealed manner, such as, for example, holes, fittings, collars, etc., so as to convert from the coaxial arrangement to a side-by-side arrangement at a detachable gas / lens cleaning connector to an endoscope connector portion (e.g., Figure 2 connector portion 265).

[0087] In various embodiments, different configurations of valves (not shown) may be incorporated into the various embodiments disclosed herein, including the piping of systems 200, 300. For example, an inflow check valve may be provided in the path of the gas supply pipe 240c to help prevent backflow into the air pump 215. In this way, the pressure created within the water reservoir 305 creates a pressure differential between the water source and the gas supply pipe 240c, thus helping to maintain a positive pressure in the water source, even when a large amount of water can be removed from the water source during the lavage function. This arrangement compensates for any time lag of the air delivered from the air pump 215 to the water reservoir 305, which would otherwise cause a negative pressure vacuum in the water reservoir. Similarly, an outflow check valve, such as a one-way valve having an inlet / outlet and a valve plug, may be incorporated into the lens cleaning supply pipes 240c, the upstream lavage supply pipe 320, and / or the downstream lavage supply pipe 225c to help prevent water from flowing back from either or both of the lens cleaning and lavage pipes in the event of a negative pressure condition.

[0088] More generally, in many embodiments, a check valve may refer to any type of configuration that allows 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, an inclined disk check valve, a flap valve, a stop check valve, a lift check valve, a straight-through check valve, a duckbill valve, a pneumatic one-way valve, a reed valve, a flow check valve. Thus, the check valve used herein is intended to be distinct and different from an active valve (e.g., a globe stop valve, a solenoid valve, a peristaltic pump) that operates in a binary manner as an on / off valve or switch to allow or disallow flow initiation.

[0089] During Figures 3A to 3D operation of the system, a water flow for irrigation can be achieved by operating the irrigation pump 315. A water flow for lens cleaning can be achieved by depressing the air / water valve 140 on the operation 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 removing fluid from the water reservoir 305, the pressure in the system can be controlled to maintain the lens cleaning supply pipe 240c substantially at the pressure required for lens cleaning at a lower flow rate, while compensating for the pressure drop in the water reservoir 305 due to 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, the reduced pressure can be compensated for by the air pump 215 via the gas supply pipe 240c.

[0090] has been highlighted Figures 3A to 3D the schematic arrangement in to show the different flow paths of the hybrid system 300, which has supply pipes for irrigation 320 and lens cleaning 240c connected to and suctioned from a single water reservoir 305. As Figure 3A shown, the endoscope 100 is in the neutral state, in which the air / water valve 140 is in the open position. In the neutral state, neither gas nor lens cleaning is delivered to the distal tip of the endoscope. Instead, gas (pressure) is delivered along path A from the pressurized air pump 215 and discharged to the atmosphere through the gas supply line 240b in the umbilical cord 260 via the connector portion 265 and through the air / water valve. Since the system is open at the vent hole in the air / water valve 140, no pressure accumulates to pressurize the water reservoir 305, and thus water is not pushed through the lens cleaning supply pipe 240c.

[0091] As Figure 3B shown, the endoscope 100 is in the gas delivery state, in which the air / water valve 140 is in the open position. When gas is required at the distal tip 100c, for example, to clean the end face 100d of the distal tip or to insufflate the patient's body in the treatment area, the user closes the vent hole (first position) in the air / water valve 140 with the thumb, finger, etc. At this stage, gas (pressure) is delivered along path B from the air pump 215 and flows through the gas supply line 240b in the umbilical cord 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 is discharged from the gas / lens cleaning nozzle 220 at the distal tip 100c. Since the system is open at the gas / lens water nozzle 220, no pressure accumulates to pressurize the water reservoir, and thus no water is pushed through the lens cleaning supply pipe 240c.

[0092] As Figure 3C shown, the endoscope 100 is in the lens cleaning delivery state, where the air / water valve 140 is in the second position. When lens cleaning water is required at the distal tip 100c, for example, to clean the end face 100d of the distal tip 100c, the user who keeps the air vent hole in the air / water valve closed presses the valve 140 to the farthest point in its valve well 135. The second position blocks the gas supply to the atmosphere and the gas supply line 240a in the endoscope, and opens the air / water valve 140 to allow the lens cleaning water to reach the lens cleaning supply line 245a in the endoscope shaft 100a and leave through the gas / lens cleaning nozzle 220 at the distal tip 100c. In this state, gas (pressure) is delivered from the air pump 215 along path C, through the branch line in the connector portion 265, and leaves the gas supply pipe 240c to the water reservoir 305. The gas (pressure) pressurizes the surface of the remaining water 285 in the reservoir 305 and pushes the water upward along the lens cleaning supply pipe 245c to the connector portion 265. The pressurized lens cleaning water is further pushed through the lens cleaning supply line 245b in the umbilical tube 260 and through the air / water valve 140. Since the system 300 is closed, the gas pressure is allowed to build up and maintain a calibrated pressure level in the water reservoir 305, rather than being discharged to the atmosphere or being delivered to the patient. This pressure, together with the endoscope supply and supply lines and the external piping, is converted into a range of lens cleaning flow rates.

[0093] As Figure 3D shown, the endoscope 100 is in the lavage delivery state. This can be performed at the same or different times as delivering gas and / or lens cleaning. When lavage is required at the distal tip 100c, for example, if the visibility in the treatment area is poor or blocked by debris, etc., the user activates the lavage pump 315 (e.g., by pressing the foot switch 318) to deliver water along path D. When the pump 315 is activated, water is drawn from the water reservoir 305 through the upstream lavage supply pipe 320 and pumped along the downstream lavage supply pipe 255c to the connector portion 265. The lavage pump head pushes the lavage water further through the lavage supply line 255b in the umbilical tube 260, through the lavage supply line 255a in the endoscope shaft 100a and out through the lavage opening 225 at the distal tip 100c. The lavage pump pressure can be calibrated, together with the endoscope lavage supply and supply lines and the external piping, to deliver a range of flow rates of lavage fluid.

[0094] Figure 4is a schematic diagram 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 another opening 420 in the top of the reservoir to a detachable connector 425 for an alternative gas supply source (e.g., a CO2 hospital gas source). When an alternative gas supply, such as CO2 gas, is needed, the air pump 215 on the video processing unit 210 can be turned off and CO2 gas instead of air then flows into the water reservoir 405, thereby pressurizing the surface of the water. Generally, the flow of CO2 through the endoscope 100 is similar to the flow of air. In the neutral state, the CO2 gas flows back upward along the gas supply pipe 240c to the connector section 265, upward 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 the CO2 gas flows through the air / water valve to the gas supply line 240a in the endoscope shaft 100a and exits through 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 CO2 gas supply to the atmosphere and the gas supply line 240a in the endoscope 100, and opens the air / water valve 140 to allow the lens cleaning water to pass through to the lens cleaning supply line 245a in the endoscope shaft 100a and exit through the gas / lens cleaning nozzle 220 at the distal tip 100c. The gas (pressure) in the reservoir 405 is maintained by the delivery gas through the alternative gas (e.g., CO2) supply pipe 415. The lavage function can be implemented in a manner similar to the operation described above with respect to Figure 3D .

[0095] As described above, it may be necessary to reduce the chance of contaminating the pipe sets 240c, 245c, 320, 410, 415 during the replacement of the water reservoir by providing refillable water reservoirs 270, 305, 405. Figures 5A to 5D Illustrative views of an illustrative fitting 500 that facilitates filling and / or refilling of the water reservoirs 270, 305, 405 are depicted. Figure 5A A perspective view of the illustrative fitting 500 in an open configuration is depicted. Figure 5B Depicts Figure 5AAn exploded perspective view of an illustrative accessory 500 is shown. Figure 5C Depicted in Figure 5A The line 5C-5C is intercepted Figure 5A A cross-sectional view of an illustrative accessory 500 is shown. Figure 5D It is in closed state Figure 5A FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a fitting 500. In general, the fitting 500 may include a first coupling portion 502, a second coupling portion 504, a connecting member 506, and a valve actuator 508. The connecting member 506 and the valve actuator 508 may be disposed between the first coupling portion 502 and the second coupling portion 504.

[0096] The first coupling portion 502 may define a cavity 510 extending from its first end 512 to the second end 514. The cavity 510 may be selectively fluidly connected to the connection member 506 by actuating the valve actuator 508. For example, when the valve actuator 508 is in an open configuration, the cavity 510 is in fluid communication with the connection member 506, and when the valve actuator 508 is in a closed configuration, the cavity 510 is fluidly isolated from the fluid outlet 556 of the connection member 506. The first coupling member 516 may be disposed adjacent to the first end 512 of the first coupling portion 502. The first coupling member 516 may define a plurality of internal threads 518, which are used to engage the matching external threads on the water bottle (not explicitly shown). The second coupling member 520 may be disposed adjacent to the second end 514 of the first coupling portion 502. The second coupling member 520 may include a circumferentially extending raised ridge or protrusion 522. The raised ridge 522 may be configured to engage the matching recess 524 formed in the inner surface of the connection member 506. It is contemplated that the raised ridge 522 may include features, such as, but not limited to, a tapered surface, to facilitate assembly of the first coupling portion 502 and the connecting member 506 while inhibiting accidental disassembly. The diameter of the second coupling member 520 may be smaller than the diameter of the first coupling member 516. However, this is not necessary. In some cases, the diameter of the second coupling member 520 may be similar to, the same as or larger than, the diameter of the first coupling member 516. In addition, although the first coupling member 516 and the second coupling member 520 are shown as extending in line or along the same axis, in some cases, the first coupling member 516 may be positioned at an angle that is not parallel to the second coupling member 520. For example, the first coupling member 516 may be positioned so that its longitudinal axis is substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the second coupling member 520. This is merely an example. Other configurations or arrangements may be used as needed.

[0097] The second coupling portion 504 may define a cavity 526 that extends from its first end 528 to its second end 530. The cavity 526 may be selectively in fluid communication with the connecting member 506 by actuation of a valve actuator 508. For example, when the valve actuator 508 is in an open configuration, the cavity 526 is in fluid communication with the connecting member 506, and when the valve actuator 508 is in a closed configuration, the cavity 526 is fluidly isolated from the fluid outlet 556 of the connecting member 506. The first coupling member 532 may be disposed adjacent the first end 528 of the second coupling portion 504. The first coupling member 532 may define a plurality of internal threads 534 for engaging mating external threads on a water bottle (not explicitly shown). The second coupling member 536 may be disposed adjacent the second end 530 of the second coupling portion 504. The second coupling member 536 may include a circumferentially extending raised ridge or protrusion 538. The raised ridge 538 may be configured to engage a mating recess 540 formed in the inner surface of the connecting member 506. It is contemplated that the raised ridge 538 may include features such as, but not limited to, a tapered surface to facilitate assembly of the second coupling portion 504 with the connecting member 506 while inhibiting accidental disassembly. The diameter of the second coupling member 536 may be less than the diameter of the first coupling member 532. However, this is not required. In some cases, the diameter of the second coupling member 536 may be similar to, the same as, or greater than the diameter of the first coupling member 532. Additionally, while the first coupling member 532 and the second coupling member 536 are shown as being collinear or extending along the same axis, in some cases, the first coupling member 532 may be positioned at a non-parallel angle with respect to the second coupling member 536. For example, the first coupling member 532 may be positioned such that its longitudinal axis is generally orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the second coupling member 536. This is merely an example. Other configurations or arrangements may be used as needed.

[0098] The connecting member 506 can include a central body portion 542 that defines a cavity 544 therein and extends along a first axis. The cavity 544 can generally be cylindrical to receive a mating valve body 546 of the valve actuator 508. The connecting member 506 and the valve actuator 508 can be used together or form an actuatable valve. It is contemplated that the cavity 544 can take other shapes to accommodate different structures of the valve actuator 508. A first tubular member 548 that defines a cavity 550 can extend from an opening 570 in the sidewall of the central body portion 542. The cavity 550 can fluidly couple the cavity 510 of the first coupling portion 502 with the cavity 544 of the connecting member 506. A second tubular member 552 that defines a cavity 554 can extend from an opening 572 in the sidewall of the central body portion 542 in a direction opposite to that of the first tubular member 548. The cavity 554 can fluidly couple the cavity 526 of the second coupling portion 504 with the cavity 544 of the connecting member 506. The cavities 550, 554 can extend along a second axis that is generally orthogonal to the first axis of the central body portion 542. The first tubular member 548 and the second tubular member 552 can be spaced from each other by approximately 180°, such that they share a common axis. However, this is not required. The first tubular member 548 and the second tubular member 552 can be spaced greater than 180° or less than 180° as needed. It is contemplated that the connecting member 506 can be configured to accommodate more than two coupling portions 502, 504. In such a case, the first tubular member 548, the second tubular member 552, and any additional member tubular members can be spaced from each other by less than 180°. A fluid outlet 556 can be formed through an end surface 558 of the connecting member 506. The fluid outlet 556 can be disposed between the first coupling portion 502 and the second coupling portion 504 and is selectively in fluid communication with the cavities 510, 526 of the first coupling portion 502 and the second coupling portion 504 to transfer fluid from the water bottle to the water reservoir, as will be described in more detail herein. In some embodiments, the fluid outlet 556 can be formed in a plane that is generally orthogonal to the plane of the cavities 510, 526, however this is not required. Other configurations can be used as needed.

[0099] The valve actuator 508 can include an actuating member 560 and a valve body 546. In some embodiments, the valve actuator 508 can be a plug valve. Other actuatable valves can be used as needed, such as but not limited to gate valves, ball valves, butterfly valves, globe valves, etc. The valve actuator 508 can include an actuating member 560, such as but not limited to, a handle, a lever, a handwheel, etc. In the illustrated embodiment, the actuating member 560 can be rotated to move the valve actuator 508 between an open configuration and a closed configuration. For example, the actuating member 560 can be rotated approximately 90° to move the valve body 546 between an open configuration and a closed configuration. In some embodiments, the actuating member 560 can be rotated less than 90° to partially open or partially close the valve actuator 508. It is contemplated that the amount of rotation required to open and / or close the valve actuator 508 can be determined by the internal structure of the valve actuator 508. In some examples, the actuating member 52 can be rotated greater than 90° or less than 90°. It is also contemplated that the actuating member 560 can be configured to apply a linear force (e.g., a sliding motion) to the actuatable valve.

[0100] The valve body 546 can be configured to be disposed within the cavity 544 of the connecting member 506 and can generally be tubular to facilitate rotation of the valve actuator 508 therein. However, other shapes can also be used, depending on the type of valve and / or the actuating member 560 used for the valve actuator 508. The valve body 546 can include a first hole 562 that is configured to selectively fluidly communicate with the cavity 510 of the first coupling portion 502; and a second hole 564 that is configured to selectively fluidly communicate with the cavity 526 of the second coupling portion 504 and the internal cavity 574 of the valve body 546. For example, when the valve actuator 508 is in the open configuration, the first hole is aligned with the cavity 510 of the first coupling portion 502, and the second hole 564 is aligned with the cavity 526 of the second coupling portion 504. When a water bottle is coupled to the first coupling portion 502 and the valve actuator 508 is opened, fluid or water can flow out of the water bottle, through the cavity 510 and along the first flow path 566 into the cavity 574. Then, the fluid can leave the cavity 574 via the fluid outlet 556. Similarly, when a water bottle is coupled to the second coupling portion 504 and the valve actuator 508 is opened, fluid or water can flow out of the water bottle, through the cavity 526 and along the second fluid flow path 568 into the cavity 574. Then, the fluid can leave the cavity 574 via the fluid outlet 556. The fluid outlet 556 can be disposed in a plane that is generally orthogonal to the plane of the first and second fluid paths 566, 568. To prevent fluid flow from the fluid paths 566, 568 into the cavity 574, the valve actuator 508 is actuated to the closed configuration.

[0101] To fill a fluid reservoir (such as reservoirs 270, 305, 405), the valve actuator 508 can be moved to the closed configuration (Figure 5D )。In the closed configuration, the solid sidewalls of the valve body 546 are aligned with the openings 570, 572 in the connecting member 506 to fluidly isolate the cavities 510, 526 from the cavity 544 and the fluid outlet 556. With the valve actuator 508 in the closed configuration, one or both of the first and second coupling portions 502, 504 are subsequently coupled to a water bottle. For example, if desired, a water bottle can be coupled to each of the coupling portions 502, 504. It is contemplated that holding the valve actuator 508 in the closed configuration during coupling of the water bottle may allow coupling of more than one water bottle without spilling water. Once the water bottle has been coupled to the first and / or second coupling portions 502, 504, the fluid outlet 556 can be aligned with an opening or port in the fluid reservoir, and the valve actuator 508 can be opened. In some cases, a tube or other flow directing mechanism can be used to direct fluid flow from the fluid outlet 556 to the fluid reservoir. Then, fluid can flow from the water bottle along the first and / or second flow paths 566, 568 to the cavity 574, through the fluid outlet 556 and into the reservoir. In some cases, the user can tip or tilt the fitting 500 to allow water to flow in the opposite direction from one water bottle before tipping or tilting the fitting to allow water to flow from the other water bottle.

[0102] Although the fitting 500 is shown as including threaded coupling portions 502, 504 for coupling the fitting 500 to a water bottle, it is contemplated that other coupling mechanisms can also be used as needed. Figure 6Depicts an isometric view of another illustrative coupling portion 600 that may be used to replace one or both of the first and second coupling portions 502, 504 to couple the fitting to the water bottle. The coupling portion 600 may define a cavity 602 that extends from its first end 604 to its second end 606. The cavity 602 may be selectively in fluid communication with the connection member 506 by actuating the valve actuator 508. For example, when the valve actuator 508 is in the open configuration, the cavity 602 is in fluid communication with the connection member 506, and when the valve actuator 508 is in the closed configuration, the cavity 602 is fluidly isolated from the connection member 506. A first coupling member 608 may be disposed adjacent the first end 604 of the coupling portion 600. The first coupling member 608 may include a piercing tip 610, such as, but not limited to, a blunt or sharpened needle tip, for piercing a pierceable or puncturable cap of the water bottle. The piercing tip 610 may extend from a conical region 612 that is configured to engage the mouth of the water bottle to provide a fluid-tight seal between the coupling member 608 and the water bottle. It is contemplated that piercing the water bottle cap may allow the fitting 500 to be coupled to the water bottle without unscrewing the cap, which allows air to enter (which may contaminate the water). A second coupling member 614 may be disposed adjacent the second end 606 of the coupling portion 600. The second coupling member 614 may include a circumferentially extending raised ridge or protrusion 616. The raised ridge 616 may be configured to engage a matching recess 524 formed in the inner surface of the connection member 506. It is contemplated that the raised ridge 616 may include features, such as, but not limited to, a tapered surface, to facilitate assembly of the first coupling portion 502 with the connection member 506 while inhibiting accidental disassembly. The diameter of the second coupling member 614 may be less than the diameter of the first coupling member 608. However, this is not required. In some cases, the diameter of the second coupling member 614 may be similar to, the same as, or greater than the diameter of the first coupling member 608. Additionally, while the first coupling member 608 and the second coupling member 614 are shown as being collinear or extending along the same axis, in some cases, the first coupling member 608 may be positioned at a non-parallel angle with respect to the second coupling member 614. For example, the first coupling member 608 may be positioned such that its longitudinal axis is generally orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the second coupling member 614. This is merely an example. Other configurations or arrangements may be used as needed.

[0103] Figure 7 Depicts a cross-sectional view of another illustrative refillable fluid reservoir 700. The reservoir 700 may be configured for use in an endoscopic system and includes a similar to that regarding Figures 1 to 4Components of the endoscope and endoscope system described herein; however, all features may not be described or shown herein if they are not relevant to the fluid circuit of the system. The reservoir 700 includes a container 702 configured to hold a fluid 704. In some embodiments, the container 702 may be configured to hold a fluid in the range of about 5 liters (L) to about 20 L. However, if desired, the container 702 may be configured to hold a fluid less than 5 L or greater than 20 L. For example, in some cases, the container 702 may be configured to hold a fluid in the range of 1 to 15 L, in the range of about 3 L to about 10 L, in the range of about 5 L to about 8 L, etc.

[0104] Generally, the container 702 can be refilled by positioning a water bottle 714 upside down at the inlet port and allowing air 726 to flow, as shown at 728, into the water bottle 714. The air causes water 748 to flow, as shown at 750, into the container 702. In some embodiments, the water bottle 714 can be a standard 1 L water bottle. In other embodiments, the water bottle 714 can have a volume greater than 1 L, such as but not limited to 5 L, 10 L, or greater. For example, in some cases, the water bottle 714 can be configured to supply a sufficient amount of water to the container 702 such that the water bottle 714 continuously supplies water to the container 702 for more than one endoscopic procedure. For example, for more than one endoscopic procedure or during an all-day endoscopic procedure, the container 702 may not need to be refilled and / or the water bottle 714 may not need to be replaced.

[0105] The container 702 extends from a first or distal end 706 to a second or proximal end 707. A rod or tubular port 708 with a reduced diameter may extend away from the first end 706 in a direction opposite to the second end 707 of the container 702. Generally, the tubular port 708 can be a hollow cylindrical rod that is in fluid communication with an opening 710 of the container 702 and is configured to selectively provide a fluid connection between the exterior and the interior 712 of the container 702 to allow the fluid 704 to be transferred from the water bottle 714 into the container 702. The tubular port 708 may form a single integral structure with the container 702 or a separate component as needed. The diameter or cross-sectional dimension of the tubular port 708 may be less than the diameter or cross-sectional dimension of the first end 706 or the second end 707 of the container 702. In some cases, the tubular port 708 may have a generally cylindrical shape, while the container 702 may have a generally rectangular prism shape. However, this is not required. The container 702 and / or the tubular port 708 can be of any desired shape.

[0106] In some embodiments, an optional support block 716 can extend away from the first end 706 in a direction opposite the second end 707 of the container 702. The support block 716 can define an opening 718 that extends through its thickness. The opening 718 can be sized and shaped to receive the neck 720 of the water bottle 714 and / or the tubular port 708 of the container 702. For example, the tubular port 708 can extend through the opening 718 in the support block 716. When the water bottle 714 is engaged with the reservoir 700, the neck 720 of the water bottle 714 can be disposed within an annular space 722 located between the inner wall of the opening 718 and the outer surface of the tubular port 708. The upper edge 724 of the water bottle 714 can engage the upper surface 746 of the support block 716 to hold the water bottle 714 in an inverted orientation.

[0107] The reservoir 700 may include a gas inlet 730 and a water outlet 732 for connection to a gas supply pipe and a water supply pipe. In some embodiments, the gas inlet 730 and / or the water outlet 732 may be one or more ports for connecting separately provided gas supply lines and / or water supply lines. In other embodiments, the gas inlet 730 and / or the water outlet 732 may be part of the gas supply piping 734 or the water supply piping 736. For example, the reservoir 700 may be connected in fluid communication with a gas supply / replacement gas supply pipe (or gas supply pipe) 734 and a lens cleaning supply / irrigation supply pipe (or water supply pipe) 736. The gas supply pipe 734 extends from a second end external to the reservoir 700 through a reservoir opening 738 at or near the first end 706 of the container 702. The shared gas supply pipe 734 may terminate within the reservoir gap, at or below the opening 738, but does not extend into the remaining fluid 704 within the container 702, as shown. However, in some cases, the gas supply pipe 734 may extend into the fluid 704. For example, the opening 738 may be located at the bottom or side of the container 702 such that the shared gas supply pipe 734 terminates within the fluid, where gas bubbles through the fluid 704 to pressurize the container 702. A cavity extends through the gas supply pipe 734 for receiving the flow of air and / or gas therethrough. The cavity of the gas supply pipe 734 is operably in fluid communication with the interior of the reservoir 700. The water supply pipe 736 extends from a second end external to the reservoir 700 through the reservoir opening 738 and thus terminates at a first end within the remaining fluid 704 at or substantially at the bottom of the container 702. In some embodiments, the water supply pipe 736 may terminate at the opening 738. For example, when the opening 738 is located at or near the second end 707 of the container 702, a dip tube may not be required. A cavity extends through the water supply pipe 736 for receiving the flow of fluid therethrough. The cavity of the lens cleaning supply / irrigation supply pipe 736 is selectively operably in fluid communication with the bottom of the container 702. In the illustrated embodiment, the gas supply pipe 734 and the water supply pipe 736 may enter the container 702 through a single or common opening 738. For example, the gas supply pipe 734 and the water supply pipe 736 may be coaxially arranged, as shown. However, this is not required. In some cases, the gas supply pipe 734 and the water supply pipe 736 may extend in a side-by-side arrangement or may be connected to the container 702 separately at different locations. The opening 738 may include a grommet, heat seal, or other sealing mechanism configured to seal the container 702 around the pipes 734, 736 in a fluid- and pressure-tight manner, thereby allowing pressurization of the reservoir. Additionally, a tubular port 708 may be provided with a valve (not shown) to allow isolation of the container 702 from the water bottle 714, except during periodic filling when the water bottle 714 is used to fill the container 702.

[0108] A portion of the gas supply pipe 734 and a portion of the lens cleaning supply pipe 736 can extend from the reservoir 700 respectively, and can be connected to the endoscope in a fluid communication manner at the gas / lens cleaning connector 290 on the connector portion 265 of the umbilical tube 260. Inside the connector portion 265, the gas supply pipe 734 is connected to a gas pump (not shown explicitly) and / or a gas supply pipeline (not shown explicitly) in a fluid communication manner, and the lens cleaning supply pipe 736 is connected to a lens cleaning supply pipeline (not shown explicitly) in a fluid communication manner. Although not shown explicitly, the lavage supply pipe can be connected to the water supply pipe 736 via a manifold to supply lavage fluid from the reservoir 700, or a separate lavage supply pipe can be provided. For example, the lavage supply pipe (not shown) can extend from a second end outside the reservoir 700 through a reservoir opening (not shown), and thus terminate at a first end in or substantially in the remaining fluid 704 at the bottom of the container 702.

[0109] It is conceivable that the reservoir 700 can be filled and refilled as needed by inverting the water bottle 714 and positioning it above the tubular port 708. In some embodiments, the water bottle 714 can include a pierceable cap (see, for example, Figure 8A and Figure 8B ) such that it maintains a watertight seal when the water bottle 714 is inverted. It is conceivable that the tubular port 708 can pierce or puncture the cap of the water bottle 714 to allow the fluid to flow through. The reservoir 700 can be refilled during or between surgeries as needed. As needed, the water can be sterile or non-sterile. For example, sterile water can be used for therapeutic surgeries, while non-sterile water can be used for diagnostic surgeries. Since the outer surface of the tubular port 708 is non-sterile, it can be wiped with a disinfectant before filling / refilling and subsequent contact with sterile water. It is conceivable that refilling the reservoir 700 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 700 via the tubular port 708 can also eliminate the need to disconnect the reservoir 700 from the pipes 734 and 736 throughout the day, thereby eliminating or greatly reducing the possibility of cross-contamination by eliminating the need to replace the water container.

[0110] To fill container 702, the neck 720 of water bottle 714 is placed on or above the tubular port 708. In the illustrated embodiment, the neck 720 of water bottle 714 is placed above the tubular port 708. The tubular port 708 can be sized and shaped to form a fluid-tight seal with the neck 720 of water bottle 714. However, this is not required. Water flows downward along flow path 750 into container 702, while air moves upward along flow path 728 into water bottle 714. Water bottle 714 can be removed when it is empty and / or when container 702 is filled to the desired amount. In some cases, more than one water bottle 714 can be used to fill container 702.

[0111] In some embodiments, water bottle 714 can be configured to remain assembled with reservoir 700 during endoscopic surgery. In other embodiments, water bottle 714 can be removed from reservoir 700, and a cap or plug (not explicitly shown) is positioned above and / or within the opening of tubular port 708 and / or the opening 718 of support block 716.

[0112] When water bottle 714 is configured to remain assembled with reservoir 700 and provide sufficient water for more than one surgery, it is contemplated that reservoir 700 can be a stand-alone unit provided in each operating room. For example, reservoir 700 can be configured to be held in the operating room. In other examples, reservoir 700 can be located in a room adjacent to the operating room, where piping runs into the operating room. It is contemplated that large-volume (e.g., greater than 1 liter) water bottles 714 can be provided to a medical center, pre-filled, and stored as needed. Alternatively or additionally, some water bottles 714 can be filled at the medical center. It is contemplated that reservoir 700 can include filtering and / or sterilization functions to ensure that the water is safely used during surgery. Some suitable sterilization techniques can include, but are not limited to, ultraviolet light, heat, chemical sterilization, etc. Single-use piping (e.g., gas supply piping 734, lens cleaning supply piping 736, irrigation piping) can be coupled to reservoir 700 at the ports. For example, reservoir 700 can include a valve 740 (such as, but not limited to, a cock valve, ball valve, gate valve, butterfly valve, stop valve, etc.) or other connectors (such as, but not limited to, quick connectors) that selectively fluidly couple gas supply piping 734, lens cleaning supply piping 736, and / or irrigation piping with corresponding gas piping 742 and lens cleaning piping 744 within the interior 712 of container 702. Valve 740 can be opened during use of the endoscope and closed when the system is not in use to maintain the sterility of the system. Valve 740 or other connectors can be manually operated by the user or automatically actuated via a computer control system.

[0113] Figure 8ADepicts a perspective view of an illustrative pierceable cap 800. The cap 800 can be configured to be fixed to the mouth of a water bottle 714. For example, the cap 800 can include an annular slot 802 configured to receive the mouth of the water bottle 714 therein. The cap 800 can be configured to form a snap fit or a threaded engagement with the water bottle 714. Other mechanical engagements can be used as needed. The cap 800 can also include a recess or indentation 804 formed in the top surface 806 of the cap 800 and extending toward the bottom surface 808. The recess 804 can extend through less than the entire thickness of the cap 800 such that sterility can be maintained when the cap 800 is coupled to the water bottle 714. The portion 810 of the cap 800 adjacent to the indentation 804 can be thin enough to allow the tubular port 708 to pierce through the portion 810 of the cap 800 adjacent to the indentation 804 to fluidly couple the water bottle 714 to the container 702.

[0114] Figure 8B Depicts a perspective view of another illustrative pierceable cap 850. The cap 850 can be configured to be fixed to the mouth of a water bottle 714. For example, the cap 850 can include an annular sidewall 852 configured to surround the mouth of the water bottle 714. The cap 850 can be configured to form a snap fit or a threaded engagement with the water bottle 714. Other mechanical engagements can be used as needed. The cap 850 can also include a perforation 854 formed in the top surface 856 of the cap 850. In the illustrated embodiment, the perforation forms an "X" shape; however, other shapes and configurations can be used as needed. The perforation 854 can extend through less than the entire thickness of the cap 850 such that sterility can be maintained when the cap 850 is coupled to the water bottle 714 while creating a weakened area to allow the tubular port 708 to pierce through the perforation 854 of the cap 800 adjacent to the indentation 804 to fluidly couple the water bottle 714 to the container 702.

[0115] Figure 9 Depicts a perspective view of another illustrative refillable fluid reservoir 900. The reservoir 900 can be configured for use in an endoscopic system and includes components similar to those of the endoscopes and endoscopic systems described with respect to Figures 1 to 4 However, not all features may be described or shown herein if they are not relevant to the fluid circuit of the system. The reservoir 900 includes a container 902 that defines a cavity configured to hold fluid. The container 902 can 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, among others. In other embodiments, the container 902 can be made of a semi-rigid or rigid material such as, but not limited to, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene (PP), etc. In some embodiments, the container 902 can be fully translucent, fully opaque, or a combination thereof.

[0116] The container 902 can be sized and shaped to hold a volume of fluid. In some cases, the fluid volume may be approximately equal to 1 liter (e.g., the typical volume of a water bottle provided during a medical procedure). In other embodiments, the container 902 can have a volume greater than 1 liter. In other embodiments, the container 902 can have a volume less than 1 liter. It is contemplated that when the volume of the container 902 is less than 1 liter, the container 902 can be coupled to a fluid source during a procedure, such as, but not limited to, one or more water bottles (not explicitly shown). Although the container 902 is shown as having a generally rectangular prism shape, the container 902 can also take other forms as needed. It is also contemplated that the reservoir 900 can be provided as a manifold configured to dock with another reservoir to provide a means for refilling an additional reservoir.

[0117] The reservoir 900 can also include a plurality of ports 904a, 904b, 904c, each having a removable cap or plug (not explicitly shown). Although the reservoir 900 is shown as including three ports 904a-c, the reservoir 900 can also include fewer than three or more than three ports 904a-c as needed. The cap can be configured to form a fluid-tight seal with the ports 904a-c. The cap can be configured to threadedly engage the ports 904a-c, form a friction fit with the ports 904a-c, form a snap fit with the ports 904a-c, or otherwise releasably engage the ports 904a-c. In some embodiments, the cap can be a self-sealing one-way valve. In other embodiments, the cap can be formed from a self-healing material. For example, a needle can be used to pierce the self-healing material, and once the needle is removed, the hole formed by the needle will be sealed without user intervention. Portions of the ports 904a-c can extend into the container 902. The removable cap can be removed to place a fluid source in selective fluid communication with the container 902 and allow fluid to be poured into the container 902 through the cavities of the ports 904a-c.

[0118] The reservoir 900 may be connected in fluid communication with a piping manifold (not explicitly shown) via a shared gas supply / replacement gas supply configuration (or gas supply piping) 906 and a lens cleaning supply / flushing supply piping 908. The shared gas supply piping 906 extends from a second end external to the reservoir 900 through a reservoir opening 910 in the top 912 of the container 902. The shared gas supply piping 906 may terminate within the reservoir gap, at or below the opening 910, but does not extend into the remaining fluid within the container 902. However, in some cases, the gas supply piping 906 may extend into the fluid. For example, the opening 910 may be located at the bottom or side of the container 902 such that the shared gas supply piping 906 terminates within the fluid, where gas bubbles through the fluid to pressurize the container 902. A cavity extends through the gas supply piping 906 for receiving the flow of air and / or gas therethrough. The cavity of the gas supply piping 906 is operably in fluid communication with the top 912 of the reservoir 900.

[0119] The water supply piping 908 extends from a second end external to the reservoir 900 through a reservoir opening 914 and thus terminates at a first end within or substantially within the remaining fluid at the bottom 916 of the container 902. A cavity extends through the water supply piping 908 for receiving the flow of fluid therethrough. The cavity of the lens cleaning supply / flushing supply piping 908 is selectively operably in fluid communication with the bottom of the container 902. In the illustrated embodiment, the gas supply piping 906 and the water supply piping 908 may enter / leave the container 902 through separate openings 910, 914. However, this is not necessary. For example, the gas supply piping 906 and the water supply piping 908 may be coaxially arranged and enter the container 902 through a common opening. The opening may include a grommet or heat seal configured to seal the container 902 around the piping 906, 908 in a fluid - and pressure - impervious manner. In other embodiments, a manifold may be used to couple the piping 906, 908 to the reservoir 900 in a fluid - impervious manner.

[0120] A portion of the gas supply conduit 906 and a portion of the lens cleaning supply conduit 908 may be connected to the endoscope in fluid communication at the gas / lens cleaning connector at the connector portion 265 of the umbilical cord. Within the connector portion 265, the gas supply conduit 906 is connected in fluid communication with a gas pump (not explicitly shown) and a gas supply line (not explicitly shown), and the lens cleaning supply conduit 908 is connected in fluid communication with a lens cleaning supply line (not explicitly shown). In some examples, the gas supply conduit 906 may include a manifold to fluidly couple portions of the gas supply conduit 906. Similarly, the lens cleaning supply conduit 908 may include a manifold to fluidly couple portions of the lens cleaning supply conduit to a shared lens cleaning / irrigation (or water) supply conduit 900. Although not explicitly shown, an irrigation supply conduit may be coupled to the manifold, if provided, to supply irrigation fluid from the reservoir 900. In other cases, a separate irrigation supply tube may be provided.

[0121] It is contemplated that the reservoir 900 may be filled and refilled as needed by removing the cap and coupling a water source to the ports 904a-c. It is contemplated that the reservoir 900 may be inverted (relative to the orientation shown) to allow a water bottle to be fixed to the reservoir 900, where the water bottle is in an upright orientation (to limit spillage). In some embodiments, the ports 904a-c may include internal threads 918a, 918b, 918c or other coupling features configured to engage mating external threads or other coupling features on the water source. Once the water bottle is coupled to the reservoir 900, the reservoir 900 may be returned to its original configuration (e.g., the ports 904a-c facing upward) to allow gravity to draw water from the water bottle into the cavity of the reservoir 900. The reservoir 900 may be refilled during or between procedures as needed. As needed, the water may be sterile or non-sterile. For example, sterile water may be used for therapeutic procedures, while non-sterile water may be used for diagnostic procedures. It is contemplated that refilling the reservoir 900 with sterile or non-sterile water may create greater flexibility and reduce the need to store as much sterile water. Additionally, refilling the reservoir 900 via the ports 904a-c and the removable cap may also eliminate the need to disconnect the reservoir 900 from the conduits 906, 908 throughout the day, thereby eliminating or greatly reducing the likelihood of cross-contamination by eliminating the need to replace the water container.

[0122] In some embodiments, the water bottle can remain coupled to the reservoir 900 during use of the endoscope. For example, the container 902 does not necessarily need to store water for use during the procedure. Instead, the container 902 can serve to transfer water from the water bottle to the endoscope. It is also contemplated that not all of the ports 904a-c will have a water bottle coupled thereto. For example, two ports 904a, 904b can be coupled to the water bottle while the third port 904c is capped. This is merely an example and other port combinations or only a single port can be utilized as needed.

[0123] Figure 10 FIG. depicts a perspective view of another illustrative refillable fluid reservoir system 1000. The reservoir system 1000 can be configured for use in an endoscope system and includes components similar to those of the endoscope and endoscope system described with respect to Figures 1 to 4 However, not all features may be described or shown herein if they are not relevant to the fluid circuit of the system. The reservoir system 1000 includes a first container 1002 that defines a cavity configured to hold fluid; and a second container 1004 that defines a cavity configured to hold fluid. In some embodiments, the first container 1002 can be used for insufflation and lens cleaning while the second container 1004 can be used for irrigation.

[0124] The first container 1002 and / or the second container 1004 can 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 combinations thereof, etc. In other embodiments, the first and / or second container 1002, 1004 can be made of a semi-rigid or rigid material such as, but not limited to, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene (PP), etc. In some embodiments, the first and / or second container 1002, 1004 can be completely translucent, completely opaque, or a combination thereof.

[0125] The first and second containers 1002, 1004 can be sized and shaped to hold a volume of fluid. In some cases, the fluid volume may be approximately equal to 1 liter (e.g., the typical volume of a water bottle provided in a medical procedure). In other embodiments, the first and / or second container 1002, 1004 can have a volume greater than 1 liter. In other embodiments, the first and / or second container 1002, 1004 can have a volume less than 1 liter. Although the first and / or second container 1002, 1004 can take any desired shape such as, but not limited to, cylindrical, rectangular prism, flexible bag, etc.

[0126] The first and / or second containers 1002, 1004 may each be fluidly coupled to a water storage chamber 1006. The water storage chamber 1006 may be configured to store an excess of water, which may be used to fill or supply the first and / or second containers 1002, 1004 with water when the water in the first and / or second containers is depleted during an endoscopic procedure. It is contemplated that water may flow from the water storage chamber 1006 into the first and / or second containers 1002, 1004 (as long as there is water in the water storage chamber 1006) without user intervention, and water may be drained from the respective containers 1002, 1004. The water storage chamber 1006 may include an optional partition 1042 that is positioned within a chamber 1018 of the water storage chamber 1006 and is configured to divide the water storage chamber 1006 into a first sub-chamber 1018a and a second sub-chamber 1018b. The first sub-chamber 1018a and the second sub-chamber 1018b may be fluidly isolated from each other.

[0127] The first container 1002 may be coupled to the water storage chamber 1006 at a first connection point 1008 that defines a through-hole, and the second container 1004 may be coupled to the water storage chamber 1006 at a second connection point 1010 that defines a through-hole. In some embodiments, the first and / or second containers 1002, 1004 may be threadedly engaged with the water storage chamber 1006 at the connection points 1008, 1010. In other embodiments, the first and / or second containers 1002, 1004 may form a snap-fit or friction-fit with the water storage chamber 1006. The fixing method for coupling the first and / or second containers 1002, 1004 to the water storage chamber 1006 may be selected to form a fluid seal between the first and second containers 1002, 1004 and the water storage chamber 1006. Although not explicitly shown, gaskets, O-rings, or other sealing members may be positioned between the first and second containers 1002, 1004 and the water storage chamber 1006 to assist in forming a fluid-tight seal. Fluid may flow along a first fluid path 1012 from the first sub-chamber 1018a of the water storage chamber 1006 to the interior 1014 of the first container 1002. Similarly, fluid may flow along a second fluid path 1020 from the second sub-chamber 1018b of the water storage chamber 1006 to the interior 1016 of the second container 1004. When the partition 1042 is not included, fluid may flow from the common chamber to the first container 1002 or the second container.

[0128] The water storage chamber 1006 may include a first port 1022a for receiving water flow into a first sub-chamber 1018a of the water storage chamber 1006 and a second port 1022b for receiving water flow into a second sub-chamber 1018b of the water storage chamber 1006. The ports 1022a-b may each include a removable seal 1024a, 1024b, such as, but not limited to, a cap, plug, lid, etc. Since the first fluid path 1012 allows air / gas from the first container 1002 to enter at least a portion of the water storage chamber 1006, the seals 1024a-b may be removably coupled to the ports 1022a-b in a manner that allows the seals 1024a-b to remain coupled to the ports 1022a-b when the first container 1002 is pressurized for lens cleaning. In some embodiments, such as when the partition 1042 is not included, the water storage chamber 1006 may include only a single port and seal.

[0129] The first container 1002 may be connected in fluid communication with the lumen of the gas supply tube 1026 and the lumen of the water supply tube 1028. The gas supply tube 1026 and the water supply tube 1028 may be provided in a shared length of piping. The gas supply tube 1026 and the water supply tube 1028 may be coaxially arranged, where the water supply tube 1028 extends within and through a portion of the length of the gas supply tube 1026. However, this is not required. In some cases, the gas supply tube 1026 and the water supply tube 1028 may extend side by side. The gas supply piping 1026 extends from a second end to a first end adjacent to an opening 1030 in the first container 1002. In use, the second end of the gas supply piping 1026 may be located outside the first container 1002. A lumen extends through the gas supply tube 1026 for receiving the flow of air and / or gas therethrough. The lumen of the gas supply tube 1026 is in fluid communication with the first container 1002. In the illustrated embodiment, the first end of the gas supply piping 1026 is selectively in fluid communication with the top 1030 of the first container 1002. In other embodiments, the gas supply piping 1026 may be connected in other regions of the first container 1002, such as, but not limited to, the bottom or side. The water supply piping 1028 extends from a second end to a first end that extends through the opening 1030 and into the interior of the first container 1002. In use, the second end of the water supply piping 1028 may be located outside the first container 1002. A lumen extends through the water supply tube 1028 for receiving the flow of fluid therethrough. The second ends of the gas supply tube 1026 and the water supply tube 1028 may be connected to a manifold (if provided) or a connector portion 265 of the endoscope system. The water supply tube 1028 is selectively in fluid communication with the bottom of the first container 1002.

[0130] In some embodiments, the second container 1004 may be connected to the lumen of the lavage supply tube 1032 in fluid communication. The lavage supply tubing 1032 extends from a second end to a first end, and the first end extends through the opening 1034 and into the interior 1016 of the second container 1004. In use, the second end of the lavage supply tubing 1032 may be located outside the second container 1004. The lumen extends through the lavage supply tube 1032 for receiving fluid flow therethrough. In some cases, the lavage supply tube 1032 may be coupled to a manifold, if provided. The first end of the lavage supply tube 1032 is selectively in fluid communication with the bottom of the second container 1004.

[0131] The second ends of the gas supply tubing 1026 and the lens cleaning supply tubing 1028 may be connected to the endoscope in fluid communication at a gas / lens cleaning connector on the connector portion 265 of the umbilical tube 260. Within the connector portion 265, the gas supply tubing 1026 is connected in fluid communication with a gas pump (not explicitly shown) and a gas supply line (not explicitly shown), and the lens cleaning supply tubing 1028 is connected in fluid communication with a lens cleaning supply line (not explicitly shown). The lavage tubing 1032 is connected in fluid communication with a lavage supply line 255c via a lavage pump 315.

[0132] The gas supply tubing 1026, the lens cleaning supply tubing 1028, and the lavage tubing 1032 may be pre-loaded with a water storage chamber 1006. For example, the gas supply tubing 1026 and the lens cleaning supply tubing 1028 may be slidably disposed within a first opening 1036 formed in the water storage chamber 1006. The first opening 1036 may generally be aligned with the first connection point 1008. Once the first container 1002 is coupled to the water storage chamber 1006, the gas supply tubing 1026 and the lens cleaning supply tubing 1028 may be pushed downward into the interior 1014 of the first container 1002. The first opening 1036 may include a seal or gasket to provide a pressure-tight seal around the gas supply tubing 1026. Similarly, the lavage tubing 1032 may be slidably disposed within a second opening 1038 formed in the water storage chamber 1006. The second opening 1038 may generally be aligned with the second connection point 1010. Once the second container 1004 is coupled to the water storage chamber 1006, the lavage tubing 1032 may be pushed downward into the interior 1016 of the second container 1004. The second opening 1038 may include a seal or gasket to provide a pressure-tight seal around the lavage tubing 1032. However, in other embodiments, the gas supply tubing 1026, the lens cleaning supply tubing 1028, and / or the lavage tubing 1032 may bypass the water storage chamber 1006 and be coupled to the first container 1002 and / or the second container 1004 at alternative locations.

[0133] The water storage chamber 1006 may also include one or more supports 1044a, 1044b attached thereto. The supports 1044a-b may be configured to engage one or more hooks to allow the reservoir system 1000 to be suspended or lifted off the ground. For example, the supports 1044a-b may engage hooks on an IV pole. The supports 1044a-b may be loops, hooks, clasps, etc. Although the supports 1044a-b are shown as being located near the upper end of the water storage chamber 1006, it is contemplated that the supports 1044a-b may also be located at other positions, such as, but not limited to, the back side of the water storage chamber 1006. Additionally, although the illustrated embodiment includes two supports 1044a-b, fewer than two or more than two supports may be provided as needed.

[0134] It is contemplated that the reservoir system 1000 may be filled and refilled as needed. The first and second sub-chambers 1018a-b may be filled individually as needed, or substantially simultaneously by removing one or both of the seals 1024a-b and coupling a water source to one or both of the ports 1022a-b. In some embodiments, the ports 1022a-b may include internal threads or other coupling features configured to engage mating external threads, or other coupling features on the water source. In other embodiments, the ports 1022a-b may be basins configured to receive a flow of water from a water source. For example, water may be poured from a water source into the ports 1022a-b. In some cases, more than one water bottle may be used to fill the first and / or second sub-chambers 1018a-b.

[0135] Figure 11 is a flow chart of an illustrative method 1100 for filling a refillable water reservoir. The method may be configured for use in an endoscopic system and includes components similar to those of the endoscope and endoscopic system described with respect to Figures 1 to 4 However, not all features may be described or shown herein if they are not relevant to the fluid circuit of the system. It is contemplated that existing components in the endoscopic system 200 may be used to refill the water reservoir, such as water reservoirs 270, 305, 405. When the endoscope 100 is not in use, the user may disconnect one end of the water supply tubing from the connector portion 265, which is in fluid communication with the endoscope 100, as shown at block 1102. The water supply tubing may be the lens cleaning tubing 245c or the irrigation supply tubing 325c. Then, the disconnected end of the water supply tubing may be positioned within a water source (e.g., a water bottle) in fluid communication with the water therein, as shown at block 1104. Then, the flow rate of the water supply tubing and / or pump may be adjusted, as shown at block 1106. The adjustment may vary depending on whether the lens cleaning tubing 245c or the irrigation supply tubing 325c is being used.

[0136] When the lens cleaning pipe 245c is used, the middle portion of the lens cleaning pipe 245c can be positioned within the pump. In some cases, the pump can be the lavage pump 315. In other embodiments, a separate pump, such as a peristaltic pump, can be provided to pump water from a water source to the water reservoirs 270, 305, 405. Once the lens cleaning pipe 245c is positioned within the pump, the flow direction and / or speed of the pump can be adjusted. For example, the flow direction through the lens cleaning pipe during refilling of the water reservoirs 245, 270, 305, 405 is opposite to the flow direction during use of the endoscope 100.

[0137] The lavage supply pipe 325c can include an outflow check valve or a one-way valve to prevent water from flowing back into the water reservoir. If such a valve is provided, the endoscope system 200 can include a bypass that allows reverse flow of water through the lavage supply pipe 325c because the flow direction through the lavage supply pipe 325c during refilling of the water reservoirs 305, 405 is opposite to the flow direction during use of the endoscope 100. Since the lavage supply pipe 325c has already been assembled with the lavage pump 315, it may not be necessary to adjust the middle portion of the lavage supply pipe 325c. The direction of the pump 315 can be reversed to reverse the fluid flow through the lavage supply pipe 325c, and the speed of the pump 315 can be adjusted.

[0138] Once the water supply pipe is positioned and the pump is adjusted, the water reservoirs 270, 305, 405 can be filled, as shown at block 1108. This can include starting or activating the pump to pump water from the water bottle through the water supply pipe to the reservoir. The pump can be deactivated when the water reservoirs 270, 305, 405 are full or when the water source is empty. In some cases, more than one water bottle may be required to fill the water reservoirs 270, 305, 405. In such cases, when the current water source is empty, the pump can be stopped, one end of the water supply pipe can be transferred to a new or fresh water source, and the pump can be restarted. This can be repeated with as many water sources or water bottles as required to fill the water reservoirs 270, 305, 405.

[0139] Once the water reservoirs 270, 305, 405 are full, the water supply pipe can return to its original configuration, as shown at block 1110. If the lens cleaning pipe 245c is used, the lens cleaning pipe 245c can be removed from the pump. If the lavage supply pipe 325c is used, the one-way valve bypass can be reversed to again prevent water from flowing back into the water reservoir. The lavage pump 315 can return to its original flow direction and the speed can be adjusted to provide the desired flow rate for the endoscopic procedure. Finally, one end of the water supply pipe can be removed from the water source and coupled to the connector portion 265, as shown at block 1112.

[0140] As should be understood, the lengths of the irrigation, lens cleaning, gas supply, and alternative gas supply piping can have any suitable dimensions (e.g., diameters). Additionally, the dimensions (e.g., diameters) of the piping can vary depending on the application. In one non-limiting embodiment, the irrigation supply piping can have an inner diameter of approximately 6.5 mm and an outer diameter of 9.7 mm. The lens cleaning supply piping can have an inner diameter of approximately 5 mm and an outer diameter of 8 mm. The gas supply piping can have an inner diameter of approximately 2 mm and an outer diameter of 3.5 mm. The alternative gas supply piping can have an inner diameter of approximately 5 mm and an outer diameter of 8 mm.

[0141] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the disclosed apparatus without departing from the scope of the invention. Other embodiments of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of this specification and the practice of the invention disclosed herein. It is intended that this specification and the examples be considered only as exemplary, with the true scope and spirit of the invention being indicated by the following claims.

[0142] All of the devices and methods discussed herein are examples of devices and / or methods implemented in accordance with one or more principles of the invention. These examples are not the only ways of implementing these principles, but are merely examples. Thus, references to elements or structures or features in the drawings must be understood as references to examples of embodiments of the invention, and should not be construed as limiting the invention to the specific elements, structures, or features shown. Other examples of ways of implementing the disclosed principles will occur to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading this disclosure.

[0143] In the foregoing description and the following claims, the following will be understood. As used herein, the phrases "at least one," "one or more," and "and / or" are open-ended expressions that are both conjunctive and disjunctive in operation. As used herein, the term "a" or "an" entity means one or more of that entity. Thus, the terms "a" (or "an"), "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 the like) are for identification purposes only to assist the reader in understanding the invention, and / or to distinguish the regions of associated elements from one another, and do not limit the associated elements, particularly not the position, orientation, or use of the invention. Unless otherwise indicated, connection references (e.g., attached, coupled, connected, and joined) will be construed broadly and may include intermediate members between element assemblies and relative movement between elements. In this regard, connection references do not necessarily imply that two elements are directly connected and in a fixed relationship with each other. Identification references (e.g., primary, secondary, first, second, third, fourth, etc.) are not intended to imply importance or priority, but rather to distinguish one feature from another.

[0144] The foregoing discussion has been presented for purposes of illustration and description, and is not intended to limit the invention to the form disclosed herein. It should be understood that various additions, modifications, and substitutions can be made to the embodiments disclosed herein without departing from the concept, spirit, and scope of the invention. In particular, for those skilled in the art, the principles of the invention can be embodied in other forms, structures, arrangements, proportions, and with other elements, materials, and components without departing from its concept, spirit, or scope or characteristics. For example, for the sake of simplicity, various features of the invention are combined together in one or more aspects, embodiments, or configurations. However, it should be understood that the various features of certain aspects, embodiments, or configurations of the invention can be combined in alternative aspects, embodiments, or configurations. Those skilled in the art will understand that the invention can be used with many modifications to the structures, arrangements, proportions, materials, components, and others used in the practice of the invention, which are particularly adapted to specific environments and operational requirements without departing from the principles of the invention. For example, elements shown as integrally formed can be composed of multiple parts or elements shown as multiple parts that can be integrally formed, the operation of the elements can be reversed or otherwise varied, the size or dimensions of the elements can be changed, and the features and components of various embodiments can be selectively combined. Thus, the presently disclosed embodiments should be considered illustrative in all respects and not restrictive, and the scope of the claimed invention is pointed out by the appended claims and is not limited to the foregoing description.

[0145] The following claims are hereby incorporated by reference into the detailed description, where each claim stands on its own as a separate embodiment of the invention. In the claims, the term "comprising" does not exclude the presence of other elements or steps. Also, although listed separately, a plurality of devices, elements or method steps may be implemented, for example, by a single unit or processor. Additionally, although individual features may be included in different claims, these features may advantageously be combined, and inclusion in different claims does not imply that the combination is infeasible and / or advantageous. Further, singular reference does not exclude plural. The terms "a", "an", "first", "second", etc. do not exclude a plurality. Reference signs in the claims are provided merely as illustrative examples for clarification and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims in any way.

Claims

1. A reservoir that is arranged and configured to be coupled to an endoscope for use in endoscopic surgery, the reservoir comprises: a first container configured to contain a fluid therein, the first container having a first water outlet and a gas inlet; a second container configured to contain a fluid therein, the second container having a second water outlet; and a chamber in fluid communication with the first container and the second container, the chamber including one or more ports, wherein the one or more ports are configured to selectively fluidly couple the chamber with an external water source.

2. The reservoir according to claim 1, wherein the first container is threadedly engaged with the chamber.

3. The reservoir according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the second container is threadedly engaged with the chamber.

4. The reservoir according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprises: a 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 first container, and the second end of the water supply tube is positioned outside the chamber and the first container; and a gas supply tube including a first end, a second end, and a second cavity extending therethrough, wherein the second cavity is operably in fluid communication with the first container, and the second end of the gas supply tube is positioned outside the chamber and the first container.

5. The reservoir according to claim 4, wherein the first cavity extends through the chamber.

6. The reservoir according to any one of claims 4 to 5, wherein the second cavity extends through the chamber.

7. The reservoir according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprises: a lavage supply tube including a first end, a second end, and a lavage cavity extending therethrough, wherein the lavage cavity is in fluid communication with the second container, and the second end of the lavage supply tube is positioned outside the chamber and the second container.

8. The reservoir according to claim 7, wherein the lavage cavity extends through the chamber.

9. The reservoir according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising one or more supports coupled to the chamber, the one or more supports being configured to engage one or more hooks.

10. The reservoir according to any one of claims 1 to 9, further comprising a partition positioned within the chamber, the partition dividing the chamber into a first sub-chamber and a second sub-chamber.

11. The reservoir according to claim 10, wherein the partition is configured to fluidly isolate the first sub-chamber and the second sub-chamber.

12. The reservoir according to any one of claims 10 to 11, wherein the one or more ports are configured to selectively fluidly couple the first sub-chamber or the second sub-chamber with the external water source.

13. The reservoir according to claim 12, wherein the one or more ports include a first port in fluid communication with the first sub-chamber and a second port in fluid communication with the second sub-chamber.

14. The reservoir according to any one of claims 10 to 13, wherein the first sub-chamber is in fluid communication with the first container, and the second sub-chamber is in fluid communication with the second container.

15. The reservoir according to any one of claims 1 to 14, further comprising one or more removable seals removably coupled to the one or more ports.

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