Imaging element cleaning device

Abstract

The invention relates to an imaging element cleaning device. Embodiments of the present invention relate to providing an efficient and reliable method for cleaning exposed surfaces of imaging elements (e.g., lenses) of devices including, but not limited to, medical imaging instruments such as endoscopes and laparoscopes, and the like. In the case of a medical imaging instrument, a cleaning device configured according to an embodiment of the present invention can perform cleaning when the distal end portion of the endoscope is in vivo. Such devices have incorporated therein cleaning members (e.g., elastomeric polymeric wipes, sponges, absorbent pads, or the like) for cleaning exposed surfaces of imaging elements. The device is preferably adapted to be mounted on an imaging device, but may also be entirely or partially integral with one or more components of the imaging device or system, as a component of the imaging device or system.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the application with the filing date of August 14, 2020, application number 202080069826.7, and invention title "Imaging Element Cleaning Apparatus".

[0002] Cross - reference to related applications

[0003] This PCT application claims priority to the following patent applications: co - pending U.S. non - provisional patent application Ser. No. 16 / 593,150, filed on October 4, 2019, titled "IMAGING ELEMENT CLEANING APPARATUS"; co - pending U.S. non - provisional patent application Ser. No. 16 / 593,204, filed on October 4, 2019, titled "IMAGING ELEMENT CLEANING APPARATUS WITH STRUCTURE - MANDATED CLEANING MEMBER MOTION CONTROL"; and co - pending U.S. non - provisional patent application Ser. No. 16 / 593,244, filed on October 4, 2019, titled "IMAGING ELEMENT CLEANING APPARATUS", all of which have the same common applicant and are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0004] Field of the disclosure

[0005] The present disclosure generally relates to the cleaning of devices for visualizing structures at inaccessible locations using remote imaging elements, and more particularly, to an imaging element cleaning apparatus for cleaning an exposed surface of an imaging element when the exposed surface is located within an inaccessible location (such as the in - vivo environment of a human or animal). Background

[0007] Surgical procedures that use in - vivo visualization of a target surgical site are a well - known form of inaccessible surgical sites. Examples of such procedures include, but are not limited to, endoscopic surgery, laparoscopic surgery, thoracoscopic surgery, and the like. These surgical procedures all use surgical instruments with integrated visualization devices for providing in - vivo visualization of the target surgical site within the patient's surgical space. Although surgical instruments are often referred to in the context of specific types of surgical procedures (e.g., endoscopes for endoscopic surgery, laparoscopes for laparoscopic surgery, and similar instruments), these surgical instruments are generally referred to herein as "endoscopes".

[0008] As Figure 1As shown, the endoscope 1 for these surgical procedures is characterized by having a user interface portion 5 and an extension portion 10, and the extension portion 10 is connected to the user interface portion 5 at its proximal end 15. Endoscopes for endoscopic surgery generally have an extension portion that is substantially flexible, while endoscopes for other types of surgical procedures (e.g., for laparoscopic surgery, as Figure 1 shown) generally have an extension portion 10 that is substantially rigid. The extension portion 10 has an imaging element 20 such as a lens at its distal portion 25. The imaging element 20 may have an exposed surface, typically the exposed surface is substantially flush with or defines the end face of the extension portion 10. The imaging element 20 is connected to an optical fiber or other image transmission element inside the endoscope. The optical fiber or other image transmission element extends along the length of the extension portion 10 and terminates at an eyepiece 30 on the user interface portion 5. The eyepiece 30 enables the imaging element 20 to be connected to a visualization device (e.g., a camera connected to a visual display console), through which the surgical personnel can view the target surgical site.

[0009] During a surgical procedure using an endoscope, the exposed surface of the imaging element of the endoscope may be damaged due to one or more in-vivo conditions. Examples of these conditions include the exposed surface of the imaging element becoming unclear due to moisture in the surgical space, or the exposed surface of the imaging element may be soiled by blood or other body fluids or tissues (e.g., interstitial fluid, adipose tissue, or the like). Currently, there are mainly two different endoscope cleaning methods that are commonly used. The first of these cleaning methods is to remove the endoscope from the body, wipe the imaging element clean, and re-insert the endoscope into the body. Although this method is effective, it is time-consuming and results in the surgeon losing visibility of the surgical site, which may be considered dangerous because the surgical instruments usually remain in the body. This method also exposes the patient to a higher risk of infection. The second of these cleaning methods is to wipe the exposed surface of the imaging element on a nearby organ or tissue. Although the endoscope remains in the body, it takes less time to clean and does not potentially damage the surgical site, this method is generally not effective because the "cleaned" surface does not provide effective cleaning performance or merely further contaminates the exposed surface of the imaging element. In addition, when using any of these cleaning methods, the surgeon must spend time repositioning the endoscope to the surgical site after cleaning the imaging element.

[0010] At least, current methods for cleaning the exposed surface of an imaging element can be a hindrance and annoyance to a surgeon and may provide poor cleaning performance. In addition, the act of cleaning the exposed surface of the imaging element increases the length of time required for a surgical procedure, thereby reducing the amount of operating room (OR) time available in a hospital. Due to the wasted time, as well as possible surgical complications and postoperative infection rates, it is also expensive for hospitals, patients, and insurance companies. In addition, as patients undergo longer surgeries, the time they are under anesthesia also increases. It has been shown that an increase in anesthesia time is associated with an increase in the incidence of surgical complications and postoperative infection rates. Thus, the increased time associated with cleaning the exposed surface of an imaging element in current commonly used methods is not only a hindrance but potentially medically and economically costly.

[0011] Accordingly, in order to maintain visualization of a desired target surgical site, it is desirable for the exposed surface of the imaging element of a device to be cleaned while the distal portion of the device remains within a concealed surgical site (e.g., an endoscope within a living body). Known methods and devices designed to provide cleaning of the surface of such a device while the surface of the device remains within a concealed surgical site (e.g., an endoscope within a living body) have one or more drawbacks (e.g., lack of efficacy, interference with the surgical procedure, requiring significant changes to surgical techniques that are a priority for a surgeon, etc.). Thus, an effective, efficient, simple, and reliable method for allowing the exposed surface of the imaging element of a device (e.g., an endoscope) to be cleaned while the distal portion of the device remains within a concealed surgical site (e.g., within a living body) would be advantageous, desirable, and useful.

[0012] Overview of the Present Disclosure

[0013] Embodiments of the present invention relate to providing an effective and reliable method for allowing the exposed surface of an imaging element (e.g., a lens) of a device (e.g., an endoscope) to be cleaned while the distal portion of the device is located within a concealed surgical site (e.g., within a living body). More specifically, one or more embodiments of the present invention provide a device for use with an endoscope and in one or more types of surgical procedures (e.g., endoscopic surgery, laparoscopic surgery, thoracoscopic surgery, and the like), the device including a cleaning member (e.g., an elastomeric polymer wiper, sponge, absorbent pad, or the like) for cleaning the exposed surface of the imaging element of the device while the imaging element is within a concealed surgical site. The device is preferably adapted to mount the device thereon but may also be integrally formed, in whole or in part, with one or more components of the device (e.g., a robotic arm configured to carry, manipulate, and maneuver the endoscope).

[0014] A cleaning device according to one or more embodiments of the present invention can be configured to be used with a commercially available endoscope. The dimensions of such an endoscope are either published or publicly determinable. Since the dimensions of the target endoscope, which is intended to be used with the cleaning device according to one or more embodiments of the present invention, are known, the cleaning device configured according to one or more embodiments of the present invention can be designed to be device-specific. Thus, engaging a device such as an endoscope on the intended device of these device-specific cleaning devices preferably results in the device having a seated configuration on the cleaning device, which exhibits a high level of dimensional accuracy between the device and the cleaning device.

[0015] Despite exhibiting such a high level of dimensional accuracy, both the device and the cleaning device have their respective manufacturing tolerances, which may affect the efficiency, effectiveness, and predictability of the cleaning member in cleaning the imaging element. For example, given that the cleaning device configured according to an embodiment of the present invention relies on contact with the portion of the device that includes the imaging element (e.g., direct surface contact between the imaging element and the cleaning member), these manufacturing tolerances may affect the force and / or degree of deflection exhibited by the cleaning member when in contact with the imaging element, thereby affecting the cleaning performance. Similarly, in some cases (e.g., the speed rate at which the cleaning member contacts the imaging element, the direction of movement of the cleaning member, etc.), other considerations can also affect the force and / or degree of deflection exhibited by the cleaning member when in contact with the imaging element.

[0016] Advantageously, a cleaning device configured according to an embodiment of the present invention can include a mechanism for selectively adjusting the axial position of the cleaning member, i.e., an axial position regulator. The axial position of the cleaning member corresponds to the distal portion of the device (e.g., the distal portion of the extended portion of the endoscope). In most cases, the axial position will correspond to the face of the imaging element exposed at the end face of the extended portion. By this adjustment of the axial position of the cleaning member, the user can vary the degree of force and / or deflection exhibited by the cleaning member when in contact with the end portion of the endoscope and / or the imaging element, thereby optimizing the cleaning function.

[0017] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, an in vivo endoscope cleaning device includes a base, a cleaning member, and a cleaning member controller. The base is adapted to mount an endoscope thereon. When the endoscope is mounted on the base, the cleaning member is attached to the base at a position adjacent to the imaging element of the endoscope. The cleaning member controller is coupled between the base and the cleaning member and is configured to selectively move the cleaning member relative to the base. The cleaning member controller includes a plurality of cleaning member control mechanisms. When the endoscope is mounted on the base, at least one of the cleaning member control mechanisms moves the cleaning member between a retracted position and a use position relative to a position adjacent to the imaging element of the endoscope. When the endoscope is mounted on the base, at least one of the cleaning member control mechanisms moves the cleaning member in the use position into contact with or out of contact with the imaging element. At least one of the cleaning member control mechanisms adjusts the level of the contact force applied to the imaging element when the cleaning member is in contact with the imaging element.

[0018] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, an in vivo endoscope cleaning device includes an elongate body, a cleaning member, a user interface body, a coupling element, an axial position adjuster, and a cleaning member control mechanism. The elongate body includes a central passage adapted to receive an extension portion of an endoscope therein. A distal portion of the elongate body has an opening therein through which an imaging element attached to the extension portion of the endoscope can be accessed when the extension portion of the endoscope is in a deployed configuration within the central passage of the elongate body. The cleaning member is adjacent to the opening at the distal portion of the elongate body. The user interface body is connected to a proximal end of the elongate body. The coupling element is fixedly attached to the cleaning member at a distal portion of the coupling element. The cleaning member control mechanism is movably mounted on the user interface body. The axial position adjuster is movably attached to the cleaning member control structure and is fixedly attached to a proximal end of the coupling element. Movement of the axial position adjuster adjusts the distance between the cleaning member control mechanism and the cleaning member. A first cleaning member manipulation mode of the cleaning member control mechanism enables the cleaning member to move between a retracted position and a use position relative to the distal portion of the elongate body. When the cleaning member is in the use position, a second cleaning member manipulation mode of the cleaning member control mechanism enables the cleaning member to move into contact with or out of contact with the imaging element.

[0019] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, a cleaning member controller for an endoscopic cleaning device is provided. The endoscopic cleaning device has a base and a cleaning member attached to the base. The base is adapted to mount the endoscope thereon in a placement position. The cleaning member controller includes a first cleaning member control mechanism and a second cleaning member control mechanism. The first cleaning member control mechanism is attached to the base. The first cleaning member control mechanism has a plurality of cleaning member manipulation modes. When the endoscope is mounted on the base, the first manipulation mode among the cleaning member manipulation modes moves the cleaning member between a retracted position and a use position relative to the position adjacent to the imaging element of the endoscope. When the endoscope is mounted on the base, the second manipulation mode among the cleaning member manipulation modes moves the cleaning member in the use position into contact with and out of contact with the imaging element. The second cleaning member control mechanism has a part movably attached to a part of the first cleaning member control mechanism and a part fixedly attached to the cleaning member. The movement of the user interface part of the second cleaning member control mechanism relative to the first cleaning member control mechanism changes the distance between the cleaning member and the first cleaning member control mechanism to adjust the level of the contact force applied to the imaging element when the cleaning member is in contact with the imaging element.

[0020] An object of one or more embodiments of the present invention is to provide a cleaning member that is at least one of an elastic wiper, a semi-rigid wiper, an absorbent pad, and a sponge.

[0021] An object of one or more embodiments of the present invention is to provide a single control mechanism that provides multiple cleaning member movement modes.

[0022] An object of one or more embodiments of the present invention is to provide a selective adjustment of the axial position of the cleaning member.

[0023] An object of one or more embodiments of the present invention is to provide such axial distance adjustability through a control device that is integrated with a single control mechanism providing multiple cleaning member movement modes.

[0024] An object of one or more embodiments of the present invention is to provide a position indicating structure that provides a user end indication when the distance of the axial displacement of the cleaning member from the end position in the use position to the retracted position is a distance defined by the position indicating structure.

[0025] An object of one or more embodiments of the present invention is that such user end indication includes at least one of a tactile indication and an auditory indication.

[0026] This application also relates to the following aspects:

[0027] 1) An in-vivo endoscopic cleaning device, comprising:

[0028] A base adapted to mount an endoscope thereon,

[0029] a cleaning member coupled to the base and positioned adjacent to an imaging element of the endoscope when the endoscope is mounted on the base; and

[0030] a cleaning member controller coupled between the base and the cleaning member for selectively moving the cleaning member relative to the base, wherein the cleaning member controller includes a first cleaning member control mechanism and a second cleaning member control mechanism, wherein the first cleaning member control mechanism is movably attached to the base to enable the cleaning member to move between a retracted position and a use position relative to a position adjacent to the imaging element of the endoscope when the endoscope is mounted on the base, wherein the first cleaning member control mechanism is movably attached to the base to enable the cleaning member to move into contact with and out of contact with the imaging element, and wherein the second cleaning member control mechanism is movably attached to the first cleaning member control mechanism to enable the position of the cleaning member relative to the first cleaning member control mechanism to be selectively adjusted.

[0031] 2) The in-vivo endoscope cleaning device according to 1), wherein:

[0032] the first cleaning member control mechanism includes a position indicating feature integral therewith; and

[0033] the base includes a matching position indicating feature integral therewith, the matching position indicating feature engaging the position indicating feature of the first cleaning member control mechanism to haptically indicate when the cleaning member has axially displaced a distance from an end position of the use position that is defined jointly by the position indicating feature of the first cleaning member control mechanism and the matching position indicating feature of the base.

[0034] 3) The in-vivo endoscope cleaning device according to 2), wherein:

[0035] the position indicating feature of the first cleaning member control mechanism includes a circumferential groove within its cylindrical extension;

[0036] the cylindrical extension is disposed within a matching channel of the base to allow axial translation of the first cleaning member control mechanism relative to the base for moving the cleaning member between the retracted position and the use position and to allow rotational translation of the first cleaning member control mechanism relative to the base for moving the cleaning member into contact with and out of contact with the imaging element; and

[0037] The matching position indicating feature of the base is forced to bias against the cylindrical extension.

[0038] 4) The in-vivo endoscope cleaning device according to 1), further comprising:

[0039] A coupling element having a distal portion and a proximal portion;

[0040] wherein the coupling element is fixedly attached to the cleaning member at the distal portion of the coupling element;

[0041] wherein the second cleaning member control mechanism includes a user interface portion and a coupling element engagement structure;

[0042] wherein the user interface portion is rotatably attached to the first cleaning member control mechanism to allow the user interface portion to rotate relative to the first cleaning member control mechanism while inhibiting unrestricted axial displacement between the user interface portion and the first cleaning member control mechanism;

[0043] wherein the coupling element engagement structure is fixedly attached to the proximal portion of the coupling element;

[0044] wherein the coupling element engagement structure is mounted on the first cleaning member control mechanism to allow axial translation of the coupling element engagement structure relative to the first cleaning member control mechanism and to inhibit unrestricted rotational movement between the coupling element engagement structure and the first cleaning member control mechanism;

[0045] wherein the coupling element engagement structure is threadedly attached to the user interface portion to axially translate the coupling element engagement structure relative to the first cleaning member control mechanism when the user interface portion rotates.

[0046] 5) The in-vivo endoscope cleaning device according to 4), wherein:

[0047] The first cleaning member control mechanism includes a position indicating feature integral therewith; and

[0048] The base includes a matching position indicating feature integral therewith, the matching position indicating feature engaging the position indicating feature of the first cleaning member control mechanism to haptically indicate when the cleaning member has axially displaced a distance from the end position of the use position that is defined by the position indicating feature of the first cleaning member control mechanism and the matching position indicating feature of the base.

[0049] 6) The in-vivo endoscope cleaning device according to 1), further comprising:

[0050] A coupling element having a distal portion and a proximal portion;

[0051] wherein the coupling element is fixedly attached to the cleaning member at the distal portion of the coupling element;

[0052] wherein the first cleaning member control mechanism is movably mounted on the base to effect the movement of the cleaning member between the retracted position and the use position and to effect the movement of the cleaning member into contact with or out of contact with the imaging element;

[0053] wherein the second cleaning member control mechanism is movably mounted on the first cleaning member control mechanism to be able to adjust the level of the contact force exerted by the cleaning member on the imaging element;

[0054] wherein the second cleaning member control mechanism includes a user interface portion and a coupling element engagement structure;

[0055] wherein the user interface portion is rotatably attached to the first cleaning member control mechanism to allow the user interface portion to rotate relative to the first cleaning member control mechanism while inhibiting unrestricted axial displacement between the user interface portion and the first cleaning member control mechanism;

[0056] wherein the coupling element engagement structure is fixedly attached to the proximal portion of the coupling element;

[0057] wherein the coupling element engagement structure is mounted on the first cleaning member control mechanism to allow axial translation of the coupling element engagement structure relative to the first cleaning member control mechanism and to inhibit unrestricted rotational movement between the coupling element engagement structure and the first cleaning member control mechanism; and

[0058] wherein the coupling element engagement structure is threadedly attached to the user interface portion to axially translate the coupling element engagement structure relative to the first cleaning member control mechanism when the user interface portion rotates.

[0059] 7) The in-vivo endoscope cleaning device according to 6), wherein:

[0060] the first cleaning member control mechanism includes a position indicating feature integral therewith; and

[0061] The base includes a mating position indicating feature integral therewith, the mating position indicating feature engaging the position indicating feature of the first cleaning member control mechanism to indicate when the cleaning member has axially displaced a distance from the end position of the use position that is defined jointly by the position indicating feature of the first cleaning member control mechanism and the mating position indicating feature of the base.

[0062] 8) The in-vivo endoscope cleaning device according to 1), wherein:

[0063] The first cleaning member control mechanism is translatably attached to the base such that the cleaning member is capable of moving between the retracted position and the use position;

[0064] The first cleaning member control mechanism is rotatably attached to the base for enabling the cleaning member to move into contact with and move out of contact with the imaging element;

[0065] The first cleaning member control mechanism is translatably attached to the base and rotatably attached to the base, including that the first cleaning member control mechanism is translatable and capable of rotating about a longitudinal axis; and

[0066] The second cleaning member control mechanism is movably attached to the first cleaning member control mechanism, including that the user interface portion of the second cleaning member control mechanism is capable of rotating about the longitudinal axis.

[0067] 9) The in-vivo endoscope cleaning device according to 8), wherein:

[0068] The first cleaning member control mechanism includes a position indicating feature integral therewith; and

[0069] The base includes a mating position indicating feature integral therewith, the mating position indicating feature engaging the position indicating feature of the first cleaning member control mechanism to haptically indicate when the cleaning member has axially displaced a distance from the end position of the use position that is defined jointly by the position indicating feature of the first cleaning member control mechanism and the mating position indicating feature of the base.

[0070] 10) The in-vivo endoscope cleaning device according to 8), further comprising:

[0071] A coupling element having a distal portion and a proximal portion;

[0072] wherein the coupling element is fixedly attached to the cleaning member at the distal portion of the coupling element;

[0073] Among them, the second cleaning member control mechanism includes a user interface portion and a coupling element engaging structure;

[0074] Among them, the user interface portion is rotatably attached to the first cleaning member control mechanism to allow the user interface portion to rotate relative to the first cleaning member control mechanism while suppressing unrestricted axial displacement between the user interface portion and the first cleaning member control mechanism;

[0075] Among them, the coupling element engaging structure is fixedly attached to the proximal portion of the coupling element;

[0076] Among them, the coupling element engaging structure is mounted on the first cleaning member control mechanism to allow the coupling element engaging structure to axially translate relative to the first cleaning member control mechanism and to suppress unrestricted rotational movement between the coupling element engaging structure and the first cleaning member control mechanism;

[0077] Among them, the coupling element engaging structure is threadedly attached to the user interface portion to axially translate the coupling element engaging structure relative to the first cleaning member control mechanism when the user interface portion rotates.

[0078] 11) The in-vivo endoscope cleaning device according to 10), wherein:

[0079] The first cleaning member control mechanism includes a position indicating feature integral therewith; and

[0080] The base includes a matching position indicating feature integral therewith, and the matching position indicating feature engages the position indicating feature of the first cleaning member control mechanism to haptically indicate when the cleaning member axially displaces from the end position of the use position by a distance jointly defined by the position indicating feature of the first cleaning member control mechanism and the matching position indicating feature of the base.

[0081] 12) The in-vivo endoscope cleaning device according to 8), further comprising:

[0082] A coupling element having a distal portion and a proximal portion;

[0083] Among them, the coupling element is fixedly attached to the cleaning member at the distal portion of the coupling element;

[0084] Among them, the first cleaning member control mechanism is movably mounted on the base to effect the movement of the cleaning member between the retracted position and the use position and to effect the movement of the cleaning member to contact or not contact the imaging element;

[0085] Wherein, the second cleaning member control mechanism is movably mounted on the first cleaning member control mechanism to be able to adjust the level of the contact force applied by the cleaning member on the imaging element;

[0086] Wherein, the second cleaning member control mechanism includes a user interface portion and a coupling element engagement structure;

[0087] Wherein the user interface portion is rotatably attached to the first cleaning member control mechanism to allow the user interface portion to rotate relative to the first cleaning member control mechanism while inhibiting unrestricted axial displacement between the user interface portion and the first cleaning member control mechanism;

[0088] Wherein, the coupling element engagement structure is fixedly attached to the proximal portion of the coupling element;

[0089] Wherein, the coupling element engagement structure is mounted on the first cleaning member control mechanism to allow axial translation of the coupling element engagement structure relative to the first cleaning member control mechanism and inhibit unrestricted rotational movement between the coupling element engagement structure and the first cleaning member control mechanism; and

[0090] Wherein, the coupling element engagement structure is threadedly attached to the user interface portion to axially translate the coupling element engagement structure relative to the first cleaning member control mechanism when the user interface portion rotates.

[0091] 13) The in-vivo endoscope cleaning device according to 12), wherein:

[0092] The first cleaning member control mechanism includes a position indicating feature integral therewith;

[0093] The base includes a matching position indicating feature integral therewith, and the matching position indicating feature engages the position indicating feature of the first cleaning member control mechanism to indicate when the cleaning member is axially displaced from the end position of the use position by a distance jointly defined by the position indicating feature of the first cleaning member control mechanism and the matching position indicating feature of the base.

[0094] 14) The in-vivo endoscope cleaning device according to 1), wherein the position of the cleaning member relative to the first cleaning member control mechanism is an axial position.

[0095] 15) The in-vivo endoscope cleaning device according to 14), wherein the user interface portion of the second cleaning member control mechanism is rotatably mounted on the first cleaning member control mechanism.

[0096] 16) The in-vivo endoscope cleaning device according to 15), wherein:

[0097] The first cleaning member control mechanism includes a position indicating feature integral therewith; and

[0098] The base includes a matching position indicating feature integral therewith, and the matching position indicating feature engages the position indicating feature of the first cleaning member control mechanism to haptically indicate when the cleaning member has axially displaced a distance from the end position of the use position, which is a distance jointly defined by the position indicating feature of the first cleaning member control mechanism and the matching position indicating feature of the base.

[0099] 17) The in-vivo endoscope cleaning device according to 16), wherein:

[0100] The position indicating feature of the first cleaning member control mechanism includes a circumferential groove within its cylindrical extension;

[0101] The cylindrical extension is disposed within a matching channel of the base to allow axial translation of the first cleaning member control mechanism relative to the base for moving the cleaning member between the retracted position and the use position, and to allow rotational translation of the first cleaning member control mechanism relative to the base for moving the cleaning member into contact with and out of contact with the imaging element; and

[0102] The matching position indicating feature of the base is biased against the cylindrical extension.

[0103] 18) The in-vivo endoscope cleaning device according to 14), wherein the coupling element engaging structure of the second cleaning member control mechanism is fixedly coupled to the cleaning member and is movably mounted on the first cleaning member control mechanism such that the coupling element engaging structure can axially translate relative to the first cleaning member control mechanism.

[0104] 19) The in-vivo endoscope cleaning device according to 18), wherein the coupling element engaging structure is fixedly coupled to the cleaning member by a coupling element extending between the coupling element engaging structure and the cleaning member.

[0105] 20) The in-vivo endoscope cleaning device according to 19), wherein:

[0106] The coupling element engaging structure is fixedly attached to the proximal portion of the coupling element; and

[0107] The cleaning member is fixedly attached to the distal portion of the coupling element.

[0108] 21) The in-vivo endoscope cleaning device according to 18), wherein a user interface portion of the second cleaning member control mechanism is rotatably mounted on the first cleaning member control mechanism and is interlocked with the coupling element engaging structure so that a rotational movement of the user interface portion can cause the axial translation of the coupling element engaging structure.

[0109] 22) The in-vivo endoscope cleaning device according to 21), wherein:

[0110] The first cleaning member control mechanism is axially translatable along the longitudinal reference axis of the base and is rotationally translatable about the longitudinal reference axis;

[0111] The user interface portion is rotatable about the longitudinal axis;

[0112] The coupling element engaging structure is axially translatable along the longitudinal axis; and

[0113] The user interface portion is interlocked with the coupling element engaging structure so that a rotation of the user interface portion about the longitudinal reference axis can cause the axial translation of the coupling element engaging structure along the longitudinal reference axis.

[0114] 23) The in-vivo endoscope cleaning device according to 22), wherein the coupling element engaging structure is fixedly coupled to the cleaning member by a coupling element extending between the coupling element engaging structure and the cleaning member.

[0115] 24) The in-vivo endoscope cleaning device according to 23), wherein:

[0116] The coupling element engaging structure is fixedly attached to the proximal portion of the coupling element; and

[0117] The cleaning member is fixedly attached to the distal portion of the coupling element.

[0118] 25) The in-vivo endoscope cleaning device according to 1), wherein:

[0119] The first cleaning member control mechanism includes a cleaning member motion assembly, and the cleaning member motion assembly includes a control body and a motion control device;

[0120] The motion control device is attached to the control body and the cleaning member; and

[0121] The movement control device includes a movement control structure that defines an axial position of the cleaning member based on an angular position of the control body.

[0122] 26) The in-vivo endoscope cleaning device according to 25), wherein:

[0123] The movement control device further includes a cleaning member coupling element;

[0124] The movement control structure of the movement control device includes a cam body and a control body;

[0125] The cleaning member coupling element is translatably and rotatably engaged with the cam body and fixedly connected to the cleaning member;

[0126] The control body engages with the cleaning member coupling element, whereby rotation of the control body causes a corresponding rotational movement of the cleaning member coupling element;

[0127] The cam body engages with the base, and the cam body includes a movement control surface having a profile that defines an axial position of the cleaning member based on an angular position of the control body; and

[0128] At least one of the control body and the cleaning member coupling element has a movement control member that engages with the movement control surface, whereby rotation of the control body causes translational and rotational movement of the cleaning member relative to the base according to the profile of the movement control surface.

[0129] 27) The in-vivo endoscope cleaning device according to 26), wherein the engagement of the control body with the cleaning member coupling element enables the cleaning member coupling element to axially translate relative to the control body and inhibits unrestricted rotational displacement between the cleaning member coupling element and the control body.

[0130] 28) The in-vivo endoscope cleaning device according to 27), wherein the control body is coupled to a control body mounting portion of the base, thereby inhibiting unrestricted axial displacement of the control body relative to the base.

[0131] 29) The in-vivo endoscope cleaning device according to 26), wherein:

[0132] The movement control surface is defined by a groove in the cam body; and

[0133] The movement control member engages within the groove.

[0134] 30) The in-vivo endoscope cleaning device according to 29), wherein:

[0135] The cleaning member coupling element is located within the central passage of the cam body;

[0136] The engagement of the control body with the cleaning member coupling element inhibits unrestricted rotational displacement between the control body and the cleaning member coupling element; and

[0137] The control body is coupled to the control body mounting portion of the base such that unrestricted axial displacement of the control body relative to the base is inhibited.

[0138] 31) The in-vivo endoscope cleaning device according to 26), wherein:

[0139] The cleaning member coupling element is located within the central passage of the cam body;

[0140] The engagement of the control body with the cleaning member coupling element inhibits unrestricted rotational displacement of the control body relative to the cleaning member coupling element and permits axial displacement between the control body and the cleaning member coupling element; and

[0141] The control body is coupled to the control body mounting portion of the base such that unrestricted axial displacement of the control body relative to the base is inhibited.

[0142] 32) A cleaning member controller for an endoscope cleaning device, wherein the endoscope cleaning device has a base and a cleaning member coupled to the base by a coupling element, wherein the base is adapted to mount an endoscope on the base, and wherein the cleaning member controller comprises:

[0143] A first cleaning member control mechanism attached to the base, wherein the first cleaning member control mechanism has a plurality of cleaning member manipulation modes, wherein when the endoscope is mounted on the base, a first manipulation mode among the cleaning member manipulation modes moves the cleaning member between a retracted position and a use position relative to a position adjacent to an imaging element of the endoscope, and wherein when the endoscope is mounted on the base, a second manipulation mode among the cleaning member manipulation modes moves the cleaning member in the use position into contact with and out of contact with the imaging element; and

[0144] A second cleaning member control mechanism is attached to the first cleaning member control mechanism. The second cleaning member control mechanism includes a user interface portion and a coupling element engagement structure. The user interface portion is movably coupled to the first cleaning member control mechanism. The coupling element engagement structure is attached to the coupling element. The coupling element engagement structure is movably coupled to the first cleaning member control mechanism. The coupling element engagement structure is interlocked with the user interface portion such that when the user interface portion moves relative to the first cleaning member control mechanism, an axial translation of the coupling element engagement structure relative to the first cleaning member control mechanism is caused. Movement of the user interface portion causes axial movement of the coupling element to change the distance between the cleaning member and the first cleaning member control mechanism.

[0145] 33) The cleaning member controller according to 32), wherein:

[0146] The first manipulation mode in the cleaning member manipulation mode includes axially translating the first cleaning member control mechanism relative to the base; and

[0147] The second manipulation mode in the cleaning member manipulation mode includes rotationally translating the first cleaning member control mechanism relative to the base.

[0148] 34) The cleaning member controller according to 32), wherein the attachment of the first cleaning member control mechanism to the base includes:

[0149] The first cleaning member control mechanism is axially movable along a longitudinal axis to effect the first manipulation mode in the cleaning member manipulation mode; and

[0150] The first cleaning member control mechanism is rotationally movable along the longitudinal axis to effect the second manipulation mode in the cleaning member manipulation mode.

[0151] 35) The cleaning member controller according to 34), wherein the user interface portion of the second cleaning member control mechanism being movably attached to the first cleaning member control mechanism includes that the user interface portion of the second cleaning member control mechanism is rotatable about the longitudinal axis.

[0152] These and other objects, embodiments, advantages, and / or distinctions of the present invention will become apparent upon further review of the following specification, associated drawings, and appended claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0154] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a prior art endoscope.

[0155] Figure 2 is a first perspective view showing an endoscope cleaning device according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0156] Figure 3 shows Figure 2 a second perspective view of the endoscope.

[0157] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 4-4 in Figure 2 therein.

[0158] Figure 5 is Figure 2 a partial perspective view of the endoscope cleaning device shown in therein, wherein the control body of the first cleaning member control mechanism is in an extended configuration.

[0159] Figure 6 is Figure 2 a partial perspective view of the endoscope cleaning device shown in therein, wherein the control body of the first cleaning member control mechanism is in a retracted configuration.

[0160] Figure 7 is Figure 2 a partial perspective view of the endoscope cleaning device shown in therein, wherein its cleaning member is in a stowed position.

[0161] Figure 8 is Figure 2 a partial perspective view of the endoscope cleaning device shown in therein, wherein its cleaning member is in a use position.

[0162] Figure 9 is Figure 2 a partial perspective view of the endoscope cleaning device shown in therein, wherein its cleaning member is moved to its imaging element contact position.

[0163] Figure 10 is Figure 2 a partial perspective view of the endoscope cleaning device shown in therein, wherein its cleaning member is moved beyond its imaging element contact position.

[0164] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 11-11 in Figure 6 therein.

[0165] Figure 12 is a partial cross-sectional view showing a structural arrangement for providing a cleaning member offset function according to one or more embodiments of the present invention.

[0166] Figure 13 is a perspective view showing an endoscope cleaning device according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0167] Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view taken along line Figure 13Cross-sectional view taken along line 14-14 in

[0168] Figure 15 is Figure 13 Perspective view of the cam body of the cleaning device shown.

[0169] Figure 16 is Figure 15 First plan view of the cam body of

[0170] Figure 17 is Figure 15 Second plan view of the cam body of

[0171] Figure 18 shows Figure 15 Schematic diagram of the profile of the cam section of the cam body of Detailed description

[0173] Figures 2 - 10 Illustrates various aspects of an in-vivo endoscope cleaning device configured according to a first embodiment of the present invention, which is designated as cleaning device 100. The cleaning device 100 is preferably but not necessarily configured to be used with a commercially available endoscope (e.g., Figure 1 endoscope 1). Examples of such commercially available endoscopes include, but are not limited to, endoscopes manufactured under the brand names of Karl Storz, Linvatec, Olympus, Richard Wolf, Stryker, and Intuitive Surgical (i.e., DaVinci). To this end, in a preferred embodiment, the cleaning device 100 can be designed as a cleaning device dedicated to a given model of endoscope of one or more manufacturers based on the dimensional attributes of such commercially available endoscopes. The basic consideration in the way the endoscope cleaning device 100 is designed for a predetermined brand or model of endoscope is that there is a high level of dimensional accuracy between the endoscope and the cleaning device. The characteristics of such dimensional accuracy can consist of two points: suppressing any unacceptable level of relative movement between the endoscope and the cleaning device 100, and suppressing any unacceptable level of relative placement of the key structural elements of the endoscope relative to the key structural elements of the cleaning device 100.

[0174] Still referring to Figure 2, the cleaning device 100 has an elongated body 102 adapted to be inserted into the extension portion 10 of the endoscope 1. As shown, in its fully seated position, a dimensionally predictable surface or feature of the endoscope 1 (e.g., a surface or feature of the user interface portion 5 (e.g., the handle and / or the optical interface portion)) abuts a matching dimensionally predictable surface or feature of the endoscope cleaning device 100. This matching surface or feature of the cleaning device 100 (e.g., a surface or feature of its user interface body 103) serves as a reference structure for the cleaning device 100. When the endoscope 1 is in this fully seated position on the cleaning device 100 relative to the reference structure, the distal portion 25 of the endoscope projects a known, predictable amount from within the opening 104 in the distal portion 106 of the elongated body 102. Through such an interface arrangement and dimensional tolerances, a high level of dimensional accuracy between the endoscope 1 and the cleaning device 100 can be achieved. As discussed in more detail below, such dimensional accuracy is beneficial for the cleaning performance provided by the cleaning device 100.

[0175] As referred to above Figure 1 as described, the distal portion 25 of the endoscope 1 carries an imaging element 20 (e.g., a lens). The imaging element 20 is exposed at the distal portion 25 of the extension portion 10 of the endoscope 1 and is substantially flush with the distal portion 25 or defines an end face at the distal portion 25. The distal portion 25 of the endoscope 1 is exposed at the opening 104 in the distal 106. Due to the placement of the endoscope 1 on the cleaning device 100, the imaging element 20 is in a known and predictable position relative to the reference structure of the cleaning device 100. Thus, for an endoscope designed for a particular cleaning device, the components of the cleaning device 100 can similarly be in known and predictable positions relative to the structure of the endoscope 1, thereby providing precise placement and configuration of the components of the cleaning device 100 to achieve the desired and predictable level of cleaning performance.

[0176] Now refer to Figures 3 - 6 , the elongated body 102 and the user interface body 103 together define the base of the cleaning device. The base serves as a platform on which the endoscope 1 can be mounted in a predictable seated position. Disclosed herein is that the base can be the base of a robot providing robotic-assisted surgery or can be adapted to operatively connect to a mating mounting portion of such a robot. For example, the elongated body 102 and / or the user interface body 103 can be part of a robot arm or other structure or be adapted to operatively connect to an instrument mounting portion of a robot arm.

[0177] The elongated body 102 of the base can be one having a central channel 110 (as Figure 3The tube (as shown), the central channel 110 has a circular or substantially circular cross-sectional shape. The size and profile of the central channel 110 are adapted to receive the extension portion 10 of the endoscope 1 in the central channel 110 by inserting the extension portion into the central channel 110 and sliding the extension portion 10 along the length of the elongated body 102 until the endoscope 1 is in the placement position on the base. The user interface body 103 may include a holding tool 111 for fixing the endoscope 1 in the placement position on the base. Optionally, the elongated body 102 may be a non-tubular structure, such as a framework structure, which engages the extension portion 10 of the endoscope at discrete spaced positions along the extension portion 10 of the endoscope.

[0178] The base may include a plurality of structural elements that provide a known and predictable position of the endoscope 1 when the endoscope 1 is mounted in the placement position on the base. One of these structural elements is the effective inner diameter (e.g., for a ribbed or textured inner surface) or the actual inner diameter (e.g., a smooth inner wall) of the elongated body 102 relative to the outer diameter of the extension portion 10 of the endoscope 1 and the elongated body 102 of the base. Preferably, a tight fit is maintained between the outer wall of the elongated body 102 and the mating outer wall of the extension portion 10 to provide a fluid-resistant interface between the elongated body 102 and the extension portion 10 and to limit the off-axis pitch between the longitudinal axis of the elongated body 102 and the extension portion 10. Another of these structural elements is the placement surface 112 on the user interface body 103 (as Figure 3 and Figure 11 shown). The placement surface may be a reference surface of the cleaning device 100 that engages a mating reference surface 35 of the endoscope 1 (as Figure 1 shown). The engagement of the placement surface 112 on the user interface body 103 with the mating reference surface 35 of the endoscope 1 is used to define a predictable placement orientation of the endoscope 1 on the base.

[0179] The cleaning device 100 includes a cleaning member 114 (shown in Figure 2 and Figure 3 ), which is proximate to an opening 104 in the distal portion 106 of the elongated body 102. As discussed in more detail below, the cleaning member 114 is used to clean contaminants and debris from the surface of the imaging element 20 of the endoscope when the cleaning member 114 contacts the imaging element 20 of the endoscope. The cleaning member 114 may be fixedly attached to the distal portion of a coupling element 116. As Figure 4As best shown, the coupling element 116 extends through a channel 118 within the elongate body 102. Preferably, the channel 118 and the central channel 110 extend substantially parallel to each other within the elongate body 102. In some embodiments, the coupling element 116 is characterized by an elongate small-diameter structure that provides a combination of at least a limited degree of flexibility and high torsional stiffness. In other embodiments, the coupling element 116 is characterized by an elongate small-diameter structure that provides a given amount of torsional compliance. Based on these characteristics, examples of the coupling element 116 include, but are not limited to, solid metal wires, helical metal wires, polymer filaments, composite filaments, or the like.

[0180] The user interface body 103 may be configured as a handle for the cleaning device 100 and carries a cleaning member controller 120. The cleaning member controller 120 is coupled between the user interface body 103 and the cleaning member 114 for effecting selective movement of the cleaning member 114. The cleaning member controller 120 includes a first cleaning member control mechanism 122 (i.e., a cleaning member movement mechanism) and a second cleaning member control mechanism 124 (i.e., a cleaning member adjustment mechanism). The first cleaning member control mechanism 122 includes a control body 125 (i.e., a first control body 125) that is rotatably and translatably mounted (i.e., attached) to the user interface body 103, as Figure 5 and Figure 6 best shown, and the second cleaning member control mechanism 124 is rotatably mounted to the first cleaning member control mechanism 122. The first and second cleaning member control mechanisms 122, 124 provide various cleaning member manipulation modes.

[0181] Through the movement capabilities of this first cleaning member control mechanism 122, the first cleaning member control mechanism provides at least a first cleaning member manipulation mode and a second cleaning member manipulation mode. The first cleaning member manipulation mode may include translational movement, such as provided by the translation of the coupling element 116, to move the cleaning member 114 between a stowed position S (best shown in Figure 7 and Figure 8moves between the positions best shown in, i.e., the first cleaning member manipulation mode. It can be seen that the retracted position S and the use position U are with respect to the position of the imaging element 20 of the endoscope 1 when the endoscope 1 is mounted on the base. The use position U is the position where the cleaning member 114 extends beyond the distal end of the endoscope 1. The retracted position S is the position where the cleaning member 114 is retracted from the use position U (e.g., retracted by the maximum stroke distance between the use position U and the retracted position S). The second cleaning member manipulation mode may include a rotational movement to move the cleaning member 114 into contact with or out of contact with the imaging element 20 when the cleaning member 114 is in the use position (as best shown in, i.e., the second cleaning member manipulation mode or, as described below, a biased use position adjacent to the use position). In this way, the first cleaning member manipulation mode of the first cleaning member control mechanism 122 allows manipulation of the cleaning member 114 such that cleaning of the imaging element 20 in vivo can be carried out in cooperation with visualization of the surgical cavity in vivo using the imaging element 20. Figure 6 and Figures 8 - 10 as best shown in, i.e., the second cleaning member manipulation mode or, as described below, a biased use position adjacent to the use position. In this way, the first cleaning member manipulation mode of the first cleaning member control mechanism 122 allows manipulation of the cleaning member 114 such that cleaning of the imaging element 20 in vivo can be carried out in cooperation with visualization of the surgical cavity in vivo using the imaging element 20.

[0182] As described above, the cleaning member 114 and the endoscope 1 are configured together such that the imaging element 20 is in a known and predictable position relative to the reference structure of the base of the cleaning device 100. Thus, due to the dimensional characteristics of the endoscope 1 and the cleaning device 100, the cleaning member 114 is in a known and predictable position relative to the imaging element 20. In at least one aspect, this known and predictable position of the cleaning member 114 relative to the imaging element 20 can be characterized by the axial distance between a reference portion of the cleaning member 114 (e.g., an edge portion of the cleaning member 114) and the exposed surface of the imaging element 20. This axial distance is a design parameter of the cleaning device that, when the cleaning member 114 is in the use position U, enables the cleaning member 114 to remove (i.e., clean) debris and contaminants from the exposed surface of the imaging element 20 in response to the cleaning member 114 being moved into contact (e.g., wiped across) the exposed surface of the imaging element 20 during implementation of the second cleaning member manipulation mode.

[0183] There may be situations that affect the position of the cleaning member 114 relative to the imaging element 20 to an extent that may compromise the desired cleanliness of the imaging element 20. One such situation is that dimensional tolerances of the cleaning member 114 and / or the endoscope 1 result in a dimensional stack-up that affects the axial distance between the reference portion of the cleaning member 114 and the exposed surface of the imaging element 20 to an extent that adversely affects the cleaning performance. For example, the extension portion 10 of the endoscope 1 may have a length at the lower end of its tolerance range, while the mating reference surface 35 of the endoscope 1 may be at the upper end of its tolerance range. In such a case, the axial distance between the reference portion of the cleaning member 114 and the exposed surface of the imaging element 20 may become greater than the distance required to provide acceptable cleaning performance. Another such situation is that the end user technique (e.g., rate, rhythm, and / or direction of rotation) by which the user moves the cleaning member 114 over the imaging element 20 may adversely affect the cleaning performance.

[0184] Advantageously, the cleaning device configured in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention includes at least one backup scheme for mitigating the extent to which the desired cleanliness of the imaging element 20 is compromised in situations that may affect the position of the cleaning member 114 relative to the imaging element 20. To this end, the second cleaning member control mechanism 124 provides a corresponding cleaning member manipulation mode (i.e., the third cleaning member manipulation mode) for selectively changing the axial distance between the reference portion of the cleaning member 114 and the exposed surface of the imaging element 20.

[0185] As Figure 2 、 Figure 3 、 Figure 5 and Figure 6 shown, the second cleaning member control mechanism 124 includes a control body 126 (i.e., the second control body) that is rotatably (i.e., movably) attached to the first cleaning member control mechanism 122. By rotation of the second control body 126 in a given direction, the axial distance between the reference portion of the cleaning member 114 and the exposed surface of the imaging element 20 changes accordingly (e.g., clockwise rotation provides a smaller distance, while counterclockwise rotation provides a larger distance, or vice versa). In this way, the end user can change the axial distance between the cleaning member 114 and the exposed surface of the imaging element 20 to affect the load applied by the cleaning member when in contact with the imaging element 20, thereby affecting the cleaning performance of the imaging element.

[0186] Now refer to Figure 11, which describes aspects of the specific implementation of the first cleaning member control mechanism 122 and the second cleaning member control mechanism 124. The first control body 125 includes a user interface portion 128 and a mounting portion 130 connected to the user interface portion 128. The mounting portion 130 is translatably and rotatably attached to a mating portion of the user interface body 103. For example, the mounting portion 130 may include a cylindrical extension portion 131 that is disposed in a mating channel 133 of the user interface body 103 to allow the first cleaning member control mechanism 122 to axially translate relative to the user interface body 103 between an extended position E( Figure 5 ) and a retracted position R( Figure 6 ) for correspondingly moving the cleaning member 114 between a stowed position S and a use position U, and to rotatably translate relative to the user interface body 103 for correspondingly moving the cleaning member 114 into contact with or out of contact with the imaging element 20 of the endoscope 1. The dimensions of the mounting portion 130 and the dimensions of the mating channel of the user interface body 103 may jointly define the amount of translational movement exhibited by the cleaning member control mechanism 122.

[0187] Still referring to Figure 11 , the second control body 126 includes a user interface portion 132 and a mounting portion 134 connected to the user interface portion 132. The mounting portion 134 is rotatably (i.e., movably) attached to a mating portion of the user interface portion 132 of the first cleaning member control mechanism 122 (e.g., the control body 125) to enable the second control body 126 to rotate relative to the first control body 125 while inhibiting unrestricted axial translation between the second control body 126 and the first control body 125 (i.e., an interface that can rotate and inhibits translation). The coupling element engagement structure 136 of the second cleaning member control mechanism 124 is provided on the first control body 125 to allow the coupling element engagement structure 136 to axially translate relative to the first cleaning member control mechanism 122 and to inhibit unrestricted rotational movement between the coupling element engagement structure 136 and the first cleaning member control mechanism 122 (i.e., an interface that inhibits rotation and allows translation). For example, the coupling element engagement structure 136 may have a rectangular lateral shape (e.g., rectangular) and is located in a mating elongated cavity of the first control body 125 having a rectangular lateral shape, thereby allowing relative axial translation of the coupling element engagement structure 136 and inhibiting its unrestricted relative rotational movement.

[0188] An extension portion 138 of the coupling element engagement structure 136 (e.g., the first structural element of the interlocking interface structure) is threadedly engaged within a mating central channel 140 (e.g., the second structural element of the interlocking interface structure) of the second control body 126. Such threaded engagement is an example of an interlocking engagement where axial movement is dependent on rotational movement. The mounting portion 130 of the first cleaning member control mechanism 122 has a coupling element channel 142 extending longitudinally therethrough, and the coupling element engagement structure 136 has a coupling element channel 144 extending at least partially longitudinally therethrough. The mounting portion 130 of the first cleaning member control mechanism 122 and the coupling element engagement structure 136 are configured together such that the coupling element channels 142, 144 are longitudinally aligned. The proximal portion of the coupling element 116 extends through the coupling element channel 142 of the first cleaning member control mechanism 122 into the coupling element channel 144 of the coupling element engagement structure 136. The coupling element engagement structure 136 includes a securing structure 146 (e.g., a threaded securing screw) for securing the coupling element 116 in a fixed position relative to the coupling element engagement structure 136.

[0189] As described above, due to the threaded engagement between the extension portion 138 of the coupling element engagement structure 136 and the second control body 126, rotation of the second control body 126 relative to the first cleaning member control mechanism 122 causes axial translation of the coupling element engagement structure 136 relative to the first cleaning member control mechanism 122, and thus, provides a corresponding axial displacement of the cleaning element 114, thereby adjusting the axial distance between the reference portion of the cleaning member 114 and the exposed surface of the imaging element 20 (e.g., clockwise rotation provides a smaller distance, while counterclockwise rotation provides a larger distance, or vice versa).

[0190] The user can utilize the cleaning member adjustment capabilities provided by the second cleaning member control mechanism 124 in any number of ways. For example, prior to a surgical procedure, the user can use such cleaning member adjustment capabilities to set the initial degree of contact between the cleaning element 114 and the imaging element. After mounting the endoscope on the base of the cleaning device, the user can adjust the axial distance between the cleaning member 114 and the imaging element 20 such that there is no contact between the cleaning member 114 and the exposed surface of the imaging element 20 when the cleaning member 114 passes over the exposed surface of the imaging element 20. By using the cleaning member adjustment capabilities provided by the second cleaning member control mechanism 124, the user can bring the cleaning member 114 into first contact with the imaging element 20 and then apply a given degree of "preloading" to the cleaning member by using the cleaning member adjustment capabilities. The cleaning member adjustment capabilities can also be utilized during a surgical procedure to further adjust the axial distance of the cleaning member (i.e., increase or decrease the contact load on the cleaning member 114) to affect the cleaning performance.

[0191] One or more embodiments of the present invention may provide a cleaning member offset function. Figure 12 An embodiment of such a cleaning member offset function provided by a Figures 2 - 11 cleaning device is shown. When the first control body 125 is in the retracted position R (see Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 6 ) at the limit of its retraction stroke (i.e., fully retracted), this cleaning member offset function is used to precisely offset the position of the cleaning member 114 from its use position. To this end, a circumferential groove 148 corresponding to a desired offset position may be provided in the mounting portion 130 of the first cleaning member control mechanism 122. The user interface body 103 includes a displacement control structure 150 that indicates haptically and optionally audibly when the first control body 125 has been translated from the retracted position R to the position defined by the position of the circumferential groove 148. The lateral distance between the groove 148 and the displacement control structure defines the offset distance of the cleaning member 114. In one or more embodiments, the displacement control structure 150 includes a contact member 151 having a surface engaging portion that is forced to bias into contact with the outer surface of the mounting portion 130 of the first cleaning member control mechanism 122. The surface engaging portion is sized and / or shaped to engage the circumferential groove 148.

[0192] Now referring to Figures 13 - 18 , various aspects of an in-vivo endoscope cleaning device configured according to a second embodiment of the present invention are discussed, and this device is designated as cleaning device 200. Except for the following differentiating aspects of the cleaning device 200, the cleaning device 200 may generally have the same configuration as the cleaning device 100 discussed above with reference to Figures 2 - 12 , may be connected to a commercially available endoscope, and is intended to be used in the same manner as the cleaning device 100 described above. However, as will be seen, the cleaning device 200 includes a cleaning member controller structure that is functionally and structurally different from that of the cleaning device 100. Similar elements in the first and second embodiments are denoted by similar reference numerals and / or names (e.g., user interface body 103 and user interface body 203).

[0193] The user interface body 203 of the cleaning device 200 carries a cleaning member controller 220. The following description will describe the operation of the cleaning member controller 220, which provides a structurally authorized cleaning member movement arrangement. In contrast, the cleaning member controller 120 of the cleaning device 100 discussed above with reference to Figures 2 - 12 utilizes a user-authorized cleaning member movement arrangement.

[0194] The cleaning member controller 220 is coupled between the user interface body 203 and the cleaning member of the cleaning device 200 for achieving selective movement of the cleaning member. (That is, functionally and / or structurally similar to the cleaning member controller 120 of the cleaning device 100 which is coupled to its cleaning member 114.) The cleaning member controller 220 includes a first cleaning member control mechanism 222 and a second cleaning member control mechanism 224. The first cleaning member control mechanism 222 and the second cleaning member control mechanism 224 each include respective control bodies 225, 226 (i.e., the first control body 225 and the second control body 226), which are rotatably attached to the user interface body 203, as Figure 13 and Figure 14 best shown. The first cleaning member control mechanism 222 utilizes its rotational movement to synchronously move the cleaning member between a retracted position S (see Figure 7 ) and a use position U (see Figure 8 ), and to move into and out of contact with the imaging element of the endoscope 1 (see Figures 7 - 9 ). Thus, the first cleaning member control mechanism 222 combines the first and second cleaning member manipulation modes mentioned above. The second cleaning member control mechanism 224 utilizes its rotational movement to provide a cleaning member manipulation mode (i.e., the third cleaning member manipulation mode mentioned previously) for adjusting the axial distance between the cleaning member and the imaging element of the endoscope when the cleaning member is in the use position. In this way, the first cleaning member manipulation mode of the first cleaning member control mechanism 222 allows manipulation of the cleaning member such that cleaning of the imaging element of the endoscope in vivo and visualization of the in vivo surgical cavity using the imaging element can cooperate.

[0195] Referring Figure 14 and Figure 15 , the first cleaning member control mechanism 222 includes a first control body 225, a cam body 227, and a coupling element engagement structure 236, and the second cleaning member control mechanism 224 includes a second control body 226. The first control body 225 includes a user interface portion 228 and a mounting portion 230 connected to its user interface portion 228. The second control body 226 includes a user interface portion 232 and a mounting portion 234 connected to its user interface portion 232. Preferably, as shown, the first control body 225 and the second control body 226 are arranged in a nested manner.

[0196] The proximal portion of the coupling element 216 enters the coupling element passage 242 of the coupling element engagement structure 236. The coupling element engagement structure 236 includes a securing structure 246 (e.g., a threaded securing screw) for securing the coupling element 216 in a fixed position relative to the coupling element engagement structure 236. Thus, as discussed in more detail below, axial displacement of the coupling element engagement structure 236 causes a corresponding axial displacement of the coupling element 216 and the cleaning member attached to the distal portion of the coupling element 216.

[0197] The coupling element engagement structure 236 is translatably and rotatably disposed within the central passage 229 of the cam body 227. The mounting portion 234 of the second cleaning member control mechanism 224 (e.g., the first structural element of the interlocking interface structure) is disposed within the central passage 229 of the cam body 227 and is threadedly engaged with the cam body 227 (e.g., the second structural element of the interlocking interface structure), whereby rotation of the second control body 226 causes axial displacement of the cam body 227 relative to the mounting portion 234 of the second cleaning member control mechanism 224. The cam body 227 is mounted on the user interface body 203 and is co-configured with the user interface body 203 to allow axial translation of the cam body 227 relative to the user interface body 203 and to inhibit unrestricted rotational movement therebetween (i.e., a translation-permitting, rotation-inhibiting interface). The mounting portion 234 of the second cleaning member control mechanism 224 engages the user interface housing 203 to allow rotational movement of the second control body 226 relative to the user interface housing 203 while inhibiting unrestricted axial displacement therebetween (i.e., a rotation-permitting, translation-inhibiting interface). The mounting portion 230 of the first cleaning member control mechanism 222 is rotatably disposed within the central passage 229 of the cam body 227 and extends through the central passage 231 of the second control body 226.

[0198] The coupling element engagement structure 236 includes an extension portion 238 that engages within the central passage 240 of the first control body 225. The mating surfaces of the extension portion 238 and the central passage 240 are co-configured to allow relative axial translation between the extension portion 238 and the first control body 225 while inhibiting relative rotation therebetween (i.e., a translation-permitting, rotation-inhibiting interface). For example, the extension portion 238 may have a non-circular cross-sectional profile (e.g., a square or star-shaped cross-sectional profile), and the central passage 240 may correspondingly have a non-circular cross-sectional profile. An elastic member 243 (e.g., a spring) engages between the cam body 227 and the coupling element engagement structure 236 for biasing the extension portion of the coupling element engagement structure 236 toward the central passage 240 of the first cleaning member control mechanism 222.

[0199] The mounting portion 230 of the first cleaning member control mechanism 222 includes a travel limiting element 245 that is fixedly attached to the mounting portion 230 and engages one or more surfaces of the mounting portion 234 of the second cleaning member control mechanism 224. For example, the travel limiting element 245 can, as shown, abut the end face of the mounting portion 234 of the second cleaning member control mechanism 224, or can engage a groove at an intermediate position of the mounting portion 234. This engagement of the travel limiting element 245 with one or more surfaces of the second cleaning member control mechanism 224 fixes the first cleaning member control mechanism 222 in an axial position relative to the second cleaning member control mechanism 224 while allowing rotational movement therebetween. This fixation of the first cleaning member control mechanism 222 and the second cleaning member control mechanism 224 and the threaded engagement of the mounting portion 234 of the second cleaning member control mechanism 224 with the cam body 227 provide an axial displacement of the cam body 227 relative to the first cleaning member control mechanism 222 and the second cleaning member control mechanism 224 when the second control body 226 rotates (e.g., a clockwise rotation provides axial movement in one direction while a counterclockwise rotation provides axial movement in the opposite direction).

[0200] Now referring to Figures 15 - 18 , the cam body 227 includes a cam drive structure 247 (i.e., the structure provided by the cam surface) that defines the axial position of the cleaning member in accordance with the angular position of the first control body 225. In one or more embodiments, the cam drive structure 247 can be a slot (i.e., including a channel and a recessed portion), and the slot can extend completely through the wall defining the central channel 229. In one or more other embodiments, the function of the cam drive structure 247 can be provided by a track or other structure that includes a profile surface that defines the axial position of the cleaning member in accordance with the angular position of the control portion of the cleaning member controller. The motion control member 249 (e.g., a pin) has its first end portion and its second end portion, the first end portion being fixedly attached to the coupling element engagement structure 236 and the second end portion being slidably engaged with the cam drive structure 247 (e.g., a pin within a slot). The cam drive structure 247 has a profile that at least partially defines the travel path of the motion control member 249. Thus, in use, rotation of the first control body 225 causes the motion control member 249 to travel along such a path and thus provides a corresponding axial movement of the coupling element engagement structure 236 to which the cleaning member is attached by the coupling element 216.

[0201] The cam body 227, the coupling element engagement structure 236, and the motion control member 249 together define a motion control device. The cam body 227 includes a motion control structure that defines an axial position of the coupling element engagement structure 236 based on the angular position of a first control body 225. The motion control device provides rotational and axial movement of a cleaning member, and the cleaning member is attached thereto via a coupling element 216.

[0202] In one or more embodiments, as Figures 15 - 18 shown, the cam drive structure 247 of the cam body 227 is circumferential such that it extends around the entire circumference of the cam drive structure 247. The cam drive structure 247 has a plurality of cam segments. The first cam segment (first cam segment 252) of these cam segments can be a dwell segment during which the cleaning member rotates while being in a retracted position relative to the distal portion of the elongated body 202 of the cleaning device 200 ( Figure 13 ). The second cam segment (second cam segment 254) of these cam segments can be a deployment segment during which the cleaning member deploys from the retracted position to a use position (i.e., axially displaced away from the distal portion of the elongated body 202). The third cam segment (third cam segment 256) of these cam segments can be a contact segment during which the cleaning member rotates into and out of contact with the imaging element of the endoscope while the cleaning member remains fully or partially axially away from the distal portion of the elongated body 202, the distance of the axial displacement being at least partially defined by the second cam segment 254 and the third cam segment 256. For example, the third cam segment 256 can have an inclined surface for causing the cleaning member to exhibit a corresponding axial displacement. The fourth cam segment (fourth cam segment 258) of these cam segments can be a retraction segment during which the cleaning member returns to the retracted position. An elastic member provides a biasing force for pushing the coupling element engagement structure 236 to a fully retracted position and thus pushing the cleaning member to the retracted position.

[0203] The motion of the motion control member 249 through these cam segments defines a general instance of a cleaning cycle. The next instance of the cleaning cycle 260 is initiated when the first control body 225 rotates. The retraction segment 258 can also be used as an anti-rotation tool. For example, the retraction segment 258 and the dwell segment 252 have a steep vertical profile (e.g., a 90-degree angle between them) to prevent the motion control member 249 from moving in an unintended rotational direction.

[0204] In one or more other embodiments of the present invention, the second cleaning member control mechanism 224 may be omitted. The omission of the second cleaning member control mechanism 224 allows the first control body 225 to be rotatably mounted on the base and enables the first control body 225 to be attached to the coupling element engagement structure 236 in a manner that inhibits rotational and axial movement of the first control body 225 relative to the coupling element engagement structure 236. Such an embodiment provides the first and second control member manipulation modes of the combination described above while omitting the third control member manipulation mode described above.

[0205] Although the invention has been described with reference to several exemplary embodiments, it should be understood that the words used are words of description and illustration, not of limitation. Changes may be made within the scope of the appended claims, as presently set forth and as modified, without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention in all its aspects. Although the invention has been described with reference to specific apparatus, materials, and embodiments, the invention is not intended to be limited to the details disclosed; rather, the invention extends to all functionally equivalent technologies, structures, methods, and uses within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A cleaning member controller for an endoscope cleaning device, wherein, The endoscopic cleaning device has a base and a cleaning member coupled to the base by a coupling element, wherein the base is adapted to mount an endoscope thereon, and wherein the cleaning member controller includes: A first cleaning member control mechanism attached to the base, wherein the first cleaning member control mechanism has a plurality of cleaning member manipulation modes, and wherein, when the endoscope is mounted on the base, a first manipulation mode among the cleaning member manipulation modes moves the cleaning member between a retracted position and a use position relative to a position adjacent to an imaging element of the endoscope, and wherein, when the endoscope is mounted on the base, a second manipulation mode among the cleaning member manipulation modes moves the cleaning member in the use position into contact with and out of contact with the imaging element; and A second cleaning member control mechanism attached to the first cleaning member control mechanism, wherein the second cleaning member control mechanism includes a user interface portion and a coupling element engagement structure, wherein the user interface portion is movably coupled to the first cleaning member control mechanism, wherein the coupling element engagement structure is attached to the coupling element, wherein the coupling element engagement structure is movably coupled to the first cleaning member control mechanism, wherein the coupling element engagement structure is interlockingly attached to the user interface portion for causing an axial translation of the coupling element engagement structure relative to the first cleaning member control mechanism when the user interface portion moves relative to the first cleaning member control mechanism, and wherein movement of the user interface portion causes an axial movement of the coupling element to change a distance between the cleaning member and the first cleaning member control mechanism.

2. The cleaning member controller according to claim 1, wherein: The first manipulation mode among the cleaning member manipulation modes includes axially translating the first cleaning member control mechanism relative to the base; And The second manipulation mode among the cleaning member manipulation modes includes rotationally translating the first cleaning member control mechanism relative to the base, and / or wherein the coupling element engagement structure being interlockingly attached to the user interface portion includes the coupling element engagement structure being threadedly attached to the user interface portion.

3. The cleaning member controller according to claim 1, wherein, The attachment of the first cleaning member control mechanism to the base includes: The first cleaning member control mechanism is axially movable along a longitudinal axis for implementing the first manipulation mode among the cleaning member manipulation modes; and The first cleaning member control mechanism is rotationally movable along the longitudinal axis for implementing the second manipulation mode among the cleaning member manipulation modes.

4. The cleaning member controller according to claim 3, wherein, The user interface portion of the second cleaning member control mechanism being movably coupled to the first cleaning member control mechanism includes the user interface portion of the second cleaning member control mechanism being rotatably attached to the first cleaning member control mechanism.

5. A cleaning member adjusting mechanism of an in-vivo endoscope cleaning device, wherein, The cleaning device includes a base adapted to engage an endoscope therewith; A cleaning member that, when the endoscope is mounted on the base, is attached to the base at a position adjacent to the imaging element of the endoscope; and a coupling element, a distal portion of the coupling element being fixedly attached to the cleaning member, wherein a cleaning member movement mechanism is attached to the base, and a movable coupling element engagement structure of the cleaning member movement mechanism is fixedly attached to a proximal portion of the coupling element for effecting selective imaging element cleaning movement of the cleaning member relative to the base, wherein the cleaning member adjustment mechanism comprises: an adjustment control body rotatably attached to at least one of the base and the cleaning member movement mechanism; and an interlocking interface structure that converts rotational movement of a first structural element of the interlocking interface structure into axial displacement of a second structural element of the interlocking interface structure; wherein the interlocking interface structure is a threaded interface structure; wherein the adjustment control body includes a user interface portion and a cleaning member movement mechanism engagement structure attached to the user interface portion; and wherein the cleaning element movement mechanism engagement structure and the cleaning element movement mechanism are coupled to each other by a respective one of the structural elements of the interlocking interface structure such that rotation of the user interface portion of the adjustment control body provides a corresponding axial displacement of the coupling element engagement structure.

6. The cleaning member adjusting mechanism according to claim 5, wherein, The engagement of the adjustment control body with at least one of the base and the cleaning element movement mechanism inhibits unrestricted axial displacement between the adjustment control body and at least one of the base and the cleaning element movement mechanism.

7. The cleaning member adjustment mechanism according to claim 5, wherein: a first end portion of the first structural element is threadedly engaged with a first end portion of the second structural element; a second end portion of the first structural element is attached to the adjustment control body; and a second end portion of the second structural element is directly attached to the coupling element engagement structure.

8. The cleaning member adjustment mechanism according to claim 5, wherein: a first end portion of the first structural element is threadedly engaged with a first end portion of the second structural element; a second end portion of the first structural element is attached to the adjustment control body; and a second end portion of the second structural element is attached to the coupling element engagement structure through a cam body of the cleaning member movement mechanism.

9. The cleaning member adjustment mechanism according to claim 8, wherein: the first structural element is integral with the cleaning member movement mechanism engagement structure of the adjustment control body; and the first structural element is integral with the cam body.

10. An in-vivo endoscope cleaning device, comprising: an elongate body including a central passage adapted to receive an extension portion of an endoscope Wherein, a distal portion of the elongated body has an opening therein, and when the extension portion of the endoscope is in a deployed configuration within the central channel of the elongated body, an imaging element attached to the extension portion of the endoscope can be accessed through the opening; A cleaning member adjacent to the opening at the distal portion of the elongated body; A user interface body connected to the proximal end of the elongated body; A coupling element fixedly attached to the cleaning member at a distal portion of the coupling element; A cleaning member movement mechanism mounted on a base of the in-vivo endoscope cleaning device and coupled to the cleaning member through the coupling element, for enabling the cleaning member to selectively move into contact with and move out of contact with the imaging element by controlling the movement of the main body through the movement of the cleaning member movement mechanism; and An axial position adjuster movably engaged with at least one of the user interface body and the cleaning member movement mechanism, wherein the axial position adjuster is attached to the coupling element through an interlocking interface structure, the interlocking interface structure causing an adjustment control of the main body to move to provide a corresponding axial displacement of the coupling element, and wherein the interlocking interface structure includes a first structural element threadedly engaged with a second structural element of the interlocking interface structure.

11. The in vivo endoscope cleaning device according to claim 10, wherein, The engagement of the adjustment control main body with at least one of the base and the cleaning element movement mechanism inhibits unrestricted axial displacement between the adjustment control main body and at least one of the base and the cleaning element movement mechanism.

12. The in-vivo endoscope cleaning device according to claim 10, wherein: A first end portion of the first structural element is threadedly engaged with a first end portion of the second structural element; A second end portion of the first structural element is attached to the adjustment control main body; and A second end portion of the second structural element is directly attached to a coupling element engagement structure.

13. The in-vivo endoscope cleaning device according to claim 12, wherein: The axial position adjuster includes a coupling element engagement structure; The adjustment control main body is rotatably attached to the movement control main body to allow the adjustment control main body to rotate relative to the cleaning member movement mechanism; The coupling element engagement structure is fixedly attached to a proximal portion of the coupling element; The coupling element engagement structure is movably mounted on the movement control main body for allowing the coupling element engagement structure to axially translate relative to the movement control main body of the cleaning member movement mechanism and inhibiting unrestricted rotational movement between the coupling element engagement structure and the cleaning member movement mechanism; and The coupling element engagement structure is threadedly attached to the adjustment control main body for causing axial translation relative to the base when the adjustment control main body rotates.

14. The in-vivo endoscope cleaning device according to claim 10, wherein: The axial position adjuster includes a coupling element engagement structure; The adjustment control body is rotatably attached to the motion control body of the cleaning member motion mechanism to allow the adjustment control body to rotate relative to the cleaning member motion mechanism; The coupling element engagement structure is fixedly attached to the proximal portion of the coupling element; The coupling element engagement structure is movably mounted on a structure provided by a cam surface of the cleaning member motion mechanism for allowing axial translation of the coupling element engagement structure relative to the cleaning member motion mechanism; And The coupling element engagement structure is attached to the adjustment control body by a threaded interface structure for causing axial translation relative to the base when the adjustment control body rotates.

15. The in-vivo endoscope cleaning device according to claim 10, wherein: The first end portion of the first structural element is threadedly engaged with the first end portion of the second structural element; The second end portion of the first structural element is attached to the adjustment control body; and The second end portion of the second structural element is attached to the coupling element engagement structure by a cam body of the cleaning member motion mechanism.

16. The in-vivo endoscope cleaning device according to claim 10, wherein: The cleaning member motion mechanism is translationally coupled to the user interface body for implementing a first motion mode of the cleaning member, and the cleaning member motion mechanism is rotatably coupled to the user interface body for implementing a second motion mode of the cleaning member; and The axial position adjuster is fully rotatably mounted on the cleaning member motion mechanism to allow rotation between the axial position adjuster and the cleaning member motion mechanism.

17. The in-vivo endoscope cleaning device according to claim 16, wherein: The axial position adjuster includes a coupling element engagement structure; The adjustment control body is rotatably attached to the motion control body to allow the adjustment control body to rotate relative to the cleaning member motion mechanism; The coupling element engagement structure is fixedly attached to the proximal portion of the coupling element; The coupling element engagement structure is movably mounted on the motion control body for allowing axial translation of the coupling element engagement structure relative to the motion control body of the cleaning member motion mechanism and inhibiting unrestricted rotational movement between the coupling element engagement structure and the cleaning member motion mechanism; And The coupling element engagement structure is threadedly attached to the adjustment control body for causing axial translation relative to the base when the adjustment control body rotates.

18. The in-vivo endoscope cleaning device according to claim 16, wherein: The axial position adjuster includes a coupling element engagement structure; The adjustment control body is rotatably attached to the motion control body of the cleaning member motion mechanism to allow the adjustment control body to rotate relative to the cleaning member motion mechanism; The coupling element engagement structure is fixedly attached to the proximal portion of the coupling element; The coupling element engaging structure is movably mounted on a structure provided by a cam surface of the cleaning member movement mechanism for allowing axial translation of the coupling element engaging structure relative to the cleaning member movement mechanism; and the coupling element engaging structure is attached to the adjustment control body through a threaded interface structure for causing axial translation relative to the base when the adjustment control body rotates.

19. The in vivo endoscope cleaning device according to claim 16, wherein, The interlocking interface structure includes a first structural element threadedly engaged with a second structural element of the interlocking interface structure.

20. The in-vivo endoscope cleaning device according to claim 19, wherein: a first end portion of the first structural element is threadedly engaged with a first end portion of the second structural element; a second end portion of the first structural element is attached to the adjustment control body; and a second end portion of the second structural element is directly attached to the coupling element engaging structure.

21. The in-vivo endoscope cleaning device according to claim 19, wherein: a first end portion of the first structural element is threadedly engaged with a first end portion of the second structural element; a second end portion of the first structural element is attached to the adjustment control body; and a second end portion of the second structural element is attached to the coupling element engaging structure through a cam body of the cleaning member movement mechanism.

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