Hybrid coupling mechanism for endoscope system

Abstract

An exemplary medical device includes a container and a tube set arranged and configured to be coupled to an endoscope, a first supply of air, and a second supply of air for endoscopic surgery. The container and tube stack includes: a container having an interior volume configured to contain a fluid; an air supply tube having a first end and a second end in fluid communication with the container interior volume; and a coupling mechanism having a first end and a second end, where the first end of the coupling mechanism is configured to engage with the second end of the gas supply tube and the second end of the coupling mechanism is configured to interchangeably engage with the first gas supply source and the second gas supply source.

Description

Cross - Reference to Related Applications

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 410,159, filed on September 26, 2022, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] The present disclosure relates to medical devices and methods of manufacturing the same. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a coupling mechanism for supplying fluid and / or gas to an endoscope. Background Art

[0003] Traditionally, endoscope devices have been widely used to perform diagnostics and / or treatments. Endoscope devices are typically coupled to other devices such as (but not limited to) a processor, a light source, a water source, a gas source, etc. For example, water is supplied to the endoscope for flushing and cleaning the lens, while air / gas is supplied for inflating the working lumen. With the advent of new endoscope technologies, new technologies may not be backward compatible with old technologies. This may require multiple connectors or multiple types of connectors to couple other devices to the endoscope. However, using multiple tubes, hoses, connectors, etc. in the operating room can be cumbersome. It is in view of these factors that the improvements of the present disclosure may be useful. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The present disclosure provides designs, materials, manufacturing methods, and use alternatives for medical devices. Examples of medical devices may include a container and a tube set that are arranged and configured to be coupled to an endoscope, a first gas supply source, and a second gas supply source for endoscope surgery. The container and the tube set may include: a container having an internal volume configured to hold a fluid; a gas supply tube that includes a first end, a second end, and a first lumen extending therethrough, wherein the first end of the gas supply tube terminates at or within the container, and the first lumen is in fluid communication with the internal volume of the container; a coupling mechanism that has a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the coupling mechanism may be configured to engage with the second end of the gas supply tube, and the second end of the coupling mechanism may be configured to interchangeably engage with the first gas supply source and the second gas supply source; and a water supply tube that includes a first end, a second end, and a second lumen extending therethrough, wherein the first end of the water supply tube terminates at or within the bottom of the container, the second lumen is in fluid communication with the internal volume of the container, and the second end of the water supply tube is located outside the container.

[0005] As an alternative or supplement to any of the above embodiments, the container and the tube set may include a manifold at the second end of the water supply tube, wherein the second lumen of the water supply tube may be in fluid communication with a third lumen of a lens cleaning fluid tube and a fourth lumen of a flushing fluid supply tube.

[0006] As an alternative or supplement to any of the above embodiments, the second end of the coupling mechanism may include a plurality of ridges located on the outer surface of the coupling mechanism.

[0007] As an alternative or supplement to any of the above embodiments, an annular seal including at least one of the plurality of ridges may be positioned between two other of the plurality of ridges.

[0008] As an alternative or supplement to any of the above embodiments, the plurality of ridges may include: at least a first ridge of the plurality of ridges having a size and shape configured to engage a first gas supply source such that a seal is formed between the coupling mechanism and the first gas supply source; and at least a second ridge of the plurality of ridges having a size and shape configured to engage a second gas supply source such that a seal is formed between the coupling mechanism and the second gas supply source.

[0009] As an alternative or supplement to any of the above embodiments, the first end of the coupling mechanism may include a hose barb mechanism.

[0010] As an alternative or supplement to any of the above embodiments, the coupling mechanism may be a single integral structure.

[0011] As an alternative or supplement to any of the above embodiments, the second end of the coupling mechanism may be shaped to facilitate an interference fit interchangeably between the coupling mechanism and the first and second gas supply sources.

[0012] As an alternative or supplement to any of the above embodiments, the first gas supply source may be a processor core configured to pump air through a supply tube, and wherein the second gas supply source is a CO2 source configured to pump carbon dioxide (CO2) through a supply tube.

[0013] Another example of a medical device may include a coupling mechanism for an endoscopic system. The coupling mechanism may include a generally tubular body having an outer surface, an inner surface, a first end, and a second end, and a lumen extending from the first end through the tubular body to the second end. The first end may be configured to engage a supply tube, the second end may be configured to interchangeably engage a first gas supply source and a second gas supply source, and the supply tube may be configured to engage a container for containing a fluid.

[0014] As an alternative or supplement to any of the above embodiments, the second end of the coupling mechanism may include a plurality of ridges on the outer surface of the coupling mechanism.

[0015] As an alternative or supplement to any of the above embodiments, the first end of the coupling mechanism may include a hose barb mechanism.

[0016] As an alternative or supplement to any of the above embodiments, an annular seal including at least one of the plurality of ridges may be located between two other of the plurality of ridges.

[0017] As an alternative or supplement to any of the above embodiments, the plurality of ridges may include: at least a first ridge of the plurality of ridges having a size and shape configured to engage a first gas supply source such that a seal is formed between the coupling mechanism and the first gas supply source; and at least a second ridge of the plurality of ridges having a size and shape configured to engage a second gas supply source such that a seal is formed between the coupling mechanism and the second gas supply source.

[0018] As an alternative or supplement to any of the above embodiments, the first gas supply source may be a processor core configured to pump air through a supply tube.

[0019] As an alternative or supplement to any of the above embodiments, the second gas supply source may be a CO2 source configured to pump carbon dioxide (CO2) through a first supply tube.

[0020] Another example of a medical device may include a coupling mechanism for an endoscopic system. The coupling mechanism may include a generally tubular body having an outer surface, an inner surface, a first end, and a second end. A lumen may extend from the first end through the tubular body to the second end, a hose barb mechanism may be located at the first end of the tubular body, and a plurality of ridges may be located on the outer surface of the second end of the tubular body. An annular seal may be located within the plurality of ridges, the first end may be configured to engage the second end of a supply tube, the second end may be configured to interchangeably engage a first gas supply source and a second gas supply source, and the first end of the supply tube may be configured to engage a container for containing a fluid.

[0021] As an alternative or supplement to any of the above embodiments, the first gas supply source may be a processor core configured to pump air through a supply tube, and the second gas supply source may be a CO2 source configured to pump carbon dioxide (CO2) through a supply tube.

[0022] As an alternative or supplement to any of the above embodiments, the plurality of ridges may include: at least a first ridge of the plurality of ridges having a size and shape configured to engage a first gas supply source such that a seal is formed between the coupling mechanism and the first gas supply source; and at least a second ridge of the plurality of ridges having a size and shape configured to engage a second gas supply source such that a seal is formed between the coupling mechanism and the second gas supply source.

[0023] As an alternative or supplement to any of the above embodiments, the second end of the coupling mechanism may be shaped to facilitate an interference fit interchangeably formed between the coupling mechanism and the first gas supply source and the second gas supply source.

[0024] The above summary of some embodiments is not intended to describe every embodiment or every implementation of the present disclosure. The following drawings and detailed description will more specifically illustrate these embodiments. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0025] In conjunction with the accompanying drawings, the present disclosure can be more fully understood with reference to the following detailed description, wherein:

[0026] Figure 1 An exemplary container and tube set are shown, which includes a container, a gas supply pipe, a lens cleaning liquid pipe, and a flushing liquid supply pipe;

[0027] Figure 2A Shows Figure 1 A cross-sectional view taken along line 2A-2A of the gas supply pipe in

[0028] Figure 2B Shows Figure 1 A cross-sectional view taken along line 2B-2B of the water supply pipe in

[0029] Figure 2C Shows Figure 1 A cross-sectional view taken along line 2C-2C of the lens cleaning liquid pipe in

[0030] Figure 2D Shows Figure 1 A cross-sectional view taken along line 2D-2D of the flushing liquid supply pipe in

[0031] Figure 3 An exemplary container and tube set connected to an exemplary first gas supply source is shown;

[0032] Figure 4 An exemplary endoscope system is shown, including a container and tube set connected to an exemplary second gas supply source, a lens cleaning liquid pipe, and a flushing liquid supply pipe;

[0033] Figure 5 A perspective view of an exemplary coupling mechanism is shown;

[0034] Figure 6 An exemplary coupling mechanism connected to an exemplary outlet of a first gas supply source is shown;

[0035] Figure 7 Shows Figure 6 A cross-sectional view taken along line 7-7 of the exemplary coupling mechanism connected to the exemplary outlet of the first gas supply source in

[0036] Figure 8 An exemplary coupling mechanism connected to an exemplary outlet of a second gas supply source is shown;

[0037] Figure 9 Shows Figure 8 A cross-sectional view taken along line 9-9 of the exemplary coupling mechanism connected to the exemplary outlet of the second gas supply source in

[0038] Figure 10 An exemplary coupling mechanism connected to an exemplary outlet of a gas supply source is shown; and

[0039] Figure 11 Shows Figure 10 A cross-sectional view taken along line 11-11 of an exemplary coupling mechanism of an exemplary outlet coupled to a gas supply source.

[0040] Although the present disclosure may be subject to various modifications and alternative forms, specific details thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail. However, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments described. On the contrary, the present disclosure is intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit of the present disclosure. Detailed Description

[0041] For the terms defined below, these definitions shall apply unless a different definition is given elsewhere in the claims or in this specification.

[0042] All numerical values herein are assumed to be modified by the term "about" whether or not explicitly indicated. The term "about" generally refers to a range of numerical values that a person of ordinary skill in the art would consider equivalent to the recited value (i.e., having the same function or result). In many instances, the term "about" may include numbers rounded to the nearest significant digit.

[0043] Numerical ranges expressed by endpoints include all numbers within that range (e.g., 1 to 5 includes 1, 1.5, 2, 2.75, 3, 3.80, 4, and 5).

[0044] In this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. In this specification and the appended claims, the term "or" is generally used in its inclusive sense, including "and / or", unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0045] It should be noted that references to "one embodiment", "some embodiments", "other embodiments", etc. in this specification indicate that the described embodiments may include one or more specific features, structures, and / or characteristics. However, such references do not necessarily mean that all embodiments include these specific features, structures, and / or characteristics. Additionally, when a specific feature, structure, and / or characteristic is described in connection with one embodiment, it should be understood that, unless otherwise explicitly stated, such feature, structure, and / or characteristic may also be used in connection with other embodiments, whether or not explicitly described.

[0046] The following detailed description should be read with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like elements in different drawings are numbered the same. The drawings are not drawn to scale and are for the purpose of describing exemplary embodiments only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0047] An endoscope is used for diagnosis and / or treatment by inserting the elongated shaft of the endoscope into a subject's body to observe the area to be examined within the subject's body cavity and, if necessary, inserting a treatment instrument / tool into the working channel of the endoscope's elongated shaft. Such an endoscope or endoscope system may have functions such as fluid / lens flushing, so as to be used to deliver a fluid (such as a gas, for example, air, carbon dioxide) to the end of the endoscope to insufflate air into the subject's body at the target site. The lens flushing feature can provide relatively high-pressure sterile water to spray on the camera lens of the endoscope to remove debris thereon. To clean the target site of the subject, in addition to the air / water delivery function, the endoscope or endoscope system may also have a flushing function, which delivers low-pressure, large-volume water to the target site through a pump (such as a peristaltic pump) to clear the field of view, thus facilitating observation and treatment. The water source for the lens cleaning and / or flushing feature may include one or more fluid reservoirs having a pipe and cap assembly, which are connected to the endoscope channels, valves, and / or connectors to form a piping loop to achieve the described gas and water functions.

[0048] Such pipe and cap assemblies have various configurations and may include a water bottle, a cap that matches a specific water bottle, and a row of pipes that can pass through the cap opening. The pipes are generally used to accommodate endoscope fittings and valves of a specific configuration, and these fittings and valves are often not modular or optional.

[0049] As described above, during an endoscopic examination, a clinician uses the air, flushing, and lens cleaning functions. To implement these features, compressed air from a processor or carbon dioxide (CO2) from a CO2 source can be used to inflate the working lumen or increase the pressure within a water container (such as a water bottle), forcing the water in the container to flush the lumen or clean the lens on the endoscope. In this case, coupling air and / or carbon dioxide to the water container may require two different types of coupling mechanisms, one for air and one for carbon dioxide. This disclosure discusses various coupling mechanisms to address the above problems and / or other problems of existing connectors.

[0050] Figure 1 An exemplary container and tube set 10 is shown, which includes a container 30, a gas supply pipe 22, a lens cleaning fluid pipe 36, and a flushing fluid supply pipe 38. In some cases, the container 30 can be a water reservoir (such as a water bottle) and may include an internal volume 40 configured to hold a fluid 41 (such as water). The gas supply pipe 22 may include a first end 21 and a second end 23 and a first lumen extending therethrough ( Figure 1(not shown in the figure). The first end 21 of the supply pipe 22 may terminate at or inside the container 30 such that the first lumen is in fluid communication with the internal volume 40 of the container 30. In some cases, the supply pipe 22 may pass through the opening 26 in the lid 27 and extend into the internal volume 40 of the container 30. In some cases, the opening 26 may include an air gap. In some cases, the opening 26 may include a rubber seal, and the supply pipe 22 may be configured to pass through the rubber seal. In some cases, the first end 21 of the supply pipe 22 may be detachable and may engage with the lid 27 of the container 30, for example, using a Luer lock system. In some cases, the supply pipe 22 and the lid 27 may be a single integral piece.

[0051] The second end 23 of the supply pipe 22 may be configured to engage with the coupling mechanism 20. In some cases, the second end 23 of the supply pipe 22 may engage with the coupling mechanism 20, for example, by a hose barb mechanism. In some cases, the second end 23 of the supply pipe 22 may engage with the coupling mechanism 20 by an interference fit, a Luer lock system, a Luer slip system, or any other suitable engagement method.

[0052] The water supply pipe 32 may include a first end 31, a second end 33, and a second lumen extending therethrough ( Figure 1 (not shown in the figure). The water supply pipe 32 may be configured to terminate at or inside the bottom of the container 30 such that the second lumen is in fluid communication with the internal volume 40 of the container 30. In some cases, when the water supply pipe 32 terminates at the bottom of the container 30, the water supply pipe 32 may include an inner tube 29 that may extend into the internal volume 40 of the container 30, and the internal volume 40 of the container 30 may contain a fluid 41. For example, the water supply pipe 32 may be used as a lens cleaning fluid supply pipe, and the inner tube 29 may be used as a flushing fluid supply pipe; alternatively, the water supply pipe 32 may be used as a flushing fluid supply pipe, and the inner tube 29 may be used as a lens cleaning fluid supply pipe, etc. In some cases, the water supply pipe 32 may pass through an opening in the bottom of the container 30 and extend into the internal volume 40 of the container 30. In some cases, the opening in the bottom of the container may include a rubber seal, and the water supply pipe 32 may be configured to pass through the rubber seal. In some cases, the first end 31 of the water supply pipe 32 may be detachable and may engage with the container 30 (for example, using a Luer lock system), and then the inner tube 29 may pass through an opening in the bottom of the container 30 and extend into the internal volume 40 of the container 30. In some cases, the water supply pipe 32 and the container 30 may be a single integral piece.

[0053] The second end 33 of the water supply pipe 32 may include a diverter joint 35, wherein the second lumen of the water supply pipe 32 may communicate with the third lumen of the lens cleaning fluid pipe 36 and the fourth lumen of the flushing fluid supply pipe 38. Although the figure shows that the lens cleaning fluid pipe 36 and the flushing fluid supply pipe 38 may obtain fluid 41 (e.g., water) from the same water supply pipe 32, it is contemplated that the lens cleaning fluid pipe 36 may obtain fluid 41 from the water supply pipe 32, while the flushing fluid supply pipe 38 may obtain fluid from another fluid source.

[0054] Figure 2A is shown Figure 1 a cross-sectional view of the air supply pipe 22 taken along line 2A-2A. As Figure 2A shown, the air supply pipe 22 is a single pipe. In some cases, the outer diameter of the air supply pipe 22 may be from 2 millimeters (mm) to 7 millimeters. Figure 2B is shown Figure 1 a cross-sectional view of the water supply pipe 32 taken along line 2B-2B. As Figure 2B shown, the water supply pipe 32 may include an inner pipe 29 and a second lumen 34 extending through the inner pipe 29. Although the water supply pipe 32 shown in the figure includes the inner pipe 29, it is contemplated that the water supply pipe 32 is a single pipe and does not include the inner pipe 29. In some cases, the outer diameter of the water supply pipe 32 may be from 2 millimeters to 7 millimeters. Figure 2B The water supply pipe 32 shown in includes the inner pipe 29, but it is contemplated that the water supply pipe 32 is a single pipe and does not include the inner pipe 29. In some cases, the outer diameter of the water supply pipe 32 may be from 2 millimeters to 7 millimeters. Figure 2C is shown Figure 1 a cross-sectional view of the lens cleaning fluid pipe 36 taken along line 2C-2C in, Figure 2D is shown Figure 1 a cross-sectional view of the flushing fluid supply pipe 38 taken along line 2D-2D in. As Figure 2C shown, the lens cleaning fluid pipe may include a third lumen 37 extending through it. In some cases, the outer diameter of the lens cleaning fluid pipe 36 may be from 2 millimeters to 7 millimeters. As Figure 2D shown, the flushing fluid supply pipe 38 may include a fourth lumen 39 extending through it. In some cases, the outer diameter of the flushing fluid supply pipe 38 may be from 2 millimeters to 7 millimeters.

[0055] Figure 3 shows an exemplary container and tube set 100 coupled to an exemplary first air supply source 150. The container and tube set 100 may be regarded as Figure 1 an example of the container and tube set 10 shown in. In some cases, the first air supply source 150 may be a processor capital, which is configured to pump air into the container 130 through the air supply pipe 122. As Figure 3As shown, the supply pipe 122 may include a first end 121 and a second end 123. Although not shown, the supply pipe 122 may include a first lumen (e.g., the first lumen 24) extending therethrough. The first end 121 of the supply pipe 122 may terminate at or within the container 130 such that the first lumen is in fluid communication with the internal volume 140 of the container 130. In some cases, the supply pipe 122 may pass through an opening 126 in the lid 127 and extend into the internal volume 140 of the container 130. In some cases, the opening 126 may include an air gap. In some cases, the opening 126 may include a rubber seal through which the supply pipe 122 is configured to pass. In some cases, the first end 121 of the supply pipe 122 is detachable and may engage with the lid 127 of the container 130, for example, using a Luer lock system. In some cases, the supply pipe 122 and the lid 127 may be a single integral piece.

[0056] The second end 123 of the supply pipe 122 may be configured to engage with the first end 111 of the coupling mechanism 120. In some cases, the second end 123 of the supply pipe 122 may engage with the first end 111 of the coupling mechanism 120, for example, through a hose barb mechanism. In some cases, the second end 123 of the supply pipe 122 may engage with the first end 111 of the coupling mechanism 120 by an interference fit, a Luer lock system, a Luer slip system, or any other suitable type of engagement. The second end 112 of the coupling mechanism 120 may be configured to engage with the outlet 110 of the first gas supply 150. In some cases, the size and shape of the second end 112 of the coupling mechanism 120 may be configured to facilitate an interference fit between the coupling mechanism 120 and the outlet 110 of the first gas supply 150.

[0057] The water supply pipe 132 may include a first end 131, a second end 133, and a second lumen (e.g., second lumen 34) extending therethrough. The water supply pipe 132 may be configured to terminate at or within the bottom of the container 130 such that the second lumen is in fluid communication with the internal volume 140 of the container 130. In some cases, when the water supply pipe 132 terminates at the bottom of the container 130, the water supply pipe 132 may include an inner tube (e.g., inner tube 29) that extends into the internal volume 140 of the container 130, which may contain a fluid 141. For example, the water supply pipe 132 may act as a lens cleaning fluid supply pipe, and the inner tube (e.g., inner tube 29) may act as a flushing fluid supply pipe, or the water supply pipe 132 may act as a flushing fluid supply pipe, and the inner tube may act as a lens cleaning fluid supply pipe, etc. In some cases, the water supply pipe 132 may pass through an opening in the bottom of the container 130 and extend into the internal volume 140 of the container 130. In some cases, the opening in the bottom of the container may include a rubber seal, and the water supply pipe 132 may be configured to pass through the rubber seal. In some cases, the first end 131 of the water supply pipe 132 may be detachable and may be engaged with the container 130 using a luer lock system, and then the inner tube may pass through an opening in the bottom of the container 130 and extend into the internal volume 140 of the container 130. In some cases, the water supply pipe 132 and the container 130 may be a single integral piece. In some cases, the second end 133 of the water supply pipe 132 may include a connector 135 that is configured to engage with a lens cleaning fluid pipe, a flushing fluid supply pipe, or may include a splitter joint that may be configured to engage with both a lens cleaning fluid pipe and a flushing fluid supply pipe.

[0058] When the coupling mechanism 120 is coupled to the outlet 110 of the first gas supply source 150 and the gas supply pipe 122, gas (e.g., air) may be allowed to flow from the first gas supply source 150 through the gas supply pipe 122 and into the container 130. This enables the gas (e.g., air) to pressurize the fluid 141 (e.g., water) within the container 130 and force the fluid 141 to flow out through the water supply pipe 132 and the lens cleaning fluid pipe and / or the flushing fluid supply pipe.

[0059] In some cases, when the water supply pipe 132 is connected to the lens cleaning fluid pipe, the flow rate of the lens cleaning fluid is controlled by the air pressure in the container 130. When the air pressure in the container 130 begins to drop, as water is discharged from the container 130 through the water supply pipe 132, the first air supply source 150 replenishes the lost air in the container 130 to maintain a substantially constant pressure, thereby providing a substantially constant flow rate of the lens cleaning fluid. In some embodiments, a filter (not shown) may be placed in the path of the air supply pipe 122 to filter out harmful contaminants or particles entering the container 130. In some embodiments, an outflow check valve or other one-way valve structure (not shown) may be placed in the path of the water supply pipe 132 to help prevent water from flowing back into the container 130 after passing through the valve.

[0060] In some cases, a higher flushing water flow rate than that for lens cleaning is typically required because its main purpose is to remove debris obstructing the user's view within the patient treatment area. In some cases, a pump (such as a peristaltic pump) may be used for flushing. In some cases, flushing can be achieved by adjusting the gas flow entering the container 130 from the first air supply source 150. In some cases, when water is pumped out from the water supply pipe 132 and the subsequent flushing fluid supply pipe, an exhaust hole (not shown) may be provided in the lid 127 of the container 130 to balance the pressure inside the container 130. The exhaust hole allows the atmosphere to enter the water source, preventing the accumulation of negative pressure in the water source, which otherwise might form a vacuum that would suck foreign objects from the patient's body back into the water source through the endoscope. In some embodiments, an outflow check valve or other one-way valve configuration (not shown) may be placed in the path of the flushing fluid supply pipe to help prevent water from flowing back into the container 130 after passing through the valve.

[0061] Figure 4 An exemplary endoscope system is shown that includes a container and a tube set 200, which is coupled to an exemplary second air supply source 250, a lens cleaning fluid pipe 236, and a flushing fluid supply pipe 238. The container and tube set 200 can be considered an example of the container and tube set 10 shown in Figure 1 In some cases, the second air supply source 250 may be a CO2 (carbon dioxide) source, such as a wall-mounted CO2 outlet as shown in Figure 4 In some cases, the second air supply source 250 may be a portable CO2 gas cylinder coupled to a CO2 regulator. The second air supply source 250 may be configured to pump CO2 into the container 230 through the air supply pipe 222. As shown in Figure 4As shown, the supply pipe 222 may include a first end 221 and a second end 223. Although not shown, the supply pipe 222 may include a first lumen (e.g., first lumen 24) extending therethrough. The first end 221 of the supply pipe 222 may terminate at or within the container 230 such that the first lumen is in fluid communication with the internal volume 240 of the container 230. In some cases, the supply pipe 222 terminates at the lid 227 of the container 230. In some cases, the supply pipe 222 may pass through an opening 226 in the lid 227 and extend into the internal volume 240 of the container 230. In some cases, the opening 226 may include an air gap. In some cases, the opening 226 may include a rubber seal through which the supply pipe 222 may be configured to pass. In some cases, the first end 221 of the supply pipe 222 may be detachable and may engage with the lid 227 of the container 230, such as using a Luer lock system. In some cases, the supply pipe 222 and the lid 227 may be a single integral piece.

[0062] The second end 223 of the supply pipe 222 may be configured to engage with the first end 211 of the coupling mechanism 220. In some cases, the second end 223 of the supply pipe 222 may engage with the first end 211 of the coupling mechanism 220, for example, through a Luer lock system 225. In some cases, the second end 223 of the supply pipe 222 may engage with the first end 211 of the coupling mechanism 220 by an interference fit, a Luer slip system, or any other suitable engagement method. The second end 212 of the coupling mechanism 220 may be configured to engage with the outlet 210 of the second gas supply 250. In some cases, the size and shape of the second end 212 of the coupling mechanism 220 may be configured to facilitate an interference fit between the coupling mechanism 220 and the outlet 210 of the second gas supply 250.

[0063] The water supply pipe 232 may include a first end 231, a second end 233, and a second lumen extending therethrough (e.g., the second lumen 34). The water supply pipe 232 may be configured to terminate at or within the bottom of the container 230 such that the second lumen is in fluid communication with the internal volume 240 of the container 230. In some cases, when the water supply pipe 232 terminates at the bottom of the container 130, the water supply pipe 232 may include an inner tube (e.g., the inner tube 29) that extends into the internal volume 240 of the container 230, which internal volume may contain the fluid 241. For example, the water supply pipe 232 may be used as a lens cleaning fluid supply pipe, and the inner tube 29 may be used as a flushing fluid supply pipe; alternatively, the water supply pipe 232 may be used as a flushing fluid supply pipe, and the inner tube 29 may be used as a lens cleaning fluid supply pipe, etc. In some cases, the water supply pipe 232 may pass through an opening in the bottom of the container 230 and extend into the internal volume 240 of the container 230. In some cases, the opening in the bottom of the container may include a rubber seal, and the water supply pipe 232 may be configured to pass through the rubber seal. In some cases, the first end 231 of the water supply pipe 232 may be detachable and may be engaged with the container 230 (e.g., using a Luer lock system), and then the inner tube may pass through the opening in the bottom of the container 230 and extend into the internal volume 240 of the container 230. In some cases, the water supply pipe 232 and the container 230 may be a single integral piece.

[0064] In some cases, the second end 233 of the water supply pipe 232 may include a connector 235 that is configured to engage with a splitter joint 237, which splitter joint 237 may be configured to engage with both a lens cleaning fluid pipe 236 and a flushing fluid supply pipe 238. Both the lens cleaning fluid pipe 236 and the flushing fluid supply pipe 238 may be configured to engage with the endoscopic system 260. When the coupling mechanism 220 is coupled to the outlet 210 of the second gas supply source 250 and the gas supply pipe 222, gas (e.g., CO2) may flow from the second gas supply source 250 through the gas supply pipe 222 and into the container 230. This allows the gas (e.g., CO2) to pressurize the fluid 241 (e.g., water) within the container 230 and force the fluid 241 to flow out through the water supply pipe 232 and through the lens cleaning fluid pipe 236 and / or the flushing fluid supply pipe 238 to the endoscopic system 260.

[0065] In some cases, when the water supply pipe 232 is connected to the lens cleaning fluid pipe 236, the flow rate of the lens cleaning fluid is controlled by the air pressure in the container 230. When the air pressure in the container 230 starts to drop, as water is discharged from the container 230 through the water supply pipe 232, the second gas supply source 250 replenishes the lost carbon dioxide in the container 230 to maintain a substantially constant pressure, thereby providing a substantially constant flow rate of the lens cleaning fluid. In some embodiments, a filter (not shown) may be placed in the path of the gas supply pipe 222 to filter out harmful contaminants or particles entering the container 230. In some embodiments, an outflow check valve or other one-way valve structure (not shown) may be placed in the path of the water supply pipe 232 to help prevent water from flowing back into the container 230 after passing through the valve.

[0066] In some cases, a higher flushing water flow rate than that for lens cleaning is typically required because its main purpose is to remove debris that obstructs the user's view within the patient treatment area. In some cases, a pump (such as a peristaltic pump) may be used for flushing. In some cases, flushing can be achieved by adjusting the gas flow entering the container 230 from the second gas supply source 250. In some cases, when water is pumped out from the water supply pipe 232 and the subsequent flushing fluid supply pipe 238, an exhaust hole (not shown) may be provided in the lid 227 of the container 230 to balance the pressure inside the container 230. The exhaust hole allows the atmosphere to enter the water source, preventing the accumulation of negative pressure in the water source, which otherwise might form a vacuum that would suck foreign objects in the patient's body back into the water source through the endoscope system 260. In some embodiments, an outflow check valve or other one-way valve configuration (not shown) may be placed in the path of the flushing fluid supply pipe to help prevent water from flowing back into the container 230 after passing through the valve.

[0067] Figure 5 A perspective view of an exemplary coupling mechanism 300 is shown. The coupling mechanism 300 can be regarded as Figure 1 、Figure 2 and Figure 3Examples of the coupling mechanisms 20, 120, 220 shown. The coupling mechanism 300 may include a generally tubular body 315 having an outer surface 311, an inner surface 312, a first end 301, and a second end 302. A lumen 310 may extend from the first end 301 through the tubular body 315 to the second end 302. In some cases, the first end 301 of the tubular body 315 may be configured to engage with the second end of a supply pipe (e.g., supply pipes 22, 122, 222), such as through a hose barb mechanism. In such a case, a hose barb 335 may be located at the first end 301 of the tubular body 315. In some cases, the coupling mechanism 300 may include a grip 330 that a user may hold when connecting the coupling mechanism 300 to the second end of a supply pipe and / or a gas supply source. Preferred materials for the tubular body 315 include polycarbonate materials. When a polymer is selected as the material for the tubular body 315, the hardness of the material may be in the range of about 75A to 90A Shore hardness, among other possible values.

[0068] The second end 302 of the tubular body 315 may include a plurality of ridges 320a, 320b, 320c, 320d on its outer surface 311. In some cases, an annular seal 325 may be located within the plurality of ridges 320a, 320b, 320c, 320d (in the illustrated embodiment, between ridges 320b and 320c). In some cases, the annular seal 325 may be overmolded onto the second end 302 of the tubular body 315. Preferred materials for the annular seal 325 include thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), silicone, or any other suitable material. When a polymer is selected as the material for the annular seal 325, the hardness of the material may be in the range of about 40A to 60A Shore hardness, among other possible values.

[0069] The plurality of ridges 320a, 320b, 320c, 320d, 325a, 325b may include dimensions and shapes configured to facilitate an interference fit interchangeably formed between the coupling mechanism 300 and a first gas supply source (e.g., the first gas supply source 150) and a second gas supply source (e.g., the second gas supply source 250). The plurality of ridges 320a, 320b, 320c, 320d may include at least a first ridge (e.g., ridge 320a) among the plurality of ridges 320a, 320b, 320c, 320d, which has dimensions and shapes configured to engage with the first gas supply source such that a seal is formed between the coupling mechanism 300 and the first gas supply source; and at least a second ridge (e.g., 320d) among the plurality of ridges 320a, 320b, 320c, 320d, which has dimensions and shapes configured to engage with the second gas supply source such that a seal is formed between the coupling mechanism 300 and the second gas supply source. For example, the outer diameter of at least the first ridge (e.g., ridge 320a) may be greater than the remaining ridges among the plurality of ridges 320a, 320b, 320c, 320d. Although the plurality of ridges 320a, 320b, 320c, 320d, 325a, 325b shown in the figure includes six ridges, it is contemplated that the plurality of ridges 320 may include four ridges, five ridges, seven ridges, eight ridges or any other suitable number of ridges as required.

[0070] Figure 6 An exemplary coupling mechanism 400 is shown coupled to an exemplary outlet 450 of a first gas supply source (e.g., the first gas supply source 150). Figure 7 Shown is Figure 6 a cross-sectional view taken along line 7-7 of the exemplary coupling mechanism 400 coupled to the exemplary outlet 450 of the first gas supply source. The coupling mechanism 400 may be regarded as an example of the coupling mechanism 300 as Figure 5 shown. As Figure 6 and Figure 7 shown, the coupling mechanism 400 may include a generally tubular body 415 having an outer surface 411, an inner surface 412, a first end 401, and a second end 402. A lumen 410 may extend from the first end 401 through the tubular body 415 to the second end 402. In some cases, the first end 401 of the tubular body 415 may be configured to engage with the second end of a gas supply pipe (e.g., the gas supply pipe 22), for example, by a hose barb or other suitable mechanism. In such a case, the hose barb 435 may be located at the first end 401 of the tubular body 415. In some cases, the coupling mechanism 400 may include a grip 430 that a user may hold when connecting the coupling mechanism 400 to the second end of the gas supply pipe and / or the gas supply source. Preferred materials for the body include polycarbonate materials. When a polymer is selected as the material for the tubular body 415, the hardness of the material may be in the range of about 75A to 90A Shore hardness, among other possible values.

[0071] The second end 402 of the tubular body 415 may include a plurality of ridges 420a, 420b, 420c, 420d on the outer surface 411 of the tubular body 415. In some cases, an annular seal 425 may be located between the plurality of ridges (in the illustrated embodiment, between ridges 420b and 420c). The annular seal 425 may include one or more ridges 425a, 425b. In other embodiments (not shown), one or more ridges may be formed by the surface of one or more O-rings. In some cases, the annular seal 425 may be overmolded onto the second end 402 of the tubular body 415. Preferred materials for the annular seal 425 include thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), silicone, or any other suitable material. When a polymer is selected as the material for the annular seal 425, the hardness of the material may be in the range of about 40A to 60A Shore hardness, among other possible values.

[0072] The plurality of ridges 420a, 420b, 420c, 420d, 425a, 425b may include dimensions and shapes configured to facilitate an interference fit interchangeably formed between the coupling mechanism 400 and a first gas supply source (e.g., the first gas supply source 150) and a second gas supply source (e.g., the second gas supply source 250). The plurality of ridges 420a, 420b, 420c, 420d may include at least a first ridge (e.g., ridge 420a) among the plurality of ridges 420a, 420b, 420c, 420d, which has dimensions and shapes configured to engage with the first gas supply source, thereby forming a seal between the coupling mechanism 400 and the first gas supply source. For example, the outer diameter of at least the first ridge (e.g., ridge 420a) may be greater than the remaining ridges among the plurality of ridges 420a, 420b, 420c, and 420d. As Figure 7 shown, the dimensions and shapes of the first ridge 420d may be configured to engage with the outlet 450 of the first gas supply source, thereby forming a seal between the coupling mechanism 400 and the outlet 450 of the first gas supply source. In addition, the dimensions and shapes of the ridges 425a, 425b of the annular seal 425 may be configured to engage with the outlet 450 of the first gas supply source, thereby forming an additional seal between the coupling mechanism 400 and the outlet 450 of the first gas supply source. Although not shown, the ridges 420c, 420d are configured to engage with the outlet of the second gas supply source, similar to Figures 8 - 9 the ridges 520d, 520e in. Although the plurality of ridges 420a, 420b, 420c, 420d, 425a, 425b shown in the figure includes six ridges, it is contemplated that the plurality of ridges 420a, 420b, 420c, 420d, 425a, 425b includes three, four, seven, eight ridges, or any suitable number of ridges as required.

[0073] Figure 8An exemplary coupling mechanism 500 is shown that is coupled to an exemplary outlet 550 of a second gas supply source (e.g., second gas supply source 250). Figure 9 is shown Figure 8 A cross-sectional view taken along line 9-9 of an exemplary coupling mechanism 500 that is coupled to an exemplary outlet 550 of a second gas supply source. The coupling mechanism 500 can be considered an example of the coupling mechanism 300 as shown in Figure 5 The coupling mechanism 500 is slightly different from the coupling mechanism 400 in that it includes additional ridges as described below. As shown. As Figures 8 - 9 shown, the coupling mechanism 500 can include a generally tubular body 515 having an outer surface 511, an inner surface 512, a first end 501, and a second end 502. A lumen 510 can extend from the first end 501 through the tubular body 515 to the second end 502. In some cases, the first end 501 of the tubular body 515 can be configured to engage the second end of a gas supply tube (e.g., gas supply tube 22), such as by a hose barb mechanism. In such cases, a hose barb 535 can be located at the first end 501 of the tubular body 515. In some cases, the coupling mechanism 500 can include a grip 530 that a user can hold when connecting the coupling mechanism 500 to the second end of a gas supply tube and / or a gas supply source. Preferred materials for the tubular body 515 include polycarbonate materials. When a polymer is selected as the material for the tubular body 515, the hardness of the material can be in the range of about 75A to 90A Shore hardness, among other possible values.

[0074] The second end 502 of the tubular body 515 may include a plurality of ridges 520a, 520b, 520c, 520d, 520e on the outer surface 511 of the tubular body 515. In some cases, an annular seal 525 may be located within the plurality of ridges 520a, 520b, 520c, 520d, 520e (in the illustrated embodiment, between ridges 520b and 520c). The annular seal 525 may include one or more ridges 525a, 525b. In other embodiments (not shown), one or more ridges may be formed by the surface of one or more O-rings. In some cases, the annular seal 525 may be overmolded onto the second end 502 of the tubular body 515. The plurality of ridges 520a, 520b, 520c, 520d, 520e, 525a, 525b may include dimensions and shapes that are configured to facilitate an interference fit to be interchangeably formed between the coupling mechanism 500 and a first gas supply source (e.g., the first gas supply source 150) and a second gas supply source (e.g., the second gas supply source 250). In some cases, the ridges 520d, 520e among the plurality of ridges 520a, 520b, 520c, 520d, 520e, 525a, 525b may be configured to engage with the outlet 550 of the second gas supply source. The ridges 520d, 520e may engage with the outlet 550 by an interference fit or a transition fit. Preferred materials for the annular seal 525 include thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), silicone, or any other suitable material. When a polymer is selected as the material for the annular seal 525, the hardness of the material may be in the range of about 40A to 60A Shore hardness, among other possible values.

[0075] In some cases, the second end 502 of the coupling mechanism 500 may be inserted into a second gas supply source, which may be a wall-mounted CO2 outlet. The second end 502 of the coupling mechanism 500 may be inserted into the outlet 550 of the second gas supply source, and a valve 540 within the outlet 550 may extend into the lumen 510 of the coupling mechanism 500. The ridges 520d and 520e of the second end 502 cooperate to form an interference fit, thereby firmly holding the coupling mechanism 500 within the outlet 550 of the second gas supply source. Additionally, the plurality of ridges 520a, 520b, 520c, 520d, 520e, 525a, 525b may include a first ridge 520a, the outer diameter of which may be greater than the remaining ridges among the plurality of ridges 520b, 520c, 520d, 520e, 525a, 525b. Although not shown, the dimensions and shapes of the ridges 520a, 525a, 525b may be configured to engage with the outlet of the first gas supply source such that a seal is formed between the coupling mechanism 500 and the outlet of the first gas supply source, similar to Figures 6 - 7Ridges 420a, 425a, 425b therein. Although multiple ridges are shown including seven ridges 520a, 520b, 520c, 520d, 520e, 525a, 525b, it is contemplated that the multiple ridges 520 can include three, four, six, eight ridges or any suitable number of ridges as needed.

[0076] Figure 10 An exemplary coupling mechanism 600 is shown, which is coupled to an exemplary outlet 650 of a gas supply source (e.g., the first gas supply source 150). Figure 11 Is shown Figure 10 A cross-sectional view taken along line 11-11 of the exemplary coupling mechanism 600 coupled to the exemplary outlet 650 of the gas supply source. As Figures 10 - 11 shown, the coupling mechanism 600 can include an outer surface 611, an inner surface 612, a first end 601, and a second end 602. The lumen 610 can extend from the first end 601 through the coupling mechanism 600 to the second end 602. In some cases, the first end 601 of the coupling mechanism 600 can be configured to engage with the second end of a supply pipe (e.g., the supply pipe 22), for example, through a hose barb mechanism, a Luer lock system, or any other suitable coupling. Preferred materials for the coupling mechanism 600 include polycarbonate materials. When a polymer is selected as the material for the coupling mechanism 600, the hardness of the material can be in the range of about 75A to 90A Shore hardness, as well as other possible values.

[0077] The second end 602 of the coupling mechanism 600 can include an outer lip 635. In some cases, the outer lip 635 can be configured to fit over the outer surface of the outlet 650 of the gas supply source (e.g., the first gas supply source 150). The size and shape of the outer lip 635 of the coupling mechanism 600 can be configured to form an interference fit with the outlet 650 of the gas supply source. This interference fit holds the coupling mechanism 600 firmly on the outlet 650 of the gas supply source to prevent the coupling mechanism 600 from detaching from the outlet 650. In some cases, ridges 620 can be included on the protrusion 625 of the coupling mechanism 600. The ridges 620 can form an additional seal between the coupling mechanism 600 and the outlet 650 of the gas supply source.

[0078] The coupling mechanism 600 can include a spring 630, which is attached to the protrusion 625 within the coupling mechanism 600. The spring 630 can be located around the lumen 610 such that gas (e.g., air, carbon dioxide) can pass from the outlet 650 of the gas supply source through the lumen 610 of the coupling mechanism 600 into the supply pipe. The spring 630 can be configured to move along the axis of the coupling mechanism 600 such that the ridges 620 of the protrusion 625 can engage with a stop 634 of the outlet 650 of the gas supply source (similar to a coaxial cable). In other embodiments, an internal stop 633 can prevent the protrusion 625 from moving too far distally from the coupling mechanism 600.

[0079] In some cases, the convex portion 625 of the coupling mechanism 600 can be inserted into a second gas supply source (not shown), which can be a wall-mounted CO2 outlet, for example Figures 8 - 9 the outlet 550 shown. The convex portion 625 of the coupling mechanism 600 can be inserted into the outlet of the second gas supply source (e.g., the outlet 550), and the valve 540 within the outlet can extend into the lumen 610 of the coupling mechanism 600. The ridge 620 can provide an interference fit to securely hold the coupling mechanism 600 within the outlet of the second gas supply source.

[0080] In addition to the above-described preferred materials, the coupling mechanisms 20, 120, 220, 300, 400, 500, 600 can also be made of metal, metal alloy, polymer (some examples are disclosed below), metal-polymer composite, ceramic, combinations thereof, etc. or other suitable materials. Some examples of suitable polymers can include polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), ethylene tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE), fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP), polyoxymethylene (POM, e.g., available from DuPont ), polyether block ester, polyurethane (e.g., polyurethane 85A), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyether ester (e.g., available from DSM Engineering Plastics ), ether or ester-based copolymer (e.g., butene / poly(alkylene ether) phthalate and / or other polyester elastomers, e.g., available from DuPont ), polyamide (e.g., available from Bayer or available from Elf Atochem ), elastomeric polyamide, block polyamide / ether, polyether block amide (PEBA, e.g., can be obtained under the trade name ), ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA), silicone, polyethylene (PE), high density polyethylene, low density polyethylene, linear low density polyethylene (e.g ), polyester, polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene terephthalate, polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polyether ether ketone (PEEK), polyimide (PI), polyetherimide (PEI), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyphenylene oxide (PPO), polyparaphenylene terephthalamide (e.g ), polysulfone, nylon, nylon-12 (e.g., provided by EMS AmericanGrilon ), perfluoro(propyl vinyl ether) (PFA), ethylene-vinyl alcohol, polyolefin, polystyrene, epoxy resin, polyvinylidene chloride (PVdC), poly(styrene-b-isobutylene-b-styrene) (such as SIBS and / or SIBS 50A), polycarbonate, ionomer, biocompatible polymer, other suitable materials, or mixtures, combinations, copolymers, polymer / metal composites, etc. In some embodiments, the sheath may be mixed with a liquid crystal polymer (LCP). For example, the mixture may contain up to about 6% LCP.

[0081] It should be understood that the present disclosure is illustrative in many respects. Changes may be made to the details, particularly in the shape, size, and arrangement of steps, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. To the extent appropriate, this may include using any features of one exemplary embodiment in another embodiment. Of course, the scope of the present disclosure is defined by the language set forth in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A container and tube set arranged and configured to be coupled to an endoscope, a first gas supply source, and a second gas supply source for endoscopic surgery, the container and tube set comprising: A container having an internal volume configured to hold a fluid; A gas supply tube including a first end, a second end, and a first lumen extending therethrough, wherein the first end of the gas supply tube terminates at or within the container, and the first lumen is in fluid communication with the internal volume of the container; A coupling mechanism having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the coupling mechanism is configured to engage the second end of the gas supply tube, and the second end of the coupling mechanism is configured to interchangeably engage the first gas supply source and the second gas supply source; A water supply tube including a first end, a second end, and a second lumen extending therethrough, wherein the first end of the water supply tube terminates at or within the bottom of the container, the second lumen is in fluid communication with the internal volume of the container, and the second end of the water supply tube is located outside the container.

2. The container and tube set according to claim 1, further comprising a diverter fitting at the second end of the water supply tube, wherein the second lumen of the water supply tube is in fluid communication with a third lumen of a lens cleaning fluid tube and a fourth lumen of a flushing fluid supply tube.

3. The container and tube set according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second end of the coupling mechanism includes a plurality of ridges located on the outer surface of the coupling mechanism.

4. The container and tube set according to claim 3, wherein an annular seal including at least one of the plurality of ridges is positioned between two other of the plurality of ridges.

5. The container and tube assembly according to claim 3, wherein the plurality of ridges comprises: At least a first ridge of the plurality of ridges, the first ridge having a size and shape configured to engage the first gas supply source such that a seal is formed between the coupling mechanism and the first gas supply source; and at least a second ridge of the plurality of ridges, the second ridge having a size and shape configured to engage the second gas supply source such that a seal is formed between the coupling mechanism and the second gas supply source.

6. The container and tube set according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the first end of the coupling mechanism includes a hose barb mechanism.

7. The container and tube set according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the coupling mechanism is a single integral structure.

8. The container and tube set according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the second end of the coupling mechanism is shaped to facilitate an interference fit interchangeably formed between the coupling mechanism and the first gas supply source and the second gas supply source.

9. The coupling mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the first gas supply source is a processor core configured to pump air through the gas supply tube, and wherein the second gas supply source is a CO2 source configured to pump carbon dioxide (CO2) through the gas supply tube.

10. A coupling mechanism for an endoscopic system, comprising: A generally tubular body having an outer surface, an inner surface, a first end, and a second end; And A lumen extending from the first end through the tubular body to the second end; wherein the first end is configured to engage with a supply pipe, and the second end is configured to interchangeably engage with a first gas supply source and a second gas supply source; and wherein the supply pipe is configured to engage with a container configured to hold a fluid.

11. The coupling mechanism according to claim 10, wherein, The second end of the coupling mechanism includes a plurality of ridges located on an outer surface of the coupling mechanism.

12. The coupling mechanism according to claim 11, wherein an annular seal including at least one of the plurality of ridges is positioned between two other of the plurality of ridges.

13. The coupling mechanism according to claim 11, wherein the plurality of ridges comprises: At least a first ridge of the plurality of ridges, the first ridge having a size and shape configured to engage with the first gas supply source such that a seal is formed between the coupling mechanism and the first gas supply source; and at least a second ridge of the plurality of ridges, the second ridge having a size and shape configured to engage with the second gas supply source such that a seal is formed between the coupling mechanism and the second gas supply source.

14. The coupling mechanism according to any one of claims 10 to 13, wherein the first end of the coupling mechanism includes a hose barb mechanism.

15. The coupling mechanism according to any one of claims 10 to 14, wherein the first gas supply source is a processor core configured to pump air through the supply pipe, and wherein the second gas supply source is a CO2 source configured to pump carbon dioxide (CO2) through the first supply pipe.

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