Suction assembly, sputum suction tube and sputum suction mirror

By designing a suction component in the suction mirror, placing the pressure regulating tube connection port close to the proximal end of the suction tube, and providing a guide part and a flow gap, the problem of cross-infection caused by fingers blocking large air holes is solved, and safety and structural compactness are improved.

CN120324698BActive Publication Date: 2025-09-19HUNAN VATHIN MEDICAL INSTR CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202510835066.0
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Patents(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2025-06-20
Publication Date
2025-09-19
Estimated Expiration
2045-06-20

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

During the operation of existing suction mirrors and suction tubes, the operator needs to directly cover the large air holes with his fingers, which poses a risk of cross infection. In addition, the structure is not compact, which increases the risk of contaminating gloves.

Method used

A suction assembly is designed, including a suction tube and a pressure-regulating tube. The connecting port of the pressure-regulating tube is close to the proximal end of the suction tube. A guide portion is provided to shield the connecting port, and a flow gap is formed between the guide portion and the inner wall of the suction tube to achieve airflow regulation and sputum isolation. The driving part and the deformation portion are combined to improve the suction efficiency and safety.

Benefits of technology

It effectively reduces the risk of contamination caused by sputum reflux or pressure fluctuations, improves safety and cleanliness of use, and has a compact structure, reducing component space and production costs.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The present invention provides a suction assembly, a sputum suction tube and a sputum suction mirror, which relate to the technical field of endoscopes. The present invention includes a suction tube, the proximal end of the suction tube is used to connect a negative pressure source, and the distal end is used to suction a target substance; the pressure regulating tube has a first end and a second end, the first end is connected to the tube body of the suction tube and forms a connecting port, the second end is an atmospheric port connected to the outside world, and the first end is closer to the proximal end of the suction tube than the second end; the guide part is arranged at the connecting port and is used to shield the connecting port to prevent sputum from entering the pressure regulating tube, the guide part includes a fixed end and a free end, wherein the fixed end is located on a side close to the distal end of the suction tube, the free end is located on a side close to the proximal end of the suction tube, and a flow gap is formed between the free end and the inner wall of the suction tube for airflow to circulate between the suction tube and the pressure regulating tube. Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the advantage of being able to effectively prevent medical waste liquids such as sputum from flowing out through the atmospheric pores, thereby reducing the risk of cross contamination.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of endoscopes, and in particular to a suction component, a sputum suction tube and a sputum suction mirror. Background Art

[0002] A sputum suction mirror is a medical device used to remove secretions (such as sputum) from a patient's respiratory tract. It is widely used in clinical scenarios such as surgery, emergency treatment, and intensive care. Its structure typically consists of an insertion tube and a suction channel. During use, the insertion end enters the airway through the mouth or nose, approaching the area to be suctioned. The other end is connected to a negative pressure source, which drives the sputum out of the body through negative pressure. To adjust the suction intensity, existing sputum suction mirrors or suction tubes often have large air holes on the tube body to control the negative pressure state. During operation, the operator needs to block or release the large air holes with their fingers to control the establishment or release of negative pressure: when blocking, negative pressure is generated and sputum can be suctioned out; when the fingers are released, air enters the tube lumen, weakening or interrupting the suction effect.

[0003] However, long-term practice has found that operators need to directly cover the large air holes with their fingers, which may cause sputum to splash back and contaminate the glove surface during the suction process, increasing the risk of cross-infection. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this application is to provide a suction assembly, a sputum suction tube and a sputum suction mirror to solve the above-mentioned technical problems existing in the prior art.

[0005] In a first aspect, the present application provides a suction assembly for use in a sputum suction mirror, employing the following technical solutions:

[0006] A suction assembly, applied to a sputum suction mirror, comprising:

[0007] a suction tube, the proximal end of which is used to connect to a negative pressure source, and the distal end of which is used to aspirate the target substance;

[0008] a pressure regulating tube having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is connected to the tube body of the suction tube and forms a communication port, and the second end is an atmospheric port connected to the outside, and the first end is closer to the proximal end of the suction tube than the second end;

[0009] The guide portion is arranged at the communicating port and is used to cover the communicating port to prevent sputum from entering the pressure-regulating tube. The guide portion includes a fixed end and a free end, wherein the fixed end is located on a side close to the distal end of the suction tube, and the free end is located on a side close to the proximal end of the suction tube, and a flow gap is formed between the free end and the inner wall of the suction tube to allow air to flow between the suction tube and the pressure-regulating tube.

[0010] In a second aspect, the present application provides a sputum suction tube, which adopts the following technical solution:

[0011] A sputum suction tube comprises the suction assembly described in the above solution.

[0012] In a third aspect, the present application provides a sputum suction mirror, which adopts the following technical solution:

[0013] A sputum suction mirror comprises the suction assembly described in the above scheme, and also comprises an insertion tube and a handle shell, wherein the insertion tube is mounted on the handle shell, and the distal end of the suction tube is connected to the insertion tube.

[0014] The present invention has the following advantages and beneficial effects:

[0015] (1) The present invention connects the first end of the pressure regulating tube to the suction tube body to form a connecting port, and the connecting port is closer to the proximal end of the suction tube than the atmospheric port, so that the pressure regulating tube bifurcates and extends in a direction away from the proximal end of the suction tube, forming a reasonable suction angle. This arrangement not only allows the pressure regulating tube to guide the airflow in the negative pressure direction of the suction tube during the suction process, but also effectively prevents sputum from splashing through the pressure regulating tube due to backflow or pressure fluctuations, thereby improving the overall safety and cleanliness of use.

[0016] At the same time, this structure is conducive to better fitting the pressure regulating tube with the internal structure of the handle housing during installation, reducing the internal space occupied, contributing to the compactness of the structure of the entire device, and further reducing the volume of the handle housing.

[0017] In addition, a guide is provided at the connection port. This guide comprises a fixed end and a free end, which are arranged opposite each other. The free end extends toward the proximal end of the suction tube and forms a flow gap with the inner wall of the suction tube for airflow regulation. The guide structure guides airflow to achieve ventilation regulation while effectively shielding the connection port, preventing sputum from entering the pressure regulating tube during reflux or impact. This reduces the risk of contamination of the pressure regulating tube, effectively protects the operator's gloves from splashing, and reduces the possibility of cross-infection.

[0018] In summary, this structural design not only has good fluid regulation capabilities and anti-pollution effects, but also has a simple structure, does not require additional complex components, is easy to process and assemble, and helps control production costs. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] In order to more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the present invention or the technical solutions in the prior art, the following briefly introduces the drawings required for use in the embodiments or the description of the prior art. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For ordinary technicians in this field, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without paying any creative work.

[0020] Figure 1It is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the suction assembly provided in some embodiments of the present application.

[0021] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of a suction assembly provided in some embodiments of the present application.

[0022] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Enlarged view of part A.

[0023] Figure 4 It is a local schematic diagram intended to demonstrate the deformation of the extended segment caused by sputum.

[0024] Figure 5 It is a schematic diagram intended to show the structure of the drive components.

[0025] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 Magnified view of part B.

[0026] Figure 7 It is a structural schematic diagram intended to show that the deformation portion is an inflatable airbag and the inflatable airbag is in an initial state.

[0027] Figure 8 It is a structural diagram intended to show that a portion of the driving bladder is compressed and the inflation bladder is in a deformed state.

[0028] Figure 9 It is a structural schematic diagram intended to show that the deformation portion is a deformation ring and the deformation ring is in an initial state.

[0029] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 Magnified view of part C.

[0030] Figure 11 It is a structural schematic diagram intended to show that the deformation portion is in a deformed state.

[0031] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the sputum suction mirror provided in some embodiments of the present application.

[0032] Figure 13 yes Figure 12 Magnified view of part D.

[0033] The following are marked in the figure:

[0034] 100, suction tube; 101, receiving groove; 200, pressure regulating tube; 201, first end; 202, second end; 203, communication port; 204, atmosphere port; 210, straight section; 220, first tube body; 230, second tube body; 300, guide portion; 301, fixed end; 302, free end; 3021, flow gap; 400, extension section; 500, driving member; 501, driving capsule; 5010, capsule chamber; 5011, communication tube; 502, air outlet; 503, baffle; 600, deformation portion; 610, deformation ring; 611, elastic ring; 612, guide ring; 620, expansion airbag; 700, insertion tube; 701, camera module; 800, handle housing;

[0035] T, sputum; Q, negative pressure flow direction. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the present invention more apparent, the technical solutions of the present invention will be described in detail below. Obviously, the embodiments described are only some of the embodiments of the present invention, not all of them. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other implementations obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0037] The terms "first," "second," and the like in the specification and claims of this application are used to distinguish similar objects, and are not used to describe a specific order or precedence. It should be understood that the terms used in this manner are interchangeable where appropriate, so that the embodiments of this application can be implemented in an order other than that illustrated or described herein, and that the objects distinguished by "first," "second," and the like are generally of the same type, and do not limit the number of objects; for example, the first object can be one or more. In addition, the term "and / or" in the specification and claims refers to at least one of the connected objects, and the character " / " generally indicates that the objects connected are in an "or" relationship.

[0038] In each embodiment of the present application, "proximal end" and "distal end" refer to the position of each component relative to the user in the use environment, wherein the end closer to the user is designated as the "proximal end" and the end farther from the user is designated as the "distal end".

[0039] The following combination Figures 1 to 13 A suction assembly, a sputum suction tube, and a sputum suction mirror provided in the embodiments of the present application are described in detail through specific embodiments and their application scenarios.

[0040] A suction assembly, used in a sputum suction mirror, comprises the following structure:

[0041] The proximal end of the suction tube 100 is used to connect to a negative pressure source, which can be a central suction system commonly used in hospitals, a portable suction pump, or other device with negative pressure power supply. The distal end is used to penetrate deep into the patient's airway to suction the target substance. In this embodiment, the suction tube 100 is used to suction sputum T.

[0042] In various implementations, the suction tube 100 can be used as a conduit for suctioning secretions such as effusion and blood. When the suction operation is initiated, the negative pressure source generates a negative pressure airflow, and the target substance enters the suction cavity through the distal end of the suction tube 100. The target substance is then transported along the suction tube 100 to a liquid storage bottle or other collection container at the rear end of the pipeline, thereby completing the removal operation. By rationally arranging the diameter and structural form of the suction tube 100, it is possible to ensure stable suction efficiency and facilitate deep positioning with the insertion of the suction mirror.

[0043] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the pressure regulating tube 200 has a first end 201 and a second end 202, wherein the first end 201 is connected to the tube body of the suction tube 100 and is formed with a connecting port 203. The connecting port 203 is arranged at a position near the proximal end of the suction tube 100 to facilitate layout inside the handle and away from the patient's airway, thereby enhancing the controllability and safety of the structure. The second end 202 is an atmospheric port 204 connected to the outside world, which can be freely opened by fingers or its ventilation state can be controlled by blocking. Since the first end 201 is closer to the proximal end of the suction tube 100 than the second end 202, the pressure regulating tube 200 as a whole extends away from the proximal end of the suction tube 100, forming a reasonable diversion angle. This angle structure enables the pressure regulating airflow to form a guiding streamline in the direction of the negative pressure, effectively reducing the risk of sputum T flowing back to the pressure regulating tube 200 through the connecting port 203.

[0044] Reference Figure 3As shown, the guide portion 300 is shielded and mounted at the connecting port 203. It is a sheet-like structure made of a medical-grade elastomer or anti-reflux membrane material, combining flexibility with structural strength to maintain stability under pressure fluctuations. The guide portion 300 includes a fixed end 301 and a free end 302. The fixed end 301 is located near the distal end of the suction tube 100, facing the insertion end, and is designed for stable installation at the connection between the suction tube 100 and the pressure-regulating tube 200. The free end 302 is located near the proximal end of the suction tube 100 and is suspended from the inner wall of the suction tube 100, forming a controllable flow gap 3021 between the two ends. When the operator releases the atmospheric port 204, external air can enter the suction tube 100 through this gap, thereby reducing the negative pressure within the tube and enabling rapid adjustment of the suction intensity. When the atmospheric port 204 is closed, the guide portion 300 effectively prevents sputum T from entering the pressure-regulating tube 200, improving hygiene and safety. Compared with the traditional uncovered structure, this guide design not only realizes the ventilation function, but also enhances the sputum T isolation protection, effectively reducing the risk of back splash and cross infection.

[0045] Furthermore, in various embodiments, the guide portion 300 can be installed within the pressure-regulating tube 200, directly blocking the opening of the communication port 203; or it can be installed on the inner wall of the suction tube 100, arranged at a certain angle to cover the area above the communication port 203, forming a similar "inverted" isolation structure. As long as this structure can effectively block the backflow direction of sputum T while allowing the pressure-regulated airflow to pass smoothly, the dual functional requirements of the present invention can be achieved.

[0046] As an optional implementation, refer to Figure 2 As shown, the pressure regulating tube 200 preferably includes a straight section 210, which is the middle flow-guiding structure of the pressure regulating tube 200, and is usually arranged in a constant diameter or gradual diameter structure to ensure smooth air circulation. A curved connecting pipe section is provided at one end of the straight section 210 close to the suction tube 100. The curved section is arranged in an arc shape and smoothly transitions with the inner wall of the suction tube 100, reducing local turbulence and the formation of liquid accumulation. The other end of the straight section 210 is connected to the atmospheric port 204, and its connection method is also an arc bend, which is convenient for installation inside the handle or in the housing groove. The extension direction of the straight section 210 is consistent with the extension direction of the suction tube 100 from the proximal end to the distal end, so that the airflow direction is consistent and local vortex or backflow is avoided.

[0047] During the suction process, since the suction tube 100 is in a stable negative pressure state, the co-directional arrangement of the pressure regulating tube 200 can form a homeotropic suction effect during the negative pressure regulation process, preventing sputum T from entering the pressure regulating channel due to local airflow back-absorption. Even if a small amount of sputum T remains in the pressure regulating tube 200 under extreme working conditions, it can be drawn out in time due to the co-directional extension of the structure, and will not accumulate in the tube to cause a source of pollution. This structure not only improves the system's sanitary protection capabilities, but also reduces the frequency of cleaning and component replacement by the operator, making it easier for clinical operations.

[0048] As an optional embodiment, refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the coordination structure between the suction tube 100 and the guide portion 300 is further optimized. A receiving groove 101 is provided at the connection port 203 of the suction tube 100. This receiving groove 101 is used to embed the guide portion 300, ensuring its stable installation and achieving functional integration. Specifically, a portion of the receiving groove 101 is located on the side of the connection port 203 near the distal end of the suction tube 100. The fixed end 301 of the guide portion 300 is embedded and installed in this position. A flow gap 3021 is formed between the other portion of the guide portion 300 and the receiving groove 101, thereby ensuring that the fixed end 301 of the guide portion 300 can be more firmly and stably installed in the receiving groove 101. This embedding method effectively prevents the guide portion 300 from shifting or flipping during the suction process, improving the overall stability and durability of the device.

[0049] At the same time, when the guide portion 300 is located in the receiving groove 101, its side wall close to the center of the suction tube 100 is flush with the inner wall of the suction tube 100, forming a smooth transition structure, which is conducive to the smooth circulation of sputum T in the lumen, avoiding the occurrence of adhesion, eddy currents or retention phenomena here. A certain amount of free space is reserved between the free end 302 and the bottom wall of the receiving groove 101, constituting the "circulation gap 3021", which is used to realize the ventilation function when the atmospheric port 204 is open. Through this circulation gap 3021, external air can enter the suction tube 100 through the gap between the pressure regulating tube 200, the connecting port 203 and the guide portion 300, thereby realizing negative pressure regulation and further ensuring the sensitivity of the pressure regulation response.

[0050] In terms of material selection, the guide portion 300 can be made of various materials depending on the specific application requirements. For example, using a rigid material (such as polypropylene, ABS, etc.) for one-piece injection molding not only simplifies the production process and reduces manufacturing costs, but also improves structural strength, allowing it to maintain a stable shape during the suction process, guiding the airflow smoothly and providing a basic barrier effect.

[0051] Preferably, the guide portion 300 is made of a flexible material, such as medical-grade silicone, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), or other biocompatible polymers with excellent elastic deformation capabilities. It can be manufactured through injection molding, insert molding, or secondary overmolding. This flexible material not only ensures a smooth fit within the internal structure of the suction tube 100, but also rapidly deforms in response to pressure changes, adapting to the impact loads caused by the flow of sputum T, thereby enhancing the durability and sealing stability of the entire suction structure.

[0052] On this basis, the free end 302 of the guide portion 300 naturally extends toward the proximal end of the suction tube 100, and is integrally provided with an extension section 400. The extension section 400 is preferably arranged in a curved shape and deflected toward the center of the suction tube 100. Its core function is not only to provide a certain diversion and guidance function under normal conditions, but more importantly, when the sputum T is large in volume, highly viscous, or has a sudden change in flow rate, the extension section 400 can be used as an active elastic interference structure to effectively disturb the flow direction and pressure distribution of the sputum T, so that the sputum T flow beam breaks or reduces its inertia, thereby improving the flow state, reducing the probability of blockage, and improving the patency of suction, wherein the negative pressure flow direction Q is as follows Figure 4 shown.

[0053] Furthermore, because the curved structure of the extension section 400 has a certain spatial offset toward the connection port 203 of the pressure-regulating tube 200, when sputum T with a relatively high flow rate contacts the extension section 400, the extension section 400 rapidly deforms toward the side of the receiving tank 101 under the combined effects of elasticity and negative pressure, aligning with the arc-shaped recessed structure within the receiving tank 101 to form a temporary spatially enclosed structure. This structure implements a "flexible blockage-recovery rebound" cyclic reaction mechanism during the suction process, effectively preventing sputum T from being drawn into the pressure-regulating tube 200 when local negative pressure is severe, further reducing the risk of sputum T splashing through the pressure-regulating tube 200 toward the atmospheric port 204, and enhancing the system's overall anti-contamination capabilities.

[0054] Furthermore, the extension section 400 exhibits bidirectional adaptive deformation capabilities: when air flows from the pressure-regulating tube 200 into the suction tube 100 (released), the extension section 400 bends in the direction of the flow, ensuring smooth airflow. However, when sputum T rebounds or surges back, the extension section 400 is forced in the opposite direction and presses against the receiving groove 101, effectively blocking the flow. This adaptive structural mechanism achieves comprehensive performance improvements, including simple structure, sensitive response, reliable sealing, and precise flow guidance.

[0055] It should be further explained that while the guide portion 300 and its extension 400 are preferably made of a flexible material to achieve good deformability and flow-guiding adaptability, their degree of softness (pliability) requires precise control and optimized design. Specifically, while meeting elastic deformation requirements, the structure must not be excessively soft. Otherwise, during use, it will easily collapse due to the negative pressure of the airflow, resulting in the closure of the flow gap 3021. This will in turn weaken the ability of the pressure-regulating tube 200 to block ventilation when the atmospheric port 204 is opened, and impair the negative pressure regulation function, affecting overall suction efficiency and regulation sensitivity.

[0056] Therefore, during the material selection and structural design phase, a medical polymer with a moderate elastic modulus should be selected. This ensures that the guide portion 300 and extension section 400 maintain their basic shape and the openness of the flow gap 3021 when facing the negative pressure suction during routine pressure regulation. This ensures that air can flow stably between the atmospheric port 204 and the suction tube 100, achieving real-time regulation of the negative pressure state. This also avoids problems such as delayed suction feedback or regulation failure caused by unintended structural deformation.

[0057] Only under specific circumstances, such as when encountering the impact of a large volume of sputum T accompanied by increased negative pressure, the guide portion 300 and the extension section 400 will undergo purposeful and controlled deformation, and the extension section 400 can fit the internal arc structure of the accommodating groove 101, thereby realizing the "limited deformation-functional closure" response mechanism.

[0058] In other embodiments, to reduce manufacturing costs or increase assembly flexibility, the extension section 400 can also utilize an insert-type mounting structure, connected to the guide portion 300 by snap-fitting, press-fitting, or bonding, to form an integrated elastic flow guide assembly. Furthermore, to optimize airflow guidance and prevent blockage, the extension section 400 can also be designed with various structures, such as "fan-shaped," "spiral blades," or "V-shaped spoiler wings," based on clinical needs, to enhance sputum T disturbance efficiency and smoother discharge.

[0059] Furthermore, to achieve more precise control and functional zoning, the elasticity of the extension section 400 is preferably greater than that of the guide section 300. That is, when subjected to the same external force (such as the impact of sputum T or negative airflow pressure), the extension section 400 responds with a higher degree of deformation than the main body of the guide section 300. This design with different elasticities has the following significant advantages:

[0060] First, it enhances the ability to respond sensitively to impacts from sputum T. Because the extension section 400 is located at the free end 302 of the guide portion 300, it faces a higher risk of direct impact from sputum T or foreign matter. By designing the extension section 400 with greater elasticity, it can more quickly deform to avoid or guide impacts. This not only acts as a dynamic buffer, but also effectively disrupts the path of sputum T, preventing accumulation or blockage of sputum T at the outlet of the pressure regulating tube 200, thereby improving sputum removal efficiency.

[0061] Secondly, this structure also enhances the "automatic guidance - timely closure" functional switching capability. When sputum T is not impacting in large quantities, the extended section 400, due to its high elasticity, can maintain its preset curved guiding state, stably controlling the direction of sputum T and airflow, and keeping the flow gap 3021 at the connecting port 203 unobstructed. However, once the negative pressure increases or the volume of sputum T suddenly increases, the extended section 400 will first undergo significant deformation and conform to the inner wall of the receiving tank 101 or the suction tube 100, thereby temporarily closing the pressure regulating channel and effectively preventing sputum T from splashing back or backflowing into the atmospheric port 204.

[0062] Third, from the perspective of the overall stability of the structure, the guide portion 300 serves as a connecting base, and its slightly smaller elasticity helps to maintain the supporting form of the overall structure, reduce the shaking or deformation of the free end 302 in the absence of external force, and improve the static reliability and service life of the guide structure; while the more elastic extension section 400 mainly undertakes dynamic adjustment and response functions, and has the control characteristics of "change in motion".

[0063] As a preferred embodiment, refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the basic structure of the present invention is further improved, and a driving member 500 is provided on the pressure regulating tube 200, which is used to inject a fluid medium into the suction tube 100, and assist in the discharge of sputum T by forming a certain impact pressure or dilution effect. The provision of the driving member 500 can significantly improve the sputum discharge efficiency of the suction assembly when facing sputum T with high viscosity, easy adhesion or large amount, and further enhance the adaptability and clinical practicality of the overall device. The fluid medium can be selected from air, physiological saline, diluent or other medical liquids that are safe for the human body and have a certain dilution and lubricating effect. While assisting in clearing blockages, it can reduce the risk of adhesion to the lumen wall and reduce re-blockage.

[0064] In a preferred embodiment, the driving member 500 is a driving capsule 501, which is a compressible, self-restoring elastic capsule installed in communication with the atmospheric port 204 of the pressure-regulating tube 200. This allows the operator to perform positive airflow or liquid injection through the driving capsule 501 without having to touch the suction tube 100. An air outlet 502 is provided on one side of the driving capsule 501, which is located away from the operator's hand grip. This prevents any gas shock or residual sputum T from splashing back onto the operator during the injection or release process, further improving user safety.

[0065] In order to enhance the sealing reliability and control accuracy of the device, refer to Figure 6 As shown, a baffle 503 structure is integrally provided within the air outlet 502. The baffle 503 is made of a flexible spring or silicone gasket. When the drive capsule 501 is not pressed, a certain gap is maintained between the baffle 503 and the inner wall of the drive capsule 501, allowing air to freely flow in and out of the pressure regulating tube 200, achieving normal negative pressure regulation. When the drive capsule 501 is fully pressed to a certain stroke, the baffle 503 fits and closes the air outlet 502, forming a temporary seal. This allows for directional injection of the fluid medium, preventing gas or liquid from escaping in the opposite direction from the air outlet 502, ensuring unidirectional injection of the fluid into the suction tube 100, and improving efficiency and accuracy.

[0066] In another optional embodiment, the drive capsule 501 is divided into two functional areas: one portion is a cavity container area for pre-storing a certain amount of fluid medium, such as saline; the other portion is an atmospheric regulation channel area, which continues to carry structures such as the air outlet 502 and the baffle 503 to achieve ventilation and pressure regulation. The operator can selectively release gas or fluid medium through a single press or staged compression to meet the suction needs of different clinical scenarios. For example, when encountering a blockage caused by thick sputum T, a small amount of saline can be injected to soften the sputum before resuming suction, effectively improving the patency of sputum T and clinical efficiency.

[0067] Furthermore, the driver 500 can be independently located from the pressure-regulating tube 200, connected to a separate liquid supply container via a flexible hose. Controlled by a solenoid valve or mechanical valve, the driver 500 can be equipped with a touch button or mechanical paddle to precisely control the timing and range of liquid injection. This structure offers the advantage of being located away from the main suction assembly, reducing the burden on the handle and facilitating miniaturization. It also offers improved integration and scalability within intensive care or automated sputum suction systems.

[0068] In addition, to ensure the sterility and safety of the injected liquid, the inner surface of the pressure regulating tube 200, the liquid channel or the driving capsule 501 can be made of medical-grade anti-adhesion materials or hydrophilic coating materials to further prevent sputum T or blood from adhering to, contaminating or backflowing the internal wall, which helps to maintain the cleanliness and hygiene requirements of the internal environment and reduce the frequency of replacement.

[0069] Optional, see Figure 7-11 As shown, the pressure regulating tube 200 is equipped with a deformable portion 600. The deformable portion 600 is used to respond to the negative pressure state in the suction tube 100 and adjust the opening degree of the internal channel of the pressure regulating tube 200, further improving the protection capability and preventing the risk of contamination caused by sputum T entering through the pressure regulating tube 200 or splashing from the atmospheric port 204. The deformable portion 600 has two forms: an initial state and a deformed state.

[0070] When the atmospheric port 204 is in the open state, the deformable portion 600 remains in the initial state. Even if negative pressure exists in the suction pipe 100, the atmospheric port 204 continues to ventilate, and the deformable portion 600 remains in a balanced state. The structure does not deform, ensuring smooth flow of gas in the pressure regulating pipe 200 and maintaining the normal operation of the suction intensity adjustment function.

[0071] When the atmospheric port 204 is sealed by the operator's finger, the pressure-regulating tube 200 is isolated from the outside world, and the negative pressure in the suction tube 100 cannot be released. In this state, the deformable portion 600 begins to deform in response to the pressure difference, transitioning to the deformed state, thereby at least partially sealing the internal passage of the pressure-regulating tube 200, forming a "secondary sealing" barrier to block sputum T from entering the pressure-regulating tube 200 due to airflow backdraft or oscillation, thereby preventing sputum T from accidentally splashing out of the atmospheric port 204 when the pressure-regulating tube 200 is sealed. Of course, the deformable portion 600 can also form a "secondary sealing" barrier for the internal passage of the pressure-regulating tube 200 under the action of external force.

[0072] As an optional embodiment, the deformable portion 600 includes a deformable ring 610 structure. The pressure regulating tube 200 is divided into a first tube body 220 and a second tube body 230. The first tube body 220 is connected to the suction tube 100, and the distal end of the second tube body 230 is an atmospheric port 204 that communicates with the outside world. The deformable ring 610 is disposed between the first and second tube bodies 220, 230 to facilitate functional integration and maintenance. Specifically, the deformable ring 610 has a stepped structure at both ends, allowing it to precisely fit into the stepped positions of the ports of the first and second tube bodies 220, 230. A medical-grade adhesive is then used to bond and seal the ring, ensuring overall sealing performance and airflow stability.

[0073] In terms of structure, the deformable ring 610 includes an elastic ring 611 arranged on the outside and a guide ring 612 located on the inside thereof. At least one guide ring 612 is provided, and its outer wall on the side close to the first tube body 220 or the second tube body 230 is set to be conical. The guide elastic ring 611 deforms inward along the axis of the pressure regulating tube 200 when the air pressure changes, that is, it shrinks toward the center of the tube cavity. This design is particularly critical after the finger blocks the atmospheric port 204: the negative pressure in the suction tube 100 is significantly enhanced. At this time, the elastic ring 611 will deform toward the center under the constraint of the deformation trajectory of the guide ring 612, thereby at least partially reducing the inner diameter of this section of the pressure regulating tube 200, effectively forming a blocking structure, and achieving the purpose of further preventing the upwelling of sputum T.

[0074] It is worth noting that in order to ensure the stability of pressure regulation, the material selected for the elastic ring 611 must have good resilience and appropriate initial support strength to ensure that when the atmospheric port 204 is not closed, even if there is a certain negative pressure in the suction pipe 100, the elastic ring 611 can still maintain its initial state and not deform prematurely, so as to ensure that the gas can smoothly enter the interior of the suction pipe 100 from the atmospheric port 204 and maintain the stable operation of the pressure regulation function.

[0075] Furthermore, the deformable ring 610 is designed as a one-piece annular structure, which not only facilitates symmetrical force distribution and improves the consistency of structural response, but also facilitates precise positioning during the manufacturing and assembly process, improving the consistency and assembly efficiency of mass production. The deformable ring 610 can also be configured with elastic materials of varying stiffness levels based on clinical needs, flexibly adapting to the suction needs of different conditions or patient sputum viscosity scenarios.

[0076] As another optional embodiment, the deformation portion 600 can also be composed of a local deformation segment. The deformation segment is arranged in the middle of the pressure regulating tube 200 or near the connecting end of the suction tube 100. The deformation material used can be the same as the above-mentioned deformation ring 610, such as shape memory alloy, medical silicone or other elastomeric materials, with controllable deformation and strong recovery ability. Under negative pressure environment, the deformation segment is locally concave or contracted, forming a short-term "airflow gate" effect, forming a barrier or diversion effect on the sputum T. This structural design is suitable for occasions where the structure is compact or the production cost control requirements are high, and it also has good maintainability.

[0077] Furthermore, whether employing the deformable ring 610 or a localized deformable segment structure, the design concept achieves the goal of "enhancing protection capabilities while maintaining pressure regulation." Compared to traditional designs with simple large air vents that rely solely on the operator's finger for sealing and lack an automatic blocking function, this application actively adjusts the channel opening state through a pressure-responsive deformable structure. This not only effectively improves operational safety and anti-spray performance, but also offers a simple structure and ease of manufacture, making it suitable for widespread application in a variety of suction mirror systems.

[0078] As an optional embodiment, refer to Figure 7-Figure 8 As shown, the deformable portion 600 includes an expansion balloon 620, which is disposed within the internal space of the pressure-regulating tube 200. During the suction process, the expansion balloon 620 responds to operator control actions and controllably closes the airflow path within the pressure-regulating tube 200, further enhancing the ability to block sputum T and reducing the risk of splashing or backflow. The expansion balloon 620 inflates by cooperating with the drive balloon 501, thereby occupying or closing a portion of the passageway within the pressure-regulating tube 200, assisting in negative pressure regulation and improving the system's sealing performance.

[0079] Specifically, the driving sac 501 is provided with an integrally formed or attached chamber 5010. This chamber 5010 can be considered a sealed liquid storage cavity within the driving sac 501, used to pre-store a certain amount of fluid medium, such as air, saline, or other safe and controllable liquid medium. The expansion sac 620 is connected to the chamber 5010 via a connecting tube 5011. The internal flow channel of the connecting tube 5011 is used to quickly guide the fluid medium in the chamber 5010 into the expansion sac 620 when the driving sac 501 is externally pressed, causing a significant volume change in a short period of time, thereby achieving directional expansion and occupation of the internal channel of the pressure regulating tube 200.

[0080] The outer wall of the inflatable balloon 620 can be made of a material with excellent elasticity and high biocompatibility, such as flexible medical silicone or TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane). This ensures that when inflated under pressure, it fully seals the target area and quickly retracts to its original state after the external force is released, ensuring a clear passage. The inflatable balloon 620 is preferably installed near the middle and rear section of the pressure-regulating tube 200 or near the connecting port 203. This allows it to quickly block the pressure-regulating path when negative pressure is generated within the suction tube 100 or when sputum T tends to flow back, preventing sputum T from splashing through the air port 204 with the airflow.

[0081] In terms of specific structural implementation, the capsule chamber 5010 can be flexibly arranged outside or inside the driving capsule 501. When the capsule chamber 5010 is arranged outside the driving capsule 501, it can be in the form of an independent cavity attached to the surface of the driving capsule 501, which is convenient for disassembly, replacement or maintenance, and meets the requirements of modular design. When the capsule chamber 5010 is arranged inside the driving capsule 501, it can be integrally constructed into the cavity of the driving capsule 501 through injection molding, which not only has a compact structure but also has stronger overall sealing, which is conducive to improving the efficiency of air pressure transmission.

[0082] Furthermore, to prevent the inflatable balloon 620 from inadvertently inflating due to airflow disturbances when not in a pressurized state, the balloon 620 is designed to control its expansion response by selecting a material and configuration with an opening threshold slightly higher than the suction pressure. This ensures that it precisely responds to the pressing action during operation, forming an effective seal. This structure not only helps regulate the stability of the negative pressure system but also enhances the barrier effect of sputum T, representing a significant improvement over traditional single-finger pressure adjustment mechanisms.

[0083] The present application provides a sputum suction tube, including the suction assembly in the above-mentioned scheme. By using the suction tube 100 and the pressure-regulating tube 200 in the suction assembly, the sputum suction operation can be completed after connecting to a negative pressure source. The sputum suction tube, through the atmospheric adjustment path provided by the pressure-regulating tube 200, combined with components such as the guide part 300 and the deformation part 600, can achieve dynamic control of the suction intensity, direction and air tightness of the sputum T, further improving the operational flexibility and biosafety during use. This structure is particularly suitable for use in scenarios where clinical operation space is limited, frequent pressure adjustment is required, or there is a risk of infection.

[0084] Reference Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, the present application also provides a sputum suction mirror, including the suction assembly in the above-mentioned scheme, and also including an insertion tube 700 and a handle shell 800. The insertion tube 700 is installed at the front end of the handle shell 800, and the distal end of the suction tube 100 is connected to the insertion tube 700, forming a complete negative pressure suction path. The insertion tube 700 is preferably made of a relatively flexible material, such as polyurethane (PU), medical-grade polyamide (PA) or other materials with both flexibility and structural strength. It not only has the ability to adapt to the curved path of the human body cavity, but also has a certain degree of pressure resistance and anti-bending properties, which can meet the mechanical support requirements during the insertion and guidance process. The structural design of the insertion tube 700 is similar to that of the insertion part of the endoscope. While maintaining insertability, it ensures that it has sufficient safety and operational stability in clinical applications.

[0085] In a preferred embodiment, the insertion tube 700 and the suction tube 100 utilize a split-body design. This design not only facilitates the selection of appropriate materials and processing methods based on functional requirements, but more importantly, the insertion tube 700, as the component that directly enters the patient's body cavity, often requires integration of sophisticated electronic components such as a light source assembly and a camera module 701. Furthermore, the tube wall also includes structural features such as fiber optic channels, circuit layout areas, and cold light illumination windows. Therefore, the tube requires a high degree of customization in both manufacturing and functional configuration. The split-body design facilitates modular assembly later on, improving product adaptability and ease of maintenance.

[0086] Of course, in other embodiments, the insertion tube 700 and aspiration tube 100 can also be designed as an integrated tubing structure, depending on the clinical usage scenario, to reduce the number of connection interfaces and improve overall fluid tightness and operational consistency. Whether or not to separate is not a structural or functional limitation, but rather a trade-off between multifunctional component integration and manufacturing flexibility.

[0087] Furthermore, the distal end of the insertion tube 700 can also be integrated with a light source assembly, which provides high-brightness lighting for the front end area by setting up micro-optical units such as LEDs, so that the mounted camera module 701 can obtain clear and stable image information, which is beneficial for doctors to observe the suction site in real time and improve the visualization level of the operation.

[0088] Specifically, the suction mirror also includes two parts: a negative pressure connector and an electrical connector. The negative pressure connector is set at the proximal end of the suction component, located in the rear end area of ​​the handle shell 800, which is convenient for connecting to the hospital negative pressure pump system or portable negative pressure equipment, providing stable suction capacity for the suction tube 100. The electrical connector is used to complete the electrical connection between the external main control system and the internal imaging system and light source system. One end of the electrical connector is fixed to the handle shell 800, and the other end is electrically connected to the light source component and camera module 701 at the far end of the insertion tube 700 through internal wiring, supporting power supply and signal transmission.

[0089] In addition, it should be emphasized that the endoscope in the embodiments of the present application can be a bronchoscope, a pyeloscope, an esophagoscope, a gastroscope, a colonoscope, an otoscope, a rhinoscope, a stomatoscope, a laryngoscope, a colposcope, a laparoscope, an arthroscope, etc. The embodiments of the present application do not impose specific restrictions on the type of endoscope.

[0090] It should be noted that, in this article, the terms "comprise", "include" or any other variants thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, so that a process, method, article or device comprising a series of elements includes not only those elements, but also other elements not explicitly listed, or also includes elements inherent to such process, method, article or device. In the absence of further restrictions, an element defined by the statement "comprises a ..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article or device comprising the element. In addition, it should be noted that the scope of the methods and devices in the embodiments of the present application is not limited to performing functions in the order shown or discussed, and may also include performing functions in a substantially simultaneous manner or in the opposite order according to the functions involved. For example, the described method may be performed in an order different from that described, and various steps may also be added, omitted, or combined. In addition, the features described with reference to certain examples may be combined in other examples.

[0091] The above description is only a specific embodiment of the present invention, but the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited thereto. Any technician familiar with this technical field can easily think of changes or replacements within the technical scope disclosed by the present invention, which should be covered by the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A suction assembly, used in a sputum suction mirror, characterized in that: include: A suction tube (100), the proximal end of which is used to connect to a negative pressure source, and the distal end of which is used to aspirate the target substance; A pressure regulating tube (200) having a first end (201) and a second end (202), wherein the first end (201) is connected to the tube body of the suction tube (100) and forms a communication port (203), and the second end (202) is an atmospheric port (204) connected to the outside, and the first end (201) is closer to the proximal end of the suction tube (100) than the second end (202); The guide portion (300) is arranged at the communication port (203) and is used to cover the communication port (203) to prevent sputum from entering the pressure-regulating tube (200). The guide portion (300) includes a fixed end (301) and a free end (302), wherein the fixed end (301) is located on a side close to the distal end of the suction tube (100), and the free end (302) is located on a side close to the proximal end of the suction tube (100), and a flow gap (3021) is formed between the free end (302) and the inner wall of the suction tube (100) to allow airflow to flow between the suction tube (100) and the pressure-regulating tube (200).

2. A suction assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The pressure regulating tube (200) comprises a straight section (210), and the extension direction of the straight section (210) is consistent with the extension direction of the suction tube (100) from the proximal end to the distal end.

3. A suction assembly according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The suction tube (100) is provided with a receiving groove (101) at the communication port (203), the guide portion (300) is arranged in the receiving groove (101), the flow gap (3021) is composed of a free space formed between the free end (302) of the guide portion (300) and the bottom wall of the receiving groove (101), and the side wall of the guide portion (300) close to the center of the suction tube (100) is flush with the inner wall of the suction tube (100).

4. A suction assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that: The guide portion (300) is made of a rigid material or an elastic material, and an extension section (400) is provided at the free end (302) of the guide portion (300) extending toward the proximal end of the suction tube (100). The extension section (400) bends and extends toward the center of the suction tube (100), and the extension section (400) is also made of an elastic material. When both the guide portion (300) and the extension section (400) are made of elastic material, the elasticity of the extension section (400) is greater than the elasticity of the guide portion (300).

5. A suction assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: A driving member (500) is provided on the pressure regulating tube (200), and the driving member (500) is used to inject a fluid medium into the suction tube (100) to impact the flow of sputum.

6. A suction assembly according to claim 5, characterized in that: The driving member (500) includes a driving capsule (501), the driving capsule (501) being connected to one side of the atmospheric port (204) of the pressure regulating tube (200), and an air outlet (502) being provided on the driving capsule (501), and the air outlet (502) being in a closed state after the driving capsule (501) is pressed.

7. A suction assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that: The pressure regulating tube (200) is provided with a deformation portion (600), and the deformation portion (600) has an initial state and a deformation state, wherein: When the atmospheric port (204) is open, the deformable portion (600) remains in the initial state, and even if negative pressure exists in the suction tube (100), the deformable portion (600) does not deform; When the atmospheric port (204) is in a closed state, the deformed portion (600) is transformed into the deformed state and at least partially closes the internal passage of the pressure regulating tube (200).

8. A suction assembly according to claim 7, characterized in that: The deformation portion (600) includes a deformation ring (610), and the pressure regulating tube (200) includes a first tube body (220) and a second tube body (230), wherein the first tube body (220) is in communication with the suction tube (100), and the distal end of the second tube body (230) is an air port (204); The deformable ring (610) is connected between the first tube body (220) and the second tube body (230), and the deformable ring (610) comprises an elastic ring (611) arranged on the outside and a guide ring (612) arranged on the inside. The guide ring (612) is provided with at least one and is close to one side of the first tube body (220) or the second tube body (230), and its outer wall is tapered to guide the elastic ring (611) to deform toward the center of the pressure regulating tube (200); Alternatively, the deformation portion (600) includes an expansion airbag (620), the expansion airbag (620) is arranged in the pressure-regulating tube (200), and the driving bag (501) is provided with a bag chamber (5010), and the expansion airbag (620) is configured to allow the fluid medium in the bag chamber (5010) to enter the expansion airbag (620) when the driving bag (501) is pressed, thereby causing the expansion airbag (620) to expand and partially close the internal channel of the pressure-regulating tube (200).

9. A sputum suction tube, characterized in that: Comprising the suction assembly according to any one of claims 1-8.

10. A sputum suction mirror, characterized in that: The suction assembly comprises the suction assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 8, and further comprises an insertion tube (700) and a handle shell (800), wherein the insertion tube (700) is mounted on the handle shell (800), and the distal end of the suction tube (100) is connected to the insertion tube (700).

Citation Information

Patent Citations

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