Endoscope fixing and supporting auxiliary device for digestive system department
By designing a support and clamping mechanism, the clamping force is automatically adjusted, solving the problem of excessive or insufficient clamping force in endoscope fixation devices. This ensures the stability and safety of the endoscope, avoids damage, and improves operational smoothness and equipment lifespan.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202511934010.7
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-12-20
- Publication Date
- 2026-02-13
- Estimated Expiration
- Not applicable · inactive patent
AI Technical Summary
Existing endoscopic fixation devices can damage the endoscope when the clamping force is too large, and cannot stabilize the endoscope when the clamping force is too small, affecting the stability and safety of the surgical procedure.
It employs a support mechanism and a clamping mechanism. The clamping mechanism includes a support cylinder, a clamping pad, a one-way limiting mechanism, and a balancing mechanism. It automatically adjusts the clamping force based on the movement trend of the endoscope and the magnitude of the external force, providing resistance-free operation and controllable resistance, preventing the endoscope from slipping or losing its field of view, and avoiding damage to the endoscope due to excessive clamping force through the balancing mechanism.
This method achieves stable fixation of the endoscope, avoids damage to the endoscope due to improper clamping force, improves operational stability and safety, extends the service life of the endoscope, and reduces maintenance costs.
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Figure CN121512419A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to the field of medical device technology, specifically to an endoscopic fixation and support auxiliary device for gastroenterology. Background Technology
[0002] In clinical practice of gastroenterology, electronic endoscopes (such as gastroscopes and colonoscopes) are core tools for the diagnosis and minimally invasive treatment of diseases of the upper and lower digestive tract. Especially in complex surgeries (such as endoscopic submucosal dissection, endoscopic mucosal resection, and endoscopic mucosal resection) or procedures requiring precision and stability (such as targeting small lesions and hemostasis), the operator often needs to stabilize the tip of the endoscope in a specific position within the patient's body to provide a static and reliable operating platform.
[0003] Currently, clinical practice generally relies on the surgeon to continuously hold the endoscope manipulator manually. This method has obvious drawbacks: prolonged surgery can easily cause fatigue and even tremors in the muscles of the hand, wrist, and neck, affecting the continuity and stability of the operation.
[0004] To overcome the limitations of hand-held endoscopes, various endoscope fixation supports or clamping devices have emerged in the current technology. These typically take the form of robotic arms, clamping forceps, or fixation frames, which clamp the endoscope insertion tube or operating part and fix it to the bedside or an independent support frame to free the operator's hands.
[0005] However, most existing mechanical clamps, in pursuit of firmness, often employ simplistic and crude locking mechanisms. Excessive clamping force directly compresses the endoscope, causing permanent indentations or damage to the outer covering material, and even harming internal glass fiber bundles or circuitry. This can lead to problems such as image black spots and signal transmission failures, resulting in significant repair costs and economic losses. Overly tight clamping transmits resistance through the endoscope, interfering with the surgeon's fine tactile feedback on the endoscope's movement within the lumen, affecting the smoothness of the operation. Conversely, insufficient clamping force cannot effectively counteract the endoscope's own weight, the pulling force generated by the operation, and the forces generated by the patient's physiological activities. This can cause the endoscope to slip, shift, or even detach from the fixator, resulting in a momentary loss of the surgical field of view.
[0006] Given the shortcomings of existing technologies, there is an urgent need for a new type of endoscope fixation and support device for gastroenterology that can provide uniform, controllable and adaptive clamping force, ensuring the absolute stability of the endoscope during complex operations and preventing any damage to the endoscope body caused by improper clamping force. Summary of the Invention
[0007] To address the aforementioned issues, this invention provides an auxiliary device for fixing and supporting endoscopes used in gastroenterology, which provides uniform, controllable, and adaptive clamping force to ensure stable fixation of the endoscope while reducing damage to the endoscope body caused by improper clamping force.
[0008] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution of the present invention is as follows: An endoscopic fixation support auxiliary device for gastroenterology includes a support mechanism and a clamping mechanism. The support mechanism provides a support base for the clamping mechanism. The clamping mechanism includes a support cylinder with a through groove for accommodating the passage of the endoscope. A plurality of clamping pads are arranged circumferentially on the inner wall of the through groove. Each clamping pad is provided with a one-way limiting mechanism and a balancing mechanism on the side away from the endoscope. The one-way limiting mechanism applies different pressures to the clamping pads based on the displacement of the endoscope. The displacement includes the endoscope's movement trend and the magnitude of the external force on the endoscope. The endoscope's movement trend includes a first movement trend of deepening from outside the body and a second movement trend of withdrawing from inside the body. When the endoscope is in the first movement trend, the one-way limiting mechanism does not apply additional pressure to the clamping pads. When the endoscope is in the second movement trend, the pressure applied to the clamping pads by the one-way limiting mechanism is positively correlated with the external force on the endoscope. The balancing mechanism is used to offset the excess pressure when the pressure applied to the clamping pads by the one-way limiting mechanism exceeds a threshold.
[0009] The technical principles of the above solution are as follows:
[0010] The support mechanism securely mounts the device to the side of the bed, providing basic support for the clamping mechanism. The core of the clamping mechanism is the support cylinder, whose internal groove is used to accommodate the passage of the endoscope. Multiple flexible clamping pads are arranged circumferentially on the inner wall of the groove, and these clamping pads are in direct contact with the endoscope body.
[0011] When the endoscope is in its first tendency to move from outside the body to inside (i.e., the physician actively pushes the endoscope), the one-way limiting mechanism does not apply additional pressure to the clamps, allowing the endoscope to move freely and smoothly without affecting the physician's normal operating feel. When the endoscope is in its second tendency to move from inside the body to outside (e.g., due to the patient's physiological activities or external traction causing accidental displacement), the one-way limiting mechanism automatically applies pressure to the clamps based on the magnitude of the external force applied to the endoscope, generating resistance against endoscope displacement. The greater the external force, the greater the pressure, effectively preventing accidental endoscope withdrawal. Simultaneously, the balancing mechanism acts as a safety valve, actively offsetting excess pressure when the pressure applied by the one-way limiting mechanism exceeds a preset threshold, preventing excessive clamping force from compressing the endoscope body and ensuring that the clamping force remains within a safe range.
[0012] The above approach has the following beneficial effects:
[0013] 1. This solution can automatically adjust the clamping force according to the movement trend of the endoscope and changes in external force, providing unobstructed operation when pushing inward and generating controllable resistance when moving outward, effectively preventing the endoscope from slipping or losing the field of view, and significantly improving operational stability.
[0014] 2. This solution, through the overpressure cancellation mechanism of the balancing mechanism, avoids the damage to the outer material of the endoscope or the internal optical fiber and circuit caused by excessive tightening of the traditional clamp, thereby reducing problems such as black spots in the image and signal failure, extending the service life of the endoscope and saving maintenance costs.
[0015] 3. This solution uses circumferential clamping pads and mechanical limiting mechanisms, eliminating the need for complex electronic components, making operation intuitive and maintenance convenient.
[0016] Furthermore, the support mechanism includes a base, on which a support arm is provided, and the end of the support arm away from the base is detachably connected to the outside of the support cylinder.
[0017] Beneficial effects: The detachable connection design allows the support tube to be easily separated from the support arm. As a high-risk component that comes into contact with patient bodily fluids, the support tube can be removed separately for thorough cleaning and disinfection, meeting hospital infection control requirements. Multiple clamping mechanisms can be prepared to accommodate endoscopes of different diameters or models, enabling rapid switching; it also facilitates the packaging, transportation, and repair and replacement of damaged parts.
[0018] Furthermore, the one-way limiting mechanism includes an airtight cavity and a sliding groove opened in the support cylinder. A wedge and an unlocking mechanism are slidably fitted in the airtight cavity. The unlocking mechanism is used to limit the sliding of the wedge. A squeezing groove is provided on the side of the wedge near the through groove. The squeezing groove is connected to the airtight cavity, and the airtight cavity is connected to the balancing mechanism. A first spring and an inclined plate are provided in the squeezing groove. The inclined plate is slidably fitted with the squeezing groove. The two ends of the first spring are fixedly connected to the inner wall of the squeezing groove and the inclined plate, respectively.
[0019] A slider is slidably connected inside the groove. The slider is fixedly connected to the side of the clamping pad near the airtight cavity. A limiting ball is set on the side of the clamping pad near the airtight cavity. The slider, clamping pad, and inclined plate surround and form a gradient area. The limiting ball slides within the gradient area. The outer side of the limiting ball abuts against the inclined surfaces of the slider, clamping pad, and inclined plate respectively. When the endoscope is in the second moving trend, the friction between the clamping pad and the endoscope causes the clamping pad and the slider to be squeezed in the direction of volume reduction of the gradient area. The pressure between the slider and the limiting ball, the pressure between the inclined plate and the limiting ball, and the pressure between the limiting ball and the clamping pad are in a balanced state.
[0020] Beneficial effects: When the endoscope is stationary or has a first tendency to move (deeper into the body), the friction between the clamp and the endoscope is small or directed inward, insufficient to drive the entire mechanism. The wedge is restrained by the unlocking mechanism and remains stationary. At this time, the clamping force mainly comes from the preload of the first spring on the inclined plate and is transmitted to the clamp through the limiting ball, providing a gentle initial clamping force.
[0021] When the endoscope is subjected to an outward force (the second tendency to move), a static frictional force is generated between the clamp and the endoscope surface, moving outward. This frictional force drives the clamp and the slider fixed to it to attempt to move outward (i.e., in the direction where the volume of the gradient region decreases). The movement of the slider, in conjunction with the fixed inclined plate, begins to compress the gradient region formed by them and the clamp.
[0022] The limiting ball, constrained within the gradient region, is subjected to pressure from the contact surfaces of the slider, the clamping pad, and the inclined plate when the space is compressed.
[0023] According to the principles of mechanics, the limiting ball efficiently converts the axial tension (friction) of the endoscope into a huge radial pressure on the limiting ball. The limiting ball then transmits this radial pressure to the clamping pad, forcing the clamping pad to press more tightly against the endoscope. This is a positive feedback process: the greater the tension, the tighter the compression, and the greater the frictional resistance generated.
[0024] At this point, the forces between the slider, the limiting ball, and the inclined plate reach a state of equilibrium, allowing easy inward movement but preventing outward displacement.
[0025] This solution requires no electronic sensors or complex programs; its purely mechanical structure intelligently identifies the direction of endoscope movement. There is almost no resistance when advancing inward, but significant resistance is immediately generated when withdrawing outward, perfectly meeting the actual needs of surgical procedures. The greater the external force attempting to pull the endoscope out, the greater the clamping resistance generated by the mechanism, ensuring absolute stability of the endoscope's position in the event of sudden traction or patient movement, effectively preventing loss of the surgical field of view.
[0026] When the surgeon actively pushes the endoscope inward, the mechanism does not work, the operation is smooth, there is no extra resistance, and the surgeon's tactile feedback is preserved.
[0027] Furthermore, the unlocking mechanism includes a plug and a pin. The plug slides in conjunction with the wedge and the airtight cavity respectively. A groove is provided on one side of the plug. The pin passes through the side wall of the airtight cavity and engages with the groove. A pull ring is provided at the end of the plug away from the airtight cavity. The pull ring connects all the plugs in series.
[0028] Beneficial effects: When the device is in normal clamping operation, the pin is inserted inward and locked into the groove on the side of the insert block by external operation (such as manual pressing or screwing). At this time, the insert block is fixed, and the wedge block connected to it is also locked in a specific position within the airtight cavity, unable to slide. The locked wedge block keeps the position of the inclined plate inside it fixed, thus ensuring the mechanical structural integrity of the gradient area formed by the slider, clamping pad, and inclined plate. This is the structural basis for the normal realization of the one-way limiting function.
[0029] When the operator needs to actively withdraw the endoscope (e.g., at the end of the procedure or when a significant repositioning is required), they simply remove the pin and pull the pull ring. The pull ring, via a mechanical connection, pulls all the inserts out simultaneously.
[0030] The movement of the insert directly causes all associated wedges to slide freely within the airtight cavity, thus releasing the fixed constraints on the inclined plate and the entire "gradient zone". At this point, the one-way limiting function is completely released, and the endoscope can move freely in any direction (inward or outward) without any additional resistance, facilitating the operator to quickly and smoothly withdraw the endoscope.
[0031] With a simple two-step operation of "pulling the pin and then pulling the ring," the operator can instantly release the one-way locking function of all clamping points. This design avoids the tedious process of loosening the locking knobs one by one, as required by traditional robotic arms. In emergency or routine situations where the endoscope needs to be quickly withdrawn, it greatly saves time and improves operational efficiency.
[0032] Furthermore, the balancing mechanism includes a first balancing mechanism and a second balancing mechanism. The first balancing mechanism is used to distribute the excess pressure to other parts of the endoscope when the pressure applied to the clamp by the one-way limiting mechanism exceeds a first preset threshold. The second balancing mechanism is used to completely offset the excess pressure when the pressure applied to the clamp by the one-way limiting mechanism exceeds a second preset threshold.
[0033] Beneficial effects: The primary balancing mechanism ensures that the endoscope body will not be damaged due to localized stress concentration. It transforms potentially destructive energy into a beneficial factor that enhances overall stability, further improving the endoscope's resistance to pull-out while protecting it.
[0034] The second balancing mechanism is a safety fuse designed to ensure that, under any extreme circumstances, the clamping force of the device has an insurmountable upper limit.
[0035] Furthermore, the first balancing mechanism includes a first movable cavity opened in the support cylinder, a third spring and a first blocking block are provided in the first movable cavity, a first channel is connected between the first movable cavity and the airtight cavity, the first blocking block abuts against the outlet of the first channel, and the third spring is used to support the first blocking block to close the first channel.
[0036] Several airbags are arranged circumferentially inside the channel, and each airbag is connected to the adjacent first movable cavity.
[0037] Beneficial effects: Within the normal clamping force range, the air pressure inside the airtight cavity is insufficient to overcome the pre-tightening force of the third spring on the first blocking block. At this time, the first blocking block tightly seals the first channel under the action of the spring, thus isolating the airtight cavity from the first movable cavity and the airbag pad. Each clamping unit (airtight cavity-clamping pad) works independently.
[0038] When either side of the clamp experiences excessive pressure due to a large external force on the endoscope (e.g., the endoscope is pulled upwards, causing the top clamp to overload), this pressure is transmitted mechanically through the one-way limiting mechanism, ultimately resulting in a sharp increase in air pressure within the corresponding airtight cavity. When this air pressure rises sufficiently to overcome the preload of the third spring (i.e., the first preset threshold), the high-pressure gas pushes the first block, compresses the third spring, and moves towards the first active cavity, thereby opening the first channel. The high-pressure gas instantly rushes into the first active cavity through the first channel and further flows into all the circumferential airbags connected to the first active cavity. These airbags immediately inflate and expand, changing from their original standby state to their working state, applying uniform radial pressure to the endoscope.
[0039] This system achieves pressure diversion and coordinated clamping, transforming localized overload into overall stability: When a localized point faces the risk of pressure overload, the mechanism does not simply abandon or release the pressure at that point. Instead, it uses the overload energy (high-pressure gas) as a signal and driving force to intelligently activate and strengthen the clamping force at other circumferential locations. By timely channeling potentially damaging localized "pressure spikes" into a large-area, low-pressure, and uniformly distributed clamping force, it fundamentally avoids permanent indentations, breakage, or damage to internal components of the endoscope's outer covering material caused by stress concentration. The flexibility of the airbag itself further ensures a friendly contact with the endoscope body.
[0040] Furthermore, the second balancing mechanism includes a second movable cavity opened inside the support cylinder, a second spring and a second block are provided in the second movable cavity, a second channel is connected between the second movable cavity and the airtight cavity, the second block abuts against the outlet of the second channel, the second spring is used to support the second block to block the second channel, the preload of the second spring on the second block is greater than the preload of the third spring on the first block, and the second movable cavity is connected to the outside.
[0041] Beneficial effect: Since the preload of the second spring on the second block is greater than the preload of the third spring on the first block (i.e., the second preset threshold > the first preset threshold), the second block firmly seals the outlet of the second channel under the action of the stronger spring force, keeping it in a closed state.
[0042] When the external force applied to the endoscope is abnormally large, causing the pressure inside the airtight cavity to continue to surge even after the first balancing mechanism has been activated (all airbags are inflated and participating in clamping), eventually exceeding the preload of the second spring (i.e., the second preset threshold), the enormous air pressure will overcome the elasticity of the second spring, pushing the second block to move and opening the second channel. Once the second channel is open, the high-pressure gas inside the airtight cavity will be rapidly released through this channel to the second active cavity connected to the outside, and finally discharged into the atmosphere.
[0043] The depressurization of the airtight cavity means that the force transmission basis of the entire one-way limiting mechanism is destroyed. The sudden drop in air pressure acting on the back of the ramp causes the first spring to rebound, and the ramp to move backward. This causes the mechanical self-locking effect of the "gradual zone" formed by the slider, the clamping pad, and the ramp to disappear instantly. The end result is that the clamping force is almost completely released.
[0044] This mechanism, acting as a mechanical pressure fuse, sets an insurmountable mechanical calibration point for the entire clamping system. No matter how great the external force, the clamping force generated by the system will never exceed the second preset threshold, fundamentally eliminating any possibility of crushing or cracking the endoscope due to excessive clamping force.
[0045] Together with the first balancing mechanism, it forms a perfect dual protection system:
[0046] The first balancing mechanism (pressure redistribution) handles severe risks, enhancing overall stability while protecting the endoscope.
[0047] The second balancing mechanism (pressure relief) handles extreme risks, sacrificing stability to absolutely guarantee equipment safety in critical situations. These two mechanisms work in tandem to ensure the device can respond in the most reasonable and safest way in various scenarios, from routine operation to extreme accidents.
[0048] Furthermore, a wiping ring is installed inside the channel near the patient.
[0049] Beneficial effects: It can effectively prevent contaminants (such as blood and digestive fluids) in the patient's body from being carried out of the body through the endoscope, reduce the risk of cross-contamination between the surgical area and non-sterile areas, and keep the endoscope clean.
[0050] Furthermore, the clamping pad and the slider are detachably connected. A limit block is provided on the side of the clamping pad near the slider. A limit groove is opened in the slider. The limit block and the limit groove slide together. A magnetic component is provided in the limit groove. The limit block is made of magnetic material.
[0051] Beneficial effect: When it is necessary to replace the clip, the operator only needs to apply a pulling force sufficient to overcome the magnetic attraction to smoothly pull the clip out of the limiting groove of the slider, achieving rapid separation.
[0052] When the clamping pad needs to be installed, align the limiting block on the back of the clamping pad with the limiting groove on the slider, and then push it inward along the groove. During the pushing process, the limiting block, made of magnetic material, attracts the magnetic component fixed in the limiting groove, generating sufficient magnetic force to firmly attract and lock the clamping pad onto the slider.
[0053] By changing the pads of different thicknesses, hardnesses, or materials, the effective diameter and clamping characteristics of the through slot can be easily adjusted.
[0054] For thinner endoscopes, thicker or softer clips can be used to ensure sufficient contact area and gentle clamping force.
[0055] For thicker endoscopes or those with special coatings, thinner or more friction-resistant clips can be used instead.
[0056] As a component that comes into direct contact with the endoscope, the clip requires thorough sterilization. Its detachable design allows it to be removed individually for rigorous cleaning and sterilization, effectively preventing cross-infection.
[0057] Furthermore, the first active chamber is also connected to a valve core, which is located outside the support cylinder.
[0058] Beneficial effects: During normal operation: the valve core is in the closed state, ensuring that the air passage system consisting of the first balancing mechanism, the first moving chamber and the airbag cushion is a closed whole, thereby ensuring that when the first balancing mechanism is triggered, the air pressure can be effectively transmitted to all airbag cushions, causing them to inflate.
[0059] When the surgery is finished or when it is necessary to manually deflat the airbag, the surgeon or assistant can press the valve core from the outside. This action opens the valve, allowing the closed airway system to connect with the outside atmosphere through the valve core.
[0060] At this time, all the compressed gas inside the airbag and the first active chamber will be rapidly released into the outside air through the connecting pipe and the valve core.
[0061] As the internal air pressure drops to atmospheric pressure, the airbag will quickly shrink back to its flat state due to its own elasticity and the absence of external pressure, completely releasing the additional clamping force on the endoscope.
[0062] Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description
[0063] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of the endoscopic fixation and support auxiliary device for gastroenterology of the present invention;
[0064] Figure 2 for Figure 1 Top view of an endoscopic fixation and support device used in the Department of Gastroenterology;
[0065] Figure 3 for Figure 2 Sectional view along the AA direction;
[0066] Figure 4 for Figure 3 Enlarged view of a portion of point M in the middle;
[0067] Figure 5 for Figure 4 Schematic diagram of the internal structure of the middle pad;
[0068] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first block in the endoscopic fixation and support auxiliary device for gastroenterology of the present invention.
[0069] The reference numerals in the accompanying drawings include: 1. Base; 2. Support arm; 3. Support cylinder; 4. Pin; 5. Pull ring; 6. Endoscope; 301. Through groove; 302. Airtight cavity; 303. Wedge block; 304. Extrusion groove; 305. First spring; 306. Inclined plate; 307. Slide groove; 308. Slider; 309. Limiting ball; 310. Clamping pad; 311. Wiping ring; 312. Airbag cushion; 313. Second movable cavity; 314. Second spring; 315. Second blocking block; 316. Limiting block; 317. Magnetic component; 318. First movable cavity; 319. Third spring; 320. First blocking block. Detailed Implementation
[0070] The technical solution of the present invention will now be clearly and completely described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some, not all, of the embodiments of the present invention. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.
[0071] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that the terms "center," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing the invention and for simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the invention. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.
[0072] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.
[0073] The following detailed description illustrates the specific implementation method:
[0074] Example:
[0075] As attached Figure 1 - Appendix Figure 6 The diagram shows a fixation and support auxiliary device for an endoscope 6 used in gastroenterology, mainly comprising a support mechanism and a clamping mechanism. The support mechanism provides a support base for the clamping mechanism. Preferably, the support mechanism includes a base 1, which can be fixed to the headboard or side of the bed with bolts. The base 1 can be a planar structure conforming to the bed surface, or it can be designed as an incomplete cylindrical structure tightly clamping the side rail of the bed. A support arm 2 is provided on the base 1. The shape of the support arm 2 can be designed according to actual conditions, and can be curved or straight, to facilitate suspending the clamping mechanism on the pushing path of the endoscope 6. The end of the support arm 2 away from the base 1 is detachably connected to the outside of the clamping mechanism. In this embodiment, the support arm 2 and the clamping mechanism are detachably connected by threads.
[0076] The clamping mechanism includes a support cylinder 3, within which a passageway 301 is provided for accommodating the passage of the endoscope 6. Preferably, a wiping ring 311 is adhered and fixed within the passageway 301 near the patient. (See attached...) Figure 4 As shown, several clamping pads 310 are arranged circumferentially on the inner wall of the through groove 301. The clamping pads 310 are arc-shaped structures that fit the endoscope 6. Each clamping pad 310 is provided with a one-way limiting mechanism and a balancing mechanism on the side away from the endoscope 6. The one-way limiting mechanism is used to apply different pressures to the clamping pads 310 based on the displacement of the endoscope 6. The displacement includes the movement trend of the endoscope 6 and the magnitude of the external force on the endoscope 6. The movement trend of the endoscope 6 includes a first movement trend of moving deeper into the body from outside and a second movement trend of moving out of the body from outside. When the endoscope 6 is in the first movement trend, the one-way limiting mechanism does not apply additional pressure to the clamping pads 310. When the endoscope 6 is in the second movement trend, the pressure applied by the one-way limiting mechanism to the clamping pads 310 is positively correlated with the external force on the endoscope 6.
[0077] Specifically, the one-way limiting mechanism includes an airtight cavity 302 and a sliding groove 307 opened in the support cylinder 3. A wedge block 303 and an unlocking mechanism are slidably engaged in the airtight cavity 302. The unlocking mechanism is used to limit the sliding of the wedge block 303. Preferably, the unlocking mechanism includes an insert and a pin 4. The insert slides in cooperation with the wedge block 303 and the airtight cavity 302 respectively. A groove is opened on one side of the insert. When it is necessary to lock the wedge block 303, the pin 4 is inserted through the side wall of the airtight cavity 302 and then engaged with the groove. A pull ring 5 is welded and fixed to the end of the insert away from the airtight cavity 302. The pull ring 5 connects and fixes all the inserts together. At this time, by engaging the groove with the pin 4, all the inserts can be restricted in the airtight cavity 302, thereby locking all the wedge blocks 303.
[0078] The wedge 303 has a compression groove 304 on the side near the through groove 301, and the compression groove 304 is connected to the airtight cavity 302. A first spring 305 and an inclined plate 306 are provided in the compression groove 304. The inclined plate 306 is slidably engaged with the compression groove 304. The side of the inclined plate 306 near the endoscope 6 is inclined. The two ends of the first spring 305 are respectively bonded and fixed to the inner wall of the compression groove 304 and the inclined plate 306.
[0079] The slide groove 307 is located on the side of the airtight cavity 302 near the endoscope 6. A slider 308 is slidably connected inside the slide groove 307. A preset distance is left between the slider 308 and the inner wall of the slide groove 307 so that the slider 308 can move horizontally or vertically in a plane. The slider 308 is detachably connected to the clamping pad 310 on the side near the airtight cavity 302. Preferably, it is combined with the attached... Figure 5 As shown, a limiting block 316 is welded and fixed to the side of the clamping pad 310 near the slider 308. A limiting groove is opened in the slider 308. The limiting block 316 slides with the limiting groove. A magnetic element 317 is embedded in the limiting groove. In this embodiment, the magnetic element 317 is a magnet, and the limiting block 316 is made of magnetic material.
[0080] A limiting ball 309 is provided on the side of the clamping pad 310 near the airtight cavity 302. The slider 308, clamping pad 310, and inclined plate 306 surround and form a gradient region. That is, the planes in contact with the limiting ball 309, slider 308, clamping pad 310, and inclined plate 306 can form a cross section similar to a right triangle, enclosing the limiting ball 309 within it. The limiting ball 309 slides within the gradient region. The outer side of the limiting ball 309 abuts against the inclined surfaces of slider 308, clamping pad 310, and inclined plate 306, respectively. When the endoscope 6 is in the second moving trend, the friction between the clamping pad 310 and the endoscope 6 drives the clamping pad 310 and slider 308 towards the direction of volume reduction of the gradient region (as shown in the attached figure). Figure 4 When the middle part is pressed to the right, the pressure between the slider 308 and the limiting ball 309, the pressure between the inclined plate 306 and the limiting ball 309, and the pressure between the limiting ball 309 and the clamping pad 310 are in a balanced state. That is, the resultant force of the radial pressure of the slider 308 on the limiting ball 309, the radial pressure of the inclined plate 306 on the limiting ball 309, and the radial pressure of the clamping pad 310 on the limiting ball 309 is 0. When the pressure at one point increases, the pressure at the other two points also increases at the same time.
[0081] The balancing mechanism is used to offset excess pressure when the pressure applied to the clamping pad 310 by the one-way limiting mechanism exceeds a threshold. Preferably, the balancing mechanism includes a first balancing mechanism and a second balancing mechanism. The first balancing mechanism is used to distribute excess pressure to other parts of the endoscope 6 when the pressure applied to the clamping pad 310 by the limiting ball 309 exceeds a first preset threshold. The second balancing mechanism is used to offset all excess pressure when the pressure applied to the clamping pad 310 by the limiting ball 309 exceeds a second preset threshold.
[0082] Specifically, in conjunction with the appendix Figure 4 and attached Figure 6 As shown, the first balancing mechanism includes a first movable cavity 318 opened in the support cylinder 3. A third spring 319 and a first blocking block 320 are provided in the first movable cavity 318. A first channel is connected between the first movable cavity 318 and the airtight cavity 302. The first blocking block 320 abuts against the outlet of the first channel. The third spring 319 is used to support the first blocking block 320 to close the first channel. The two ends of the third spring 319 are respectively bonded and fixed to the inner wall of the first blocking block 320 and the first movable cavity 318. Preferably, in this embodiment, all springs (hereinafter the same) are fitted with guide posts (not shown in the figure). The guide posts are slidably fitted in the side wall of their respective chambers. The guide posts are used to ensure that the extension and contraction direction of the spring remains straight and to avoid the spring from deflecting during compression.
[0083] A plurality of airbag pads 312 are embedded circumferentially within the through groove 301, and each airbag pad 312 is connected to an adjacent first movable cavity 318. Preferably, the first movable cavity 318 is also connected to a valve core (not shown in the figure), which is embedded on the outside of the support cylinder 3. The gas in the airbag pad 312 can be released by pressing the valve core.
[0084] Specifically, the second balancing mechanism includes a second movable cavity 313 opened in the support cylinder 3. A second spring 314 and a second block 315 are provided in the second movable cavity 313. A second channel is connected between the second movable cavity 313 and the airtight cavity 302. The second block 315 abuts against the outlet of the second channel. The second spring 314 is used to support the second block 315 to block the second channel. The two ends of the second spring 314 are respectively bonded and fixed to the inner wall of the second block 315 and the second movable cavity 313. The preload of the second spring 314 on the second block 315 is greater than the preload of the third spring 319 on the first block 320. The second movable cavity 313 is connected to the outside.
[0085] The specific implementation process is as follows:
[0086] The entire device is securely fixed to the headboard or guardrail of the hospital bed via the base 1. The support tube 3 is positioned in a path that facilitates the entry of the endoscope 6 into the body cavity through the patient's mouth or anus. The insertion end of the endoscope 6 is inserted into the through groove 301 from the end of the support tube 3 furthest from the patient and extends out via the wiping ring 311. The wiping ring 311 can scrape away dust or liquid from the surface of the endoscope during initial insertion, keeping it clean.
[0087] In the initial state, the first spring 305 applies a preload to the inclined plate 306, which is transmitted to the clamping pad 310 through the limiting ball 309, so that it generates a gentle, initial clamping force on the endoscope 6, ensuring that the endoscope 6 can maintain its position without external force, but without excessive pressure.
[0088] When the operator actively pushes the endoscope 6 into the patient's body, the endoscope body has an initial tendency to move.
[0089] At this time, the frictional force between the mirror body and the clamping pad 310 is directed towards the interior. This frictional force will cause the slider 308 and the clamping pad 310 to move along the slide groove 307 towards the interior (i.e., the attached...). Figure 4 (Slight movement to the left side). This movement causes the volume of the gradient area formed by the slider 308, the clamping pad 310, and the inclined plate 306 to increase, reducing the squeezing force on the limiting ball 309. Therefore, the limiting effect is weak, the push resistance felt by the operator is minimal, and the operation is smooth.
[0090] When the operator needs to stabilize the endoscope 6 for operations (such as ESD incision or hemostasis), or when the endoscope 6 has a secondary tendency to move from inside the body to outside due to the patient's physiological activities, gravity, and traction during the operation, the direction of the frictional force between the endoscope 6 and the clamp 310 changes to the outward direction. This frictional force will drive the clamp 310 and the slider 308 in the outward direction (i.e., attached). Figure 4 (Moves to the right). The slider 308 and the inclined plate 306, which is held in place by the first spring 305, work together to begin compressing the space of the gradient area.
[0091] Under the combined pressure of the slider 308, clamping pad 310, and inclined plate 306, the limiting ball 309 generates radial pressure. This radial pressure is then transmitted to the clamping pad 310, forcing it to press more tightly against the endoscope 6, thus generating strong frictional resistance to prevent the endoscope 6 from retracting. This is a self-reinforcing process: the greater the outward pulling force, the greater the clamping force. At this point, the forces among the slider 308, limiting ball 309, and inclined plate 306 reach a new equilibrium. On the other hand, the inclined plate 306 compresses the first spring 305 and increases the air pressure within the airtight cavity 302. This is a self-reinforcing positive feedback process: the greater the external force attempting to pull out the endoscope 6, the tighter the compression in the gradient area, and the greater the clamping resistance, thereby achieving reliable locking of the endoscope 6 and preventing accidental retraction that could lead to loss of the surgical field.
[0092] When the clamping force in any direction exceeds the first preset threshold due to excessive external force, the air pressure in the corresponding airtight cavity 302 rises to a level sufficient to overcome the preload of the third spring 319.
[0093] High-pressure gas pushes open the first block 320, flows into the first active chamber 318 through the first channel, and quickly fills all the circumferential airbags 312.
[0094] The air cushion 312 inflates and evenly grips the endoscope 6 from the circumference. This relieves the pressure of the local overloaded clamping pad 310 and protects the endoscope 6. On the other hand, by activating multiple clamping points, the overall clamping acts as a buffer in the middle, jointly resisting external forces.
[0095] If it is necessary to actively release the airbag cushion 312 from its tight state after surgery or during adjustment, the valve core can be pressed to release the gas inside the airbag cushion 312 and cause it to retract.
[0096] If the external force is abnormally large, even if the first balancing mechanism has been activated, the system pressure will continue to rise and exceed the higher second preset threshold. The high-pressure gas in the airtight cavity 302 will overcome the preload of the second spring 314 and violently push open the second block 315.
[0097] High-pressure gas is rapidly discharged into the outside atmosphere through the second channel and the second movable chamber 313. The depressurization of the airtight chamber 302 causes the first spring 305 to rebound, the inclined plate 306 to retract, and the self-locking effect of the gradient area is instantly released, resulting in a sharp drop in clamping force. The endoscope 6 will experience controllable slippage within the device, thus ensuring that the endoscope 6 body is not damaged by mechanical forces.
[0098] When the surgeon needs to actively withdraw the endoscope 6 (e.g., after the surgery), simply pull out the pin 4 and then pull the pull ring 5 outward. The pull ring 5 moves all the inserts synchronously, thereby releasing the locking of all the wedges 303. The wedges 303 can then slide freely within the airtight cavity 302, and the entire one-way limiting function is completely released, allowing the endoscope 6 to be withdrawn without resistance.
[0099] When it is necessary to adapt to endoscopes of different diameters 6 or to perform disinfection and maintenance, simply pull the clamp 310 out of the limiting groove of the slider 308.
[0100] After replacing the pads 310 with pads of different thicknesses or materials, align the limiting block 316 on its back with the limiting groove and push it in. It will then be fixed by magnetic attraction, thus completing the replacement.
[0101] Obviously, the above embodiments are merely illustrative examples for clear explanation and are not intended to limit the implementation. Those skilled in the art will recognize that other variations or modifications can be made based on the above description. It is neither necessary nor possible to exhaustively list all possible implementations here. However, obvious variations or modifications derived therefrom are still within the scope of protection of this invention.
Claims
1. An auxiliary device for fixing and supporting a gastrointestinal endoscope, comprising a support mechanism and a clamping mechanism, wherein the support mechanism provides a support base for the clamping mechanism, and the clamping mechanism includes a support cylinder (3) having a through groove (301) for accommodating the passage of an endoscope (6) within the support cylinder (3), characterized in that, The inner wall of the through channel (301) is provided with several clamps (310) in a circumferential direction. Each clamp (310) is provided with a one-way limiting mechanism and a balancing mechanism on the side away from the endoscope (6). The one-way limiting mechanism is used to apply different pressures to the clamps (310) based on the displacement of the endoscope (6). The displacement includes the movement trend of the endoscope (6) and the magnitude of the external force on the endoscope (6). The movement trend of the endoscope (6) includes a first movement trend of moving deeper into the body from outside and a second movement trend of moving out of the body from outside. When the endoscope (6) is in the first movement trend, the one-way limiting mechanism does not apply additional pressure to the clamps (310). When the endoscope (6) is in the second movement trend, the pressure applied by the one-way limiting mechanism to the clamps (310) is positively correlated with the external force on the endoscope (6). The balancing mechanism is used to offset the excess pressure when the pressure applied by the one-way limiting mechanism to the clamps (310) exceeds a threshold.
2. The endoscopic fixation and support device for gastroenterology according to claim 1, characterized in that, The support mechanism includes a base (1), on which a support arm (2) is provided. The end of the support arm (2) away from the base (1) is detachably connected to the outside of the support cylinder (3).
3. The endoscopic fixation and support device for gastroenterology according to claim 1, characterized in that, The one-way limiting mechanism includes an airtight cavity (302) and a slide groove (307) opened in the support cylinder (3). A wedge (303) and an unlocking mechanism are slidably fitted in the airtight cavity (302). The unlocking mechanism is used to limit the sliding of the wedge (303). A squeezing groove (304) is provided on the side of the wedge (303) near the through groove (301). The squeezing groove (304) is connected to the airtight cavity (302). The airtight cavity (302) is connected to the balancing mechanism. A first spring (305) and an inclined plate (306) are provided in the squeezing groove (304). The inclined plate (306) is slidably fitted with the squeezing groove (304). The two ends of the first spring (305) are fixedly connected to the inner wall of the squeezing groove (304) and the inclined plate (306) respectively. A slider (308) is slidably connected inside the groove (307). The slider (308) is fixedly connected to the side of the clamping pad (310) near the airtight cavity (302). A limiting ball (309) is provided on the side of the clamping pad (310) near the airtight cavity (302). The slider (308), the clamping pad (310), and the inclined plate (306) surround and form a gradient area. The limiting ball (309) slides within the gradient area. The outer side of the limiting ball (309) is connected to the slider (308), the clamping pad (310), and the inclined plate (306) respectively. When the endoscope (6) is in the second moving trend, the friction between the clamp (310) and the endoscope (6) causes the clamp (310) and the slider (308) to be squeezed in the direction of volume reduction of the gradual area. The pressure between the slider (308) and the limiting ball (309), the pressure between the inclined plate (306) and the limiting ball (309), and the pressure between the limiting ball (309) and the clamp (310) are in a balanced state.
4. The endoscopic fixation and support device for gastroenterology according to claim 3, characterized in that, The unlocking mechanism includes a plug and a pin (4). The plug slides in cooperation with the wedge (303) and the airtight cavity (302) respectively. A groove is provided on one side of the plug. The pin (4) passes through the side wall of the airtight cavity (302) and engages with the groove. A pull ring (5) is provided at the end of the plug away from the airtight cavity (302). The pull ring (5) connects all the plugs in series.
5. The endoscopic fixation and support auxiliary device for gastroenterology according to claim 4, characterized in that, The balancing mechanism includes a first balancing mechanism and a second balancing mechanism. The first balancing mechanism is used to distribute the excess pressure to other clamping areas of the endoscope (6) when the pressure applied to the clamping pad (310) by the one-way limiting mechanism exceeds a first preset threshold. The second balancing mechanism is used to offset all excess pressure when the pressure applied to the pad (310) by the unidirectional limiting mechanism exceeds the second preset threshold.
6. The endoscopic fixation and support auxiliary device for gastroenterology according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first balancing mechanism includes a first movable cavity (318) opened in the support cylinder (3), a third spring (319) and a first block (320) are provided in the first movable cavity (318), a first channel is connected between the first movable cavity (318) and the airtight cavity (302), the first block (320) abuts against the outlet of the first channel, and the third spring (319) is used to support the first block (320) to close the first channel; Several airbag cushions (312) are arranged circumferentially inside the through groove (301), and each airbag cushion (312) is connected to the adjacent first active cavity (318).
7. The endoscopic fixation and support auxiliary device for gastroenterology according to claim 6, characterized in that, The second balancing mechanism includes a second movable cavity (313) opened in the support cylinder (3). The second movable cavity (313) is provided with a second spring (314) and a second block (315). The second movable cavity (313) is connected to the airtight cavity (302) by a second channel. The second block (315) abuts against the outlet of the second channel. The second spring (314) is used to support the second block (315) to block the second channel. The preload of the second spring (314) on the second block (315) is greater than the preload of the third spring (319) on the first block (320). The second movable cavity (313) is connected to the outside.
8. The endoscopic fixation and support auxiliary device for gastroenterology according to claim 7, characterized in that, A wiping ring (311) is provided at one end of the through groove (301).
9. The endoscopic fixation and support auxiliary device for gastroenterology according to claim 8, characterized in that, The clamping pad (310) and the slider (308) are detachably connected. A limit block (316) is provided on the side of the clamping pad (310) near the slider (308). A limit groove is provided in the slider (308). The limit block (316) slides with the limit groove. A magnetic component (317) is provided in the limit groove. The limit block (316) is made of magnetic material.
10. The endoscopic fixation and support auxiliary device for gastroenterology according to claim 9, characterized in that, The first active chamber (318) is also connected to the valve core, which is located outside the support cylinder (3).