Electronic assembly for medical device

Abstract

An electronic assembly for a medical device is described, including an electronic assembly comprising a body, at least one imaging device, and at least one light source. The body may include a plurality of electrical connection points and a plurality of electrical traces in an electrically insulating material. The plurality of electrical connection points may be located on one or more exterior surfaces of the body. The plurality of electrical connection points may include a proximal connection point and a distal connection point. Each electrical trace may connect a proximal connection point to a respective distal connection point. At least one imaging device may be coupled to one or more distal connection points, and / or at least one light source may be coupled to one or more distal connection points.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 517,991, filed August 7, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to electronic components for medical devices and related methods. More specifically, aspects of this disclosure relate to components including parts positioned at the distal end of a medical device (such as an endoscope). Background Technology

[0004] In medical procedures, an operator may insert a medical device (such as an endoscope or other type of endoscope) into a subject's body cavity. The operator may guide the distal end to the location where the surgery will be performed. The operator may route accessory devices (e.g., instruments) through the working channel of the medical device to assist in performing certain diagnostic or therapeutic procedures. The distal end of the medical device may include elements for providing visualization of the body cavity, such as light-emitting elements and / or imaging devices. The distal end of the medical device may also include other features such as openings in the working channel, one or more openings for air / water and suction, and / or lifters. Many current endoscopes have limitations on the arrangement and / or type of elements that can be incorporated into the distal end of the device. It may be necessary to increase the size of the working channel and its associated openings, or to introduce additional elements into the distal end of the medical device without increasing the outer diameter of the medical device. It may also be desirable to provide the operator with higher quality images. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Each aspect disclosed herein may include one or more features described in conjunction with any other disclosed aspects.

[0006] In some aspects, the electronic components for a medical device may include a body, at least one imaging device, and at least one light source. The body may include multiple electrical connection points and multiple electrical traces in an electrically insulating material. The multiple electrical connection points may be located on one or more external surfaces of the body. The multiple electrical connection points may include, for example, proximal connection points and distal connection points. Each of the multiple electrical traces may connect a proximal connection point to a corresponding distal connection point. At least one imaging device may be coupled to one or more distal connection points, and / or at least one light source may be coupled to one or more distal connection points.

[0007] The electronic component may include one or more of the following features: At least one imaging device and at least one light source may face the same direction. In some examples, the plurality of electrical connection points may include a plurality of cable connection points and at least one sensor connection point. The electronic component may further include at least one sensor coupled to the body on a side of the body opposite to at least one of the plurality of electrical connection points. The at least one sensor may include, for example, a pressure sensor. The body may include an end face and at least one arm adjacent to and extending distally from the end face. The end face may include at least one distal connection point, and at least one imaging device may be coupled to the distal connection point on the end face. At least one arm may include at least one distal connection point, and at least one light source may be coupled to the distal connection point on the at least one arm.

[0008] At least one light source may include two light-emitting diodes (LEDs) positioned on opposite sides of at least one imaging device. The LEDs may be located near the at least one imaging device. The material of the body may comprise ceramic and / or other non-conductive materials. The plurality of electrical traces may comprise copper and / or other conductive materials. The plurality of electrical traces may extend through the interior of the body. In some aspects of this disclosure, the electronic components may further include capacitors and / or resistors. The body may include end faces having curved surfaces.

[0009] In one or more other aspects of this disclosure, an electronic component for a medical device may include a body, at least one imaging device, and at least one light source. The body may include an end face and at least one arm extending distal to the end face. The body may contain an electrically insulating material, a plurality of electrical connection points, and a plurality of electrically conductive traces. At least one imaging device may be coupled to the end face of the body. At least one light source may be coupled to at least one arm.

[0010] The electronic component may include one or more of the following: Multiple electrical connection points may include proximal connection points and distal connection points. Each of the multiple electrically conductive traces may be electrically connected from the proximal connection point to a corresponding distal connection point. The electronic component may further include a pressure sensor coupled to one or more of the multiple electrical connection points.

[0011] Additionally, in one or more other aspects of this disclosure, the electronic component for a medical device may include a body, at least one imaging device, and at least one light source. The body may include an end face and at least one arm adjacent to the end face. The body may include an electrically insulating material, a plurality of electrical connection points located on the outer surface of the body, and a plurality of electrically conductive traces passing through the interior of the body between two of the plurality of electrical connection points. At least one imaging device may be coupled to the end face. At least one light source may be coupled to at least one arm.

[0012] Electronic components may include one or more of the following: Multiple electrical connection points may include proximal connection points and distal connection points. The proximal portion of the body may include proximal connection points, and the intermediate portion of the body may include distal connection points. The body may include a stepped portion between the proximal portion and the intermediate portion. Attached Figure Description

[0013] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate examples of this disclosure and, together with the specification, serve to explain the principles of this disclosure.

[0014] Figure 1A and Figure 1B An exemplary medical device is depicted.

[0015] Figure 2A and Figure 2B Depicting for use with medical devices (such as Figure 1A and Figure 1B An exemplary electronic component used in conjunction with medical devices.

[0016] Figures 3A-3F Describes the use of electronic components (such as Figure 2A and Figure 2B Various views of the exemplary distal structure of the electronic components.

[0017] Figure 4 The distal portion of another exemplary medical device is depicted.

[0018] Figures 5A-5D Depicting for use with medical devices (such as Figure 4 Various views of another exemplary electronic component used in conjunction with a medical device.

[0019] Figures 6A-6C Describes the use of electronic components (such as Figures 5A-5D Various views of another exemplary distal structure of the electronic component. Detailed Implementation

[0020] It is understood that the general description above and the detailed description below are merely exemplary and explanatory and do not limit the claimed invention. As used herein, the terms “comprising,” “including,” “containing,” or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements may include not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. The term “exemplary” is used to mean “example,” not “ideal.” The term “distal” refers to a direction away from the operator / towards the treatment site, while the term “proximal” refers to a direction towards the operator. The accompanying drawings may include arrows labeled “P” and “D” to indicate the proximal and distal directions, respectively. The term “about” or similar terms (e.g., “substantially”) include values ​​plus or minus 10% of the specified value.

[0021] Medical devices (such as ureteroscopes) can be inserted into a subject's body cavity (e.g., into the kidney) to perform medical procedures (e.g., laser lithotripsy). The distal end of the medical device may include one or more electronic components, each comprising various parts such as illumination or light-emitting elements (e.g., light-emitting diodes (LEDs), optical fibers (e.g., plastic optical fibers or POFs) or other light guides, or combinations thereof), imaging elements (e.g., cameras, other components with imagers, or other optical elements (e.g., lenses)), and / or associated electronic components (e.g., capacitors, diodes, resistors, etc.). The electronic components of the components described herein may include electrical connections and may also include various elements, for example, mounted to or otherwise connected to the electrical connections.

[0022] It may be desirable for electronic components to occupy a relatively small or limited amount of space while maintaining performance and manufacturing quality. For example, with electronic components occupying a small space, a medical device may be able to accommodate additional parts and / or have larger (e.g., cross-sectional diameter or area) and / or additional working channels or lumens. Additionally or alternatively, with electronic components occupying a small space, a medical device (e.g., the distal portion of a medical device) may include smaller overall dimensions (e.g., diameter or other cross-sectional dimensions). An exemplary way to save space while maintaining performance and manufacturing quality is to integrate one or more components (e.g., imaging devices such as cameras, lighting devices such as LEDs, pressure and / or temperature sensors, etc.) into the distal end or end cap of a medical device (e.g., an endoscope). Thus, in some aspects, three-dimensional (3D) electronic components can be integrated into the distal end or end cap, thereby helping to allow for a reduction in the profile of the medical device (e.g., the axis and / or distal end of the medical device). For example, smaller medical devices can be able to access desired anatomical structures due to their smaller insertion portion or distal end, while still maintaining the capabilities of larger medical devices (e.g., imaging, illumination, pressure and / or temperature sensing, working channels / lumens, etc.).

[0023] Figure 1A and Figure 1B Aspects of an exemplary medical device 10 according to this disclosure are depicted. Figure 1A The proximal portion of the medical device 10 is depicted. Figure 1B The distal end 44 of the medical device 10 is depicted. The medical device 10 may include a handle portion 12 for an operator to grip and use, and an insertion portion 14 for at least partial insertion into the body (e.g., a body cavity) of a subject. As discussed in detail below, the insertion portion 14 (e.g., the distal end 44 of the insertion portion 14) may include, for example, one or more electrical components electrically connected to one or more components of the handle portion 12 via the insertion portion 14. Figure 1A and Figure 1B As shown, medical device 10 may include a ureteroscope. Although this disclosure may refer to a ureteroscope in different places, it should be understood that, unless otherwise stated, an endoscope, duodenoscope, endoscopy endoscope, gastroscope, endoscopic ultrasound (“EUS”) endoscope, colonoscope, bronchoscope, laparoscope, cystoscope, aspiration endoscope, sheath, catheter, or any other suitable medical device may be used in conjunction with the elements and components described herein.

[0024] The handle portion 12 may include a control or actuation mechanism, such as a joystick 22. In some examples, the joystick 22 may be located on the proximal portion of the handle portion 12. The joystick 22 may facilitate the articulation / steering of the insertion portion 14, including the distal end 44. For example, the distal portion of the insertion portion 14 may include a hinge portion 54, which may include, for example, one or more hinge joints enclosed within an outer sheath of the insertion portion 14 (e.g., see...). Figure 4 Despite Figure 1A The control lever 22 is depicted, but it should be understood that any suitable actuator, such as one or more knobs, buttons, sliders, switches, or joysticks, may be used in addition to or in place of the control lever 22. Furthermore, the handle portion 12 may include, for example, one or more locking mechanisms to lock the position of the control lever 22, and thus lock the orientation of a portion of the insertion portion 14 (e.g., the distal end 44).

[0025] The port 24 of the handle portion 12 provides access to the lumen or working channel of the medical device 10. An operator can insert an instrument or other device into the port 24 and extend the instrument or other device distally through the working channel. The working channel can extend longitudinally through the length of the insertion portion 14. The handle portion 12 may also include, for example, a suction valve 26 on the proximal portion of the handle portion 12 and on the opposite side of the lever 22. The operator can connect the suction valve 26 to a suction source and can operate the suction valve 26 to generate suction through the insertion portion 14 (e.g., through a lumen or working channel, which may be the same as or different from the lumen or working channel communicating with the port 24). The handle portion 12 may additionally or alternatively include other types of valves, such as fluid supply valves (e.g., air and / or water valves), or valves performing a combination of functions.

[0026] Actuators (such as the image capture button 28 on the handle portion 12) enable the operator to use the imaging device 52 (e.g., during surgery) Figure 1B (As shown, and will be described in further detail below) Capture still images. Additionally or alternatively, the image capture button 28 enables the operator to capture video or perform other functions to control the medical device 10. The image capture button 28 may be located on the proximal portion of the handle portion 12, as shown, for example, adjacent to the suction valve 26, or on another portion of the handle portion that is accessible to the operator's hand during use.

[0027] Cable harness 30 may extend from handle portion 12 (e.g., from the distal portion of handle portion 12 as shown, or from another portion of handle portion 12) and may include or carry wires, cables, and / or conduits, for example, to provide power, signals, or fluid to and / or to provide power, signals, or fluid from the handle portion. For example, cable harness 30 may connect handle portion 12 to one or more user interfaces, monitors, control units, displays, etc.

[0028] The insertion portion 14 may include a shaft 42 extending distally from the handle portion 12. At least a portion of the shaft 42 may be flexible to facilitate guidance within an anatomical structure, and the shaft 42 may have a wire, tube, or other feature passing through it. The distal end 44 of the medical device 10 may be located at the distal end of the shaft 42. Figure 1B As shown, the distal end 44 may include a distal side 46. The distal side 46 may define a working channel opening 48. The working channel may extend between the port 24 and the working channel opening 48, such that an instrument or other device may pass through the port 24, through the working channel, and extend from the working channel opening 48. An instrument extending distal to the working channel opening 48 may be used to perform medical procedures on a subject.

[0029] The distal end 44 may also include imaging components, such as one or more light sources 50 and one or more imaging devices 52 (e.g., a camera). Although in Figure 1B The image depicts two light sources 50 and one imaging device 52; however, it should be understood that other combinations of light sources 50 and imaging device 52 may be used. Alternatively, light sources 50 and imaging device 52 may be combined into a single unit or device. Light sources 50 may include LEDs, optical fibers (e.g., plastic optical fibers (POF)), or any other suitable light source. Imaging device 52 may be configured to capture video and / or still images. Imaging device 52 may provide signals to a monitor or display (e.g., connected via cable harness 30) so that an operator can view the visual images provided by imaging device 52 while guiding medical device 10 through the body cavity of a subject.

[0030] like Figure 1BAs shown and as described above, the medical device 10 can face forward. In other words, features of the distal end 44 (e.g., the working channel opening 48, the light source 50, and the imaging device 52) can face in the same direction, for example, the distal direction (i.e., the distal / forward direction facing the farthest side 46). This disclosure also covers other configurations of the distal end 44. For example, the medical device 10 can be side-facing. In the side-facing example, the working channel opening 48, the light source 50, and / or the imaging device 52 can be disposed on one side of the distal end 44, or otherwise incorporated into the distal end 44 such that they point in a radially outward direction relative to the longitudinal axis of the insertion portion 14. In some examples, the medical device 10 may include one or more forward-facing components and one or more side-facing components.

[0031] Figure 2A and Figure 2B An exemplary electronic component 100 is depicted, which may be at least partially disposed within the distal end 44. Figure 1B ). Figure 2A It is a perspective view of the first side (e.g., the top side) of the electronic component 100, and Figure 2B This is a perspective view of a second side (e.g., bottom side) of the electronic component 100. As discussed in detail below, various aspects or portions of the electronic component 100 can be formed via additive manufacturing (e.g., 3D printing). For example, various aspects or portions of the electronic component 100 may include a body 102, which comprises or is formed of a non-conductive material (such as ceramic). For example, the body 102 may include a 3D-printed ceramic body. Various electronic components may be attached to the body 102 (e.g., soldered to the body). For example, electronic components may include one or more imaging components to form an imager assembly. The body 102 may define multiple surfaces capable of supporting components. Therefore, various components can be arranged on any suitable surface of the body 102 (e.g., any external surface).

[0032] like Figure 2A and Figure 2B As shown, electronic component 100 includes one or more imaging devices, such as camera 104 (e.g., corresponding to...). Figure 1B Imaging device 52) and one or more light sources or other lighting devices, such as LED 106 (e.g., corresponding to...). Figure 1BThe light source 50 in the image. Camera 104 and LED 106 may be located on the distal end of electronic component 100. Optionally, as shown, electronic component 100 may include one or more sensors, such as pressure sensor 108. Pressure sensor 108 may be located on the second bottom side of electronic component 100. In addition to or in place of pressure sensor 108, electronic component 100 may include one or more other components or sensors, such as temperature sensors. Furthermore, electronic component 100 may include one or more cables 110 (e.g., coaxial or microcoaxial cables) or otherwise connected to such cables to power and / or control electronic components. Cables 110 may help minimize the number of wires and / or help shield against interference (e.g., electromagnetic interference). For example, cables 110 may be connected via solder to corresponding electrical connection points or cable connection points (e.g., pads or leads) 120. Figure 3A and Figure 3B ).

[0033] As described above, for example, electronic component 100 may include one or more other electronic components associated with pressure sensor 108 or one or more other components of electronic component 100. For example, electronic component 100 may include one or more resistors 112, one or more capacitors 114, and one or more wires or bonding wires 116. Resistors 112 and capacitors 114 may be located on the first or top side of body 102. Figure 2A ), while wire 116 (e.g., a connecting wire) may be located on the second or bottom side of the body 102 ( Figure 2B The wire 116 can help connect electronic components. For example, the wire 116 can provide an electronic connection between the pressure sensor 108 and other components of the electronic assembly 100 (e.g., one or more pressure sensor connection points 122 (e.g., pads or leads)), and the wire can extend or otherwise deviate from the surface or side of the body 102 (e.g., the bottom surface or side).

[0034] As discussed in detail below, the body 102 can be formed via one or more processes, including but not limited to multi-material 3D printing or multi-material insert molding. Furthermore, the depicted examples include multiple electrical or electrically conductive traces 130 within the body 102. Figure 3BCorresponding conductive traces may be electrically connected to corresponding pads (e.g., solderable pads) on corresponding surfaces or sides of the body 102. In these respects, various components of the electronic assembly 100 may be coupled (e.g., brazed) to corresponding pads, and the pads and traces may electrically connect corresponding components of the electronic assembly 100 to proximal components (e.g., via cable 110). Furthermore, the pads and / or traces may be sized and / or spaced on or within the body 102 to conform to, for example, size, shape, performance, or other desired criteria, so that the electronic assembly 100 mates within the distal end 44 or is otherwise coupled to the distal end ( Figure 2B ).

[0035] The body 102 may have dimensions and / or shapes that help support various electronic components and / or limit or otherwise reduce the size of the electronic assembly 100. For example, the body 102 may include one or more arms 140, for example, to attach a corresponding LED 106 to the distal end of one or more arms 140. In some examples, one or more arms 140 may be adjacent to a distal side 142, which may be configured to be attached to a camera 104. The body 102 may include one or more bends, contours, or other shapes or surface features that help accommodate electronic components and / or limit or reduce the size of the electronic assembly 100 in the distal end 44. Figure 2B ).

[0036] Figures 3A-3FVarious aspects of the interior or internal portions of the body 102 are shown. As described above, the body 102 can be formed via 3D printing or additive manufacturing processes and / or via molding processes. The body 102 can include different materials and / or be formed using different materials (e.g., printed or molded). For example, the body 102 can include an electrically non-conductive or electrically insulating primary or substrate material 118, such as a ceramic material. As described above, for example, in the proximal portion of the body 102, the body 102 can include electrical connectors and components, such as one or more resistors 112 and / or one or more capacitors 114. Such electronic components, parts, and connectors can include electrically conductive materials or combinations of materials. Additionally, the body 102 can include one or more electrically conductive materials forming connection points (e.g., cable connection points 120, sensor connection points 122, and auxiliary connection points 124) and / or traces 130. Electrically conductive materials suitable for this disclosure include, but are not limited to, copper. Connection points (e.g., cable connection point 120, sensor connection point 122, and auxiliary connection point 124) may be formed on the outer surface of the body 102. Traces 130 may extend through the interior or internal portions of the body 102 to connect the connection points to one or more electronic components (e.g., camera 104, LED 106, pressure sensor 108, etc.). Other conductive or electrical components of the body 102 (e.g., resistor 112, capacitor 114, wire or bonding wire 116, etc.) may be formed in a similar manner during the manufacturing process.

[0037] In some examples, the body 102 may be formed partially or entirely via a molding process (e.g., injection molding). For example, the manufacture of the body 102 may include a two-stage injection molding process. After a first or second stage of the injection molding process, multiple connection points (e.g., cable connection point 120, sensor connection point 122, and auxiliary connection point 124) and / or traces 130 may be inserted into or onto a non-conductive substrate material 118. In one example, a first portion of the body 102 may be formed in a first stage of the injection molding process (e.g., with substrate material 118), and subsequently, multiple traces 130 may be disposed on the first portion of the body 102. A second stage of the injection molding process (e.g., with substrate material 118) may form a second portion of the body 102, for example, at least partially covering the multiple traces 130 and / or insulating the multiple traces. Then, multiple connection points (e.g., cable connection point 120, sensor connection point 122, and auxiliary connection point 124) can be disposed on the exterior of the body 102, and the respective connection points are electrically connected to the respective trace 130. Other conductive or electrical components of the body 102 (e.g., resistor 112, capacitor 114, wire or bonding wire 116, etc.) can be formed in a similar manner during the manufacturing process.

[0038] In any of these aspects, the various connection points, traces 130, and other conductive or electronic components of body 102 may be insulated from each other by a non-conductive material or combination of materials (e.g., substrate material 118). Substrate material 118 may also help to insulate the various connection points, traces 130, and / or other conductive or electronic components of body 102 (and therefore electronic assembly 100) from other components of distal end 44. Figure 1B ).

[0039] In some aspects, cable connection point 122 may include an electrically conductive pad configured to be electrically connected (e.g., brazed) to the sheath or outer portion of the corresponding cable 110. Figure 3A Furthermore, auxiliary connection point 124 may include an electrically conductive pad configured to be electrically connected (e.g., brazed) to the core or internal portion of the corresponding cable 110. Figure 3A In these respects, auxiliary connection point 124 can be located away from cable connection point 122 to allow the core or inner portion of the corresponding cable 110 to extend distally to the sheath or outer portion of the corresponding cable. In some respects, for example, as Figure 3A and Figure 3B As shown, the auxiliary connection point 124 may be formed on the stepped portion of the body 102 relative to the cable connection point 122, wherein the stepped portion is raised or has a greater thickness than the closer portion of the body 102.

[0040] Figures 3C-3F These are different views of the main body 102, among which, Figure 3C It is the first or top side view. Figure 3E It is the second or bottom side view. Figure 3D Is it the third or lateral side (e.g., relative to) Figure 3C The view is oriented to the right (in the middle). Figure 3F It is the fourth or rear / distal end side (e.g., as Figure 3C The view shown at the top end.

[0041] For example, Figure 3C The main body 102 is shown to include one or more resistors 112, one or more capacitors 114, cable connection points 120, auxiliary connection points 124, etc., which are at least partially insulated in the substrate material 118. These electrical components can be electrically connected to corresponding traces 130. Figure 3B ).

[0042] like Figure 3D As shown, the various parts of the main body 102 can have different thicknesses (in the vertical direction) and / or different widths (in the horizontal direction). For example, as Figure 3DAs shown in the transverse view, the proximal end of the body 102 may be thinner than the distal portion of the body 102 (e.g., including the arm 140). Furthermore, for example, as... Figure 3F As shown in the distal end view, the bottom may have a tapered shape, making the bottom side narrower than the top side. The wider and / or thicker portion can help support one or more electrical or electronic components (e.g., camera 104, LED 106, pressure sensor 108, etc.).

[0043] In addition, such as Figure 3E As shown, the second or bottom side of the body 102 may include one or more mounting locations (e.g., two mounting locations 150, 152 are shown), and one or more sensor connection points 122 (e.g., three sensor connection points 122 are shown). Mounting locations 150, 152 can be configured to connect one or more sensors (e.g., pressure sensor 108, temperature sensor, etc.) to the body 102. Additionally, one or more wires or bonding wires 116 ( Figure 2B One or more sensors can be connected to sensor connection point 122.

[0044] Furthermore, as shown in the figure, the body 102 includes one or more arms 140 (e.g., two arms 140) and a distal side 142. As shown, the distal side 142 may be positioned between the two arms 140 (e.g., laterally between the two arms). Figure 3C , Figure 3E and Figure 3F As shown, the distal side 142 may include one or more imaging connection points 154, such as... Figure 3F The four imaging connection points 154 are shown. In some aspects, the four imaging connection points 154 can be arranged in an approximately square configuration, for example, two imaging connection points 154 are arranged in a position laterally spaced from the other two imaging connection points 154. The imaging connection points 154 may include pads or leads configured to be electrically and / or mechanically coupled (e.g., soldered) to one or more imaging devices (e.g., camera 104). The imaging connection points 154 may be electrically connected to one or more traces 130. One or more traces 130 may transmit power and / or signals (e.g., on / off, image capture settings, etc.) from one or more cables 110 to the distal side to one or more imaging devices. One or more traces 130 may also transmit signals (e.g., image signals, video signals, etc.) from one or more imaging devices to the proximal side to one or more cables 110 (e.g., through body 102).

[0045] like Figure 3FAs shown, arm 140 may include one or more lighting connection points 156. For example, each arm 140 may include two lighting connection points 156 on the distal portion or distal side of arm 140 (e.g., the two lighting connection points 156 are vertically spaced apart). The lighting connection point 156 may include pads or leads configured to be electrically and / or mechanically coupled (e.g., brazed) to one or more lighting devices (e.g., LED 106). Furthermore, the lighting connection point 156 may be electrically connected to one or more traces 130. In this respect, one or more traces 130 may transmit power and / or signals (on or off, lighting intensity, etc.) from one or more cables 110 to the distal side to one or more lighting devices (e.g., LED 106). Furthermore, one or more traces 130 may transmit signals (fault signals, etc.) from one or more lighting devices (e.g., LED 106) to the proximal side to one or more cables 110 (e.g., through body 102).

[0046] Figure 4 A perspective view according to another example of this disclosure shows the distal end 234 of the shaft 232 of the medical device, for example... Figure 1A and Figure 1B The distal end of the insertion portion 14 of the illustrated medical device 10. Shaft 232 may include any features of the aforementioned shaft 42. As shown, the distal end 234 includes, for example, one or more imaging devices (e.g., camera 204) and one or more illumination devices (e.g., one or more LEDs 206) on the distal side 246 of the distal end 234. Additionally, the distal end 234 includes, for example, a working channel opening 248 connected to a lumen within the shaft 232. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the insertion portion 14 may include a hinge joint 264 (or hinge portion 264), for example, located at the distal portion of the insertion portion 14, i.e., proximal to the distal end 234. In some aspects, a control or actuation mechanism (e.g., similar to...) Figure 1A The joystick 22 in the middle can control the deflection, hinge or movement of the distal part of the insertion part 14 via the hinge joint 264.

[0047] Figures 5A-5D According to various views of another exemplary electronic component 200 of this disclosure, the electronic component may be at least partially disposed within the distal end of the medical device, for example, disposed at the distal end 44 of the medical device 10. Figure 1B ). Figure 5A This is a perspective view of the first side (e.g., the top side) of the electronic component 200, while Figure 5B This is a plan view of the first side of the electronic component. Figure 5C It is the lateral side of electronic component 200 (e.g., Figure 5A and Figure 5B The side view (right side) and Figure 5D This is a view of the distal end of electronic component 200. As discussed in detail below, various aspects or portions of electronic component 200 can be formed via additive manufacturing (e.g., 3D printing) or molding. For example, various aspects or portions of electronic component 200 may include a body 202 formed of, for example, a non-conductive material (such as ceramic) or containing a non-conductive material. As described below, various electrical connections and / or components can be coupled (e.g., brazed to) the body 202. For example, when components include imaging devices, electronic component 200 can form an imager assembly. Compared to printed circuit boards that can only accommodate components on the top and bottom surfaces, various components can be arranged on any suitable surface of the body 202.

[0048] Electronic assembly 200 includes a body 202 and a plurality of conductive parts and / or electronic / electrical components. As described above, electronic assembly 200 may include one or more imaging devices, such as camera 204, and one or more illumination devices, such as LED 206. Camera 204 may be coupled to the distal side 242 of body 202, and LED 206 may be coupled to a corresponding arm 240. Arm 240 may be located on the opposite side (e.g., the lateral side) of distal side 242. In some aspects, such as Figure 5D As shown, the distal portion of the body 202 may include a curved internal surface 260. The curved internal surface 260 may help position the body 202 adjacent to one or more lumens or working channels (e.g., Figure 4 The working channel opening 248 in the middle provides space for a relatively large size of one or more lumens or working channels, and / or provides a relatively small overall size for the distal end 234.

[0049] Electronic component 200 may include any features of electronic component 100. For example, electronic component 200 may include one or more sensors, such as pressure sensors and / or temperature sensors. Electronic component 200 may also include one or more resistors and / or one or more capacitors 214, as discussed above in conjunction with electronic component 100. The pressure sensor and / or temperature sensor may be located on a second bottom side of electronic component 200 or on another portion of electronic component 200. Furthermore, as mentioned above, electronic component 200 may include one or more cables 210 (e.g., coaxial or microcoaxial cables) or otherwise coupled to such one or more cables. Cables 210 may be coupled, for example, via soldering to corresponding cable connection points 220 (e.g., pads or leads). Figure 6BFurthermore, cable 210 can electrically and / or communicatively connect one or more components of electronic component 200 to one or more proximal elements (e.g., controllers, processors, displays, etc.). As discussed in detail below, cable 210 can be electrically and / or communicatively connected to one or more components of electronic component 200 via one or more corresponding traces 230 formed on the exterior of electronic component 200.

[0050] Additionally, for example, electronic component 200 may include one or more other electronic components associated with one or more other components of the pressure sensor or electronic component. For example, electronic component 200 may include one or more resistors, one or more capacitors, and one or more wires or bonding wires, as discussed above in conjunction with electronic component 100.

[0051] As described above regarding body 102, body 202 can be formed via one or more processes, including but not limited to multi-material 3D printing, multi-material insert molding (e.g., plastic injection molding), laser direct molding, or machining. Multiple electrically conductive traces 230 are located on corresponding external portions of body 202. The corresponding conductive traces 230 can be electrically connected to corresponding pads (e.g., solderable pads) on corresponding surfaces or sides of body 202. In these respects, various components of electronic component 200 can be coupled (e.g., brazed) to corresponding pads, and the pads and traces can electrically connect corresponding components of electronic component 200 to proximal components (e.g., via cable 210). Pads and / or traces can be sized and / or spaced on or within body 202 to meet desired dimensions, shapes, performance, or other criteria, thereby allowing electronic component 200 to fit within or otherwise coupled to the distal end 44 or distal end 234. Figure 1B and Figure 4 ).

[0052] The body 202 may have dimensions and / or shapes that facilitate support for various electronic components and / or reduce the size of the electronic assembly 200. For example, the body 202 may include one or more arms 240 to attach corresponding LEDs 206 to the distal ends of one or more arms. Additionally, one or more arms 240 may be adjacent to a distal side 242, which may be configured to be attached to a camera 204. Furthermore, the body 202 may include one or more bends, contours, or other shapes or surface features that facilitate the accommodation of electronic components and / or reduce the size of the electronic assembly 200 in the distal end 44 or distal end 234. Figure 1B and Figure 4 ).

[0053] Figures 6A-6CThe corresponding aspects of the main body 202 are shown without various electronic components (e.g., camera 204, LED 206, cable 210, etc.), but including electrical connections (e.g., trace 230, cable connection point 220, etc.). Figure 6A This is a side view of the main body 202, for example, relative to... Figure 5A and Figure 5B The left side of the arrangement shown. Figure 6B This is the top view of the main body 202, and Figure 6C It is a view of the far end of the body 202 (e.g., including the curved inner surface 260).

[0054] The body 202 comprises a base material 218, such as a non-conductive and / or insulating material, such as ceramic. Additionally, the body 202 includes, for example, a plurality of traces 230, one or more cable connection points 220, one or more sensor connection points (not shown), and one or more auxiliary connection points 224, located on, for example, on the top side of the body 202. Figure 6A and Figure 6B As shown, the body 202 may include different thicknesses (e.g., features similar to stepped portions with different heights or levels). For example, the proximal end or portion may be thinner than the middle and / or distal portions of the body 202 (see...). Figure 6A When the various parts of cable 210 are connected to body 202, height, hierarchy, or steps can help maintain cable 210 in a straight configuration. The size and / or shape of body 202 can also help ensure proper placement of cable 210 relative to body 202 and / or ensure proper contact between the various parts of cable 210 and corresponding parts of body 202 (e.g., reducing potential stress on connectors / brazing heads, improving connectivity / brazingability, etc.).

[0055] In some aspects, such as Figure 6AAs shown, the body 202 may include a wall or barrier between a proximal portion (e.g., various connection points, cable 210, etc.) and a distal portion (e.g., imaging connection point 254, illumination connection point 256, etc.). The wall or barrier may facilitate the alignment and / or positioning of the cable 210, help prevent short circuits (e.g., solder short circuits) between wires or portions of the electronic component 200, facilitate consistent and / or precise placement of wires on the body 202, and help reduce the overall space required for the electronic component 200, etc. Additionally, the shape of the body 202 may help to recess portions of the cable 210, for example, toward the center of the body 202. The shape of the body 202 and / or the cable 210 may also help provide additional space within the axis of the medical device (e.g., axis 232) and / or help keep wires or other conductive elements away from the exterior of the medical device (e.g., away from the exterior of the insertion portion 14). Therefore, the axis 232 may exhibit lower stress and / or strain when the distal end 234 is hinged or otherwise manipulated. The body 102 of the electronic component 100 (e.g., as Figure 2A , Figure 2B and Figures 3A-3F (As shown) may include one or more of the aforementioned shapes and / or advantages of the body 202.

[0056] Furthermore, the main body 202 may include a plurality of imaging connection points 254 (e.g., on the distal end face 242) and a plurality of illumination connection points 256 (e.g., on the arm 240). In some aspects, such as Figure 6C As shown, imaging connection point 254 and / or illumination connection point 256 may be a continuation of the corresponding trace 230 or otherwise formed continuously with the corresponding trace. In some aspects, body 202 may include one or more sensor mounting locations and / or bonding points, as discussed above in conjunction with body 102. As described above, trace 230 can electrically and / or communicatively connect various connection points (e.g., cable connection point 220, sensor connection point, auxiliary connection point 224) to one or more other connection points (e.g., sensor mounting locations or bonding points, imaging connection point 254 and / or illumination connection point 256). Electrical and / or communicative connections may be unidirectional (e.g., proximal to distal or distal to proximal) or bidirectional (e.g., proximal to distal and distal to proximal). Furthermore, substrate material 218 may help to insulate trace 230 and / or various connection points from each other. In some respects, the substrate material 218 may also help to insulate the various connection points, traces 230 and / or other conductive or electronic components of the body 202 (and therefore the electronic component 200) from the distal end 44 or other components of the distal end 234. Figure 1B and Figure 4 ).

[0057] Various aspects of this disclosure can help reduce the overall space required to accommodate various electronic components (e.g., cameras or other imaging devices, LEDs or other lighting devices, pressure or temperature sensors, etc.) in the distal end of a medical device (e.g., endoscopes, ureteroscopes, etc.). Additionally, various aspects of this disclosure can help allocate space to allow for larger or more numerous working channels or lumens (e.g., irrigation, aspiration, etc.) within the insertion portion of the medical device. In some aspects, the LED or lighting device may extend upwards, for example, toward the top or end portion of the camera or imaging device. The shape of the bodies 102, 202 (e.g., arms 140, 240) can help orient or otherwise position the LED or other lighting device relative to the camera or other imaging device. This position of the LED or other lighting device may be recessed from the camera, which can help minimize patient risk and / or potential light leakage from the LED or other lighting device to the camera.

[0058] For example, one or more parts of an electronic component (e.g., electronic components 100, 200) can be encapsulated with a material or combination of materials (e.g., epoxy resin), thereby helping to prevent contact with the subject and reducing the need for biocompatibility testing. For example, one or more LEDs 106, 206 can be encapsulated with a material that allows light to pass through while simultaneously... Epoxy resin or other materials are overmolded to provide a barrier between 106, 206 and the subject. In some aspects, capacitors 114, 214 may also help provide voltage decoupling in various aspects of electronic components 100, 200, for example, to help improve image quality from cameras 104, 204. For example, capacitors 114, 214, resistors 112 and / or other electronic components may also be recessed toward the center of the body 102, 202 to help minimize space. In some aspects, one or more sensors (e.g., pressure sensors 108, 208) may form a circuit (e.g., a Wheatstone bridge) or be part of a circuit formed within or as part of electronic components 100, 200. The circuit (e.g., a Wheatstone bridge) is positioned within or as part of electronic components 100, 200, wherein electronic components 100, 200 are located at the distal ends 44, 234 ( Figure 1B and Figure 4 This can help avoid the need for long and / or thin cables that need to extend proximally from the distal ends 44, 234 through the medical device (e.g., a circuit board extending into the handle portion 12). In some aspects, at least a portion of the circuitry is located within or as part of the electronic components 100, 200, wherein the electronic components 100, 200 are located at the distal ends 44, 234 ( Figure 1B and Figure 4This can help reduce the total number of cables or wires extending proximally from the distal ends 44, 234 through the medical device (e.g., extending to the circuit board in the handle portion 12). This reduces the likelihood of connection breakage between the distal ends 44, 234 and the handle portion 12, the need for voltage stabilization, etc.

[0059] While this disclosure is described with reference to illustrative examples in a specific context and for a particular medical procedure, it should be understood that this disclosure is not limited thereto. Those skilled in the art and capable of understanding the teachings provided herein will recognize that other modifications, applications, and equivalents are within the scope of the examples described herein. Therefore, the invention should not be considered as limited to the foregoing description.

Claims

1. An electronic component for a medical device, the electronic component comprising: A body comprising a plurality of electrical connection points and a plurality of electrical traces in an electrically insulating material, wherein the plurality of electrical connection points are located on one or more external surfaces of the body, wherein the plurality of electrical connection points include proximal connection points and distal connection points, and wherein each of the plurality of electrical traces connects the proximal connection point to a corresponding distal connection point. At least one imaging device connected to one or more of the said distal connection points; and At least one light source connected to one or more of the said distal connection points.

2. The electronic component according to claim 1, wherein, The at least one imaging device and the at least one light source face the same direction.

3. The electronic component according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The plurality of electrical connection points include a plurality of cable connection points and at least one sensor connection point.

4. The electronic component according to any one of the preceding claims further includes at least one sensor, which is coupled to the body on a side of the body opposite to at least one of the plurality of electrical connection points.

5. The electronic component according to claim 4, wherein, The at least one sensor includes a pressure sensor.

6. The electronic component according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The body includes an end face and at least one arm adjacent to the end face and extending distally to the end face.

7. The electronic component according to claim 6, wherein, The end face includes at least one of the distal connection points, and the at least one imaging device is coupled to the distal connection point on the end face.

8. The electronic component according to claim 6 or 7, wherein, The at least one arm includes at least one of the distal connection points, and the at least one light source is coupled to the distal connection point on the at least one arm.

9. The electronic component according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The at least one light source includes two light-emitting diodes (LEDs) positioned on opposite sides of the at least one imaging device.

10. The electronic component according to claim 9, wherein, The LED is located near the at least one imaging device.

11. The electronic component according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The material of the body includes ceramics and / or other non-conductive materials.

12. The electronic component according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The plurality of electrical traces contain copper and / or other conductive materials.

13. The electronic component according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The plurality of electrical traces pass through the interior of the body.

14. The electronic component according to any one of the preceding claims further includes a capacitor and a resistor.

15. The electronic component according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The body includes an end face with a curved surface.

Images