Medical device with modular components and assemblies

Abstract

A medical device includes a shaft, a printed circuit board positioned about an outer surface of the shaft, and an end cap. The printed circuit board includes a plurality of electrical connections at a proximal end of the printed circuit board, and another plurality of electrical connections at a distal end of the printed circuit board. The printed circuit board includes a plurality of communication conduits connecting the electrical connections at the proximal end of the printed circuit board with respective electrical connections at the distal end of the printed circuit board. When the end cap is coupled to the shaft, (1) one or more cap lumens are in communication with one or more lumens in the shaft, and (2) a plurality of end cap electrical connections are electrically connected to the electrical connections at the distal end of the printed circuit board.

Description

Cross-references to related applications

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 595,463, filed November 2, 2023, pursuant to 35 USC §119, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0002] Various aspects of the present invention generally relate to medical devices having modular parts and components. In particular, various aspects of the present invention relate to external flexible printed circuit board wrappers and distal caps, etc., for use with medical devices. Background Technology

[0003] Medical devices (e.g., duodenoscopes, endoscopes, bronchoscopes, endoscopic ultrasound (“EUS”), etc.) can be used in endoscopic procedures, in which the medical device comes into contact with the patient. The manufacturing process of medical devices typically involves pulling or otherwise positioning multiple cables and / or wires through the cavity or working channel of the device's shaft. This often results in a complex and / or time-consuming manufacturing process. Furthermore, positioning the cables and / or wires within the cavity or working channel of the shaft can reduce the amount of space required within that cavity or working channel.

[0004] The devices, components, and assemblies of the present invention can help correct one or more of the above-mentioned defects and / or solve other aspects of the present technology. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Each of the aspects disclosed herein may include one or more of the features described in combination with any of the other disclosed aspects.

[0006] In one example, a medical device may include a shaft, wherein the shaft may include one or more cavities extending longitudinally from a proximal end of the shaft to a distal end of the shaft; a printed circuit board, wherein the printed circuit board may be flexible and can be positioned around an outer surface of the shaft, wherein the printed circuit board may include a plurality of electrical connections at a proximal end of the printed circuit board, wherein the printed circuit board may include a plurality of additional electrical connections at a distal end of the printed circuit board, wherein the printed circuit board may include a plurality of communicating conduits connecting the electrical connections at the proximal end of the printed circuit board to corresponding electrical connections at the distal end of the printed circuit board; and an end cap, wherein the end cap may include one or more cap cavities and a plurality of end cap electrical connections, wherein, when the end cap is coupled to the shaft, (1) the one or more cap cavities may communicate with one or more cavities in the shaft, and (2) the plurality of end cap electrical connections may be electrically connected to electrical connections located at the distal end of the printed circuit board.

[0007] Additionally or alternatively, any of the devices disclosed herein may include any of the following features in any combination: The medical device may include one or more integrated circuits coupled to and electrically connected to a printed circuit board. A portion of the shaft may include a recess, and one or more integrated circuits may be positioned within the recess. The width and length of the recess may be greater than the width and length of the one or more integrated circuits. The recess may be positioned within a distal portion of the shaft. The printed circuit board may be configured to be coupled to the shaft via pressure applied by an operator, such that one or more integrated circuits attached to the printed circuit board and the shaft snap together. The medical device may include one or more capacitors or resistors coupled to and electrically connected to the printed circuit board. The medical device may include an anisotropic conductive film, wherein the anisotropic conductive film secures one or more integrated circuits to the printed circuit board. One or more cavities in the shaft may include a working channel, an irrigation cavity, a suction cavity, and a plurality of draw-wire cavities. The medical device may include a handle coupled to the proximal end of the shaft, wherein the handle includes a port fluidly connected to the working channel of the shaft.

[0008] The end cap may include one or more illumination sources and imaging devices, wherein the one or more illumination sources and imaging devices receive power via a plurality of electrical connections at the distal end of the shaft. The end cap may include an end cap printed circuit board comprising a plurality of end cap electrical connections. The plurality of connecting conduits may include one or more cables, one or more wires, one or more optical fibers, or one or more illumination fibers for transmitting electrical signals. The end cap may be configured to be removably attached to the distal end of the shaft via a snap-fit ​​engagement. A portion of the printed circuit board may be positioned around an outer surface, wherein there is a larger longitudinal spacing between at least two portions of the printed circuit board, and different segments of the printed circuit board may be positioned around the outer surface, wherein there is a smaller longitudinal spacing between at least two other portions of the printed circuit board.

[0009] In another example, a medical device may include a shaft, wherein the shaft may include one or more cavities extending longitudinally from a proximal end of the shaft to a distal end of the shaft, wherein a portion of the shaft may include a groove, and wherein one or more integrated circuits may be positioned within the groove; and a flexible printed circuit board positioned around an outer surface of the shaft, the flexible printed circuit board may include a plurality of proximal electrical connections at the proximal end of the shaft and a plurality of distal electrical connections at the distal end of the shaft, wherein a plurality of electrical communication conduits may connect the plurality of proximal electrical connections to the plurality of distal electrical connections.

[0010] Alternatively or additionally, any of the devices disclosed herein may include any of the following features in any combination: The shaft may include a lubricating layer surrounding an outer surface of the shaft. The groove may extend radially inward relative to the outer surface of the shaft, and wherein the width and length of the groove may be greater than the width and length of one or more integrated circuits.

[0011] In another example, a medical device may include a shaft, wherein the shaft may include one or more cavities extending longitudinally from a proximal end of the shaft to a distal end of the shaft, and wherein the shaft may include one or more electrical connectors attached to an outer surface of the shaft; and an end cap removably coupled to the distal end of the shaft, wherein the end cap may include one or more cap cavities and a plurality of end cap electrical connectors, wherein, when the end cap is coupled to the shaft, (1) the one or more cap cavities may communicate with one or more cavities in the shaft, and (2) the plurality of end cap electrical connectors may be electrically connected to one or more electrical connectors of the shaft.

[0012] Alternatively or additionally, any of the devices disclosed herein may include any of the following features in any combination: The end cap may include a flexible printed circuit board, wherein, when the end cap is coupled to the shaft, one or more electrical connections of the flexible printed circuit board may be electrically connected to one or more electrical connections attached to the outer surface of the shaft.

[0013] It is understood that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only, and are not intended to limit the invention as claimed. As used herein, the terms “comprising,” “including,” “having,” or any other variations thereof are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that includes a list of elements may include not only those elements, but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. The term “diameter” may refer to the width of an element when it is not circular. The term “far side” refers to the direction away from the operator, and the term “proximal side” refers to the direction towards the operator. Several figures include arrows labeled “P” and “D”, indicating the proximal and far side directions, respectively. The term “exemplary” is used in the sense of “example” rather than “exemplary.” The term “about” or similar terms (e.g., “approximately”) include values ​​+ / - 10% of the stated value. Attached Figure Description

[0014] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate various aspects of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

[0015] Figures 1A to 1B An exemplary medical device according to the present invention is depicted.

[0016] Figure 2A depicts a side view of an exemplary axis of a medical device according to the present invention.

[0017] Figure 2 B describes the invention according to the present invention. Figure 2 A distal view of an exemplary axis of A's medical device.

[0018] Figure 3 Another exemplary shaft of the medical device according to the present invention is depicted.

[0019] Figures 4A to 4C Various aspects of an exemplary distal cap and an exemplary shaft of a medical device according to the present invention are depicted.

[0020] Figure 5 Another exemplary distal cap according to the invention is depicted for use with another exemplary shaft of a medical device. Detailed Implementation

[0021] As discussed in the background section, medical devices (e.g., duodenoscopes, endoscopes, bronchoscopes, endoscopic ultrasound (“EUS”), etc.) can be used in endoscopic procedures where the medical device comes into contact with the patient. The manufacturing process of medical devices typically involves pulling or otherwise positioning multiple cables and / or wires through the cavity or working channel of the device's shaft. This often results in a complex and / or time-consuming manufacturing process. Furthermore, positioning the cables and / or wires within the cavity or working channel of the shaft can reduce the amount of space required within that cavity or working channel. Therefore, there is a need for devices, parts, and assemblies to reduce the amount of cables and wires pulled through the cavity of the shaft during the manufacturing process.

[0022] Figure 1A An exemplary duodenoscope 10 having a handle 12 and an insertion portion 14 is depicted. Figure 1B The proximal end of the handle 12 is shown. The duodenoscope 10 may also include an umbilical tube 16 for connecting the duodenoscope 10 to a source such as air, water, suction, electricity, etc., and to an image processing and / or viewing device. Although reference may be made herein to a duodenoscope, it should be understood that the invention also includes endoscopes, bronchoscopes, gastroscopes, EUS endoscopes, colonoscopes, ureteroscopes, laparoscopes, cystoscopes, aspiration endoscopes, sheaths, catheters, or similar devices. Reference herein to a duodenoscope should be understood to include any of the aforementioned medical devices.

[0023] The insertion portion 14 may include a sheath or shaft 2 and a distal tip 20. The distal tip 20 may include an imaging device 22 (e.g., a camera) and an illumination source 24 (e.g., an LED or fiber optic cable). The distal tip 20 may face sideways. That is, the imaging device 22 and the illumination source 24 may face radially outward, perpendicular to, approximately perpendicular to, or otherwise transverse to the longitudinal axis of the shaft 2 and the distal tip 20. Alternatively or additionally, the distal tip 20 may include one or more imaging devices 22 facing more than one direction. For example, a first imaging device 22 may face radially outward, and a second imaging device (not shown) may face distally (generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the distal tip 20 / shaft 2). In some embodiments, each imaging device (e.g., the first imaging device 22) may include an illumination source (e.g., illumination source 24).

[0024] The distal tip 20 may also include a lifting forceps 26 for changing the orientation of the instrument inserted into the working channel of the duodenoscope 10. The lifting forceps 26 may alternatively be referred to as a swing support, pivot support, lifting base, or any other suitable term. The lifting forceps 26 may be pivoted via, for example, an actuation line or another control element extending from the handle 12 through the shaft 2 to the lifting forceps 26.

[0025] The distal portion of the shaft 2, connected to the distal tip 20, may have a steerable section 28. The steerable section 28 may be, or include, for example, a hinged joint. The shaft 2 and the steerable section 28 may include various structures known or possibly known in the art.

[0026] Handle 12 may have one or more actuator / control mechanisms 30. Control mechanisms 30 may provide control over the steerable section 28, the clamp lifter 26, and / or may allow the supply (e.g., delivery or application) of air, water, suction, etc. For example, handle 12 may include control knobs 32, 34 for left, right, up, and / or down control of the steerable section 28. For example, one of knobs 32, 34 may provide left / right control of the steerable section 28, and the other may provide up / down control of the steerable section 28. Handle 12 may also include one or more locking mechanisms 36 (e.g., knobs or levers) for preventing and / or braking of the steerable section 28 in at least one of the up, down, left, or right directions. Handle 12 may include a clamp lifter control lever 38 (see...). Figure 1B The forceps control lever 38 can raise and / or lower the forceps 26 via a connection between the lever 38 and an actuation line extending from the forceps control lever 38 through the shaft 2 to the forceps 26. Port 40 allows tools to pass through the port 40 into the working channel of the duodenoscopy 10, reaching the distal tip 20 via the sheath 2.

[0027] In use, the operator can insert at least a portion of shaft 2 into the subject's body cavity. The distal tip 20 can be navigated to the surgical site within the body cavity. The operator can insert an accessory (not shown) into port 40 and can make the accessory pass through the working channel via shaft 2 to the distal tip 20. The accessory can exit the working channel at the distal tip 20. The user can use the forceps lifter control lever 38 to raise the forceps 26 and angle the accessory toward the desired location (e.g., the papilla of the pancreaticobiliary duct). The user can use the accessory to perform medical procedures.

[0028] Figure 2 A describes what can be used for Figure 1A An embodiment of the side view of axis 202 of axis 2 in the illustrated embodiment. Figure 2 B depicts one embodiment of a distal view of axis 202. Axis 202 may include... Figure 1A The same (or similar) element as shaft 2.

[0029] Shaft 202 includes a proximal end 214 and a distal end 212. The proximal end 214 is connected to the handle 12 using any suitable connection, such as via welding, friction fit, snap-fit, etc. Figure 1A The distal end 212 is connected to the distal tip using any suitable connection, such as via welding, friction fit, snap fit, etc. (e.g., Figure 1A (The distal tip 20 shown). In some embodiments, as discussed below, the distal tip may include a distal cap, and the distal end 212 may be connected to the distal cap using any suitable connection.

[0030] Shaft 202 includes one or more cavities extending from proximal end 214 to distal end 212. One or more of these cavities may allow a source of, for example, air, water, suction, electricity, etc., to flow from handle 12 ( Figure 1A It passes through shaft 202 to reach the distal tip 20. One or more cavities may include one or more steering line cavities 210, working channels 218, suction cavities 220, and irrigation cavities 222. Although Figure 2B shows that shaft 202 includes each of the following: steering line cavity 210, working channel 218, suction cavity 220, and irrigation cavity 222. However, it should be noted that shaft 202 may also include only a subset of these cavities or channels (e.g., one, two, three, etc.). An operator can insert an accessory (not shown) into a port (e.g., port 40) of handle 12 and allow the accessory to pass through shaft 202 via working channel 218 to reach distal end 212. The accessory can exit working channel 218 at distal end 212. The operator can use the accessory to perform medical procedures. At the end of the procedure, the accessory can be removed from working channel 218. Suction cavity 220 is a cavity extending through shaft 202 and providing suction or negative pressure function at distal end 212 of shaft 202, for example, to facilitate the removal of fluids, substances, tissues, etc., from the treatment site. The irrigation cavity 222 is a cavity that extends through the shaft 202 and provides irrigation functions at the distal end 212 of the shaft 202, such as for cleaning imaging devices, cleaning treatment sites for better visualization, etc.

[0031] Shaft 202 includes a distal shaft portion 226, an intermediate shaft portion 228, and a proximal shaft portion 230. The distal shaft portion 226 is the portion of shaft 202 located furthest from the handle 12. The proximal shaft portion 230 is the portion of shaft 202 that connects to the handle 12. The intermediate shaft portion 228 is the portion of shaft 202 that connects the distal shaft portion 226 and the proximal shaft portion 230.

[0032] Shaft 202 may be generally cylindrical. Additionally, a portion of shaft 202 may include one or more coatings or layers, such as a lubricating layer. In some aspects, shaft 202 may include one or more sheaths (e.g., sheath braids) located on or surrounding the outer surface 234 of shaft 202. Figure 2 As shown in Figure A, shaft 202 includes a printed circuit board (PCB) wrapper 204, which may be at least partially flexible. The PCB wrapper 204 may be positioned between a lubricating layer and an outer sheath braid of shaft 202. The PCB wrapper 204 may be positioned helically or in a configuration surrounding the exterior of shaft 202. The PCB wrapper 204 may be positioned on top of the lubricating layer of shaft 202 (e.g., radially outward therefrom), and one or more covers or coatings may be applied to the PCB wrapper 204 to facilitate securing the PCB wrapper 204 to shaft 202. Alternatively or additionally, the PCB wrapper 204 may be positioned between the lubricating layer of shaft 202 and one or more outer braids. In some embodiments, the outer braid may include one or more electrical shielding layers and / or reference planes, for example, for impedance control.

[0033] The external flexible PCB enclosure 204 includes a proximal electrical connector 216A and a distal electrical connector 216B. The proximal electrical connector 216A is coupled to the handle 12, and the distal electrical connector 216B is coupled to the distal tip 20. The distal tip 20 may include a distal cap (discussed below) that can be connected to the distal end 212 of the shaft 202. The proximal electrical connector 216A and the distal electrical connector 216B are collectively referred to herein as "electrical connectors 216A and 216B". Electrical connectors 216A and 216B may include suitable electrical connectors, including pins, plugs, ports, solder joints, etc. The proximal electrical connector 216A and the distal electrical connector 216B can be connected to the handle 12 and the distal tip 20 respectively using any suitable electrical connection method.

[0034] Electrical connectors 216A and 216B can be connected to an electrical communication conduit 232 and / or optical circuitry extending from the proximal end 214 of shaft 202 to the distal end 212 of shaft 202. The electrical communication conduit 232 and / or optical circuitry may include features for use in a handle (e.g., Figure 1A and Figure 1B Electrical signals, such as one or more of the following, are transmitted between the handle 12 and the distal end 212 of the shaft 202: image sensor data, imager command signals, and power, via cables, wires, optical fibers, and / or lighting fibers. For example, electrical connectors 216A and 216B can provide image processing (e.g., magnification, filtering, etc.), power, and / or electrical (e.g., power to the distal end 20). Figure 1A ).

[0035] PCB package 204 can be positioned around shaft 202 with various pitches and / or other arrangements, for example, to help accommodate different flexibilities of different portions of shaft 202. For example, a portion of PCB package 204 can be wrapped around a portion of shaft 202, wherein there is a large longitudinal spacing between portions of PCB package 204 to allow the corresponding portion of shaft 202 to have greater flexibility. For example, this portion of PCB package 204 can be positioned on the distal shaft portion 226 and the intermediate shaft portion 228 with a large longitudinal spacing between portions of PCB package 204 relative to other portions of PCB package 204. Alternatively or additionally, PCB package 204 can be positioned around shaft 202 with a smaller longitudinal spacing between portions of PCB package 204 to provide less flexibility to the corresponding portions of shaft 202. For example, a portion of PCB package 204 can be positioned on the proximal shaft portion 230 with a smaller longitudinal spacing between portions of PCB package 204. The variable pitch and / or arrangement of the PCB package 204 around different portions of the shaft 202 can help allow the PCB package 204 to meet variable flexibility requirements. For example, the PCB package 204 can help provide a more flexible and / or more maneuverable distal portion 226 of the shaft 202, while also helping to provide a more rigid and / or more shape-maintaining proximal portion 230 of the shaft 202.

[0036] A portion of the distal portion 226 of shaft 202 may include a notch or groove 208. For example, groove 208 may extend longitudinally through the radially outer side of distal portion 226. In these respects, groove 208 may extend radially inward relative to the outer surface 234 of distal portion 226. Groove 208 may be created by forming a groove or notch (e.g., radially inward) on the outer surface 234 of shaft 202. Alternatively, groove 208 may facilitate the reception of one or more electrical components (e.g., integrated circuit 206) of shaft 202. Groove 208 may be located on distal shaft portion 226 (as shown), for example, extending to the distal end of shaft 202. Alternatively, although not shown, shaft 202 may include one or more grooves 208 on intermediate shaft portion 228 and / or proximal shaft portion 230 of shaft 202.

[0037] The size of the recess 208 allows one or more integrated circuits 206 to be positioned within the recess 208 such that one or more integrated circuits 206 do not extend radially outward from the recess 208 (e.g., forming a flat surface with the shaft 202). Additionally, the size and / or shape of the recess 208 can provide a gap 224 (e.g., on the side of the integrated circuit 206) to accommodate some changes in the shape of the recess 208 when the shaft 202 moves (e.g., deflects or manipulates through a tortuous path or cavity). For example, the depth of the recess 208 can allow the integrated circuit 206 to be placed within the recess 208, wherein the depth of the recess 208 is equal to or greater than the height of the integrated circuit 206. The width and length of the recess 208 can also be greater than the width and length of the integrated circuit 206. The width of the recess 208 can also provide a gap 224 to allow for minor changes in shape due to movement of the shaft 202.

[0038] Subsequently, one or more integrated circuits 206 may be placed in the recess 208. One or more interface processing and / or signal conditioning integrated circuits (e.g., integrated circuit 206) may be positioned in a straight line with axis 202. Integrated circuit 206 may also have passive components (e.g., capacitors and / or resistors) for power conditioning, gain, and filtering. In some embodiments, although not shown, axis 202 may include a plurality of recesses 208 for accommodating a plurality of integrated circuits. Axis 202 may include a plurality of recesses 208 circumferentially spaced (e.g., uniformly or non-uniformly spaced) around the outer surface 234 of the distal portion 226 of axis 202.

[0039] As mentioned, the PCB package 204 may be wound around the shaft 202 in a helical configuration. Additionally, the PCB package 204 may at least partially cover or enclose the integrated circuit 206. For example, the integrated circuit 206 may be placed in a recess 208, and the PCB package 204 may be positioned around a lubricating layer of the shaft 202. In some embodiments, the lubricating layer may extend into the recess 208. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the recess 208 may extend radially through the lubricating layer. In some embodiments, the integrated circuit 206 is mounted or otherwise coupled to a bottom layer or bottom surface of the PCB package 204. When the PCB package 204 is placed on the shaft 202, the PCB package 204 may be positioned such that the integrated circuit 206 is positioned within the recess 208. In some aspects, as mentioned above, the integrated circuit 206 may be mounted planarly on the shaft 202, for example, the integrated circuit 206 may be completely positioned within the recess 208.

[0040] Integrated circuit 206 can be attached to flexible PCB wrap 204 before, during, or after PCB wrap 204 is wound. Wiring for integrated circuit 206 can be connected to the electrical conduit 232 and / or optical circuitry of flexible PCB wrap 204 in any suitable manner (e.g., physical and / or electrical connections). For example, PCB wrap 204 can be attached to integrated circuit 206 by an operator applying pressure (e.g., radially inward pressure) to PCB wrap 204 and / or integrated circuit 206, such that integrated circuit 206 “clicks” to flexible PCB wrap 204, or vice versa. In some embodiments, PCB wrap 204 can be attached to integrated circuit 206 by applying an anisotropic conductive film (ACF) to integrated circuit 206. In any of these aspects, a coating can be applied to flexible PCB wrap 204 and shaft 202 to facilitate placement of flexible PCB wrap 204. The coating can include any kind of lubricating liner or any other type of coating.

[0041] Figure 3 An embodiment of shaft 302 is depicted, which can be used as Figure 1A A portion of shaft 2 in the illustrated embodiment. Shaft 302 may include components respectively connected to... Figure 1A and Figure 2 The shaft 2 or shaft 202 are the same (or similar) components. For example, shaft 302 may include one or more of the following: steering line cavity 310, working channel 318, suction cavity 320, and irrigation cavity 322, to allow, for example, air, water, suction, electricity, etc., from handle 12 ( Figure 1A ) Passing through shaft 302 to reach the distal top 20 ( Figure 1A Shaft 302 may also include a distal electrical connector 316A connected to an electrical communication conduit 326 extending from the proximal end (not shown) of shaft 302 to the distal end 312 of shaft 302 and / or optical circuitry. Although Figure 3 The proximal end is not shown, but it should be noted that shaft 302 may include a distal electrical connector 316A and a proximal electrical connector (not shown), as discussed above. Shaft 302 may also include a PCB enclosure 304, as described above.

[0042] Shaft 302 includes one or more integrated circuits 306 and / or one or more passive components 324 (e.g., capacitors and / or resistors). In some aspects, as shown, shaft 302 may include one integrated circuit 306 and two passive components 324. One passive component 324 may be positioned proximal to the integrated circuit 306, and another passive component 324 may be positioned distal to the integrated circuit 306. One or more integrated circuits 306 and / or one or more passive components 324 may be positioned on the outer surface 328 of shaft 302, for example, on top of a lubricating layer of shaft 302 (e.g., radially outward). In some embodiments, integrated circuit 306 and passive components 324 may be coupled to shaft 302 via a snap-fit ​​engagement. For example, shaft 302 may include openings or notches for snap-fit ​​entry of integrated circuit 306 and passive components 324, and an operator may apply pressure (e.g., radially inward pressure) to integrated circuit 306 and passive components 324 to snap-fit ​​them into the openings or notches of shaft 302.

[0043] The PCB package 304 may be wrapped around the integrated circuit 306 and / or passive component 324 to facilitate securing the integrated circuit 306 and / or passive component 324 to the shaft 302. The integrated circuit 306 and / or passive component 324 may also be connected to the PCB package 304 by any type of connection (e.g., physical and / or electrical connection). For example, the integrated circuit 306 and / or passive component 324 may be soldered to the PCB package 304, and the PCB package 304 may then be positioned about the shaft 302. An operator may then apply pressure (e.g., radially inward pressure) to the integrated circuit 306 and / or passive component 324 to snap or otherwise attach the integrated circuit 306 and / or passive component 324 to a cap containing a sensor or other circuitry that mates with a distal electrical connector 316A.

[0044] In some embodiments, the integrated circuit 306 and the passive component 324 are mounted on the bottom or bottom surface of the PCB wrapper 304 (e.g., the body closest to the shaft 302). The integrated circuit 306 and the passive component 324 may also be secured to the shaft 302 when the external flexible PCB wrapper 304 is secured to the shaft 302. The integrated circuit 306 and the passive component 324 can be connected to the shaft 302 via any type of connection. For example, in some embodiments, the shaft 302 may include an opening or notch, and the integrated circuit 306 and the passive component 324 may snap into the opening or notch. In these respects, an operator may apply pressure to the integrated circuit 306 and the passive component 324, in which case, in response to pressure, the integrated circuit 306 and the passive component 324 snap and attach to the shaft 302. Alternatively, the integrated circuit 306 and the passive component 324 may be secured to the shaft 302 via the PCB wrapper 304 and / or the outer sheath braid.

[0045] Figures 4A to 4C Various aspects of the distal cap module 426 are shown. For example, Figure 4A An embodiment of a distal cap module 426 that can be connected to shaft 202 or shaft 302 is depicted. Figure 4B The distal cap module 426 and shaft 302 are shown in the first configuration, and Figure 4C The distal cap module 426 and shaft 302 are shown in the second configuration.

[0046] The distal cap module 426 can be attached (e.g., via a snap-fit) and secured to the distal end of the shaft 302. For example, the distal cap module 426 can be removably attached to the shaft 302 (e.g., via a snap-fit), and the distal cap module 426 can also be secured to the shaft 302 by a shrink wrap 428. The shrink wrap 428 can span an interface 442 between the shaft 302 and the distal cap module 426. The shrink wrap 428 can be at least partially flexible. The shrink wrap 428 can be cut or otherwise removed to allow the distal cap module 426 to be detached from the shaft 302.

[0047] The distal cap module 426 may include various electrical connections (not shown) to provide various functions at the distal end. For example, the distal cap module 426 includes a cap working channel 418, a cap suction chamber 420, and a cap rinsing chamber 422. When the distal cap module 426 is coupled to the shaft 302, the working channel 322 is fluidly connected to the cap working channel 422. Additionally, the suction chamber 320 is fluidly connected to the cap suction chamber 420, and the rinsing chamber 322 is fluidly connected to the cap rinsing chamber 422. The distal cap module 426 may also include one or more illumination sources 434 (e.g., LEDs) and imaging devices 436 (e.g., cameras). The illumination sources 434 and imaging devices 436 may receive power for operation via a handle 12 (e.g., from the umbilicus 16). In these respects, the handle 12 may provide power distally via a distal electrical connection (not shown) to the distal cap module 426, through a proximal electrical connection 316B to the external flexible PCB enclosure 304. Electrical connector 316A ( Figure 3 316A and 316B can be connected to an electrical connection conduit 326 and / or optical circuitry extending from the proximal end of shaft 302 to the distal end of shaft 302. The electrical connection conduit 326 and / or optical circuitry may include one or more of cables, wires, optical fibers, and / or lighting fibers for transmitting electrical signals, such as image sensor data, imager command signals, and power, between handle 12 and the distal tip 312 of shaft 302. For example, electrical connectors 316A and 316B can provide image processing (e.g., magnification, filtering, etc.), power, and / or electrical circuitry to the distal tip 312.

[0048] As mentioned above, Figure 4B and Figure 4C This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view depicting various aspects of the connection between the distal cap module 426 and the shaft 302. Specifically, Figure 4B The image depicts the shaft 302 and the distal cap module 426 in either the first or unconnected configuration, and... Figure 4C The shaft 302 and the distal cap module 426 are depicted in the second or connected configuration.

[0049] like Figure 4B As shown, the distal cap module 426 includes an opening 438 configured to receive the distal portion 440 of the shaft 302 via a fixing region 432. The fixing region 432 includes a radially inwardly extending projection fixedly connected to the distal portion of the shaft 302. The shaft 302 is configured to fit into the opening 438 of the distal cap module 426. The shaft 302 may include a distal portion 440 and a flange 430, for example, spaced proximally from the distal portion 440 of the shaft 302. The diameter or cross-section of the distal portion 440 may be smaller than that of the more proximal portion of the shaft 302. Additionally, the flange 430 may extend radially outward from the distal portion 440, which is configured to abut against the fixing region 432.

[0050] When the distal cap module 426 is connected to the shaft 302, as Figure 4C As shown, the electrical connector 316B of the shaft and the electrical connector 330 of the distal cap module abut against each other and are electrically connected. Therefore, the handle 12 ( Figure 1A Power signals and / or control signals can be transmitted via the PCB enclosure 304 and the remote cap module 426. The power signals and / or control signals can control the lighting source 434, the imaging device 436, and / or any other components.

[0051] For example, such as Figure 5 As shown, the distal cap module 426 includes a flexible printed circuit board (PCB) 534. When the distal cap module 426 is attached to the shaft 302, electrical connectors 330 of the flexible PCB 534 can be connected to electrical connectors 316A of the PCB enclosure 304. Therefore, power signals and / or control signals transmitted via the external flexible PCB enclosure 304 are further provided through the distal cap module 426 and output and / or implemented via the illumination source 434, the imaging device 436, and any other components. Although not shown, the proximal end of the shaft 302 can be coupled to the handle in a similar manner, such that a connector on the proximal end of the shaft 302 connects to a corresponding connector on the handle.

[0052] Embodiments of a medical device including a recess for integrated circuits and one or more passive components covered by a flexible PCB enclosure, as well as a distal cap module, can provide one or more of the following benefits. In some aspects, the ability to replace the distal cap, shaft, and handle assembly can help reduce scrap costs during manufacturing. For example, manufacturing a mirror can be challenging because wiring needs to pass through a long cavity in the shaft. Therefore, discovering problems downstream can lead to costly scrapping of the entire assembly. The ability to replace the distal cap, shaft, and / or handle can help identify problems earlier during the manufacturing process. Additionally, the ability to replace the distal cap, shaft, and / or handle assembly can help simplify the final assembly process, for example, by minimizing the operational requirements of pulling cables through the cavity in the shaft. Additionally or alternatively, as discussed above, varying the spacing or pitch of the PCB enclosure around the shaft can help provide additional stability and / or flexibility where needed on the shaft. Furthermore, in some aspects, positioning the PCB enclosure (e.g., including multiple connecting conduits) outside the cavity (i.e., rather than inside the cavity) can help allow the shaft to have a larger working channel in addition to other cavities.

[0053] While the principles of the invention have been described with reference to illustrative examples for specific applications, it should be understood that the invention is not limited thereto. Those skilled in the art and who are able to grasp the teachings provided herein will recognize that additional modifications, applications, and substitutions of equivalents fall within the scope of the examples described herein. Furthermore, various elements from each of the described embodiments can be combined to achieve the same or similar results as one or more of the disclosed embodiments. Therefore, the invention should not be considered as limited to the foregoing description.

Claims

1. A medical device comprising: A shaft, wherein the shaft includes one or more cavities extending longitudinally from a proximal end of the shaft to a distal end of the shaft; A printed circuit board, wherein the printed circuit board is flexible and positioned around an outer surface of the axis, wherein the printed circuit board includes a plurality of electrical connections at a proximal end of the printed circuit board, wherein the printed circuit board includes a further plurality of electrical connections at a distal end of the printed circuit board, and wherein the printed circuit board includes a plurality of communicating conduits connecting the electrical connections at the proximal end of the printed circuit board to corresponding electrical connections at the distal end of the printed circuit board; and An end cap, wherein the end cap includes one or more cap cavities and multiple end cap electrical connectors. When the end cap is connected to the shaft, (1) the one or more cap cavities are in communication with the one or more cavities in the shaft, and (2) the plurality of end cap electrical connectors are electrically connected to the electrical connector located at the far end of the printed circuit board.

2. The medical device of claim 1, further comprising one or more integrated circuits connected to and electrically connected to the printed circuit board.

3. The medical device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, A portion of the shaft includes a groove, wherein one or more integrated circuits are positioned within the groove.

4. The medical device according to claim 3, wherein, The width and length of the groove are greater than the width and length of the one or more integrated circuits.

5. The medical device according to claim 3, wherein, The groove is positioned within the distal portion of the shaft.

6. The medical device according to claim 3, wherein, The printed circuit board is configured to be connected to the shaft by pressure applied to the printed circuit board by an operator, such that the one or more integrated circuits attached to the printed circuit board and the shaft snap together.

7. The medical device of claim 2, further comprising one or more capacitors or resistors connected to and electrically connected to the printed circuit board.

8. The medical device according to claim 2, further comprising an anisotropic conductive film, wherein, The anisotropic conductive film secures one or more integrated circuits to the printed circuit board.

9. The medical device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The one or more cavities in the shaft include a working channel, a rinsing cavity, a suction cavity, and multiple draw-wire cavities.

10. The medical device according to claim 9, further comprising: A handle is coupled to the proximal end of the shaft, wherein the handle includes a port fluidly connected to the working channel of the shaft.

11. The medical device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The end cap includes one or more lighting sources and an imaging device, wherein the one or more lighting sources and the imaging device receive power via the plurality of electrical connections at the distal end of the shaft.

12. The medical device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The end cap includes an end cap printed circuit board, which includes the plurality of end cap electrical connectors.

13. The medical device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The plurality of connecting conduits includes one or more of the following: one or more cables, one or more wires, one or more optical fibers, or one or more lighting fibers for transmitting electrical signals.

14. The medical device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The end cap is configured to be removably attached to the distal end of the shaft via a snap-fit ​​engagement.

15. The medical device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, A portion of the printed circuit board is positioned around the outer surface, wherein there is a large longitudinal spacing between at least two portions of the printed circuit board, and wherein different segments of the printed circuit board are positioned around the outer surface, wherein there is a smaller longitudinal spacing between at least two other portions of the printed circuit board.

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