Suction valve, fluid control unit, manufacturing method and surgical device

Abstract

The invention relates to a suction valve for controlling the connection of fluid channels of a surgical device, in particular an endoscope, comprising a suction chamber; a piston assembly for controlling the fluid flow through the suction chamber, wherein the suction chamber and the piston assembly are configured as a one-piece injection-molded workpiece, the suction chamber being formed by a hollow part of the workpiece that is drawn over the piston assembly. The invention further relates to a fluid control unit and a surgical device, as well as methods for manufacturing a suction valve and a fluid control unit.

Description

AREA OF INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a suction valve for controlling the connection of fluid channels of a surgical device, in particular an endoscope, and to a corresponding method for manufacturing a suction valve. The present invention further relates to a fluid control unit for controlling the connection of fluid channels of a surgical device, in particular an endoscope, and to a corresponding method for manufacturing a fluid control unit. The present invention further relates to a surgical device. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Surgical devices such as general, therapeutic or diagnostic endoscopes, resectoscopes, etc., are used, among other things, for visual intracorporeal inspection, diagnosis and surgical assistance.

[0003] Surgical devices such as endoscopes are often equipped with a fluid mechanism for cleaning and removing debris, body fluids, and excised tissue. For example, to ensure a minimally invasive procedure, excess material, along with the fluid aspirated from deep body cavities or internal organs, is flushed out through an opening at the distal tip of the endoscope as needed.

[0004] To provide such a fluid mechanism, suction valves are used to control the suction function by connecting or disconnecting the fluid channels that can be connected to the endoscope's fluid mechanism. These fluid channels can be connected at one end to a distal tip of the endoscope and at the other end to a suction source, such as a suction pump, that creates a vacuum.

[0005] A suction valve generally has two operating states and can be manually switched between them using a valve knob. When the knob is in the released position, the suction valve blocks the suction function to the distal tip of the endoscope. Thus, the suction valve is functionally divided into two fluidically separate parts, and the fluid channels for the suction function are separated and divided by the valve. When the knob is pressed down, the suction channels are fluid-connected, allowing the generated negative pressure to spread through the channels and aspirate, for example, bodily secretions, irrigation fluid, or similar substances from a body cavity via the distal tip of the endoscope. When the knob is manually released and springs back up, the suction valve blocks the fluid flow and stops the suction function.

[0006] The conventional suction valve described above typically comprises several individual components, such as a piston, at least two O-rings or seals, a spring, a knob, a lower sealing element, a housing, etc. Assembling these components is therefore laborious and time-consuming. Consequently, the cost and price of such a suction valve with individual components can be high, even for mass-produced items. BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] In light of the foregoing, an object of the present invention is to provide a novel and improved suction valve and a fluid control unit with fewer components for reliable use in a surgical device, in particular an endoscope. The novel suction valve and the fluid control unit enable a straightforward assembly process, thereby reducing the price of a mass-produced product.

[0008] According to the present invention, a suction valve with the features of claim 1, a fluid control unit with the features of claim 10, a surgical device with the features of claim 13, a method for manufacturing a suction valve according to claim 14, and / or a method for manufacturing a fluid control unit according to claim 15 are provided. Advantageous or preferred features of the invention are listed in the dependent claims.

[0009] Accordingly, the present invention provides: - A suction valve for controlling the connection of fluid channels of a surgical device, in particular an endoscope, comprising: a suction chamber; a piston arrangement for controlling the fluid flow through the suction chamber, wherein the suction chamber and the piston arrangement are configured as a one-piece injection-molded workpiece, the suction chamber being formed by a hollow part of the workpiece which is pulled over the piston arrangement. - A fluid control unit for controlling the connection of fluid channels of a surgical device, in particular an endoscope, comprising: a suction valve according to the invention; and a housing arrangement that accommodates the suction valve and is configured for installation on a housing port of the surgical device. - A surgical device, in particular an endoscope, with a housing connection for receiving a fluid control unit according to the invention. - A method for manufacturing a suction valve comprising the following steps: injection molding a one-piece workpiece comprising a piston assembly and a hollow part configured to form a suction chamber; and coating the hollow part of the workpiece over the piston assembly to form the suction chamber. - A method for manufacturing a fluid control unit, in particular a fluid control unit according to the invention, comprising the following steps: Providing a suction valve according to the invention and / or produced according to a method according to the invention; providing a housing arrangement configured for installation on a housing port of a surgical device; and receiving the suction valve in the housing arrangement.

[0010] One of the underlying ideas of the present invention is therefore that both a suction valve and a fluid control unit for a surgical device, in particular for an endoscope, can be constructed from fewer and fewer parts. The design of these components thus eliminates the need to install and assemble additional elements such as seals and springs, which would otherwise be required.

[0011] In this way, the present invention provides a suction valve and a fluid control unit comprising an injection-molded component in a coated configuration and arranged to provide the fluid control function in an integrated manner.

[0012] By designing it as a one-piece injection-molded part, the suction valve can be easily manufactured in large quantities using injection molding. This results in a low unit price.

[0013] Preferably, the one-piece injection-molded workpiece is made of an elastic material, in particular an elastic polymer material.

[0014] The advantages of injection molding are obvious when it comes to manufacturing a single-piece workpiece. Various materials can be used, and injection molding with polymer materials, in particular, can offer a practical solution for improving and achieving desired features and properties by mixing and applying different polymers and additives, and can enable complex designs. For example, thermoplastic elastomer materials can be applied in this way. Injection molding is extremely efficient, effective, and suitable for high-volume production because it simplifies the manufacturing process and thus reduces costs and effort compared to other molding processes.

[0015] Furthermore, injection molding advantageously enables the three-dimensional formation of elastic materials, especially elastomers, e.g., thermoplastic elastomers. In this way, material properties such as resilience and tightness can be integrated into the one-piece design.

[0016] The functional integrity of the suction valve is achieved through the overmolded configuration of the one-piece injection-molded part. Prestressed material in the transition between the suction chamber and piston assembly can form an elastic or spring section. In this section, the material is bent or folded, particularly around its perimeter, into a predetermined shape. Accordingly, the chamber and piston, which are formed as a single piece, are prestressed against each other to provide a sealing force that causes the piston to bear against a sealing surface of the chamber. In this way, the various elements typically found in a suction valve, such as the piston, seals, spring, knob, etc., are integrated into a single injection-molded part that forms the suction valve.

[0017] In particular, the one-piece design is configured for automated production, including automated folding to pull the hollow part over the piston assembly to form the chamber.

[0018] The present disclosure therefore also proposes a compact structure of a fluid control unit comprising two separable parts, namely the suction valve and a housing assembly. The fluid control unit is configured to control the flow connectivity of a surgical device, or rather, an endoscope.

[0019] The suction valve and the housing assembly can be assembled as a fluid control unit to perform the fluid control function by accommodating the suction valve within the housing assembly. To assemble the fluid control unit, the one-piece injection-molded suction valve can simply be clamped into the housing assembly. The functionally integrated design of the fluid control unit, consisting of essentially only two parts, ensures that no displacement or shifting of conventional components occurs. Advantageously, the compact structure and one-piece design of the suction valve according to the present invention simplify the assembly process of the suction valve with the housing assembly to form the fluid control unit. This reduces the required manufacturing time.

[0020] The present invention therefore provides an advantageous embodiment. The fluid control unit can be formed with only two separate parts with integrated functions: the movable suction valve for switching between fluid connection states and a housing assembly configured to accommodate the suction valve and connect it on one side to a suction source and on the other side to a fluid channel of the surgical instrument. By dividing the design into individual but functionally integrated parts, the focus can be placed on the respective functional requirements for elasticity and sealing properties of the suction valve, and structural integrity and an interface between the housing assembly and the surgical instrument can be ensured.

[0021] Furthermore, a fluid control unit with a design according to the invention, which enables a disposable version, fulfills the requirement to provide surgical devices and systems with reduced cleaning and sterilization effort. In particular, the present invention provides an advantageous solution for sterile disposable parts for surgical instruments, such as endoscopes, wherein the fluid control unit can be an interchangeable (disposable) part of the surgical instrument, in particular a handle thereof.

[0022] Advantageous embodiments and further embodiments result from the further dependent claims as well as from the description with reference to the drawing figures.

[0023] In one embodiment, the piston assembly is configured to have an open state, in which the suction chamber is closed, and a closed state, in which fluid flow through the suction chamber is possible. The flow connectivity states are switched between the open and closed configurations, for example, by pushing down and rebounding the piston assembly. In particular, the rebound is elastic, so that the valve state can be controlled by pushing the piston assembly. In a further development, the piston assembly is configured to allow intermediate states in which the piston is partially pushed down to achieve a reduced fluid flow.

[0024] In another embodiment, the suction chamber has a first axial opening provided on an end face. Specifically, the first axial opening is provided on an axial end face. The first axial opening is configured to communicate with a suction channel of a surgical device. Furthermore, the suction chamber includes a second radial opening provided on a circumference of the suction chamber and configured to communicate with a suction source. For example, the suction chamber is configured as an essentially hollow cylindrical body with an axial and a radial opening.

[0025] According to an advantageous development, in the release state the second radial opening is fluidically separated from the first axial opening, and in the pressed state the second radial opening is in fluid communication with the first axial opening via the suction chamber.

[0026] According to a preferred embodiment, the piston assembly further comprises an elastically deformable button head section with a button element that is integrated with a spring element. Preferably, the spring element and the button head section are formed in a bent or folded part of the workpiece. Furthermore, the piston assembly includes a piston element configured as an extension of the button element. In particular, the piston element projects axially from the button element.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the suction chamber is designed as a substantially hollow cylinder body integrated into the piston assembly, particularly beneath the button head section. Preferably, the suction chamber also extends axially from the button element and surrounds the piston element. Accordingly, the piston element is located on the underside of the button element and is pressed into the suction chamber in the axial direction of the cylinder. During the switching between the pressed and released states, the piston element moves downwards and upwards, accompanied by an elastic deformation of the button head section, particularly the spring element of the button head section.

[0028] In a preferred embodiment, the suction chamber comprises at least one vent located around its circumference to allow fluid communication with the environment. In particular, the at least one vent is provided along the circumference of the button head section. This allows fluid communication with the environment, especially when the vent is released. The suction chamber further comprises an internal lumen extending from the at least one vent along the second radial opening to the first axial opening. This lumen allows openings at a distal end of an endoscope to be in fluid communication with, or isolated from, the vacuum source or the atmosphere.

[0029] In a further preferred embodiment of the suction valve, the suction chamber comprises an inner seat provided on an inner circumference of the suction chamber, wherein the piston element comprises a sealing flange provided at a distal end of the piston element and configured to seal against the inner seat. In particular, the inner seat is a circumferential seat. Alternatively or additionally, the sealing flange is a circular sealing flange. Preferably, the inner seat and the sealing flange are in fluid-tight contact with each other in the released state. In the depressed state, however, a fluid passage is provided between the inner seat and the sealing flange.

[0030] According to a preferred embodiment of the suction valve, the one-piece injection-molded part further comprises a circumferential recessed section provided on the outer circumference of the suction chamber. This allows the suction valve to be received in a housing assembly by engaging a receiving section of the housing assembly in the recessed section of the suction valve. Furthermore, according to one embodiment, a locking element is arranged on the outer circumference of the suction chamber. In particular, the locking element is located in or adjacent to the recessed section. The locking element is configured to lock an additional degree of freedom to prevent movement of the suction valve housed in the housing assembly. For example, the locking element can be configured as a rotary lock.

[0031] In one embodiment of the fluid control unit, the housing assembly comprises a connection element with a through-opening for receiving the outer circumference of the suction chamber of the suction valve in an assembled state, and a tubular coupling element with a first opening on an inner surface of the connection element and a second opening on an outer circumference of the coupling element. A suction channel in the coupling element extends from the first opening to the second opening.

[0032] According to one embodiment, in an assembly state, the second radial opening of the suction valve is connected to the first opening of the coupling element and is in fluid communication with the suction channel of the coupling element. In this way, a vacuum or suction source can be connected to the suction valve via the suction channel, thus controlling the fluid flow through the suction valve.

[0033] In the assembled state, the locking element of the suction valve can be positively locked in a notch located on the circumference of the housing assembly. This advantageous design ensures that the two assemblies do not separate and prevents any relative movement between them. In particular, it prevents any rotational movement of the suction valve relative to the housing assembly.

[0034] The above embodiments can be combined with one another as desired. Further possible embodiments, configurations, and implementations of the invention also include combinations of features of the invention described herein in relation to the embodiments, even if not explicitly mentioned. In particular, the person skilled in the art will also add individual aspects as improvements or additions to the respective basic form of the present invention. Brief description of the characters

[0035] Aspects and advantages of the present invention are better understood with reference to the following figures and the accompanying detailed description, the focus being on clearly illustrating the principles of the present disclosure. In the different figures, identical elements are indicated with the same reference numerals, whereby: Fig. Figure 1A is a schematic sectional view of a one-piece injection-molded workpiece for forming a suction valve; Fig. Figure 1B is a schematic sectional view of a suction valve; Fig. Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view of a fluid control unit in an unassembled state; Fig. Figure 3 is a schematic longitudinal sectional view of a fluid control unit in an assembled state; Fig. Figure 4 is a flowchart of a process for manufacturing a suction valve; and Fig. Figure 5 is a flowchart of a process for manufacturing a fluid control unit.

[0036] The accompanying drawings serve to enhance understanding of the present invention and are incorporated into and form part of this patent specification. The drawings illustrate particular embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention. Other embodiments of the invention and many of its associated advantages will become readily apparent when they are better understood with reference to the following detailed description.

[0037] It is understood that general and / or easily understood elements that may be useful or necessary in a commercially feasible embodiment are not necessarily shown in order to facilitate a more abstract view of the embodiments. The elements of the drawings are not necessarily illustrated to scale with respect to one another. It is further understood that certain actions and / or steps in an embodiment of a method may be described or illustrated in a particular order of occurrence, while those skilled in the art will understand that such specificity with respect to the sequence is not really necessary.It is also understood that the terms and expressions used in the present description have the ordinary meaning attributed to these terms and expressions in relation to their respective fields of investigation and study, unless specific meanings have been set forth herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXECUTION FORMS

[0038] The detailed description includes specific details to enable a comprehensive understanding of the present invention. However, it is apparent to those skilled in the art that the various described elements or features can be arranged in different combinations and configurations without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0039] Fig. Figure 1A shows a schematic sectional view of a one-piece injection-molded part for forming a suction valve. The one-piece injection-molded part W is injection-molded, in particular, with an elastic polymer material. The part W can be roughly divided into two parts: a hollow part H and a piston assembly 3.

[0040] Both parts can share a central axis. For example, the piston assembly 3 has an outer diameter that is smaller than the inner diameter of the hollow part H. Furthermore, the hollow part H can have an opening forming a channel D and a stop element S on its outer diameter. The piston assembly 3 can include a central section that forms a transition to the hollow part H and a longitudinal section that extends at its end to a locking element B.

[0041] Fig. Figure 1B shows a schematic sectional view of a suction valve 1. In this configuration, the one-piece injection-molded part W is Fig. 1A is covered to form the suction valve 1. In particular, as shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 1B, the hollow part H is pulled over the piston assembly 3 and is now configured as a suction chamber 2. This is achieved through the inherent properties of the injection molding materials, which, for example, possess sufficient elasticity or resilience.

[0042] The formerly hollow part H now surrounds the piston assembly 3 after being covered. Preferably, the stop element S now rests against the locking element B. In this way, the hollow part forms a suction chamber. The channel D allows the suction chamber 2 to be pressurized with negative pressure or vacuum, and the piston assembly 3 is elastically movable with respect to the suction chamber 2.

[0043] Removing the locking element B from the stop element S opens a fluid connection from channel D through suction chamber 2 to an inlet of the same. Accordingly, the connection of fluid channels of a surgical device to and from the suction valve can be controlled.

[0044] Fig. Figure 2 shows a schematic perspective view of a fluid control unit in an unassembled state.

[0045] The unassembled fluid control unit includes two main components: the suction valve 1 and a housing assembly 4.

[0046] Fig. Figure 3 shows a schematic longitudinal section view of a fluid control unit in an assembled state.

[0047] As already mentioned in relation to Fig. As explained in Figure 1B, the suction valve 1 has a piston assembly 3 and a suction chamber 2. The piston assembly 3 further comprises a substantially mushroom-shaped button head section 5 and an axial piston element 8. The suction chamber 2 is configured as a substantially hollow cylinder that is drawn over the piston assembly 3, in particular attached to the underside of the button head section 5.

[0048] The button head section 5 is configured as an integration of a button element 6 and an elastically deformable spring element 7. The button head section 5 and the suction chamber 2 are essentially axially symmetrical with respect to a longitudinal axis R1. The piston element 8 is designed as an elongated part that projects from the button head section 5 in the direction of the axis R1. Fig. 3 the piston element 8 is provided on the underside of the button element 6.

[0049] The piston assembly 3 has two states: a released state and a depressed state. By pressing or releasing the button element 6, the fluid connection of the involved fluid channels, here the suction channels 19, 20, can be controlled by switching between the released state and the depressed state.

[0050] When no force is applied to the button element 6, the piston assembly 3 is in its initial position after passing over the hollow part, and the spring element 7 does not deform further, corresponding to the released state of the piston assembly 3. When the piston assembly 3 is pressed by applying a force to the button element 6, the spring element 7 deforms, corresponding to the pressed state, and the piston element 8 moves axially relative to the suction chamber 2. After the elastic deformation of the spring element 7 ceases, for example, by removing the applied force, the button head section 5 can return to its initial position in the released state.

[0051] At least one vent 25 is provided around the circumference of the button head section 5 for fluid communication between the interior of the suction valve 1 and the exterior, e.g., the atmosphere. In this way, even in the open state, a reduced fluid flow is provided through a suction channel 19 connected to a suction source, and the negative pressure in the suction chamber 2 can be controlled and limited to a predetermined level. This, in particular, reduces resistance to opening the suction valve 2 and prevents the piston element 8 from being drawn into the inlet of the suction chamber 2, especially against an inner seat 17 of the suction chamber 2, which would otherwise act as a stop.

[0052] With reference to Fig. 2. A circumferential locking strip 16 can be provided on the outer circumference at the axial end of the suction chamber 2. Furthermore, a circumferential recessed section 15 extends around the outer circumference of the suction chamber 2. Additionally, a locking element 27 can be arranged on the outer circumference of the suction chamber 2, in particular in or next to the recessed section 15. All these elements arranged on the outer circumference serve to couple the suction valve 1 with the housing assembly 4.

[0053] The housing assembly 4 comprises a connecting element 9 with a through-opening 10 for receiving the suction valve 1 and a tubular coupling element 11 with a distal second opening 13 and a proximal first opening 12, which is arranged on an inner surface of the connecting element 9. A notch 26, corresponding to the locking element 27 of the suction valve 1, may be provided on the circumference of the connecting element 9. Beads and ferrules for fluid-tight coupling with fluid channels may be provided on the circumference of the coupling element 11.

[0054] With reference to Fig. 2. During assembly of the suction valve 1 with the housing assembly 4, a longitudinal axis of the through-opening 10 can be aligned with the axis R1. During assembly, the suction valve 1 is inserted with its axial end into the through-opening 10 of the connecting element 9 and moved or shifted axially within the through-opening 10 along the direction of the axis R1 until the locking bar 16 has passed through and the locking element 27 engages in the notch 26.

[0055] During assembly, the radial dimension of the locking strip 16 can be elastically compressed by the through-opening 10 and increased as it passes through. In the assembled state, which is in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the suction valve is held in position by the locking bar 16, and the connecting element 9 of the housing assembly is positioned in the recessed section 15 of the suction valve 1. The locking bar 16 and the knob-head section 5 prevent axial loosening or removal. The locking element 27, which engages in the notch 26, blocks relative rotation between the suction valve 1 and the housing assembly 4. Thus, the suction valve 1 is securely held in the housing assembly 4.

[0056] In other embodiments, different elastic deformations can be used to accommodate the suction valve 1 in the housing assembly 4. For example, the passage opening 10 can be elastically enlarged by the locking strip 16, and this elastic enlargement or deformation of the passage opening 10 can disappear again when the object passes through it. In other embodiments, the connecting element 9 can have a slot instead of a notch 26, which allows for an elastic enlargement of the passage opening and / or engages with a corresponding locking element 27 when the object passes through it.

[0057] The sectional view of Fig. Figure 3 illustrates in particular the interior of the assembled fluid control unit in a section through the longitudinal axis R1. In the illustrated state, the suction valve 1 and the housing assembly 4 are fully mounted on a housing port 14 of a surgical device 31. For example, the connection element 9 of the housing assembly 4 has locking elements 28 configured to engage with a guide 29 of the housing port 14.

[0058] A first axial opening 23 of the suction valve 1 can be in fluid communication with a distal tip of the surgical device and is arranged on a lower end face 21 of the suction valve 1. The lower end face 21 is fluid-tightly enclosed by the housing connection 14, which is achieved by a releasable fixation between the connecting element 9 of the housing assembly 4 and the housing connection 14, for example by means of a bayonet fitting of the locking elements 28 and the impact guide 29.

[0059] In other embodiments, other types of detachable fastening between the connecting element 9 of the housing arrangement 4 are also possible, such as a screw connection or the like.

[0060] A second radial opening 24 of the suction chamber 2 can establish a fluid connection with a suction source. The second radial opening 24 is provided on the circumference of the suction valve 1. An inner lumen 22, defined by the inside of the suction valve 1, extends from the vents 25 along the second radial opening 24 and continues to the first axial opening 23. A circumferential sealing flange 18 can be arranged at a distal end of the piston element 8. A circumferential inner seat 17 can be provided on an inner circumference of the suction chamber 2.

[0061] The piston element 8 can move downwards or upwards within the lumen 22 when the button element 6 is pressed downwards or snapped upwards. In the relaxed state of the piston assembly 3, as shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the sealing flange 18 rests against the inner seat 17, particularly from below, in a form-fitting and fluid-tight manner. Thus, the lumen 22 can be divided into two fluid-insulated spaces: an upper lumen and a lower lumen. The second radial opening 24 can be in fluid communication with the atmosphere via the upper lumen and the vents 25. In the compressed state, a fluid passage or gap can exist between the inner seat 17 and the sealing flange 18. Consequently, the second radial opening 24 can be in fluid communication with the first axial opening 23 via the lumen 22.

[0062] Furthermore, the piston element 8, as in Fig. 3 shown, having a fluid guide recess 30 configured to guide the fluid flow in the pressed state from the sealing flange 18 in the most direct way directly through the lumen 22 to the second radial opening 24 and into the first suction channel 19 of the housing arrangement.

[0063] Accordingly, a first suction channel 19 formed in the coupling element 11 of the housing assembly 4 extends from the second opening 13 to the first opening 12. In the assembled state, the first opening 12 can be positively and fluid-tightly connected to the second radial opening 24, allowing the first suction channel 19 to be in fluid communication with the lumen 22. A second suction channel 20 in the housing connection 14 is in fluid communication with the lumen 22 through the first axial opening 23 on the lower end face 21 in the assembled state.

[0064] In the released state, the fluid connection between suction channel 19 and suction channel 20 is interrupted. The fluid control unit fluidically isolates the distal tip of a surgical device from the suction source.

[0065] In the depressed state, the fluid control unit enables the first suction channel 19 to establish a fluid connection with the second suction channel 20 through the fluid gap or passage between the sealing flange 18 and the inner seat 17 in the lumen 22. The negative pressure, generated, for example, by a suction pump, is able to spread throughout the entire fluid mechanism of the surgical instrument for suction.

[0066] Fig. Figure 4 shows a flowchart outlining a method for manufacturing a suction valve according to the invention. It includes: An injection molding step S1, wherein a suction chamber 2 and a piston arrangement 3 are produced as a one-piece injection molded workpiece.

[0067] The process includes a further step of coating S2, in which the hollow part of the workpiece is drawn over the piston arrangement 3 to form the suction chamber 2.

[0068] A flowchart of a manufacturing process for a fluid control unit according to the invention is shown in Fig. 5 outlined.

[0069] In a provisioning step P1, a suction valve 1 is provided and / or manufactured according to the present invention.

[0070] In a further provisioning step P2, a housing assembly 4 is provided which is configured for installation on a housing port 14 of a surgical device 31.

[0071] In a receiving step P3, the suction valve 1 is received or housed in the housing arrangement 4.

[0072] The assembled fluid control unit can then be mounted on the housing port 14 of the surgical device 31. According to an alternative configuration, the housing assembly 4 can be integrated into the housing port 14, and then the suction valve 1 is mounted within the integrated port of the surgical device 31. The surgical device 31 is in Fig. 3 is symbolized by a dashed line.

[0073] Although specific embodiments of the invention are illustrated and described herein, it is apparent to those skilled in the art that there is a variety of alternative and / or equivalent implementations. It is understood that the embodiment(s) are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration in any way. Rather, the preceding summary and detailed description will provide those skilled in the art with a practical guide for implementing at least one embodiment. It is understood that various modifications to the function and arrangement of elements described in an embodiment may be made without departing from the scope of protection set forth in the appended claims and their legal equivalents.In general, this application is intended to cover all adaptations or variations of the specific embodiments discussed herein.

[0074] It is further understood that in this document the terms “comprise,” “comprehensive,” “include,” “including,” “contain,” “containing,” “exhibit,” “displaying,” and all variations thereof are to be understood in an inclusive, i.e., non-exclusive, sense, such that the process, procedure, device, establishment, or system described herein is not limited to the features, parts, elements, or steps mentioned, but may include other elements, features, parts, or steps not expressly listed or inherent in such process, procedure, article, or establishment. Furthermore, the terms “a” and “an” used herein are to be understood as meaning one or more, unless expressly stated otherwise. In addition, the terms “first,” “second,” “third,” etc., areThey are used merely as designations and are not intended to impose any numerical requirements on the objects or to establish a specific ranking of their importance. LIST OF REFERENCE MARKS 1 Suction valve 2 suction chambers 3 Piston arrangement 4 Housing arrangement 5 Button head section 6 button element 7 Spring element 8 piston element 9 Connection element 10 Through opening 11 Coupling element 12 first opening 13 second opening 14 Housing connection 15 in-depth section 16 Locking strip 17 inner seat 18 Sealing flange 19 Suction channel 20 Suction channel 21 Front surface 22 lumens 23 first axial opening 24 second radial opening 25 Ventilation 26 notch 27 Locking element 28 Locking element 29 Impact guidance 30 Fluid guide recess 31 surgical instruments B Locking element Channel D H hollow part S stop element W workpiece S1-S2 steps P1-P3 steps

Claims

[1] Suction valve (1) for controlling the connection of fluid channels of a surgical device, in particular an endoscope, comprising: a suction chamber (2); a piston arrangement (3) for controlling the fluid flow through the suction chamber (2), wherein the suction chamber (2) and the piston assembly (3) are configured as a one-piece injection molded workpiece, wherein the suction chamber (2) is formed by a hollow part of the workpiece which is drawn over the piston assembly (3). [2] Suction valve (1) according to claim 1, wherein the piston arrangement (3) is configured to have a released state in which the suction chamber (2) is closed and a pressed state in which fluid flow through the suction chamber (2) is possible. [3] Suction valve (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the suction chamber (2) comprises: a first axial opening (23) provided on an end face (21), in particular an axial end face, and configured for connection to a suction channel of a surgical device; and a second radial opening (24) provided on a circumference of the suction chamber (2) and configured for connection to a suction source. [4] Suction valve (1) according to claims 2 and 3, wherein in the release state the second radial opening (24) is fluidically separated from the first axial opening (23) and in the pressed state the second radial opening (24) is in fluid communication with the first axial opening (23) through the suction chamber (2). [5] Suction valve (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the piston arrangement (3) comprises: an elastically deformable button head section (5) with a button element (6) which is integrated with a spring element (7); a piston element (8) configured as an extension of the button element (6), in particular in the axial direction (R1). [6] Suction valve (1) according to one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the suction chamber (2) further comprises: at least one vent (25) provided on the circumference of the suction chamber (2), in particular along a circumference of the button head section (5), for fluid communication with the environment, especially in a released state; and an inner lumen (22) within the suction chamber (2) extending from the at least one vent (25) along the second radial opening (24) to the first axial opening (23). [7] Suction valve (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the suction chamber (2) comprises an inner seat (17), in particular a circumferential seat, which is provided on an inner circumference of the suction chamber (2), wherein the piston element (8) comprises a sealing flange (18), in particular a circular sealing flange, which is provided on a distal end of the piston element (8) and is configured to seal against the inner seat (17). [8] Suction valve (1) according to claim 2 or 7, wherein in the released state the inner seat (17) and the sealing flange (18) are fluid-tight against each other; and in the pressed state a fluid passage is provided between the inner seat (17) and the sealing flange (18). [9] Suction valve (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the one-piece injection molded part further comprises a circumferential recessed section (15) provided on the outer circumference of the suction chamber (2), and a locking element (27) which is arranged on the outer circumference of the suction chamber (2), in particular in or next to the recessed section (15). [10] Fluid control unit for controlling the connection of fluid channels of a surgical device, in particular an endoscope, comprising: a suction valve (1) according to one of the preceding claims, and a housing arrangement (4) that accommodates the suction valve (1) and is configured for installation on a housing port (14) of the surgical device. [11] Fluid control unit according to claim 10, the housing arrangement (4) comprises: a connecting element (9) with a through-opening (10) for receiving the outer circumference of the suction chamber (2) of the suction valve (1) in the assembled state and a tubular coupling element (11) with a first opening (12) arranged on an inner surface of the connecting element (9) and a second opening (13) arranged on an outer circumference of the coupling element (11); wherein a suction channel (19) extends in the coupling element (11) from the first opening (12) to the second opening (13). [12] Fluid control unit according to claim 11, wherein the suction valve (1) is configured according to at least claim 3 and wherein in an assembly state the second radial opening (24) is connected to the first opening (12) of the coupling element (11) and is in fluid communication with the suction channel (19). [13] Surgical device (31), in particular endoscope, with a housing connection (14) for receiving a fluid control unit according to one of claims 10 to 12. [14] Method for manufacturing a suction valve, in particular a suction valve according to any one of claims 1 to 9, comprising the following steps: Injection molding (S1) of a one-piece workpiece comprising a piston assembly (3) and a hollow part configured to form a suction chamber (2); and and covering (S2) the hollow part of the workpiece over the piston arrangement (3) to form the suction chamber (2). [15] Method for manufacturing a fluid control unit, in particular a fluid control unit according to any one of claims 10 to 12, comprising the following steps: Providing (P1) a suction valve (1) according to one of claims 1 to 9 and / or manufacturing (P1) a suction valve (1) according to a method according to claim 14; Providing (P2) a housing assembly (4) configured for installation on a housing port (14) of a surgical device; and Receipt (P3) of the suction valve (1) in the housing assembly (4).

Images