Video laryngoscope

Abstract

To disclose a laryngoscope assembly and parts thereof.SOLUTION: A laryngoscope assembly 4 comprises a blade unit 100 extending from a proximal end to a distal end, the blade unit having a distal part extending to the distal end and comprising a first surface, wherein the distal part is adapted to be inserted into a patient's oral cavity with the first surface facing the patient's tongue. The laryngoscope assembly 4 further comprises a control unit 200 comprising a body portion having a first body portion and a second body portion, the first body portion being couplable to the blade unit. The control unit and the blade unit, when being coupled, collectively form a laryngoscope. The control unit is adapted to receive image data from an image sensor as the image data is being generated by the image sensor, wherein, at least when the control unit is coupled to the blade unit, the image data is indicative of a view from the distal part of the blade unit in a direction at least partly towards the distal end.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1A

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to visualization devices such as video laryngoscopes, and systems comprising such visualization devices. The present disclosure also relates to accessory devices and elements associated with such devices and systems.

Background Art

[0002] Medical visualization devices can be used to visually inspect specific regions of a person's body, such as within a body cavity. For example, a visualization device can be used to examine the airway, gastrointestinal tract, or intestine. For example, the visualization may be formed of one or more disposable components and optionally one or more reusable components.

[0003] The visualization device may be equipped with a camera and attached to a monitor device such as a monitor having a display screen. Alternatively or additionally, a display unit with a display screen may be provided on the visualization device itself. The video output from the camera of the visualization device may be received and displayed on the monitor device and / or the display unit, whereby an operator can control the visualization device to examine the region of interest. For example, an operator can perform an intubation procedure on a patient using the visualization device, particularly when the visualization device is a laryngoscope.

Summary of the Invention

[0004] The present disclosure relates to visualization devices such as laryngoscopes. A laryngoscope with a camera may conventionally mean a video laryngoscope. However, in the present disclosure, the prefix "video" in "video laryngoscope" may refer to a laryngoscope with a camera or may be omitted.

[0005] The object of the present application is to provide an improvement or at least an alternative to the techniques currently known in the field of video laryngoscopes.

[0006] This disclosure includes visualization devices such as video laryngoscopes, and systems such as laryngoscope systems that include such visualization devices. This disclosure also relates to ancillary devices and elements associated with such devices and systems, such as monitoring devices and battery chargers.

[0007] The present invention is further defined by the appended set of claims.

[0008] General explanation A control unit for a laryngoscope is disclosed. A blade unit for a laryngoscope is disclosed. A laryngoscope assembly comprising the control unit and the blade unit is disclosed. The blade unit may be disposable, i.e., intended for single use only. The control unit may be reusable, i.e., intended for use several times, for example with different blade units.

[0009] The blade unit extends from the proximal end to the distal end. The blade unit has a distal portion that extends to the distal end and has a first surface. The distal portion is configured to be inserted into the patient's oral cavity with the first surface facing the patient's tongue.

[0010] The control unit comprises a main body having a first main body and a second main body. The first main body is connectable to the blade unit.

[0011] When the control unit and the blade unit are coupled, they form a laryngoscope as a whole. The laryngoscope has a handle portion extending along a first axis. In some examples, the blade unit may have a handle portion. In other examples, the control unit may have a handle portion. The anterior direction of the laryngoscope is perpendicular to the first axis and toward the distal end of the blade unit. The posterior direction of the laryngoscope is opposite to the anterior direction. The anterior and / or posterior directions may extend radially from the first axis. The anterior and posterior directions extend within the central plane of the laryngoscope defined by the first axis and the distal end of the blade unit.

[0012] The control unit is configured to receive image data from the image sensor while the image data is being generated by the image sensor. When the control unit is coupled to the blade unit, the image data shows a view from the distal portion of the blade unit in a direction toward the distal end, at least partially.

[0013] The control unit may include electronic circuits such as a control unit processing unit, and / or memory such as volatile and / or non-volatile memory. The control unit processing unit may be configured to receive image data from an image sensor.

[0014] The control unit may include a control unit display element. The control unit display element may include a control unit display. The control unit, such as a control unit processing unit, may be configured to display a live representation of image data on the control unit display.

[0015] The control unit may include a connector cable. The connector cable may be configured to connect the control unit to a monitoring device. The monitoring device may be an external component that includes a monitor display capable of displaying a live representation of the image data. The monitoring device may include electronic circuits such as a monitoring processing unit, and / or monitoring memory such as volatile and / or non-volatile memory.

[0016] The control unit may include a battery, such as a rechargeable battery, configured to supply power to the control unit. The battery may be further configured to supply power to the image sensor. The battery may be further configured to supply power to an optional light-emitting element. The battery may be part of a battery pack described later.

[0017] The control unit may include an image sensor. For example, the image sensor may be located at the distal end of the first main body, for example, at the end of an extension of the control unit. The extension may be a flexible part. This allows the image sensor to be positioned at the distal portion of the blade unit when the control unit is coupled to the blade unit.

[0018] Alternatively, the blade unit may include an image sensor. The image sensor may be located in the distal portion of the blade unit. The control unit may include an electrical control unit connector at the distal end of the first main body. The blade unit may include an electrical blade connector. The electrical control unit connector may be configured to electrically connect the control unit to the image sensor of the blade unit, for example, by connecting the electrical control unit connector to the electrical blade connector.

[0019] The second main body may have a mounting portion that is positioned rearward with respect to the first shaft.

[0020] The control unit display element may be mounted to the second body, such as by hinge mounting to a mounting portion of the second body. Alternatively or additionally, a connector cable may be mounted to a mounting portion of the second body. The connector cable may extend from the second body in a direction substantially parallel to the first axis.

[0021] The second main body may include a control button whose button surface is positioned forward relative to the mounting portion.

[0022] The disclosed placement of the control buttons places them in a more ergonomic position. Therefore, the entire device remains firmly in the user's hands. Furthermore, the disclosed placement of the control buttons allows the user to operate the control buttons with their index finger while maintaining a firm grip on the device with their thumb and the other three fingers. Thus, the disclosed configuration ensures a secure grip on the device while operating the control buttons.

[0023] The disclosed solution is also advantageous in that, when the control unit comprises a control unit display element, the control buttons are arranged forwardly with respect to the control unit display, such that operation of the control buttons does not obscure the view of the control unit display.

[0024] The button face can have a button face normal, for example at the center of the control button. The angle between the button face normal and the forward direction may be less than 90 degrees, for example less than 80 degrees. The angle between the button face normal and the first axis may be between 0 and 180 degrees, for example between 1 and 179 degrees. The angle between the button face normal and the first axis may also be less than 90 degrees.

[0025] The button face may comprise a tactile protrusion. The tactile protrusion may be placed substantially centrally of the control button. By providing the tactile protrusion, tactile feedback is provided to the user for identifying the position of the control button with the index finger without the need to search for the control button. Since users of laryngoscopes often wear gloves that reduce finger sensitivity, the clear tactile feedback provided by the tactile protrusion is advantageous.

[0026] The control unit processing unit may be configured to receive an electronic signal from the control button indicating that the control button is pressed.

[0027] A control unit, such as a control unit processing unit, may be configured to detect a first user input corresponding to a first depression of the control button (e.g., a short press such as a depression of the control button having a depression threshold, for example a duration shorter than 1 second). In accordance with the detection of the first user input, a control unit, such as a control unit processing unit, may cause a first image file corresponding to the image data received when the first user input was detected to be recorded.

[0028] A control unit, such as a control unit processing unit, may be configured to detect a second user input corresponding to a second press of a control button (e.g., a long press such as a press of a control button having a duration longer than a press threshold). In accordance with the detection of the second user input, a control unit, such as a control unit processing unit, may start recording a first video file corresponding to the image data received after the detection of the second user input. After the detection of the second user input, a control unit, such as a control unit processing unit, may be configured to detect a third user input corresponding to the second press of the control button. In accordance with the detection of the third user input, a control unit, such as a control unit processing unit, may be able to end the recording of the first video file. Therefore, the first video file may correspond to the image data received between the detection of the second user input and the detection of the third user input.

[0029] The first image file and / or the first video file may be recorded in the memory of the control unit.

[0030] In some examples, a control unit, such as a control unit processing unit, may be configured to transfer an electronic signal from a control button to a monitor device, such as a monitor processing unit of the monitor device, especially in an example where the control unit includes a connector cable connecting the control unit to the monitor device. The control button of the control unit can function as a remote operation for one or more functions of the monitor device. A monitor device, such as a monitor processing unit, can receive an electronic signal from the control button (or another signal indicating the electronic signal from the control button) indicating that the control button is pressed.

[0031] A monitoring device, such as a monitoring processing unit, may be configured to detect a first user input corresponding to a first press of a control button (for example, a short press such as pressing a control button with a duration shorter than a press threshold, e.g., less than 1 second). Upon detection of the first user input, the monitoring device, such as the monitoring processing unit, may record a first image file corresponding to the image data received when the first user input was detected.

[0032] A monitoring device, such as a monitoring processing unit, may be configured to detect a second user input corresponding to a second press of a control button (for example, a long press such as pressing a control button for a duration longer than the press threshold). Upon detection of the second user input, the monitoring device, such as a monitoring processing unit, may start recording a first video file corresponding to the image data received after the detection of the second user input. After detection of the second user input, the monitoring device, such as a monitoring processing unit, may be configured to detect a third user input corresponding to a second press of a control button. Upon detection of the third user input, the monitoring device, such as a monitoring processing unit, may terminate the recording of the first video file. Therefore, the first video file may correspond to image data received between the detection of the second user input and the detection of the third user input.

[0033] The first image file and / or the first video file may be recorded in the monitor memory of the monitoring device.

[0034] A control button may have a control button light indicator. The control button light indicator may be configured to signal various information to the user. For example, a control unit, such as a control unit processing unit, may be configured to detect coupling with a blade unit. Upon detection of coupling between the blade unit and the control unit, the control unit, such as a control unit processing unit, may provide a first visual indication with the control button light indicator (e.g., by continuously illuminating). Upon detection of no coupling between the blade unit and the control unit, the control unit, such as a control unit processing unit, may provide a second visual indication (e.g., by rapidly flashing or slowly flashing) using the control button light indicator.

[0035] Therefore, this disclosure provides a dual functionality for the control button, which enables the control button to communicate additional information to the user. This allows the user to easily understand the functions of the device.

[0036] The control unit includes a battery tray configured to accommodate a replaceable battery pack. The replaceable battery pack may include batteries as described above. The battery pack may be a rechargeable battery pack, i.e., the batteries may be rechargeable batteries. Therefore, the battery pack can include rechargeable batteries.

[0037] The battery pack may be configured to supply power to the control unit. The battery pack may also be configured to supply power to the image sensor and / or camera unit. The battery receptacle may include a battery connector having multiple battery connector terminals. The battery connector terminals may be configured to cooperate with corresponding connection terminals of a replaceable battery pack.

[0038] The battery receptacle may include an external connector seal surrounding the battery connector. The external connector seal may be configured to contact the corresponding surface of the replaceable battery pack surrounding the connection terminals of the replaceable battery pack when the replaceable battery pack is housed in the battery receptacle.

[0039] This disclosed solution allows for the provision of a watertight seal surrounding the terminals connecting the battery pack and the control unit, preventing the electrical connection between the battery pack and the control unit from being obstructed by water or other liquids.

[0040] A replaceable battery pack may lack an external sealing element configured to contact the surface of the control unit. This allows the battery pack to omit the sealing element, thereby reducing manufacturing costs.

[0041] The control unit may include an internal seal surrounding the battery connector. The internal seal can prevent liquid from entering the internal space of the control unit from the battery receptacle when a replaceable battery pack is not housed in the battery receptacle.

[0042] The control unit may include a battery connector circuit. The battery connector circuit may be located inside the control unit. The battery connector may be attached to the first side of the battery connector circuit. An internal seal is placed between the battery connector circuit and the shell element of the control unit that forms part of the battery holder.

[0043] If the battery pack is not housed in the battery receptacle, and the external sealing element is not preventing liquid from entering the battery connector, the internal seal can prevent liquid from entering and potentially damaging the internal components of the control unit.

[0044] The battery receptacle may form part of the first main body. The first main body may be configured to be housed and surrounded by the handle portion of the blade unit. Thus, when the battery pack is housed in the battery receptacle, it may be completely enclosed by the handle portion of the blade unit. This protects the battery pack, which can be particularly advantageous in the case of rechargeable battery packs that are intended to be used repeatedly and, in some cases, in combination with several control units.

[0045] A laryngoscope system is also disclosed. The laryngoscope system may include a blade unit as described above. The laryngoscope system may also include a control unit as described above. The laryngoscope system may also include a monitoring device that can be connected to the blade unit via the control unit, if the control unit has a connector cable for connecting the control unit to the monitoring device.

[0046] As described above, the laryngoscope system may include a blade unit and an image sensor, for example, as part of a control unit or as part of the blade unit. The laryngoscope may also include a display, which may be a control unit display of the control unit or a monitor display of a monitoring device.

[0047] A laryngoscope system, such as a processing unit in a control unit or a monitor processing unit in a monitoring device, can display a live representation of image data on a display.

[0048] Those skilled in the art will understand that any one or more of the above aspects and embodiments of the present disclosure can be combined with any one or more of the other aspects and embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0049] Embodiments of the present disclosure are described below in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The drawings illustrate one way of carrying out the invention and should not be construed as limiting to other possible embodiments that fall within the scope of the set of claims. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0050] [Figure 1A] A schematic diagram of an exemplary laryngoscope system is shown. [Figure 1B] A schematic diagram of an exemplary laryngoscope system is shown. [Figure 2] A schematic diagram of an exemplary laryngoscope system is shown. [Figure 3A] A schematic diagram of an exemplary blade unit is shown. [Figure 3B] A schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary blade unit is shown. [Figure 3C] A schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary blade unit is shown. [Figure 3D] A schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary blade unit is shown. [Figure 4A] A schematic diagram of an exemplary control unit is shown below. [Figure 4B] A schematic diagram of an exemplary control unit is shown below. [Figure 5A] A schematic diagram of an exemplary control unit is shown below. [Figure 5B] A schematic diagram of an exemplary control unit is shown below. [Figure 6] A schematic diagram of an exemplary laryngoscope is shown. [Figure 7] A schematic diagram of an exemplary laryngoscope is shown. [Figure 8] A schematic diagram of an exemplary laryngoscope assembly is shown. [Figure 9] This is a schematic block diagram illustrating an exemplary laryngoscope assembly. [Figure 10] This is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary visualization system. [Figure 11] A schematic diagram of an exemplary control unit is shown below. [Figure 12] A schematic diagram of an example battery pack is shown. [Figure 13] A schematic cross-sectional view of an example battery connector is shown. [Figure 14A] A schematic diagram of an exemplary control unit is shown below. [Figure 14B] A schematic diagram of an exemplary control unit is shown below. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0051] Various exemplary embodiments and details are described below with reference to the drawings, where applicable. Note that the drawings may or may not be drawn to scale, and that elements of similar structure or function are represented by the same reference numerals throughout the drawings. Note also that the drawings are intended solely to facilitate the description of the embodiments. The drawings are not intended as an exhaustive description of the invention or as a limitation on the scope of the invention. Furthermore, the embodiments shown do not necessarily have all the aspects or advantages shown. Aspects or advantages described in conjunction with a particular embodiment are not necessarily limited to that embodiment and may be implemented in any other embodiment, even if not shown or explicitly described as such.

[0052] Figures 1A and 1B schematically illustrate an exemplary laryngoscope system 2 comprising an exemplary laryngoscope assembly 4. The laryngoscope assembly 4 comprises a blade unit 100. The blade unit 100 is configured to be at least partially inserted into the oral cavity of a patient during an intubation procedure. The blade unit 100 can have various shapes, such as those known in the art as MAC type, mirror type, and over-angle type. The blade unit 100 may also be various sizes, conventionally indicated as size 00, size 0, size 1, size 2, size 3, size 4, and size 5. The laryngoscope assembly 4 further comprises a control unit 200 having a control unit display 212. The control unit display 212 may be a touch-sensitive display. The control unit 200 is connectable to the blade unit 100, as shown in Figure 1B. When the control unit 200 and the blade unit 100 are connected, they form a laryngoscope together. The control unit 200 is configured to receive image data from an image sensor located near the tip of the blade unit 100, at least when the control unit 200 is coupled to the blade unit 100, and to display a live representation of the image data on the control unit display 212. As a result, the operator can be assisted by a video feed from the tip of the blade unit during intubation procedures.

[0053] Figure 2 schematically shows an exemplary laryngoscope system 2 comprising an exemplary laryngoscope assembly 4' and an exemplary monitoring device 300. The elements shown in Figure 1 and the elements shown in Figure 2 can form part of the same laryngoscope system 2. Furthermore, the laryngoscope system 2 may include additional blade units, endoscopes, and / or other elements not shown.

[0054] The laryngoscope assembly 4' comprises a blade unit 100, which may be the same or similar blade unit 100 described and illustrated with respect to Figures 1A and 1B. The laryngoscope assembly 4' further comprises a control unit 200' which can be connected to a monitoring device 300 by a connector cable 216, for example, as shown. The control unit 200' can be coupled to the blade unit 100, as with the control unit 200 in Figures 1A and 1B. When the control unit 200' and the blade unit 100 are coupled, they form a laryngoscope together. The control unit 200' is configured to receive image data from an image sensor located near the tip of the blade unit 100 and to transmit the image data or other data indicating the received image data to the monitoring device 300. The monitoring device 300 can display a live representation of the image data on a monitor display 302 (and / or an external display not shown).

[0055] Figure 3A schematically shows an exemplary blade unit 100, such as the blade unit illustrated and described with respect to Figures 1 and 2. The blade unit 100 extends from a proximal end 102 to a distal end 104. The blade unit has a distal portion 106 that extends to the distal end 104 and has a first surface 108. The distal portion 106 is configured so that the first surface 108 faces the patient's tongue and is inserted into the patient's oral cavity. Alternatively, the first surface 108 may be called the underside because it faces downward relative to the patient's anatomical structure when in use.

[0056] In the illustrated example, the blade unit 100 includes a handle portion 110 for forming the handle portion of the laryngoscope. However, in other exemplary blade units, the handle portion may be omitted from the blade unit 100, and instead, the handle portion may be provided by a control unit 200 that can be coupled to the blade unit 100. The handle portion 110 may have various textures to achieve a strong grip. Furthermore, the handle portion 110 may have recessed portions. For example, the recessed portions of the handle portion 110 may have a rougher texture than the rest of the handle portion 110. The rougher texture can increase the grip. The smoother portions of the handle portion can facilitate manufacturing, for example, in the case of injection molding, as half of the piece can be easily removed from the mold.

[0057] The blade unit 100, for example, one or more shell portions of the blade unit 100, may be injection molded. For example, the blade unit 100 may comprise two halves that can be injection molded. The two halves may be joined by ultrasonic welding and / or adhesive.

[0058] The blade unit 100 may further comprise a camera unit 400 comprising an image sensor 402 and optionally a light-emitting element 404. In some examples, the camera unit 400 may form part of the blade unit 100 as shown, but alternatively, the camera unit 400 may form part of a control unit as further described with respect to Figure 8. The image sensor is configured to generate image data showing a view from the distal portion 106 of the blade unit 100.

[0059] Figures 4A and 4B schematically show exemplary control units 200, such as the control unit 200 illustrated and described with respect to Figures 1A and 1B. Figures 5A and 5B schematically show exemplary control units 200', such as the control unit 200' illustrated and described with respect to Figure 2. In most embodiments, control units 200 and 200' have the same or very similar features. Therefore, Figures 4A, 4B, 5A, and 5B will be described together below.

[0060] The control units 200, 200' include a body portion 202 having a first body portion 202A and a second body portion 202B. The first body portion 202A can be coupled to the blade unit 100, for example, as shown in Figure 1B. In some examples, the first body portion 202A may be configured to be housed and surrounded by the handle portion 110 of the blade unit 100 (see, for example, Figure 6). The control units 200, 200' may include a curved portion 205 that can support the second channel portion 116B from the inside. This can reduce stress and deformation inside the blade if the blade is pulled without being properly removed.

[0061] The second main body 202B has a mounting portion 204. The mounting portion 204 can provide mounting to a display element 210, as in the case of the control unit 200, or the mounting portion 204 can provide mounting to a connector cable 216, as in the case of the control unit 200'.

[0062] The control unit 200 includes a control unit display element 210 having a control unit display 212 (see Figure 1A / Figure 1B). In this example, the control unit display element 210 is mounted on a mounting portion 204 of the second body 202B. The control unit display element 210 may be hinged to the mounting portion 204. Therefore, the control unit display element 210 and the mounting portion 204 may be connected by a hinge 214. The control unit display element 210 may be rotatable around a hinge axis AxH relative to the second body 202B, such as relative to the mounting portion 204 of the second body 202B.

[0063] The control unit 200' includes a connector cable 216 configured to connect the control unit 200' to the monitoring device 300 (see Figure 2). In this example, the connector cable 216 is attached to the mounting portion 204 of the second main body 202B.

[0064] The second body portion 202B of the control units 200, 200' includes a control button 206 having a button surface 208. The control units 200, 200' may be configured to perform functions such as saving still images and / or videos in response to receiving various user inputs, such as short presses or long presses of the control button 206. The control button may further include a control button light indicator 209. The control button light indicator 209 can be used to indicate various information related to the control units 200, 200', such as whether or not the blade unit 100 is coupled.

[0065] The control unit 200 includes a battery pack 230. The battery pack may include batteries 222, such as rechargeable batteries. The battery pack 230 may be replaceable. If the battery pack 230 is replaceable, it provides a backup solution for low power situations, as a spare battery pack can be kept with the control unit 200.

[0066] Battery 222 may be configured to supply power to the control unit 200. Battery 222 may be further configured to supply power to the image sensor 402 and / or light emitter 404. For example, when the control unit 200 and the blade unit are coupled, battery 222 may be configured to supply power to the electronics of the blade unit 100, such as the image sensor 402 and light emitter 404 of the blade unit 100. The control unit 200' can receive power from the monitoring device, so the battery and / or battery pack can be omitted. However, in some examples, the control unit 200' may also include a battery pack 230 and / or battery 222.

[0067] The control units 200, 200' are provided with an electrical control unit connector 220 at the distal end 203 of the first main body 202A. The electrical control unit connector 220 is configured to electrically connect the control units 200, 200' to the camera unit 400, image sensor 402, and / or light emitter 404 of the blade unit 100. Furthermore, the electrical control unit connector 220 may be used to connect a data transfer cable to the control units 200, 200' to enable data transfer from the internal memory of the control units 200, 200' to an external device such as a laptop, smartphone, or tablet.

[0068] The control unit 200 includes a power button 224. The control unit 200 may also include a battery light indicator, which may form part of the power button or be separate from the power button. For example, the battery light indicator may be provided by the display of the control unit display element 210, or the power button 224 may include the battery light indicator. The power button 224 and / or the battery light indicator may be located on the control unit display element 210, for example, on the side of the control unit display element 210 as shown. The power button 224 and the battery light indicator may be located on the same side of the control unit display element 210, for example, adjacent to each other. The power button 224 can be used to turn the control unit 200 on / off and / or to check the current state of the battery 222. The power button 224 can be omitted because the control unit 200' can receive power from the monitoring device and therefore can be turned on each time it is connected to the monitoring device. However, in some examples, the control unit 200' may also include the power button 224. In particular, if the control unit 200' includes a battery pack 230 and / or a battery 222, it may be appropriate to also provide the disclosed power button 224 on the control unit 200'.

[0069] The control unit 200 may include a light sensor 260. The control unit 200 may be configured to automatically adjust the brightness of the control unit display 212 according to the amount of ambient light. For example, when the control unit 200 is used in a setting with a lot of ambient light, for example outdoors, the brightness of the control unit display 212 may be high, while when it is used in a setting with little ambient light, for example indoors such as in a dark room, the brightness of the control unit display 212 may be low. When the screen brightness is adjusted, and to what level the screen brightness has been adjusted, an icon or warning may be displayed on the screen. Additionally or alternatively, the user may have the possibility to manually adjust the brightness of the control unit display 212, for example via a touch interface on the control unit display 212. For example, the user can increase the brightness by swiping the control unit display 212 upwards and decrease the brightness by swiping the control unit display 212 downwards.

[0070] Referring again to Figure 3A, at the proximal end 102, the blade unit 100 includes a blade coupling 114 configured to connect the blade unit 100 to the control units 200, 200' to form the laryngoscopes 6, 6' (see Figures 6 and 7). The blade coupling 114 includes a channel 116 that extends along the channel axis AxC and accommodates the first body portion 202A of the control units 200, 200' (see Figures 4A, 4B, 5A and 5B). The first body portion 202A of the control units 200, 200' may extend along the first body axis AxB, as shown in Figures 4A, 4B, 5A and 5B. When the first body portion 202A is accommodated in the channel 116 of the blade unit 100, the first body axis AxB may be substantially parallel to the channel axis AxC.

[0071] The channel 116 is formed by a first channel portion 116A and a second channel portion 116B. The second channel portion 116B is located between the proximal end 102 of the blade unit 100 and the first channel portion 116A. Preferably, the second channel portion has dimensions that fit a human finger, such that the minimum distance between the proximal end 102 of the blade unit and the first channel portion 116A is about 1 cm. The first channel portion 116A and the second channel portion 116B are connected along a connecting portion 118 and separated along a slit portion 120.

[0072] Figure 3B schematically shows a cross-sectional view of an exemplary joint 114 along line BB in Figure 3A. The joint extends from a first angular position 122A to a second angular position 122B with respect to the channel axis AxC. The slit 120 extends from a second angular position 122B to a first angular position 122A with respect to the channel axis AxC. The slit 120 may be longer than the joint 118, that is, the angular distance between the first angular position 122A and the second angular position 122B along the joint 118 may be smaller than the angular distance between the first angular position 122A and the second angular position 122B along the slit 120. For example, the angular distance between the first angular position 122A and the second angular position 122B along the joint 118 may be less than 180 degrees, for example less than 150 degrees. In some examples, the slit portion 120 may extend beyond approximately 70% of the circumference of the channel 116, for example, to increase the flexibility of the second channel portion 116B.

[0073] Figure 3C schematically shows a cross-sectional view of an exemplary joint 114 along the CC line in Figure 3A. The second channel portion 116B includes a retaining element 124 between the first retaining element angular position 126A and the second retaining element angular position 126B, with the channel axis AxC as the center.

[0074] The retaining element 124 may be a protrusion, as shown in the figure. Alternatively, the retaining element may be a recess. The retaining element 124 is provided on the inner surface of the second channel portion 116B and is oriented toward the channel axis AxC. The first body portion 202A of the control units 200, 200' may include one or more cooperating retaining elements 248 (see Figures 4A, 4B, 5A, and 5B). The retaining element 124 is configured to engage with one or more cooperating retaining elements 248 of the first body portion 202A of the control units 200, 200'.

[0075] The angular positions 126A and 126B of the first retaining element are located within the slit portion 120. The angular distance dA1 between the first retaining element angular position 126A and the first angular position 122A is at least 45 degrees, for example, at least 70 degrees. The angular distance dA2 between the second retaining element angular position 126B and the second angular position 122B is at least 45 degrees, for example, at least 70 degrees. The angular distance dA1 between the first retaining element angular position 126A and the first angular position 122A, and the angular distance dA2 between the second retaining element angular position 126B and the second angular position 122B may be substantially the same.

[0076] The slit 120 between the first channel portion 116A and the second channel portion 116B provides flexibility to the second channel portion 116B, allowing the wall of the second channel portion 116B, which includes the retaining element 124, to move radially outward, i.e., away from the channel axis AxC, thereby allowing the retaining element 124 to pass over the cooperating retaining element 248 of the control units 200, 200'. Furthermore, with this configuration, the retaining element 124 can be pushed radially outward, i.e., away from the channel axis, for example, by a user pushing the side of the second channel portion 116B radially inward at the pinch point indicator 130. Thus, the user can remove the blade unit 100 from the control units 200, 200' by pinching the second channel portion 116B. The ends of the slit 120 are preferably set away from the opening of the channel 116 and include, for example, a curved end 132, which curves downward so that stress accumulation and potential cracks in the material are diverted away from the opening. As the length of the slit increases, the flexibility of the second channel portion 116B increases so that the gripping force for releasing the blade from the control unit can be adjusted as needed.

[0077] Referring to Figures 4B and 5B, the first main body portion 202A of the control units 200, 200' may be tapered along the portion located in the second channel portion 116A when housed in the channel 116, and the side surface of the second channel portion 116B may be flexible inward when separating the blade unit from the control units 200, 200'. The first main body portion 202A may have a first width w1 at a first position between the proximal end 252 of the first main body portion 202A adjacent to the second main body portion 202B and an intermediate position 254 along the first main body axis AxB. The first main body portion may have a second width w2 which is greater than the first width w1. The second width w2 is located at a second position between the intermediate position 254 and the distal position 256 along the first main body axis AxB. The second width may decrease toward the distal position 256. The width of the first body portion 202A may decrease toward the distal portion 256 and / or toward the distal end 203. The width of the first body portion 202A may decrease to facilitate insertion of the first body portion 202A into the channel 116 of the blade unit 100.

[0078] As can be seen in Figures 3B and 3C, the blade unit 100, more specifically the channel 116, may have a cross-sectional shape that is not rotationally symmetric. For example, the cross-sectional shape of the channel 116 may be somewhat triangular, as shown in the figure. The first body portion 202A of the control units 200, 200' (see Figures 4A to 5B) may have a corresponding cross-sectional shape so that the first body portion 202A can be housed within the channel 116. The cross-sectional shape may have only one line of symmetry.

[0079] The non-rotationally symmetrical cross-sectional shape facilitates easy and precise coupling between the control units 200, 200' and the blade unit 100. Incorrect engagement of the two components is problematic and unintuitive from the start of engagement, and is therefore noticeable to the user in the early stages of assembly.

[0080] Furthermore, the exemplary shapes of the channel 116 and the first main body 202A can provide a handle portion 110 that fits in the palm of the hand.

[0081] Figure 3D schematically shows a cross-sectional view of the blade unit 100 of Figure 3A. The first channel portion 116A may include one or more alignment mechanisms 128. The first body portion 202A of the control units 200, 200' may include one or more cooperating alignment mechanisms 250 (see Figures 4A and 5A). One or more alignment mechanisms 128 are configured to engage with one or more cooperating alignment mechanisms 250. For example, the alignment mechanism 128 may be a projection, and the cooperating alignment mechanism 250 of the control units 200, 200' may be a slit, such as a slit extending along the first body axis AxB. Alternatively, the alignment mechanism 128 may be a slit extending along, for example, the channel axis AxC, and the cooperating alignment mechanism 250 may be a projection. One or more cooperating alignment mechanisms 250 may be provided along the first main body axis AxB between an intermediate position 254 and a distal position 256.

[0082] The blade unit 100 includes a camera unit 400 which comprises an image sensor 402 and optionally a light-emitting element 404. For example, the camera unit 400 may be located in the distal portion 106. The blade unit 100 includes an electric blade connector 112. The electric blade connector 112 may have one or more terminals electrically connected to the image sensor 402 and / or the light-emitting element 404 via an electric camera connector 401 which extends from the electric blade connector 112 to the camera unit 400 in the distal portion 106. The electric blade connector 112 is configured to electrically connect the image sensor 402 and / or the light-emitting element 404 to control units 200, 200'. The electric blade connector 112 is located in the channel 116 at the distal end 117 of the channel 116 opposite the proximal end 102 of the blade unit 100, as shown in the figure. The electric blade connector 112 is configured to connect to the electric control unit connector 220 of the control units 200, 200' (see Figures 4A, 4B, 5A, and 5B).

[0083] Figure 6 schematically shows an exemplary laryngoscope 6 formed from the control unit 200 described in more detail in Figures 4A and 4B, and the blade unit 100 described in more detail in Figure 3A. Similarly, Figure 7 schematically shows another exemplary laryngoscope 6' formed from the control unit 200' described in more detail in Figures 5A and 5B, and the blade unit 100 described in more detail in Figure 3A. As will be understood below, laryngoscopes 6 and 6' have identical or very similar features. Therefore, Figures 6 and 7 will be described together below.

[0084] The control units 200, 200' and the blade unit 100 collectively form laryngoscopes 6, 6', with the handle portion 110 extending along the first axis Ax1. The anterior direction Fw of the laryngoscopes 6, 6' is perpendicular to the first axis Ax1, toward the distal end 104 of the blade unit 100. The posterior direction Rw of the laryngoscopes 6, 6' is opposite to the anterior direction Fw. The anterior direction Fw and the posterior direction Rw extend within the central plane of the laryngoscope, defined by the first axis and the distal end 104 of the blade unit 100. In Figure 6, the central plane of the laryngoscope is in the plane of the paper.

[0085] The laryngoscopes 6, 6' include a camera unit 400 having an image sensor 402 and optionally a light emitter 404. As previously mentioned, in some examples the camera unit 400 can form part of the blade unit 100, and in other examples the camera unit 400 can form part of the control units 200, 200'. The image sensor 402 is configured to generate image data showing a view from the distal portion 106 of the blade unit 100 in a line of sight direction V at least partially toward the distal end 104. It is desirable that the distal end 104 of the blade unit 100 be visible in the field of view so that the operator can see where the distal end 104 is positioned relative to anatomical structures and / or the intubation tube. However, it is preferable that the distal end 104 of the blade unit 100 does not occupy an excessive portion of the field of view. The control units 200, 200' are configured to receive image data from the image sensor 402 while the image data is being generated by the image sensor 402. The camera unit 400, including the image sensor 402 of the camera unit 400, may be positioned on the opposite side of the first surface 108 of the distal portion 106. The camera unit 400, including the image sensor 402 of the camera unit 400, may be positioned at the blade tip distance db between the front surface of the image sensor 402 and the distal end 104 of the blade unit 100. For example, the blade tip distance db may be between 19 and 50 mm.

[0086] The mounting portion 204 of the control units 200, 200' is positioned rearward Rw with respect to the first axis Ax1. Furthermore, the control button 206, having a button surface 208, is positioned forward Fw with respect to the mounting portion 204. This allows the control button 206 to be operated by the index finger when holding the handle portion 110 of the laryngoscope 6, 6'. Providing the control button 206, which is operated by the index finger, has the advantage that a firm grip on the handle portion with the thumb and middle, ring, and / or little fingers can be maintained. A further advantage of the control unit 200 in Figure 6 is that the control button 206 is positioned such that operating it does not obstruct viewing the control unit display.

[0087] The button surface 208 of the control button 206 has a button surface normal 208n. In some examples, the button surface 208 may be curved in various directions. In such examples, the button surface normal 208n may be the normal at the center of the button surface 208. The button may be tilted forward to be more easily accessible, for example, with an index finger. Therefore, the angle between the button surface normal 208n and the forward direction Fw may be less than 90 degrees, for example less than 80 degrees. The angle between the button surface normal 208n and the first axis Ax1 may be between 0 and 180 degrees, for example between 1 and 179 degrees. The angle between the button surface normal 208n and the first axis Ax1 may be less than 90 degrees.

[0088] The control unit 200' includes a connector cable 216 configured to connect the control unit 200' to a monitoring device, as shown in Figure 2. Advantageously, the connector cable extends from the second body portion 202B, such as the mounting portion 204 of the second body portion 202B, in a direction 217 substantially parallel to the first axis Ax1, as shown in the figure.

[0089] Figure 8 schematically shows another exemplary laryngoscope assembly 4”. The laryngoscope assembly 4”. comprises a blade unit 100', which, like the blade unit 100, is configured to be at least partially inserted into the patient's oral cavity during an intubation procedure. The laryngoscope assembly 4”. further comprises a control unit 200” having a control unit display 212. The control unit 200” is connectable to the blade unit 100'. A control unit 200” similar to the control units 200, 200' described above comprises a body 202 having a first body 202A and a second body 202B. However, the first body 202A of the control unit 200” differs in that it comprises an extension 258, which may be a flexible element. The extension 258 extends to the distal end 203 of the first body 202A.

[0090] The camera unit 400, image sensor 402, and / or light-emitting element 404 may be located at the distal end 203 of the first body portion 202A. In this embodiment, the blade unit 100' may lack the camera unit, image sensor, and / or light-emitting element, and instead may have a channel for housing an extension 258 of the first body portion 202A of the control unit 200''. Thus, when the control unit 200'' and the blade unit 100' are coupled, the camera unit 400, image sensor 402, and / or light-emitting element 404 may be located at the distal portion 106 of the blade unit 100', with their line of sight at least partially toward the distal end 104 of the blade unit 100'. Such embodiments may be advantageous in that the blade unit 100' may have fewer electronic components and therefore be less expensive. However, on the other hand, the position of the camera unit 400 relative to the distal end of the blade unit 100' may not be very precise, and changes in the distance between the camera unit 400 and the window of the blade unit 100' may result in undesirable reflections that affect image quality. Thus, a blade unit 100 in which the camera unit 400 is provided as part of the blade unit, for example, as shown in Figures 3A to 3D, may be more expensive but may be preferable based on superior image quality. In both situations, the blade units 100, 100' may be disposable elements.

[0091] Apart from the first main body 202A having the extension 258 and its elements, the control unit 200'' may be the same as the control unit 200 described above. Furthermore, although not specifically shown, a control unit 200' connectable to a monitoring device may also have a first main body 202A having the extension 258, and the camera unit 400, image sensor 402, and / or light emitter 404 may be located at the distal end 203 of the first main body 202A as described, and the control unit 200' may be connectable to a blade unit 100' that does not include the camera unit, image sensor, and / or light emitter.

[0092] Figure 9 is a schematic block diagram showing an exemplary laryngoscope assembly 4 comprising a control unit 200 and a blade unit 100. The laryngoscope assembly 4 may be, for example, a laryngoscope assembly 4 as illustrated in Figures 1 and 6.

[0093] The blade unit 100 includes a camera unit 400 having an image sensor 402 and a light emitter 404. The image sensor 402 is positioned to generate image data showing a view from the distal portion of the blade unit in a direction at least partially toward the distal end. The light emitter 404 is positioned to emit light such that it illuminates the field of view of the image sensor 402 or a portion thereof along the line of sight.

[0094] The control unit 200, such as the control unit processing unit 218 of the control unit 200, is configured to receive image data from the image sensor 402 while the image data is being generated by the image sensor 402. To achieve this, the control unit 200 is connectable to the blade unit 100. For example, as shown, the control unit 200 includes an electrical control unit connector 220 having a plurality of terminals 221, and the blade unit 100 includes an electrical blade connector 112 having a plurality of terminals 113. The electrical control unit connector 220 is connectable to the electrical blade connector 112 to electrically connect the terminals 221 of the electrical control unit connector 220 to the terminals 113 of the electrical blade connector 112. The terminals 113 of the electrical blade connector 112 can be electrically connected to the image sensor 402 and the light-emitting element 404 (for example, via one or more integrated circuits not shown). As a result, when the electrical control unit connector 220 and the electrical blade connector 112 are connected, the control unit 200, such as the control processing unit 218 of the control unit 200, establishes an electrical connection with the image sensor 402 and / or light-emitting element 404 of the blade unit 100.

[0095] The control unit 200 may include a control unit display 212, and the control unit 200, such as the control processing unit 218 of the control unit, may be configured to display a live representation of the image data received from the image sensor 402 on the control unit display 212.

[0096] The control unit 200 includes a battery 222. The battery 222 may be provided as part of a battery pack that includes, for example, mechanical elements and / or additional circuitry for charging the battery 222 and / or determining its charge level. The battery 222 may be a rechargeable battery. The battery 222 may be configured to power the control unit 200, such as the electronic components of the control unit 200. The battery 222 may be further configured to power the image sensor 402 and / or the light emitter 404. For example, the battery 222 may be configured to power the electronics of the blade unit 100, such as the image sensor 402 and the light emitter 404 of the blade unit 100, when the control unit 200 and the blade unit are coupled together. For example, the battery 222 may be configured to power the electronics of the blade unit 100, such as the image sensor 402 and the light emitter 404 of the blade unit 100, via terminals 113, 221 of electrical connectors 112, 220.

[0097] The control unit 200 may include a power button 224 and / or a battery light indicator 226. The battery light indicator 226 may form part of the power button 224; for example, the power button 224 may include the battery light indicator 226. For example, the battery light indicator 226 may be integrated with the power button 224. The power button 224 can be used to turn the power on / off of the control unit 200 and / or its components. For example, the power button 224 can be used to supply power to the image sensor 402 and / or the light emitter 404, and / or the control unit display 212, and / or the control unit processing unit 218. The power button 224 may, alternatively or additionally, be used to check the current state of the battery 222. For example, a control unit 200, such as a control unit processing unit 218 of the control unit 200, may be configured to detect a first user input corresponding to a first press (e.g., a short press) of the power button 224, and to provide a battery status indicator, for example, using a battery light indicator 226 or a control unit display 212, in accordance with the detection of the first user input. A control unit 200, such as a control unit processing unit 218 of the control unit 200, may be further configured to detect a second user input corresponding to a second press (e.g., a long press, different from the first press), and to turn the control unit 200 on / off in accordance with the detection of the second user input. Thus, for example, a user can use a short press to check the battery status (e.g., without needing to turn on the control unit 200 for use), and can use a long press to turn on the control unit 200 for use. The distinction between a long press and a short press may be made, for example, by the control unit processing unit 218, based on the duration of the press. In other words, a long press of the power button 224 may last for a duration of a threshold time (e.g., 1 second) or longer, while a short press may last for a duration of less than the threshold time. The battery status indicator may have a duration of 0.5 to 2.0 seconds, for example, in response to the detection of a first user input.

[0098] The control unit 200, for example, the control unit processing unit 218 or a dedicated circuit for the control unit 200, may be configured to determine the remaining battery level of the battery 222. Depending on whether the remaining battery level is below a low battery threshold (e.g., 20%), the battery status indicator may include periodically lighting the battery light indicator 226 multiple times in a first color (e.g., orange). Depending on whether the remaining battery level is above the low battery threshold but below a high battery threshold (e.g., 50%), the battery status indicator may include lighting the battery light indicator 226 once in the first color. Depending on whether the remaining battery level is above the high battery threshold, the battery status indicator may include lighting the battery light indicator 226 once in a second color (e.g., green).

[0099] A control unit 200, such as a control unit processing unit 218, may be configured to activate a power-saving mode when the control unit 200 is not in use or has not been in use for a predetermined period of time. For example, the control unit 200 may be equipped with an accelerometer, and the control unit 200, such as a control unit processing unit 218, may be configured to activate a power-saving mode based on the accelerometer reading. The accelerometer reading may be considered to indicate whether the device is being handled, i.e., in use or in storage. The accelerometer reading, in combination with other variables such as whether the blades are coupled, can determine whether and / or when the power-saving mode should be activated. For example, the power-saving mode may be activated when an activity threshold, based on, for example, an accelerometer reading, has not been reached. The activity threshold may differ depending on whether the blade unit is coupled to the control unit; for example, if the blade unit is not coupled, the activity threshold may be higher than if the blade unit is coupled to the control unit. In power-saving mode, several functions can be turned off, such as disabling the touch function of the control unit display or reducing screen brightness.

[0100] The control unit 200 may include a control button 206 as illustrated in Figures 4A and 4B. The control unit 200 may be configured to perform functions such as saving still images and / or videos in response to receiving various user inputs, such as short presses or long presses of the control button 206. The control button 206 may be coupled to a control unit processing unit 218, which may be used to interpret the user input received by the control button 206 and / or to perform actions according to the received user input. The control unit 200, such as the control processing unit 218, may be configured to identify various types of user inputs on the control button 206. For example, the control unit 200, such as the control processing unit 218, can distinguish between a short press with a duration shorter than a threshold time (e.g., 1 second) and a long press with a duration longer than that threshold time.

[0101] For example, a control unit 200, such as a control unit processing unit 218, may be configured to detect a first user input corresponding to a first press (e.g., a short press) of a control button 206, and, in accordance with the detection of the first user input, to record a first image file (for example, in the memory 219 of the control unit 200) corresponding to the image data received when the first user input was detected. Similarly, a control unit 200, such as a control unit processing unit 218, may be configured to detect a second user input corresponding to a second press (e.g., a long press) of a control button 206, and, in accordance with the detection of the second user input, to start recording a first video file (for example, in the memory 219 of the control unit 200) corresponding to the image data received after the detection of the second user input. After the detection of the second user input, a control unit 200, such as a control unit processing unit 218, may be configured to detect a third user input corresponding to a second press (e.g., a long press) of a control button 206, and, in accordance with the detection of the third user input, to terminate the recording of the first video file. Therefore, the first video file may correspond to image data received between the detection of the second and third user inputs. Thus, for example, a short press may be used to capture a still image, and a long press may be used to start and stop video recording. During video file recording, i.e., between the detection of the second and third user inputs, it may also be possible to capture a still image, i.e., one corresponding to an individual image in the video file, by, for example, a short press. When capturing a still image and / or starting or stopping video recording, the control unit 200, such as the control unit processing unit 218, may temporarily display, for example, a colored border around the live image on the control unit display 212 to indicate to the user that video and / or still images have been recorded. In some examples, during video recording, the border may be continuously displayed while recording is in progress and disappear when recording is stopped. In some examples, the control unit 200, such as the control unit processing unit 218, may be configured to start recording a video file in response to detection that the control unit 200 is coupled to a blade unit.This allows for recording the entire procedure, from the assembly of the laryngoscope onwards.

[0102] The control unit 200, such as the control unit processing unit 218, may be configured to automatically stop video recording when it is detected that the remaining memory has fallen below a certain threshold. This allows the complete video file to be saved to memory 219 before it becomes completely full, reducing the risk of saving potentially corrupted files. In some examples, the user interface on the control unit display 212 can display the remaining memory in terms of how many minutes of video recording can be saved.

[0103] The electrical control unit connector 220 may also be used to connect a data transfer cable to the control unit 200 to enable the transfer of data, such as image and / or video data, from the memory 219 of the control unit 200 to an external device such as a laptop, smartphone, or tablet. The data transfer cable may have a plug similar to the electrical blade connector 112 at one end and a USB plug at the other end, thereby facilitating connection between the control unit 200 and an external device having a USB port. When connected to an external device, the control unit 200 can function like a flash drive. The control unit display may, when connected to an external device, display "File Transfer" to indicate that files are being transferred to the external device. In some examples, when connected to an external device, the file transfer function may be powered by the external device. In some examples, the battery of the control unit 200 may not be charged, but may not be discharged either. In some examples, after disconnecting the data transfer cable, the control unit 200 returns to the same state (on / off) as before the data transfer cable was connected.

[0104] The control unit 200 may include a control button light indicator 209, which may be integrated with the control button 206, as described with respect to Figures 4A and 4B. The control button light indicator 209 can be used to indicate various information related to the control unit 200, such as whether or not the blade unit 100 is coupled. For example, a control unit 200, such as a control unit processing unit 218, can detect coupling with the blade unit 100 and, in accordance with the detection of coupling between the blade unit 100 and the control unit 200, provides a first visual indication by the control button light indicator 209. In accordance with the detection that there is no coupling between the blade unit 100 and the control unit 200, the control unit 200, such as a control unit processing unit 218, can provide a second visual indication using the control button light indicator. For example, the first visual indication may correspond to the control button light indicator 209 being continuously lit, and the second visual indication may correspond to the control button light indicator 209 blinking. Alternatively or additionally, the first visual representation may be in the first color, and the second visual representation may be in the second (different) color.

[0105] It should be understood that the explanation in Figure 9 applies mutatis mutandis to the laryngoscope assembly 4'' in Figure 8. In such an example, the camera unit 400 may form part of the control unit 200 (corresponding to the control unit 200'' in Figure 8), and at least the electronic components of the electrical connectors 220 and 112 may be omitted. In such a system, the blade unit 100 may not have any electronic components.

[0106] Figure 10 is a schematic block diagram showing an exemplary visualization system 2 having a laryngoscope assembly 4' and a monitoring device 300. The laryngoscope assembly 4' comprises a control unit 200' and a blade unit 100. The laryngoscope assembly 4' may be a laryngoscope assembly 4' as illustrated in Figures 2 and 7, for example. The control unit 200' may be connectable to the monitoring device. The blade unit 100 may be similar to the blade unit 100 illustrated and described with respect to Figure 9. The monitoring device 300 may be a monitoring device 300 as shown in Figure 2. For example, the monitoring device 300 may comprise a monitor display 302, a monitor processing unit 304, and a monitor connector 306.

[0107] The control unit 200' is configured to receive image data from the image sensor 402 while the image data is being generated by the image sensor 402. To achieve this, the control unit 200' is connectable to the blade unit 100. For example, as shown, the control unit 200' includes an electrical control unit connector 220 having a plurality of terminals 221, and the blade unit 100 includes an electrical blade connector 112 having a plurality of terminals 113. The electrical control unit connector 220 is connectable to the electrical blade connector 112 to electrically connect the terminals 221 of the electrical control unit connector 220 to the terminals 113 of the electrical blade connector 112. The terminals 113 of the electrical blade connector 112 can be electrically connected to the image sensor 402 and the light-emitting element 404 (for example, via one or more integrated circuits not shown). Thus, when the electrical control unit connector 220 and the electrical blade connector 112 are connected, the control unit 200' establishes an electrical connection between the blade unit 100 and the image sensor 402 and / or the light-emitting element 404.

[0108] The control unit 200' may include a connector cable 216. The connector cable 216 may be configured to connect the control unit 200' to the monitoring device 300. For example, the connector cable 216 may be connectable to the monitor connector 306 of the monitoring device 300. In some examples, the connector cable 216 may have a plug, and the monitor connector 306 may have a corresponding socket for receiving the plug of the connector cable 216. The control unit 200' may include a cable interface 215 for connecting the connector cable 216 to the internal electronics of the control unit 200'. The connector cable 216 may be detachable from the rest of the control unit 200' at the cable interface 215, or it may be fixedly attached to the rest of the control unit 200'. The control unit 200', such as the control processing unit 218 of the control unit 200', may be configured to display a live representation of image data received from the image sensor 402 on the monitor display 302 of the monitoring device 300, for example, via the connector cable 216.

[0109] In some examples, the control unit 200' may include a control unit processing unit 218, similar to that described in Figure 9, for receiving and processing image data from, for example, the image sensor 402. In such examples, the control unit processing unit 218 may transfer the image data to the monitor processing unit 304 of the monitor device 300 via the connector cable 216. However, as shown in the figure, the control unit 200' can alternatively omit the control unit processing unit and provide a connection between the connector cable 216 and the electrical control unit connector 220, thereby substantially providing a connection between the monitor device 300 and the blade unit 100. This allows the monitor processing unit 304 to display the live representation on the monitor display 302.

[0110] Compared to the control unit 200, the control unit 200' may omit a battery and may be powered by the monitoring device 300, for example, via a connector cable 216. The monitoring device 300 may have a battery and / or power supply to power both the monitoring device 300 and the control unit 200'. However, in some examples, the control unit 200' may have a battery 222, as described with respect to Figure 9. The control unit 200' may be configured to power the image sensor 402 and / or light emitter 404. For example, the control unit 200' may be configured to power the electronics of the blade unit 100, such as the image sensor 402 and light emitter 404, when the control unit 200' and the blade unit 100 are coupled together. For example, the control unit 200 may be configured to power the electronics of the blade unit 100, such as the image sensor 402 and light emitter 404, via terminals 113 and 221 of electrical connectors 112 and 220.

[0111] Compared to control unit 200, control unit 200' can omit a power button and / or battery light indicator because, for example, control unit 200' may be powered by monitoring device 300 and therefore does not require a power on / off function and / or battery status indicator. However, in other examples, control unit 200' may include a power button 224 and / or battery light indicator 226, as described with respect to Figure 9.

[0112] Although the control unit 200' in the embodiment lacks a display, a control unit comprising both a connector cable 216 and a display unit can also be realized based on this disclosure. Therefore, the features of control units 200, 200', and 200'' can be combined.

[0113] The control unit 200' may include a control button 206 as illustrated in Figures 5A and 5B. The control unit 200' may be configured to perform functions such as saving still images and / or videos in response to receiving various user inputs, such as short presses or long presses of the control button 206. If the control unit 200' includes a control processing unit, the control button 206 may be coupled to the control unit processing unit 218 and function as described with respect to Figure 9. Alternatively, however, as shown, the control button 206 may be connected to a connector cable 216, and a monitoring device 300, such as a monitor processing unit 304, may be used to interpret the user input received by the control button 206 and / or to perform actions in response to the received user input. The monitoring device 300, such as the monitor processing unit 304, may be configured to identify various types of user inputs at the control button 206. For example, a monitoring device 300, such as a monitoring processing unit 304, can distinguish between a short press having a duration shorter than a threshold time (e.g., 1 second) and a long press having a duration longer than that threshold time.

[0114] For example, a monitoring device 300, such as a monitoring processing unit 304, may be configured to detect a first user input corresponding to a first press (e.g., a short press) of the control button 206, and, in accordance with the detection of the first user input, to record a first image file (for example, in the memory 305 of the monitoring device 300) corresponding to the image data received when the first user input was detected. Similarly, a monitoring device 300, such as a monitoring processing unit 304, may be configured to detect a second user input corresponding to a second press (e.g., a long press) of the control button 206, and, in accordance with the detection of the second user input, to start recording a first video file (for example, in the memory 305 of the monitoring device 300) corresponding to the image data received after the detection of the second user input. After the detection of the second user input, a monitoring device 300, such as a monitoring processing unit 304, may be configured to detect a third user input corresponding to a second press (e.g., a long press) of the control button 206, and, in accordance with the detection of the third user input, to terminate the recording of the first video file. Therefore, the first video file may correspond to image data received between the detection of the second and third user inputs. Thus, for example, a short press may be used to capture a still image, and a long press may be used to start and stop video recording. During video file recording, i.e., between the detection of the second and third user inputs, it may also be possible to capture a still image, i.e., one corresponding to an individual image in the video file, by, for example, a short press. When capturing a still image and / or starting or stopping video recording, the monitoring device 300, such as the monitoring processing unit 304, may temporarily display, for example, a colored border around the live image on the monitoring device display 302 to indicate to the user that video and / or still images have been recorded. In some examples, during video recording, the border may be continuously displayed while recording is in progress and disappear when recording is stopped. In some examples, the monitoring device 300, such as the monitoring processing unit 304, may be configured to start recording the video file in response to detection that the control unit 200' is coupled to the blade unit.This allows the entire procedure, from the assembly of the laryngoscope, to be recorded. If the control unit 200' is coupled to the blade unit before it is connected to the monitoring device 300, the monitoring device 300, such as the monitoring processing unit 304, may be configured to start recording in response to the connection of the control unit 200' to the monitoring device 300.

[0115] The monitoring device 300, such as the monitoring processing unit 304, may be configured to automatically stop video recording when it detects that the remaining memory has fallen below a certain threshold. This allows the complete video file to be saved to memory 305 before it becomes completely full, reducing the risk of saving potentially corrupted files. In some examples, the user interface on the monitoring device display 302 can display the remaining memory in terms of how many minutes of video recording can be saved.

[0116] The control unit 200' may include a control button light indicator 209, which may be integrated with the control button 206, as described with respect to Figures 5A and 5B. The control button light indicator 209 can be used to indicate various information related to the control unit 200', such as whether or not the blade unit 100 is coupled. For example, the control unit 200' and / or a monitoring device 300, such as a monitoring processing unit 304, can detect coupling with the blade unit 100 and provide a first visual indication by the control button light indicator 209 in accordance with the detection of coupling between the blade unit 100 and the control unit 200'. A second visual indication can be provided using the control button light indicator 209 in accordance with the detection that there is no coupling between the blade unit 100 and the control unit 200. For example, the first visual indication may correspond to the control button light indicator 209 being continuously lit, and the second visual indication may correspond to the control button light indicator 209 blinking. Alternatively or additionally, the first visual representation may be in the first color, and the second visual representation may be in the second (different) color.

[0117] As with Figure 9, it should be understood that the description of Figure 10 applies mutatis mutandis to a laryngoscope assembly having a control unit 200' that can be connected to a monitoring device modified to include an extension 258, as described with respect to Figure 8. In such an example, the camera unit 400 may form part of the control unit 200', and at least the electronic components of the electrical connectors 220, 112 may be omitted. In such a system, the blade unit 100 may not have any electronic components.

[0118] Figure 11 schematically shows an exemplary control unit 200, more specifically showing that the control unit 200 can utilize a replaceable battery pack 230 configured to supply power to the control unit 200. The control unit 200 includes a battery receptacle 228 configured to house the replaceable battery pack 230. Figure 12 schematically shows the battery pack 230 from the side housed by the battery receptacle 228. The battery receptacle 228 includes a battery connector 232 having a plurality of battery connector terminals 234. The battery connector terminals 234 are configured to cooperate with corresponding connection terminals 236 of the replaceable battery pack 230. The battery pack 230 may comprise a rechargeable battery. Thus, the battery pack 230 may be removed from the control unit 200 and placed in a charger configured to charge the battery.

[0119] The battery pack 230 may be sized to be held in the battery holder 228 by friction. For this reason, a mechanical lock between the battery pack 230 and the battery holder 228 may be omitted. This means that the battery pack 230 can be easily attached to the battery holder 228 simply by pushing it into place. The battery pack 230 may have a portion that is slightly wider than the width of the first body portion 202A, so that the battery pack protrudes slightly from the side of the first body portion 202A. This may make it easier to remove the battery pack 230.

[0120] The battery receptacle 228 includes an outer connector seal 238 surrounding the battery connector 232. The outer connector seal 238 is configured to contact a corresponding surface 240 of the replaceable battery pack 230 when the replaceable battery pack 230 is housed in the battery receptacle 228. The corresponding surface 240 of the replaceable battery pack 230 is the surface surrounding the connection terminals 236 of the replaceable battery pack 230. This limits the ingress of water or other liquids into the electrical interface between the battery pack 230 and the battery receptacle 228. Thus, the risk of liquids interfering with the electrical connection is reduced. The replaceable battery pack 230 may lack an outer sealing element configured to contact a surface of the control unit 200, such as the surface of the battery receptacle 228. Therefore, the corresponding surface 240 of the replaceable battery pack 230 that contacts the outer connector seal 238 may be a portion of the outer surface of the battery pack, for example, as shown by the dotted line in Figure 12, and may not be visually distinguishable from the rest of such a surface.

[0121] The battery holder 228 may form part of the first body portion 202A of the control unit 200, as shown in the figure. As previously mentioned, the first body portion 202A may be configured to be housed and surrounded by a blade unit, such as the handle portion 110 of the blade unit 100 (see Figure 6). This allows the battery pack 230 and the battery holder 228 to be completely enclosed by the blade unit 100, i.e., the battery pack 230 does not form part of the outer surface of the assembled laryngoscope and is kept out of contact with the patient. Because the battery pack 230 does not form part of the outer surface of the assembled laryngoscope, the battery pack is protected, which is particularly advantageous for rechargeable battery packs 230.

[0122] Figure 13 schematically shows an exemplary cross-sectional view of the battery connector 232 of the battery receptacle 228, as described in Figure 11. Since Figures 11 to 13 are schematic, there may be slight differences between the drawings, and some details may be shown in one or two drawings but omitted in others. As described above, the battery receptacle 228 includes a battery connector 232 having a plurality of battery connector terminals 234 configured to cooperate with the corresponding connection terminals 236 (see Figure 12) of the replaceable battery pack 230. The battery receptacle 228 includes an outer connector seal 238 surrounding the battery connector 232, which is configured to contact the corresponding surface 240 of the replaceable battery pack 230 when the replaceable battery pack 230 is housed in the battery receptacle 228.

[0123] The control unit 200 may include an internal seal 242 surrounding the battery connector 232. The internal seal 242 prevents liquid from entering the internal space of the control unit 200 from the battery receptacle 228 when the replaceable battery pack 230 is not housed in the battery receptacle 228. The control unit 200 may further include a battery connector circuit 244, such as a printed circuit board or other electronic circuit known in the art, which is used to connect the battery connector terminals 234 to other relevant electronic components of the control unit 200 and to communicate with electronic components of the battery pack 230, such as a battery fuel gauge. The battery connector 232 is mounted on the first side of the battery connector circuit 244. The internal seal 242 is positioned between the battery connector circuit 244 and a shell element 246 that forms part of the battery receptacle 228. This limits the ingress of water or other liquids into the internal compartment of the control unit 200 at the battery connector 232, even when the battery pack 230 is not housed in it. Therefore, even if the battery pack 230 is not housed in the battery receptacle 228, the risk of liquid interfering with and potentially damaging the electronic components in the control unit 200 is reduced.

[0124] As described above, if, for example, the control unit 200' in Figures 5A and 5B or the control unit 200'' in Figure 8 is equipped with a battery, the battery may be provided in a battery pack such as the battery pack 230 described, and the control units 200' and 200'' may be equipped with a battery holder such as the battery holder 228 described above.

[0125] Figures 14A and 14B show an exemplary control unit 200, such as the control unit 200 described in the previous figures (for example, Figures 4A and 4B), from the side and front, respectively.

[0126] As can be seen, the control unit display element 210 may be positioned facing the user, i.e., in the rearward direction Rw relative to the first axis Ax1 and / or the main body axis AxB according to the terms described for Figures 4A, 4B, and 6. The inventors have found that moving the display toward the user promotes a good weight distribution of the control unit 200, both on its own and when coupled with the blade unit, and have verified this through user testing. This promotes good handling of the control unit 200, and as a result, can improve intubation.

[0127] The control unit 200 has a first control unit distance dd1 between the control unit display 212 and the hinge axis AxH. The first control unit distance dd1 may be 20 to 30 mm, for example, 23 to 25 mm.

[0128] The control unit display element 210 has a second control unit distance dd2 between its rear surface and its front surface, for example, the control unit display 212. The second control unit distance dd2 may be 10 to 20 mm, for example, 15 to 18 mm.

[0129] The hinge axis AxH may be positioned at a third control unit distance dd3 from the first axis Ax1 and / or the main body axis AxB. The third control unit distance dd3 may be 20 to 30 mm, for example, 25 to 29 mm.

[0130] The hinge axis AxH may be positioned between the upper and lower edges of the control unit display element 210, along the first axis Ax1 and / or the main body axis AxB. The hinge axis AxH may be positioned at a fourth control unit distance dd4 from the lower edge of the control unit display element 210. The fourth control unit distance dd4 may be 10 to 15 mm, for example, 12 to 13 mm.

[0131] The upper surface of the second body portion 202B may be inclined, and the button surface 208 of the control button 206 may be located below the hinge axis AxH by a fifth control unit distance dd5 along the first axis Ax1 and / or body portion axis AxB. The fifth control unit distance dd5 may be 1 to 10 mm, for example 4 to 6 mm. The button surface 208 and / or the upper surface of the second body portion 202B may form an upper body portion angle dAd1 with respect to a line perpendicular to the first axis Ax1 and / or body portion axis AxB. The upper body portion angle dAd1 may be 20 to 35 degrees, for example 25 to 30 degrees.

[0132] The control unit display element 210 may have a sixth control unit distance dd6, i.e., a height, between its bottom edge and top edge. The sixth control unit distance dd6 may be 60 to 100 mm, for example, 75 to 85 mm.

[0133] The control unit 200 may have a seventh control unit distance dd7 between the distal end 203 of the first body portion 202A and the hinge axis AxH along the first axis Ax1 and / or body portion axis AxB. The seventh control unit distance dd7 may be 90 to 110 mm, for example 95 to 105 mm. Although not shown, the control unit 200 may have a distance between the button surface 208 and the distal end 203 of the first body portion 202A, which may be 85 to 105 mm, for example 90 to 100 mm.

[0134] The first main body 202A may have an eighth control unit distance dd8 between its front surface facing forward Fw and its rear surface facing rearward Rw. The front surface may be the surface of a replaceable battery pack. The eighth control unit distance dd8 may be perpendicular to the first axis Ax1 and / or the main body axis AxB. The eighth control unit distance dd8 may be 20 to 35 mm, for example, 25 to 30 mm.

[0135] The control unit display element 210 may have a ninth control unit distance dd9 between its left edge and right edge. The ninth control unit distance dd9 may be 75 to 100 mm, for example, 80 to 90 mm.

[0136] As explained with respect to Figure 4B, the first main body portion 202A may have a first width w1 at the first position, and the first main body portion may have a second width w2 at the second position. The second width w2 may be greater than the first width w1. The first width w1 may be 25 to 35 mm, for example 26 to 29 mm. The second width w2 may be 25 to 35 mm, for example 29 to 32 mm.

[0137] The width of the first body portion 202A, for example, the second width w2, and / or the eighth control unit distance dd8 may decrease toward the distal end 203. The width of the first body portion 202A and / or the eighth control unit distance dd8 may be reduced to facilitate insertion of the first body portion 202A into the channel of the blade unit.

[0138] The inventors found that the geometry and size of the exemplary control unit 200 are advantageous in terms of ergonomics and handling.

[0139] Exemplary Embodiments Exemplary embodiments of this disclosure are described in the following sections. 1. A control unit comprising a main body having a first main body and a second main body, wherein the first main body is connectable to a blade unit extending from a proximal end to a distal end, and the blade unit has a distal portion extending to a distal end and having a first surface, and is configured such that the first surface faces the patient's tongue and the distal portion is inserted into the patient's oral cavity. When the control unit and the blade unit are coupled, a laryngoscope having a handle portion extending along a first axis is formed collectively, the anterior direction of the laryngoscope being perpendicular to the first axis toward the distal end of the blade unit, the posterior direction of the laryngoscope being opposite to the anterior direction, and both the anterior and posterior directions extending within the central plane of the laryngoscope defined by the first axis and the distal end of the blade unit. While image data is being generated by the image sensor, the control unit is configured to receive image data from the image sensor, and when the control unit is coupled to the blade unit, the image data shows a view from the distal portion of the blade unit in a direction toward the distal end, at least partially. The second main body has a mounting portion positioned rearward with respect to the first axis, and the second main body includes a control button whose button surface is positioned forward with respect to the mounting portion. A control unit for a laryngoscope.

[0140] 2. The control unit as described in item 1, wherein the button surface has a button surface normal, and the angle between the button surface normal and the forward direction is less than 90 degrees, for example, less than 80 degrees.

[0141] 3. A control unit according to any one of items 1 to 2, comprising a control unit display element having a control unit display, wherein the control unit display element is attached by hinge-type mounting to a mounting portion of a second main body.

[0142] 4. The control unit described in item 3, which is configured to display a live representation of image data on the control unit display.

[0143] 5. A control unit according to any one of items 1 to 2, comprising a connector cable configured to connect the control unit to a monitoring device, wherein the connector cable is attached to a mounting portion of the second main body.

[0144] 6. The control unit as described in item 5, wherein the connector cable extends from the second body portion in a direction substantially parallel to the first axis.

[0145] 7. A control unit as described in any one of items 1 to 6, wherein the button surface is equipped with tactile protrusions.

[0146] 8. A control unit according to any one of items 1 to 7, wherein the control unit is configured to detect a first user input corresponding to a first press of a control button, and to record a first image file corresponding to the image data received when the first user input was detected, in accordance with the detection of the first user input.

[0147] 9. A control unit according to any one of items 1 to 8, configured to detect a second user input corresponding to a second press of a control button, and to start recording a first video file corresponding to image data received after the detection of the second user input.

[0148] 10. The control unit according to item 9, wherein, after detecting a second user input, the control unit is configured to detect a third user input corresponding to a second press of a control button, and to terminate recording of the first video file in accordance with the detection of the third user input, thereby causing the first video file to correspond to image data received between the detection of the second user input and the detection of the third user input.

[0149] 11. A control unit according to any one of items 1 to 10, wherein the control button has a control button light indicator, and the control unit is configured to detect coupling with a blade unit, provide a first visual indication using the control button light indicator in accordance with the detection of coupling between the blade unit and the control unit, and provide a second visual indication using the control button light indicator in accordance with the detection of no coupling between the blade unit and the control unit.

[0150] 12. A control unit according to any one of items 1 to 11, further comprising a battery configured to supply power to a control unit, the battery optionally further configured to supply power to an image sensor and an optional light-emitting element.

[0151] 13. A control unit according to any one of items 1 to 12, comprising an image sensor, wherein the image sensor is located at the distal end of the first main body.

[0152] 14. A control unit according to any one of items 1 to 12, wherein the blade unit comprises an image sensor, and the control unit comprises an electrical control unit connector at the distal end of a first main body, the electrical control unit connector is configured to electrically connect the control unit to the image sensor of the blade unit.

[0153] 15. A laryngoscope assembly comprising a blade unit extending from a proximal end to a distal end, wherein the blade unit has a distal portion that extends to the distal end and has a first surface, and the first surface faces the patient's tongue and the distal portion is inserted into the patient's oral cavity, A laryngoscope assembly comprising a main body having a first main body and a second main body, and further comprising a control unit to which the first main body can be coupled to a blade unit, When the control unit and the blade unit are coupled, a laryngoscope having a handle portion extending along a first axis is formed collectively, the anterior direction of the laryngoscope being perpendicular to the first axis toward the distal end of the blade unit, the posterior direction of the laryngoscope being opposite to the anterior direction, and both the anterior and posterior directions extending within the central plane of the laryngoscope defined by the first axis and the distal end of the blade unit. While image data is being generated by the image sensor, the control unit is configured to receive image data from the image sensor, and when the control unit is coupled to the blade unit, the image data shows a view from the distal portion of the blade unit in a direction toward the distal end, at least partially. A laryngoscope assembly comprising a second main body having a mounting portion positioned rearward with respect to the first axis, and a control button whose button surface is positioned forward with respect to the mounting portion.

[0154] 16. The laryngoscope assembly according to item 15, wherein the button surface has a button surface normal, and the angle between the button surface normal and the forward direction is less than 90 degrees, for example, less than 80 degrees.

[0155] 17. A laryngoscope assembly according to any one of items 15 to 16, wherein the control unit comprises a control unit display element having a control unit display, and the control unit display element is mounted, for example, by hinge-mounting to a mounting portion of a second main body.

[0156] 18. The control unit described in item 3, which is configured to display a live representation of image data on the control unit display.

[0157] 19. A laryngoscope assembly according to any one of items 15 to 16, comprising a control unit and a connector cable configured to connect the control unit to a monitoring device, wherein the connector cable is attached to a mounting portion of a second main body.

[0158] 20. The laryngoscope assembly described in item 19, wherein the connector cable extends from the second body portion in a direction substantially parallel to the first axis.

[0159] 21. A laryngoscope assembly according to any one of items 15 to 20, wherein the button surface is equipped with tactile projections.

[0160] 22. The laryngoscope assembly according to any one of items 15 to 21, wherein the control unit is configured to detect a first user input corresponding to a first press of a control button, and to record a first image file corresponding to the image data received when the first user input was detected, in accordance with the detection of the first user input.

[0161] 23. The laryngoscope assembly according to any one of items 15 to 22, wherein the control unit is configured to detect a second user input corresponding to a second press of a control button, and, in accordance with the detection of the second user input, to start recording a first video file corresponding to image data received after the detection of the second user input.

[0162] 24. The laryngoscope assembly according to item 23, wherein, after detecting a second user input, the control unit is configured to detect a third user input corresponding to a second press of a control button, and, in accordance with the detection of the third user input, terminate the recording of the first video file, so that the first video file corresponds to image data received between the detection of the second user input and the detection of the third user input.

[0163] 25. A laryngoscope assembly according to any one of items 15 to 24, wherein the control button has a control button light indicator, and the control unit is configured to detect coupling with a blade unit, provide a first visual indication using the control button light indicator in accordance with the detection of coupling between the blade unit and the control unit, and provide a second visual indication using the control button light indicator in accordance with the detection of no coupling between the blade unit and the control unit.

[0164] 26. A laryngoscope assembly according to any one of items 15 to 25, wherein the control unit further comprises a battery configured to supply power to the control unit, and the battery is optionally further configured to supply power to an image sensor and an optional light emitter.

[0165] 27. A laryngoscope assembly according to any one of items 15 to 26, wherein the control unit comprises an image sensor, the image sensor being located at the distal end of the first main body.

[0166] 28. A laryngoscope assembly according to any one of items 15 to 26, wherein the blade unit comprises an image sensor, and the control unit comprises an electrical control unit connector at the distal end of the first body, the electrical control unit connector being configured to electrically connect the control unit to the image sensor of the blade unit.

[0167] 29. A laryngoscope assembly comprising a blade unit extending from a proximal end to a distal end, wherein the blade unit has a distal portion extending to a distal end and having a first surface, the first surface facing the patient's tongue and the distal portion being inserted into the patient's oral cavity, further comprising a control unit according to any one of items 1 to 14.

[0168] 30. A control unit comprising a main body having a first main body and a second main body, wherein the first main body is connectable to a blade unit extending from a proximal end to a distal end, and the blade unit has a distal portion extending to a distal end and having a first surface, and is configured such that the distal portion is inserted into the patient's oral cavity with the first surface facing the patient's tongue. When the control unit and the blade unit are coupled, a laryngoscope having a handle portion extending along a first axis is formed collectively, the anterior direction of the laryngoscope being perpendicular to the first axis toward the distal end of the blade unit, the posterior direction of the laryngoscope being opposite to the anterior direction, and both the anterior and posterior directions extending within the central plane of the laryngoscope defined by the first axis and the distal end of the blade unit. The control unit is configured to receive image data from the image sensor while the image data is being generated by the image sensor, and when the control unit is coupled to the blade unit, the image data shows a view from the distal portion of the blade unit in a direction toward the distal end, at least partially. The control unit comprises a battery receptacle configured to house a replaceable battery pack configured to supply power to the control unit, the battery receptacle comprises a battery connector having a plurality of battery connector terminals configured to cooperate with corresponding connection terminals of the replaceable battery pack, The battery receptacle includes an outer connector seal surrounding the battery connector, and the outer connector seal is configured to contact the corresponding surface of the replaceable battery pack surrounding the connection terminals of the replaceable battery pack when the replaceable battery pack is housed in the battery receptacle. A control unit for a laryngoscope.

[0169] 31. The control unit according to item 30, wherein the replaceable battery pack lacks an external sealing element configured to contact the surface of the control unit.

[0170] 32. A control unit according to any one of items 30 to 31, wherein the control unit comprises an internal seal that surrounds the battery connector and prevents liquid from entering the internal space of the control unit from the battery receptacle when a replaceable battery pack is not housed in the battery receptacle.

[0171] 33. The control unit according to item 32, comprising a battery connector circuit, wherein the battery connector is mounted on the first side of the battery connector circuit, and an internal seal is disposed between the battery connector circuit and the shell element of the control unit which forms part of the battery receptacle.

[0172] 34. A control unit as described in any one of items 30 to 33, wherein the replaceable battery pack comprises a rechargeable battery.

[0173] 35. A control unit according to any one of items 30 to 34, wherein the battery receptacle forms part of the first main body, and the first main body is housed and surrounded by the handle portion of the blade unit.

[0174] 36. A laryngoscope assembly comprising a blade unit extending from a proximal end to a distal end, wherein the blade unit has a distal portion that extends to the distal end and has a first surface, and the first surface faces the patient's tongue and the distal portion is inserted into the patient's oral cavity, A laryngoscope assembly comprising a main body having a first main body and a second main body, and further comprising a control unit to which the first main body can be coupled to a blade unit, When the control unit and the blade unit are coupled, a laryngoscope having a handle portion extending along a first axis is formed collectively, the anterior direction of the laryngoscope being perpendicular to the first axis toward the distal end of the blade unit, the posterior direction of the laryngoscope being opposite to the anterior direction, and both the anterior and posterior directions extending within the central plane of the laryngoscope defined by the first axis and the distal end of the blade unit. While image data is being generated by the image sensor, the control unit is configured to receive image data from the image sensor, and when the control unit is coupled to the blade unit, the image data shows a view from the distal portion of the blade unit in a direction toward the distal end, at least partially. The control unit comprises a battery receptacle configured to house a replaceable battery pack configured to supply power to the control unit, the battery receptacle comprises a battery connector having a plurality of battery connector terminals configured to cooperate with corresponding connection terminals of the replaceable battery pack, A laryngoscope assembly comprising a battery receptacle comprising an outer connector seal surrounding a battery connector, wherein the outer connector seal is configured to contact the corresponding surface of a replaceable battery pack surrounding the connection terminals of the replaceable battery pack when the replaceable battery pack is housed in the battery receptacle.

[0175] 37. The laryngoscope assembly described in item 36, wherein the replaceable battery pack lacks an outer sealing element configured to contact the surface of the control unit.

[0176] 38. A laryngoscope assembly according to any one of items 36 to 37, wherein the control unit comprises an internal seal that surrounds the battery connector and prevents liquid from entering the internal space of the control unit from the battery receptacle when a replaceable battery pack is not housed in the battery receptacle.

[0177] 39. The laryngoscope assembly according to item 38, wherein the control unit comprises a battery connector circuit, the battery connector is mounted on the first side of the battery connector circuit, and an internal seal is disposed between the battery connector circuit and a shell element of the control unit that forms part of the battery receptacle.

[0178] 40. A laryngoscope assembly as described in any one of items 36-39, wherein the replaceable battery pack comprises a rechargeable battery.

[0179] 41. A laryngoscope assembly according to any one of items 36 to 40, wherein the battery holder forms part of the first body, and the first body is housed and surrounded by the handle portion of the blade unit.

[0180] 42. A laryngoscope assembly comprising a blade unit extending from a proximal end to a distal end, wherein the blade unit has a distal portion extending to a distal end and having a first surface, the first surface facing the patient's tongue and the distal portion being inserted into the patient's oral cavity, further comprising a control unit as described in any one of items 30 to 35.

[0181] The present invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments. However, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments, and modifications and changes are possible without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0182] Throughout the explanation, the use of terms such as "first," "second," "third," "fourth," "primary," "secondary," and "tertiary" does not imply a specific order of importance, but is included to identify individual elements. Furthermore, naming an element "first" does not imply the existence of a "second" element, and vice versa.

Claims

1. A laryngoscope assembly comprising a blade unit extending from a proximal end to a distal end, wherein the blade unit has a distal portion extending to the distal end and having a first surface, and the blade unit is configured such that the first surface faces the patient's tongue and the distal portion is inserted into the patient's oral cavity, A laryngoscope assembly comprising a main body having a first main body and a second main body, and further comprising a control unit to which the first main body can be coupled to the blade unit, When the control unit and the blade unit are coupled, a laryngoscope is formed as a whole having a handle portion extending along a first axis, wherein the forward direction of the laryngoscope is perpendicular to the first axis in the direction toward the distal end of the blade unit, the posterior direction of the laryngoscope is opposite to the forward direction, and both the forward and posterior directions extend within the central plane of the laryngoscope defined by the first axis and the distal end of the blade unit. While the image data is being generated by the image sensor, the control unit is configured to receive the image data from the image sensor, and when the control unit is coupled to the blade unit, the image data shows a view from the distal portion of the blade unit in a direction toward the distal end, A laryngoscope assembly comprising a second main body having a mounting portion positioned rearward with respect to the first axis, and a control button whose button surface is positioned forward with respect to the mounting portion.

2. The laryngoscope assembly according to claim 1, wherein the button surface has a button surface normal, and the angle between the button surface normal and the forward direction is less than 90 degrees, for example, less than 80 degrees.

3. The laryngoscope assembly according to claim 1, wherein the control unit comprises a control unit display element having a control unit display, and the control unit display element is attached to the mounting portion of the second main body by hinge or the like.

4. The laryngoscope assembly according to claim 1, wherein the control unit comprises a connector cable configured to connect the control unit to a monitoring device, and the connector cable is attached to the mounting portion of the second main body.

5. The laryngoscope assembly according to claim 4, wherein the connector cable extends from the second main body in a direction substantially parallel to the first axis.

6. The laryngoscope assembly according to claim 1, wherein the button surface is provided with tactile projections.

7. The laryngoscope assembly according to claim 1, wherein the control unit is configured to detect a first user input corresponding to a first press of the control button, and to record a first image file corresponding to the image data received when the first user input was detected.

8. The laryngoscope assembly according to claim 1, wherein the control unit is configured to detect a second user input corresponding to a second press of the control button, and to start recording a first video file corresponding to image data received after the detection of the second user input.

9. The laryngoscope assembly according to claim 8, wherein, after detecting the second user input, the control unit is configured to detect a third user input corresponding to the second pressing of the control button, and to terminate the recording of the first video file in accordance with the detection of the third user input, thereby causing the first video file to correspond to image data received between the detection of the second user input and the detection of the third user input.

10. The laryngoscope assembly according to claim 1, wherein the control unit comprises the image sensor, and the image sensor is located at the distal end of the first main body.

11. The laryngoscope assembly according to claim 1, wherein the blade unit comprises the image sensor, the control unit comprises an electrical control unit connector at the distal end of the first main body, and the electrical control unit connector is configured to electrically connect the control unit to the image sensor of the blade unit.

12. A laryngoscope assembly comprising a blade unit extending from a proximal end to a distal end, wherein the blade unit has a distal portion extending to the distal end and having a first surface, and the blade unit is configured such that the first surface faces the patient's tongue and the distal portion is inserted into the patient's oral cavity, A laryngoscope assembly comprising a main body having a first main body and a second main body, and further comprising a control unit to which the first main body can be coupled to the blade unit, When the control unit and the blade unit are coupled, a laryngoscope is formed as a whole having a handle portion extending along a first axis, wherein the forward direction of the laryngoscope is perpendicular to the first axis in the direction toward the distal end of the blade unit, the posterior direction of the laryngoscope is opposite to the forward direction, and both the forward and posterior directions extend within the central plane of the laryngoscope defined by the first axis and the distal end of the blade unit. While the image data is being generated by the image sensor, the control unit is configured to receive the image data from the image sensor, and when the control unit is coupled to the blade unit, the image data shows a view from the distal portion of the blade unit in a direction toward the distal end, The control unit comprises a battery receptacle configured to house a replaceable battery pack configured to supply power to the control unit, and the battery receptacle comprises a battery connector having a plurality of battery connector terminals configured to cooperate with corresponding connection terminals of the replaceable battery pack. A laryngoscope assembly in which the battery receptacle comprises an outer connector seal surrounding the battery connector, the outer connector seal being configured to contact the corresponding surface of the replaceable battery pack surrounding the connection terminals of the replaceable battery pack when the replaceable battery pack is housed in the battery receptacle.

13. The laryngoscope assembly according to claim 12, wherein the replaceable battery pack lacks an outer sealing element configured to contact the surface of the control unit.

14. The laryngoscope assembly according to claim 12, wherein the control unit comprises an internal seal that surrounds the battery connector and prevents liquid from entering the internal space of the control unit from the battery receptacle when the replaceable battery pack is not housed in the battery receptacle.

15. The laryngoscope assembly according to claim 14, wherein the control unit comprises a battery connector circuit, the battery connector is attached to a first side of the battery connector circuit, and the internal seal is disposed between the battery connector circuit and a shell element of the control unit that forms part of the battery holder.

16. The laryngoscope assembly according to claim 12, wherein the battery holder forms a part of the first main body, and the first main body is housed and surrounded by the handle portion of the blade unit.

Images