Water reservoir including a flexible extension

Abstract

A method and system for supplying gas and water to an endoscopic system includes a container (502) configured to contain a fluid and having a bottom and a top, a lens water supply tube (536) including a first end, a second end, and a first lumen, a gas supply tube (534) including a first end, a second end, and a second lumen, a port (506) disposed adjacent to the top of the container (502), and a flexible tube (516) coupled to the top of the container and including a first end, a second end, and a third lumen. The third lumen of the flexible tube (516) can be configured to selectively fluidly communicate with the interior of the container (502).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to medical fluid containers and methods, and more particularly to containers and tubing sets for delivering fluids and / or gases to an endoscope. [Background technology]

[0002] Traditionally, endoscopic devices have been widely used to perform diagnostic and / or therapeutic procedures. During endoscopic procedures, physicians may use a combination of air, irrigation, and lens cleaning fluid as a means of flushing out debris, cleaning the optics, and venting the working lumen. To enable these capabilities, compressed gas from either a processor or an alternative source is used to increase the pressure in the fluid bottle that vents the working lumen or cleans the endoscope's lens. Additionally, a peristaltic pump can be used to irrigate debris from the working lumen. One challenge faced during endoscopic procedures is that typical water bottles and tubing sets used only hold a maximum of one liter of water and are not designed to be refilled. This can force nurses / technicians to change water bottles multiple times a day. This can introduce multiple opportunities for contamination of the tubing set, either by contacting non-sterile surfaces or dropping the tubing on the floor. It is with these considerations in mind that the improvements of the present disclosure may be useful. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This summary of the disclosure is provided to aid in understanding, and those skilled in the art will appreciate that each of the various aspects and features of the disclosure may be used advantageously in some cases separately, or in other cases in combination with other aspects and features of the disclosure. No limitations on the scope of the claimed subject matter are intended by either the inclusion or non-inclusion of elements, components, etc. in this summary. Thus, while the disclosure is presented in terms of aspects or embodiments, it should be understood that individual aspects may be claimed separately or in combination with aspects and features of that or any other embodiment.

[0004] In a first example, a container arranged and configured to couple to an endoscope for use in an endoscopic procedure may include: a container configured to contain a fluid, the container having a bottom and a top; a lens water supply tube including a first end, a second end, and a first lumen extending through the lens water supply tube, the first lumen being in fluid communication with the bottom of the container and the second end of the lens water supply tube being disposed external to the container; a gas supply tube including a first end, a second end, and a second lumen extending through the gas supply tube, the second lumen being in operative fluid communication with the interior of the container and the second end of the gas supply tube being disposed external to the container; a port disposed adjacent to the top of the container; and a flexible tube including a first end coupled to the top of the container, a second end, and a third lumen extending through the flexible tube, the third lumen of the flexible tube being configured to selectively fluidly communicate with the interior of the container.

[0005] Alternatively or additionally to the above example, in another example, the second end of the flexible tube may be configured to be selectively coupled to a port. Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the second end of the flexible tube may be configured to threadably mate with the port.

[0006] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the second end of the flexible tube may include a rotatable collar. Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the port may include multiple external threads.

[0007] Alternatively, or in addition to, any of the above examples, in another example, the first end of the flexible tube may be rotatably coupled to the container. Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the second end of the flexible tube may include an annular sealing plug in fluid communication with the third lumen of the flexible tube.

[0008] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the annular sealing plug may be configured to form a seal with the water bottle. Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the annular sealing plug may be configured to be disposed within the mouth of the water bottle and to form a seal with the mouth of the water bottle.

[0009] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the outer surface of the annular sealing plug may be tapered. Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the taper may be a conical taper.

[0010] Alternatively, or in addition to, any of the above examples, in another example, the annular sealing plug may be configured to be positioned over the mouth of the water bottle and configured to form a seal with the mouth of the water bottle.

[0011] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the inner surface of the annular sealing plug may be tapered. Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the taper may be a conical taper.

[0012] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the container may further include an actuatable cap disposed over the annular sealing plug. Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the actuatable cap may be configured to be opened to transfer water from the water bottle to the container and to be closed during use of the container.

[0013] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the flexible tube may form a handle when the second end of the flexible tube is coupled to the port.

[0014] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, when the second end of the flexible tube is free from the port, the second end of the flexible tube may be configured to be coupled to a water bottle.

[0015] Alternatively, or in addition to, any of the above examples, in another example, the port may be recessed into the top of the container. In another example, a container arranged and configured to couple to an endoscope for use in an endoscopic procedure may include: a container configured to contain a fluid, the container having a bottom and a top; a lens water supply tube including a first end, a second end, and a first lumen extending through the lens water supply tube, the first lumen being in fluid communication with the bottom of the container and the second end of the lens water supply tube being disposed external to the container; a gas supply tube including a first end, a second end, and a second lumen extending through the gas supply tube, the second lumen being in operative fluid communication with the interior of the container, the second end of the gas supply tube being disposed external to the container; a port disposed adjacent the top of the container; and a flexible tube including a first end coupled to the top of the container, a second end, and a third lumen extending through the flexible tube, the third lumen of the flexible tube being configured to selectively fluidly communicate with the interior of the container. The second end of the flexible tube may be configured to be selectively coupled to the port, and when the second end of the flexible tube is coupled to the port, the flexible tube may form a handle.

[0016] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the second end of the flexible tube may be configured to threadably mate with the port. Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the second end of the flexible tube may include a rotatable collar.

[0017] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the port may include multiple external threads. Alternatively, or in addition to, any of the above examples, in another example, the first end of the flexible tube may be rotatably coupled to the container.

[0018] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, when the second end of the flexible tube is free from the port, the second end of the flexible tube may be configured to be coupled to a water bottle.

[0019] In another example, a container arranged and configured to couple to an endoscope for use in an endoscopic procedure includes: a container configured to contain a fluid, the container having a bottom and a top; a lens water supply tube including a first end, a second end, and a first lumen extending through the lens water supply tube, the first lumen being in fluid communication with the bottom of the container, and the second end of the lens water supply tube being disposed external to the container; and a gas supply tube, the first end, the second end, and a gas supply tube extending through the gas supply tube. The gas supply tube may include a gas supply tube having a first end coupled to the top of the container, a second end including an annular sealing plug, and a third lumen extending therethrough, the third lumen being configured to selectively be in fluid communication with the interior of the container. The annular sealing plug may include a deformable material.

[0020] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the annular sealing plug may be configured to form a seal with the water bottle. Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the container may further include an actuatable cap disposed over the annular sealing plug.

[0021] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the actuatable cap may be configured to be opened to transfer water from the water bottle to the container and to be closed during use of the container.

[0022] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the actuatable cap may comprise a hinged cap. Alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, in another example, the actuatable cap may include a sliding cap.

[0023] These and other features and advantages of the present disclosure will become readily apparent from the following detailed description, the scope of the claimed invention being set forth in the appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate various exemplary embodiments and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the disclosure. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0024] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates components of an endoscope. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 illustrates components of an endoscope system with an endoscope, a light source, a light source connector, a water reservoir, and a tube assembly for air and lens cleaning fluid delivery. [Figure 3A] FIG. 1 illustrates an endoscope system with an endoscope, a light source, a water reservoir, and a tube assembly for hybrid air, lens cleaning solution, and irrigation fluid delivery, with the system activated to deliver air to the atmosphere. [Figure 3B] FIG. 3B illustrates the endoscopic system of FIG. 3A, where the system is activated to deliver air to the patient through the patient end of the endoscope. [Figure 3C] FIG. 3B illustrates the endoscopic system of FIG. 3A, wherein the system is activated to deliver lens cleaning fluid through the patient end of the endoscope. [Figure 3D] FIG. 3B illustrates the endoscopic system of FIG. 3A, wherein the system is activated to deliver irrigation fluid through the patient end of the endoscope. [Figure 4]A diagram showing a hybrid endoscope system including a video processing unit, a connector portion, a peristaltic irrigation pump, a water reservoir and head, coaxial gas and lens cleaning solution supply tubes, upstream and downstream irrigation supply tubes, and an alternative gas supply tube. [Figure 5A] FIG. 1 illustrates a side view of an exemplary refillable fluid reservoir. [Figure 5B] FIG. 5B is a side view of the exemplary reservoir of FIG. 5A coupled to a water bottle. [Figure 6] 5B is a side view of the exemplary reservoir of FIG. 5A having an alternative port and a coupling mechanism for coupling a second end of a flexible tube to the port. [Figure 7A] FIG. 10 is a side view of another exemplary refillable fluid reservoir. [Figure 7B] FIG. 7B is a side view of the exemplary reservoir of FIG. 7A coupled with a water bottle. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0025] While the present disclosure is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specifics of which have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the intention is not to limit the invention to the particular embodiments described. On the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

[0026] The present disclosure will now be described with reference to an exemplary medical system that may be used in an endoscopic medical procedure. However, it should be noted that reference to this particular procedure is provided for convenience only and is not intended to limit the present disclosure. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the concepts underlying the disclosed devices and associated methods of use may be utilized in any suitable procedure, medical or otherwise. The present disclosure can be understood with reference to the following description and the accompanying drawings, in which like or similar reference numerals are used to refer to like or similar parts throughout the drawings.

[0027] The term "distal" refers to the portion of the device farthest from the user when the device is introduced into a patient. Conversely, the term "proximal" refers to the portion of the device closest to the user when the device is positioned within a patient. As used herein, the terms "comprises," "comprising," or any other variation thereof are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that includes a list of elements does not necessarily include only those elements and may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. The term "exemplary" is used to mean "example" rather than "ideal." Furthermore, as used herein, the terms "about," "approximately," and "substantially" indicate a range of values ​​within + / - 10% of the stated or implied value. Furthermore, terms indicating the geometry of components / surfaces refer to exact and approximate shapes.

[0028] Embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with specific reference to bottles (e.g., containers, reservoirs, etc.) and tubing assemblies or sets. It will be understood that such embodiments may be used to supply fluids and / or gases to an endoscope for a variety of different purposes, including, for example, to insufflate a patient, facilitate lens cleaning, and / or to assist in irrigating the working channel to flush / aspirate debris during an endoscopic procedure.

[0029] Although the present disclosure includes a description of containers and tubing sets suitable for use with endoscopic systems for supplying fluids and / or gases to an endoscope, the devices, systems, and methods herein may be implemented in other medical systems requiring fluid and / or gas delivery and for a variety of other purposes.

[0030] It should be noted that references herein to "embodiments," "some embodiments," "other embodiments," etc., indicate that the described embodiment may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but that not all embodiments necessarily include that particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Furthermore, if a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with one embodiment, it would be within the knowledge of one of ordinary skill in the art to provide such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments, whether or not explicitly described, unless expressly stated otherwise. That is, it is contemplated that various individual elements described below, even if not explicitly shown in specific combinations, can be combined or arranged with one another to form other or additional embodiments, or to complement and / or enhance the described embodiments, as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0031] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. As used in this specification and the appended claims, the term "or" is used generally in its sense including "and / or" unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

[0032] Traditionally, endoscopic devices have been widely used to perform diagnostic and / or therapeutic procedures. During endoscopic procedures, physicians may use a combination of air, irrigation, and lens cleaning solution to flush out debris, clean the optics, and ventilate the working lumen. To enable these features, the endoscope umbilical is connected to a water bottle via a set of tubes. One of the tubes delivers pressurized air from a processor to the water bottle. Another tube is a water tube suspended in water at the bottom of the bottle. To ensure the tube remains at the bottom of the water bottle, a weight may be attached to the distal tip to prevent the tube from floating to the top of the water. Additionally, a cap with multiple functions and components is attached to the top of the bottle to ensure desired performance is achieved. Disclosed herein is a container and tubing set that combines multiple components and functions into a single part, thereby reducing the number of parts required to achieve the same performance.

[0033] 1-2, an exemplary endoscope 100 and system 200 are shown, which may include an elongated shaft 100a for insertion into a patient. A light source 205 provides illumination to a distal portion 100b of the endoscope 100, which may house an imaging device (e.g., a CCD or CMOS imaging device) (not shown). The light source 205 (e.g., a lamp) is housed within a video processing unit 210, which processes signals input from the imaging device and outputs the processed video signal to a video monitor (not shown) for viewing. The video processing unit 210 also houses a pressure pump 215, such as an air supply pump, within the unit, thereby functioning as a component of an air / water supply circuit.

[0034] The endoscope shaft 100a may include a distal tip 100c located at a distal portion 100b of the shaft 100a and a flexible curved portion 105 proximal to the distal tip 100c. The flexible curved portion 105 may include an articulation joint (not shown) to assist in steering the distal tip 100c. On the end face 100d of the distal tip 100c of the endoscope 100 is a gas / lens cleaning nozzle 220 for supplying gas to insufflate the patient's interior at the treatment area and water to clean the lens covering the imaging device. Irrigation openings 225 in the end face 100d supply irrigation fluid to the patient's treatment area. An illumination window (not shown) for transmitting illumination light to the treatment area and an opening 230 to a working channel 235 extending along the shaft 100a for passing a tool to the treatment area may also be included on the face 100d of the distal tip 100c. Working channel 235 extends along shaft 100a to a proximal channel opening 110 positioned distally of operating handle 115 of endoscope 100. A biopsy valve 120 may be utilized to seal channel opening 110 against unwanted fluid outflow.

[0035] The operating handle 115 may include a knob 125 for providing remote four-way steering of the distal tip via a wire connected to an articulation joint within the bendable flexible section 105 (e.g., one knob controls up / down steering and another knob controls left / right steering). A plurality of video switches 130 for remotely operating the video processing unit 210 may be located on the proximal end of the handle 115. The handle 115 also includes two valve wells 135. One of the valve wells 135 may receive a gas / water valve 140 for controlling the operation of the insufflation gas and lens water supply. A gas supply line 240a and a lens cleaning solution supply line 245a extend distally from the gas / water valve 140 along the shaft 100a and converge at the distal tip 100c, proximal to the gas / cleaning solution nozzle 220 (FIG. 2). The other valve well 135 receives a suction valve 145 for controlling the suction operation. A suction supply line 250 a extends distally along shaft 100 a from suction valve 145 to a junction in fluid communication with working channel 235 of endoscope 100 .

[0036] The operating handle 115 is electrically and fluidly connected to the image processing unit 210 via a flexible umbilical 260 and a connector portion 265 extending therebetween. The flexible umbilical 260 includes a gas (e.g., air or CO2) delivery line 240b, a lens cleaning fluid delivery line 245b, a suction delivery line 250b, an irrigation delivery line 255b, a light guide (not shown), and an electrical signal cable (not shown). When plugged into the image processing unit 210, the connector portion 265 connects the light source 205 and the light guide within the image processing unit. The light guide extends along the length of the umbilical 260 and the endoscope shaft 100a and transmits light to the distal tip 100c of the endoscope 100. When plugged into the image processing unit 210, the connector portion 265 also connects the air pump 215 to the gas delivery line 240b within the umbilical 260.

[0037] A water reservoir or container 270 (e.g., a water bottle) is fluidly connected to endoscope 100 through connector portion 265 and umbilical 260. A length of gas supply tube 240c passes from one end positioned in a space 275 between the top 280 (e.g., a bottle cap) of reservoir 270 and the remaining water 285 in the reservoir to a removable gas / lens cleaning fluid connection 290 outside connector portion 265. Removable gas / lens cleaning fluid connection 290 may be detachable from connector portion 265 and / or gas supply tube 240c. Gas delivery line 240b from umbilical 260 branches within connector portion 265 to fluidly communicate with gas supply tube 240c at removable gas / lens cleaning fluid connection 290, as well as air pump 215. A length of lens cleaning solution tubing 245c, with one end positioned at the bottom of reservoir 270, passes through top 280 of reservoir 270 to the same removable connection 290 as gas supply tubing 240c of connector portion 265. In other embodiments, the connections may be separate and / or separate from one another. Connector portion 265 also has a removable irrigation connection 293 for irrigation supply tubing (not shown) extending from an irrigation water source (not shown) to irrigation feed line 255b within umbilical 260. Removable irrigation connection 293 may be detachable from connector portion 265 and / or the irrigation supply tubing (not shown). In some embodiments, irrigation water is supplied via a pump (e.g., a peristaltic pump) from a water source (not shown) independent of water reservoir 270. In other embodiments, irrigation supply tubing and lens cleaning solution tubing 245c may source water from the same reservoir. Connector portion 265 may also include a removable suction connection 295 for suction feed line 250b and suction supply line 250a that fluidly connects a vacuum source (e.g., hospital house suction) (not shown) to umbilical 260 and endoscope 100. Removable suction connection 295 may be detachable from connector portion 265 and / or suction feed line 250b and / or the vacuum source.

[0038] Gas delivery line 240b and lens cleaning solution delivery line 245b are fluidly connected to valve well 135 for gas / water valve 140, such that operation of the gas / water valve within the well controls the supply of gas or lens cleaning solution to distal tip 100c of endoscope 100. Suction delivery line 250b is fluidly connected to valve well 135 for suction valve 145, such that operation of the suction valve within the well controls suction applied to working channel 235 of endoscope 100.

[0039] Referring to FIG. 2, an exemplary operation of an endoscopic system 200 including an endoscope such as the endoscope 100 described above will be described. Air from an air pump 215 in the video processing unit 210 flows through a connector portion 265, branches through a gas supply line 240b in the umbilical 260 to the gas / water valve 140 on the operating handle 115, and flows through a gas supply tube 240c via a connection 290 on the connector portion 265 to a water reservoir 270. When the gas / water valve 140 is in the neutral position, with the user's finger not over the valve, air is allowed to flow out of the valve to atmosphere. In the first position, the user's finger is used to block ventilation to atmosphere. Gas is allowed to flow from the valve 140 down the gas supply line 240a and out the distal tip 100c of the endoscope 100, for example, to insufflate a treatment site on a patient. When gas / water valve 140 is pushed downward to a second position, gas is prevented from exiting the valve, allowing the pressure of air passing from air pump 215 to build up in water reservoir 270. Pressurizing the water source forces water from lens cleaning solution tubing 245c, through connector portion 265, umbilical 260, through gas / water valve 140, down lens cleaning solution supply line 245a, and converges with gas supply line 240a before exiting distal tip 100c of endoscope 100 via gas / lens cleaning solution nozzle 220. The air pump pressure may be calibrated to provide lens cleaning water at a relatively low flow rate compared to the irrigation water supply.

[0040] The flow rate of the lens cleaning solution is governed by the gas pressure within the water reservoir 270. As the gas pressure begins to drop within the water reservoir 270 as water is forced out of the reservoir 270 through the lens cleaning solution tube 245c, the air pump 215 maintains a substantially constant pressure by replenishing the lost air supply within the reservoir 270, which in turn provides a substantially constant lens cleaning solution flow rate. In some embodiments, a filter (not shown) may be placed within the path of the gas supply tube 240c to filter out undesirable contaminants or particulate matter from passing into the water reservoir 270. In some embodiments, an outflow check valve or other one-way valve configuration (not shown) may be placed within the path of the lens cleaning solution supply tube to help prevent water from flowing back into the reservoir 270 after passing through the valve.

[0041] Because its primary use is to remove debris from a patient's treatment site that would obstruct the user's field of vision, a relatively high flow rate of irrigation water is typically required compared to lens cleaning solution. Irrigation is typically achieved through the use of a pump (e.g., a peristaltic pump), as described. In embodiments with a separate water source for irrigation, tubing located at the bottom of the water source passes through the top of the water source and into the upstream head of the pump. The downstream tubing of the pump is connected via irrigation connection 293 on connector portion 265 to irrigation feed line 255b in umbilical 260 and irrigation supply line 255a of endoscope 100. When irrigation water is needed, fluid is drawn from the water source by operating the irrigation pump, such as by depressing a footswitch (not shown), through irrigation connection 293, through irrigation feed line 255b in the umbilical, down the irrigation supply line in endoscope shaft 100a, and to distal tip 100c. A vent (not shown) may be included in the top 280 of the water reservoir 270 to equalize pressure within the water source as water is drawn through the irrigation supply tube. The vent allows atmospheric air to enter the water source, preventing a buildup of negative pressure within the water source, which may create a vacuum that draws undesirable material from the patient through the endoscope toward the water source. In some embodiments, an outflow check valve or other one-way valve configuration (not shown), similar to lens cleaning solution tube 245c, may be placed in the path of the irrigation supply tube to help prevent backflow of water into the reservoir after it has passed through the valve.

[0042] 3A-3D are schematic diagrams illustrating the operation of one embodiment of a hybrid system 300 in which supply tubes for irrigation and lens cleaning solution are connected to and drawn from a single water reservoir. It is contemplated that fluids other than water (e.g., but not limited to, saline) may be used. The hybrid system 300 includes a single water reservoir 305, a cap 310 for the reservoir, a gas supply tube 240c, a lens cleaning solution supply tube 245c, an irrigation pump 315 with a foot switch 318, an upstream supply tube 320 for irrigation, and a downstream irrigation supply tube 255c. The cap 310 may be configured to tightly and sealingly attach to the water reservoir 305, typically by a threaded arrangement. The cap 310 may include a gasket for sealing the cap 310 to the reservoir 305. The gasket may be an O-ring, a flange, a collar, and / or the like, and may be formed from any suitable material. Several through openings (325a, 325b, 325c) in cap 310 are provided to respectively receive gas supply tube 240c, lens cleaning solution supply tube 245c, and upstream irrigation supply tube 320. In Figures 3A-3D, the illustrated system includes separate tubes for gas supply, lens cleaning, and irrigation.

[0043] In other embodiments, the gas delivery tube 240c and the lens cleaning solution tube 245c may be combined in a coaxial arrangement. Some exemplary coaxial arrangements are described in commonly assigned U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17 / 558,239, entitled "INTEGRATED CONTAINER AND TUBE SET FOR FLUID DELIVERY WITH AN ENDOSCOPE," and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17 / 558,256, entitled "TUBING ASSEMBLIES AND METHODS FOR FLUID DELIVERY," the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference. For example, the gas delivery tube may define a lumen of sufficiently large diameter to surround a smaller diameter lens cleaning solution tube coaxially received within the gas delivery tube, and air may be supplied to a water source in an annular space surrounding the lens cleaning solution tube to pressurize a water reservoir (see, e.g., gas and lens cleaning solution delivery tubes 240c, 245c). The lens cleaning fluid supply tube may be configured to exit the lumen defined by the coaxial gas supply tube in any suitable sealed manner, such as, for example, an opening, a fitting, a collar, etc., to transition from a coaxial arrangement to a parallel arrangement at a detachable gas / lens cleaning fluid connection to an endoscope connector portion (e.g., connector portion 265 of FIG. 2).

[0044] In various embodiments, different configurations of valves (not shown) may be incorporated into the various embodiments disclosed herein, including the tubing of systems 200, 300. For example, placing an inflow check valve in the path of gas delivery tubing 240c may help prevent backflow into air pump 215. In this way, increased pressure in water reservoir 305 creates a pressure differential between the water source and gas delivery tubing 240c, helping to maintain positive pressure in the water source even when large amounts of water may be removed from the water source during the irrigation function. This arrangement offsets any time lag in air being delivered from air pump 215 to water reservoir 305, which may otherwise create a negative vacuum in the water reservoir. Similarly, incorporating an outflow check valve, such as a one-way valve with an inlet / outlet and a valve insert, into the lens cleaning solution supply tube 245c, the upstream irrigation supply tube 320, and / or the downstream irrigation supply tube 255c can help prevent backflow of water from either or both of the lens cleaning solution tube and the supply tube for irrigation in the event of a negative pressure situation, as described.

[0045] More generally, in many embodiments, a check valve may refer to any type of configuration for passively allowing fluid to flow in only one direction. For example, a check valve may include or refer to one or more of a ball check valve, a diaphragm check valve, a swing check valve, a tilting disk check valve, a flapper valve, a stop check valve, a lift check valve, an in-line check valve, a duckbill valve, a pneumatic non-return valve, a reed valve, and a flow check. Thus, as used herein, a check valve is meant to be distinct from and different from an active valve (e.g., a stopcock valve, a solenoid valve, a peristaltic pump) that is operated in a binary manner as an on / off valve or switch that allows flow to be turned on or off.

[0046] During operation of the system of FIGS. 3A-3D, water flow for irrigation can be achieved by operating the irrigation pump 315. Water flow for lens cleaning can be achieved by depressing the gas / water valve 140 on the operating handle 115 of the endoscope 100. These functions may be performed independently of one another or simultaneously. When performing simultaneous lens cleaning and irrigation, as fluid is removed from the water reservoir 305, the pressure within the system can be controlled to offset the reduced pressure within the water reservoir 305 caused by providing high-flow irrigation while maintaining the lens cleaning fluid supply tube 245c at a pressure required to achieve substantially low-flow lens cleaning. If pressure drops within the water reservoir due to simultaneous use of the lens cleaning function, the irrigation function, or both functions, the reduced pressure may be offset by the air pump 215 via the gas supply tube 240c.

[0047] The schematic configuration of Figures 3A-3D is highlighted to illustrate the different flow paths possible with hybrid system 300, which has supply tube 320 for irrigation and lens cleaning solution supply tube 245c connected to and drawing from a single water reservoir 305. As shown in Figure 3A, endoscope 100 is in a neutral state with gas / water valve 140 in an open position. The neutral state delivers no gas or lens cleaning solution to the distal tip of the endoscope. Rather, gas (pressure) is delivered along path A from pressurized air pump 215 and vented to atmosphere through gas delivery line 240b in umbilical 260 via connector portion 265 and through the gas / water valve. Because the system is open at the vent port of gas / water valve 140, there is no buildup pressurizing water reservoir 305, and therefore no water is forced through lens cleaning solution supply tube 245c.

[0048] As shown in FIG. 3B, the endoscope 100 is in a gas delivery state with the gas / water valve 140 in a first position. When gas is required at the distal tip 100c, for example, to clean the distal tip end face 100d or to insufflate the patient's body in the treatment area, the user closes the vent hole in the gas / water valve 140 with a thumb, finger, or the like (first position). In this state, gas (pressure) is delivered from the air pump 215 along path B and flows through the gas delivery line 240b in the umbilical 260 via the connector portion 265. The gas passes through the gas / water valve 140, continues to the gas supply line 240a in the endoscope shaft 100a, and exits the gas / lens cleaning solution nozzle 220 at the distal tip 100c. Because the system is open at the gas / lens water nozzle 220, there is no buildup to pressurize the water reservoir, and therefore water is not forced through the lens cleaning solution supply tube 245c.

[0049] As shown in FIG. 3C , the endoscope 100 is in a lens cleaning solution delivery state with the gas / water valve 140 in the second position. When lens cleaning solution is required at the distal tip 100 c, for example to clean the end face 100 d of the distal tip 100 c, the user presses the valve 140 down to its farthest point within the valve well 135 while keeping the vent hole in the gas / water valve closed. The second position blocks gas supply to both the atmosphere and the gas supply line 240 a within the endoscope, and opens the gas / water valve 140 to allow lens cleaning water to pass through the lens cleaning solution supply line 245 a within the endoscope shaft 100 a and exit the gas / lens cleaning solution nozzle 220 at the distal tip 100 c. In this state, gas (pressure) is delivered along path C from the air pump 215, through the branch line in the connector portion 265, out the gas supply tube 240 c, and to the water reservoir 305. The gas (pressure) pressurizes the surface of the remaining water 285 in reservoir 305, forcing the water up lens cleaning solution supply tube 245c and into connector portion 265. The pressurized lens cleaning water is forced further through lens cleaning solution feed line 245b in umbilical 260 and through gas / water valve 140. Because system 300 is closed, the gas pressure is allowed to build and maintain a calibrated pressure level within water reservoir 305, rather than being vented to atmosphere or delivered to the patient. This pressure is translated into a specific range of lens cleaning solution flow rates through the endoscope's delivery and supply lines and external tubing.

[0050] As shown in FIG. 3D , endoscope 100 is in an irrigation delivery state. This may occur simultaneously with or at a different time than the delivery of gas and / or lens cleaning solution. When irrigation is needed at distal tip 100 c, for example, because visibility in the treatment area is poor or blocked by debris, the user activates irrigation pump 315 (e.g., by depressing footswitch 318) to deliver water along path D. When pump 315 is activated, water is drawn from water reservoir 305 through upstream irrigation supply tubing 320 and pumped along downstream irrigation supply tubing 255 c to connector portion 265. Irrigation pump head pressure further forces irrigation water through irrigation feed line 255 b in umbilical 260, through irrigation supply line 255 a in endoscope shaft 100 a, and out irrigation opening 225 at distal tip 100 c. The irrigation pump pressure may be calibrated along with the irrigation delivery and supply lines and external tubing of the endoscope to deliver irrigation fluid at a certain range of flow rates.

[0051] 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating a further embodiment of a hybrid system 400 including a video processing unit 210, a connector portion 265, a peristaltic irrigation pump 315, a water reservoir 405 and top 407, a coaxial gas and lens cleaning solution supply tube 410, upstream and downstream irrigation supply tubes 320, 255c, and an alternative gas (e.g., CO2) supply tube 415. A length of alternative gas supply tube 415 passes from one end positioned in the gas gap 275 (see FIG. 2) between the top 407 of the water reservoir 405 and the remaining water 285 in the reservoir, through an additional opening 420 in the top of the reservoir, to a removable connection 425 for an alternative gas source (e.g., a CO2 hospital gas source). When an alternative gas supply, such as CO2 gas, is desired, the air pump 215 on the image processing unit 210 may be turned off, allowing CO2 gas, rather than air, to flow into the water reservoir 405 and pressurize the water surface. Generally, the flow of CO2 through the endoscope 100 is similar to the flow of air. In the neutral state, CO2 gas flows back up the gas supply tube 240c to the connector portion 265, up the gas delivery line 240b, and through the gas / water valve 140 to be vented to the atmosphere. In a first position, the user closes the vent hole in the gas / water valve 140, allowing CO2 gas to flow through the gas / water valve, into the gas supply line 240a in the endoscope shaft 100a, and out the gas / lens cleaning solution nozzle 220 at the distal tip 100c. In the second position, the user presses valve 140 down to the bottom of valve well 135, leaving the vent in the gas / water valve closed. The second position shuts off CO2 gas supply to both the atmosphere and gas supply line 240a within endoscope 100, while opening gas / water valve 140 to allow lens cleaning water to pass through lens cleaning solution supply line 245a within endoscope shaft 100a and exit gas / lens cleaning solution nozzle 220 at distal tip 100c. Gas (pressure) within reservoir 405 is maintained by delivery gas through alternative gas (e.g., CO2) supply tube 415. Irrigation functions can be accomplished in a manner similar to the operations described above with respect to FIG. 3D.

[0052] As mentioned above, it may be desirable to provide a refillable and / or large-capacity water reservoir 270, 305, 405 to reduce the chance of contamination of the tubing set 240c, 245c, 320, 410, 415 during water reservoir replacement. FIG. 5A shows a side view of an exemplary refillable fluid reservoir 500. FIG. 5B shows a side view of the exemplary reservoir 500 coupled to a water bottle 528. The reservoir 500 may be configured for use within an endoscope system and includes similar components to the endoscope and endoscope system described with respect to FIGS. 1-4, although not all features may be described or illustrated herein unless related to the system's fluid circuitry. The reservoir 500 includes a container 502 configured to hold a fluid 504. The container 502 may be formed from a lightweight, flexible material, such as, but not limited to, low-density polyethylene (LDPE), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), silicone, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), aluminum, nylon, polyethylene (PE), or a combination thereof. In other embodiments, reservoir 500 may be formed from a rigid or semi-rigid material. In some embodiments, container 502 may be entirely translucent, entirely opaque, or a combination thereof.

[0053] The reservoir 500 may further include a port 506. In some embodiments, the port 506 may be in fluid communication with the interior 508 of the container 502. However, this is not required. In some embodiments, the port 506 may not provide access to the interior 508 of the container. The port 506 may extend away from the top 510 of the container 502 in a direction opposite the bottom 512 of the container 502. The port 506 may include a coupling mechanism 514, such as, but not limited to, a plurality of external threads. Other coupling mechanisms may be used as desired, such as, but not limited to, one or more grooves configured to receive one or more raised protrusions, one or more raised protrusions configured to be received in one or more mating grooves, a friction fit, etc.

[0054] The reservoir 500 may further include a flexible tube 516. The flexible tube 516 may extend from a first end 518 coupled to the top 510 of the container 502 adjacent the opening 542 of the container 502 to a second end 520, defining a lumen 522 ( FIG. 5A ) therethrough. In some cases, the flexible tube 516 may be formed as a monolithic structure integral with the container 502. In other embodiments, the first end 518 of the flexible tube 516 may be coupled to the container 502. For example, the first end 518 of the flexible tube 516 may be rotatably coupled to the container 502. The lumen 522 may be configured to selectively fluidly communicate with the interior 508 of the container 502. The second end 520 of the flexible tube 516 may include a coupling mechanism 524, such as, but not limited to, a plurality of internal threads. Other coupling mechanisms may be used as desired, including, but not limited to, one or more grooves configured to receive one or more raised protrusions, one or more raised protrusions configured to be received in one or more mating grooves, a friction fit, etc. The second end 520 of the flexible tube 516 may be configured to selectively couple to the port 506 or a water bottle 528 ( FIG. 5B ). For example, when the reservoir 500 is in use, the second end 520 of the flexible tube 516 may be coupled to the port 506. This seals the container 502, allowing the interior 508 to be pressurized to deliver lens cleaning fluid while maintaining the sterility of the flexible tube lumen 522. It is further contemplated that when the second end 520 of the flexible tube 516 is coupled to the port 506, the flexible tube 516 may function as a handle. The flexible tube 516 can then receive a hand or hook through an opening 526 defined by the space between the flexible tube 516 and the top 510 of the container 502. In some embodiments, when coupled to the port 506, the flexible tube 516 may be configured to couple to a hook or other mechanism on an endoscope tower. This may improve ergonomics by elevating the reservoir, reducing its footprint on the procedure room floor, and no longer requiring the user to bend down to the floor to interface with the reservoir.

[0055] When it is desired to fill or refill reservoir 500, second end 520 of flexible tube 516 may be uncoupled from port 506, freeing flexible tube 516 to be coupled to water bottle 528. Flexible tube 516 may be bent, rotated, or otherwise manipulated to bring second end 520 closer to mouth 532 of water bottle 528. Alternatively, or additionally, in some cases, the mouth of water bottle 528 may be moved closer toward the second end of flexible tube 516. It is contemplated that second end 520 of flexible tube 516 may be coupled to water bottle 528 while water bottle 528 is in an upright position. This may limit spillage that may occur if water bottle 528 is tilted for filling and / or coupling. Once the second end of the flexible tube 516 is coupled to the water bottle 528, the water bottle 528 can be inverted to allow water to flow from the interior of the water bottle 528 through the lumen 522 of the flexible tube 516 and into the interior 508 of the container 502, as shown by flow path 530. In other examples, the water bottle 528 may be squeezed or compressed to move water from the interior of the water bottle 528 through the lumen 522 of the flexible tube 516 and into the interior 508 of the container 502, as shown by flow path 530. If the port 506 includes a through hole to provide fluid communication with the interior 508 of the container 502, the port 506 may function as a vent or pressure relief as water flows into the container 502. In other embodiments, the port 506 acts to secure the second end 520 of the flexible tube 516, thereby protecting the second end 520 from contaminants that may be exposed inside the chamber during the procedure and allowing pressurization of the container 502 without providing fluid communication with the interior 508 of the container 502.

[0056] The reservoir 500 may be connected in fluid communication with a gas supply tube / alternate gas supply tube (or gas supply tube) 534 and a lens cleaning solution supply tube / irrigation supply tube (or water supply tube) 536. The gas supply tube 534 extends from a second end, which is external to the reservoir 500, through a reservoir opening 538a in the container 502. The gas supply tube 534 may extend into the remaining fluid in the container 502. For example, the opening 538a may be in the bottom or side of the container 502, with the gas supply tube 534 terminating in the fluid so that gas can be bubbled through the fluid to pressurize the container. However, in some cases, the gas supply tube 534 may be located adjacent the top 510 of the container 502 and terminate in a reservoir gap at or below the opening through which the gas supply tube 534 extends, but not into the remaining fluid in the container 502. A lumen extends through the gas supply tube 534 to receive the flow of air and / or gas. The lumen of the gas supply tube 534 is in operative fluid communication with the interior 508 of the reservoir 500. The water supply tube 536 extends from a second end exterior to the reservoir 500 through a reservoir opening 538b and terminates at a first end within the remaining fluid at or substantially at the bottom 512 of the container 502. In some embodiments, the water supply tube 536 may terminate at the opening 538b. For example, if the opening 538b is at or adjacent to the bottom 512 of the container 502, a dip tube is not required. However, if the opening 538b is adjacent to the top 510 of the container 502, a dip tube is required. A lumen extends through the water supply tube 536 to receive the flow of fluid. The lumen of the water supply tube 536 is in selectively operable fluid communication with the bottom 512 of the vessel 502. In the illustrated embodiment, the gas supply tube 534 and the water supply tube 536 extend in a parallel arrangement and can enter the vessel 502 through separate openings 538 a, 538 b. However, this is not required.In some cases, the gas supply tube 534 and the water supply tube 536 may enter the container through a single opening or a common opening. For example, the gas supply tube 534 and the water supply tube 536 may be coaxially arranged. The openings 538a, 538b may include grommets or heat seals 540 configured to fluid-tightly and pressure-tightly seal the container 502 around the tubes 534, 536.

[0057] A portion of gas supply tube 534 and a portion of water supply tube 536 may each extend from reservoir 500 and be fluidly connected to the endoscope at a gas connection / lens cleaning connection on umbilical connector portion 265. Gas supply tube 534 is fluidly connected to a gas pump (not explicitly shown) and a gas delivery line (not explicitly shown) within connector portion 265, and water supply tube 536 is fluidly connected to a lens cleaning solution delivery line (not explicitly shown). Although not explicitly shown, the irrigation supply tube can be coupled to water supply tube 536 via a manifold to supply irrigation fluid from reservoir 500, or a separate irrigation supply tube can be provided that terminates in container 502 and is in fluid communication with interior 508 of container 502.

[0058] The water bottle 528 and flexible tubing 516 may be held in place (if raised) until all of the water has been transferred from the water bottle 528 through the flexible tubing 516 and into the container 502. Once completed, the water bottle 528 can be discarded and the second end 520 of the flexible tubing 516 can be coupled to the port 506 to protect the second end 520 from contaminants that may be exposed in the room during the procedure and to allow pressurization of the container 502. The second end 520 of the flexible tubing 516 does not have to be uncoupled from the port 506 until additional water transfer to the reservoir 500 is required.

[0059] Refilling of reservoir 500 may occur during or between treatments as needed. The water may be sterile or non-sterile, as needed. For example, sterile water may be used for therapeutic treatments, while non-sterile water may be used for diagnostic treatments. It is contemplated that refilling reservoir 500 with sterile or non-sterile water may provide more flexibility and reduce the need to have large amounts of sterile water in storage. Additionally, refilling reservoir 500 via flexible tubing 516 may also eliminate or significantly reduce the possibility of cross-contamination by eliminating the need to remove reservoir 500 from tubing 534, 536 throughout the day and changing water containers.

[0060] 6 is a side view of the example reservoir 500 of FIG. 5A having an alternative port 550 and a coupling mechanism 560 for coupling the second end 520 of the flexible tubing 516 to the port 550. The port 550 may be disposed within a recess 558 formed in the top 510 of the container 502. The recess 558 may extend from an open first end 564 at the top 562 of the container 502 to a second end 566 offset from the top 562 of the container 502. The second end 566 of the recess 558 may be disposed between the top 562 and the bottom 568 of the container 502. The port 550 may further include a plurality of external threads 552.

[0061] The second end 520 of the flexible tube 516 may include a rotatable collar 554. The rotatable collar 554 may be configured to spin or rotate independently of the body of the flexible tube 516. For example, the rotatable collar 554 may be an annular collar disposed at least partially around the outer surface of the flexible tube 516. The rotatable collar 554 may extend distally beyond the second end 520 of the flexible tube 516. The rotatable collar 554 may further include a plurality of internal threads 556. The plurality of internal threads 556 may be configured to threadably mate with the plurality of external threads 552 on the port 550. It is contemplated that the rotatable collar 554 may also be used with the port 506 of FIG. 5A .

[0062] FIG. 7A shows a side view of another exemplary refillable fluid reservoir 600. FIG. 7B shows a side view of the exemplary reservoir 600 coupled to a water bottle 654. The reservoir 600 may be configured for use in an endoscopic system and includes similar components to the endoscope and endoscopic system described with respect to FIGS. 1-4, although not all features may be described or illustrated herein if not relevant to the system's fluid circuitry. The reservoir 600 includes a container 602 configured to hold a fluid 604. The container 602 may be formed from a lightweight, flexible material such as, but not limited to, low-density polyethylene (LDPE), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), silicone, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), aluminum, nylon, polyethylene (PE), or a combination thereof. In other embodiments, the reservoir 600 may be formed from a rigid or semi-rigid material. In some embodiments, the container 602 may be entirely translucent, entirely opaque, or a combination thereof.

[0063] The reservoir 600 may further include a port 606 having a removable cap 608. The cap 608 may be formed from a rigid material and configured to form a fluid-tight seal with the port 606. The cap 608 may be configured to threadably engage with the port 606, form a friction fit with the port 606, form a snap fit with the port 606, or otherwise releasably engage with the port 606. In some embodiments, the cap 608 may be a self-sealing one-way valve. In other embodiments, the cap 608 may be formed from a self-healing material. For example, a needle can be used to puncture the self-healing material to provide access to the interior 610 of the container 602, and once the needle is removed, the hole formed by the needle seals without user intervention. In some examples, the port 606 and / or the cap 608 may be formed from polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene (PP), or the like. A portion of the port 606 may extend into the container 602. A removable cap 608 may be removed to selectively place the fluid source in fluid communication with the container 602 and allow fluid to be injected into the container 602 through the lumen of the port 606. In the case of a cap 608 formed from a self-healing material, a needle may be used to puncture the cap 608 to selectively place the fluid source in fluid communication with the container 602 and inject fluid into the container 602.

[0064] The reservoir 600 may further include a flexible tube 616. The flexible tube 616 may extend from a first end 618 coupled to the top 612 of the container 602 adjacent an opening 624 of the container 602 to a second end 620, with a lumen 622 defined therethrough. In some cases, the flexible tube 616 may be formed as a monolithic structure integral with the container 602. In other embodiments, the first end 618 of the flexible tube 616 may be coupled to the container 602. For example, the first end 618 of the flexible tube 616 may be rotatably coupled to the container 602. The lumen 622 may be configured to selectively be in fluid communication with the interior 610 of the container 602.

[0065] The second end 620 of the flexible tube 616 may include an actuatable cap 626. The cap 626 may be disposed to cover the second end 620 of the flexible tube 616 and may be actuatable to selectively expose the second end of the flexible tube 616. For example, the cap 626 may include a cover 628 pivotally coupled to a body 630 of the cap 626. The cover 628 may pivot about a hinge 632 between a closed configuration (shown in dashed lines in FIG. 7A ) and an open configuration. In the closed configuration, the cover 628 may form a fluid-tight seal with the body 630 such that the interior 610 can be pressurized to supply lens cleaning fluid. The cover 628 may include a latch 634 to maintain the cover 628 in the closed configuration. In some embodiments, the cover 628 may further include a sealing member disposed on an inner surface of the cover 628. Although cap 626 has been described as including a pivotable cover 628, it is contemplated that other actuation mechanisms may be used to move cap 626 between the closed and open configurations. For example, in some embodiments, cap 626 may threadably engage second end 620 of flexible tube 616. In other embodiments, cap 626 may be slid along flexible tube 616 to expose second end 620 thereof.

[0066] The second end 620 of the flexible tube 616 may further include an annular sealing plug 636. The annular sealing plug 636 may be formed from a soft durometer material that can deform around or form a fluid-tight seal with the mouth 656 of the water bottle 654 (FIG. 7B). The annular sealing plug 636 may define an opening 638 extending through the thickness of the annular sealing plug 636. The opening 638 is in fluid communication with the lumen 622 of the flexible tube. In some cases, the annular sealing plug 636 may include a tapered distal end region 640. For example, the outer surface of the distal end region 640 may decrease in cross-sectional dimension in the distal direction (e.g., in a direction away from the first end 618 of the flexible tube 616). In some embodiments, the distal end region 640 may be conically tapered or generally resemble a frustum of a cone. A reverse configuration, in which the cross-sectional dimension of the outer surface of the distal end region 640 increases in the distal direction, is also contemplated. In yet another example, the distal end region 640 may have a convex or concave shape. Alternatively, or additionally, the inner surface of the distal end region 640 may decrease or increase in cross-sectional dimension in the distal direction. For example, the inner surface 642 of the annular sealing plug 636 may be tapered. For example, the inner surface 642 may be tapered such that the cross-sectional dimension of the opening 638 decreases in the distal direction (e.g., in a direction away from the first end 618 of the flexible tube 616). A reverse configuration, in which the cross-sectional dimension of the opening 638 of the annular sealing plug 636 increases in the distal direction, is also contemplated.

[0067] When it is desired to fill or refill reservoir 600, actuable cap 626 may be moved to an open configuration by actuating cap 626 (e.g., unlatching, sliding, unscrewing, etc.). When cap 626 is opened, second end 620 of flexible tubing 616 is exposed. Annular sealing plug 636 may be inserted over mouth 656 of water bottle 654, for example, where opening 638 of annular sealing plug 636 increases in cross-sectional dimension in the distal direction (e.g., away from first end 618 of flexible tubing 616). Alternatively, annular sealing plug 636 may be inserted into mouth 656 of water bottle 654, for example, as shown in FIG. 7B, where the outer surface of distal end region 640 decreases in cross-sectional dimension in the distal direction (e.g., away from first end 618 of flexible tubing 616). It is contemplated that the shape of distal end region 640 and / or the shape of mouth 656 may determine whether annular sealing plug 636 is positioned over or within mouth 656 of water bottle 654. Coupling of second end 620 of flexible tube 616 to water bottle 654 may occur with second end 620 of flexible tube 616 oriented at a downward angle, as shown in FIG. 7A . Flexible tube 616 may be bent, rotated, or otherwise manipulated to bring second end 620 closer to mouth 656 of water bottle 654. Alternatively, or additionally, in some cases, the mouth of the water bottle may be moved closer toward the second end of flexible tube 616. It is contemplated that second end 620 of flexible tube 616 may be coupled to water bottle 654 with water bottle 654 in an upright position. This may limit spillage that may occur if the water bottle is tilted for filling and / or docking. Once the second end of flexible tubing 616 is coupled to water bottle 654, water bottle 654 and second end 620 of flexible tubing 616 are flipped or rotated together, as indicated by arrow 644, to maintain a seal between annular sealing plug 636 and mouth 656 of water bottle 654, with flexible tubing 616 facing upward, as indicated by the dashed line in FIG. 7B .This may allow water to flow from the interior of the water bottle 654 through the lumen 622 of the flexible tube 616 to the interior 610 of the container 602, as shown by flow path 646. This may allow water movement to be initiated by gravity. It is contemplated that the diameter of the flexible tube 616 may be large enough to allow for a large volume flow rate with nothing but gravity assisting the transfer. However, this is not required. In other examples, the water bottle 654 may be squeezed or compressed to move water from the interior of the water bottle 654 through the lumen 622 of the flexible tube 616 to the interior 610 of the container 602, as shown by flow path 646. It is contemplated that the cap 608 may be removed from the port 606 to provide a vent during filling or refilling of the reservoir 600.

[0068] The water bottle 654 and flexible tubing 616 may be held in place until all of the water has been transferred from the water bottle 654 through the flexible tubing 616 to the container. Once completed, the water bottle 654 may be discarded, and the actuatable cap 626 may be moved to a closed configuration to protect the annular sealing plug 636 from contaminants that may be exposed in the room during the procedure and to allow pressurization of the container 602; the actuatable cap 626 may not be opened again until additional water transfer to the reservoir 600 is required.

[0069] The reservoir 600 may be connected in fluid communication with a gas supply tube / alternate gas supply tube (or gas supply tube) 648 and a lens cleaning solution supply tube / irrigation supply tube (or water supply tube) 650. The gas supply tube 648 extends from a second end, external to the reservoir 600, through a reservoir opening 652 in the container 602. The shared gas supply tube 648 may be positioned adjacent the top 612 of the container 602 and may terminate within the reservoir cavity at or below the opening 652, but does not extend into the remaining fluid in the container 602. However, in some cases, the shared gas supply tube 648 may extend into the remaining fluid in the container 602. For example, the opening 652 may be in the bottom 614 or side of the container 602, and the shared gas supply tube 648 may terminate within the fluid so that gas can be bubbled through the fluid to pressurize the container. A lumen extends through the gas supply tube 648 to receive a flow of air and / or gas. The lumen of the gas supply tube 648 is in operative fluid communication with the interior 610 of the reservoir 600. The water supply tube 650 extends from a second end exterior to the reservoir 600 through a reservoir opening 652 and terminates at a first end within the remaining fluid at or substantially at the bottom 614 of the container 602. In some embodiments, the water supply tube 650 may terminate at the opening 652. For example, if the opening 652 is at or adjacent to the bottom 614 of the container 602, a dip tube is not required. A lumen extends through the water supply tube 650 to receive the fluid flow. The lumen of the water supply tube 650 is in selective operative fluid communication with the bottom 614 of the container 602. In the illustrated embodiment, the gas supply tube 648 and the water supply tube 650 may enter the container through a single opening 652 or a common opening 652. However, this is not required. For example, the gas supply tube 648 and the water supply tube 650 may be arranged coaxially. In some cases, the gas supply tube 648 and the water supply tube 650 may extend in a parallel arrangement and enter the vessel 602 through separate openings.The opening 652 may include a grommet or heat seal (not explicitly shown) configured to seal the container 602 liquid-tight and pressure-tight around the tubes 648, 650.

[0070] A portion of gas supply tube 648 and a portion of water supply tube 650 may each extend from reservoir 600 and be fluidly connected to the endoscope at a gas connection / lens cleaning connection on umbilical connector portion 265. Gas supply tube 648 is fluidly connected to a gas pump (not explicitly shown) and a gas delivery line (not explicitly shown) within connector portion 265, and water supply tube 650 is fluidly connected to a lens cleaning solution delivery line (not explicitly shown). Although not explicitly shown, the irrigation supply tube can be coupled to water supply tube 650 via a manifold to supply irrigation fluid from reservoir 600, or a separate irrigation supply tube can be provided that terminates in container 602 and is in fluid communication with interior 610 of container 602.

[0071] Refilling of reservoir 600 may occur during or between treatments as needed. The water may be sterile or non-sterile, as needed. For example, sterile water may be used for therapeutic treatments, while non-sterile water may be used for diagnostic treatments. It is contemplated that refilling reservoir 600 with sterile or non-sterile water may provide more flexibility and reduce the need to have large amounts of sterile water in storage. Additionally, refilling reservoir 600 via flexible tubing 616 may also eliminate or significantly reduce the possibility of cross-contamination by eliminating the need to remove reservoir 600 from tubing 648, 650 throughout the day and changing water containers.

[0072] As will be appreciated, the lengths of the irrigation, lens cleaning solution, gas supply, and alternate gas supply tubing may have any suitable size (e.g., diameter). Additionally, the size (e.g., diameter) of the tubing may vary depending on the application. In one non-limiting embodiment, the irrigation supply tubing may have an inner diameter of approximately 6.5 mm and an outer diameter of 9.7 mm. The lens cleaning solution supply tubing may have an inner diameter of approximately 5 mm and an outer diameter of 8 mm. The gas supply tubing may have an inner diameter of approximately 2 mm and an outer diameter of 3.5 mm. The alternate gas supply tubing may have an inner diameter of approximately 5 mm and an outer diameter of 8 mm.

[0073] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the disclosed devices without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Other embodiments of the present disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice of the invention disclosed herein. It is intended that the specification and examples be considered as exemplary only, with the true scope and spirit of the invention being indicated by the following claims.

[0074] All devices and methods described herein are examples of devices and / or methods implemented in accordance with one or more principles of the present disclosure. These examples are merely examples, not the only ways to implement these principles. Therefore, references to elements or structures or features in the drawings should be recognized as references to example embodiments of the present disclosure and should not be understood as limiting the disclosure to the particular elements, structures, or features shown. Other examples of ways to implement the disclosed principles will occur to those skilled in the art upon reading this disclosure.

[0075] In the foregoing description and in the claims that follow, it will be understood that the terms "at least one," "one or more," and "and / or," as used herein, are open-ended expressions that are both conjunctive and disjunctive in operation. The term "a" or "an" entity, as used herein, refers to one or more of that entity. Thus, the terms "a" (or "an"), "one or more," and "at least one" can be used interchangeably herein. All directional references (e.g., proximal, distal, upper, lower, upward, downward, left, right, lateral, longitudinal, front, rear, top, bottom, above, below, vertical, horizontal, radial, axial, clockwise, counterclockwise, etc.) are used for identification purposes only to aid the reader's understanding of this disclosure and / or serve to distinguish regions of associated elements from one another and do not limit the associated elements, particularly with respect to the position, orientation, or use of this disclosure. Connection references (e.g., attached, coupled, connected, and joined) should be construed broadly and may include intermediate members among a collection of elements and relative movement between the elements, unless otherwise indicated. Thus, connection references do not necessarily imply that two elements are directly connected and in a fixed relationship to one another. Distinguishing references (e.g., primary, secondary, first, second, third, fourth, etc.) are not intended to imply importance or priority, but are used to distinguish one feature from another.

[0076] The foregoing description has been presented for purposes of illustration and explanation and is not intended to limit the disclosure to the form or forms disclosed herein. It will be understood that various additions, modifications, and substitutions may be made to the embodiments disclosed herein without departing from the concept, spirit, and scope of the present disclosure. In particular, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the principles of the present disclosure may be embodied in other forms, structures, arrangements, proportions, and with other elements, materials, and components without departing from the concept, spirit, or scope or characteristics thereof. For example, various features of the present disclosure are grouped together in one or more aspects, embodiments, or configurations for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. However, it should be understood that various features of a particular aspect, embodiment, or configuration of the present disclosure may be combined in alternative aspects, embodiments, or configurations. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present disclosure may be used with numerous modifications of the structure, arrangement, proportions, materials, components, and the like used in implementing the present disclosure that are particularly adapted to particular environments and operating requirements without departing from the principles of the present disclosure. For example, elements shown as integrally formed may be comprised of multiple pieces or elements shown as multiple pieces may be integrally formed, operation of elements may be reversed or otherwise changed, sizes or dimensions of elements may be changed, and features and components of the various embodiments may be selectively combined. The presently disclosed embodiments are therefore to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, the scope of the claimed invention being indicated by the appended claims and not limited by the foregoing description.

[0077] The following claims are hereby incorporated by reference into this detailed description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment of the present disclosure. In the claims, the term "comprises / comprising" does not exclude the presence of other elements or steps. Furthermore, although individually recited, a plurality of means, elements or method steps may be implemented by, for example, a single unit or processor. In addition, although individual features may be included in different claims, these may in some cases be advantageously combined, and their inclusion in different claims does not imply that a combination of features is not feasible and / or advantageous. In addition, references to the singular do not exclude a plurality. Terms such as "a," "an," "first," and "second" do not exclude a plurality. Reference signs in the claims are provided merely as a clarifying example and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims in any way.

Claims

1. 1. A container arranged and configured to couple to an endoscope for use in an endoscopic procedure, comprising: a vessel configured to contain a fluid, the vessel having a bottom and a top; a lens water supply tube including a first end, a second end, and a first lumen extending therethrough, the first lumen being in fluid communication with the bottom of the container, and the second end of the lens water supply tube being disposed outside the container; a gas delivery tube including a first end, a second end, and a second lumen extending therethrough, the second lumen being in operative fluid communication with an interior of the vessel, the second end of the gas delivery tube being disposed exterior to the vessel; a port disposed adjacent the top of the vessel; a flexible tube including a first end coupled to the top of the container, a second end, and a third lumen extending therethrough, the third lumen of the flexible tube configured to be in selective fluid communication with the interior of the container.

2. The container of claim 1 , wherein the second end of the flexible tube is configured to be selectively coupled to the port.

3. The container of claim 2 , wherein the second end of the flexible tube is configured to threadably engage the port.

4. 4. The container of claim 1, wherein the second end of the flexible tube includes a rotatable collar.

5. 5. The container of claim 1, wherein the first end of the flexible tube is rotatably coupled to the container.

6. 10. The container of claim 1, wherein the second end of the flexible tube comprises an annular sealing plug in fluid communication with the third lumen of the flexible tube.

7. 7. The container of claim 6, wherein the annular sealing plug is configured to form a seal with a water bottle.

8. 8. The container of claim 7, wherein the annular sealing plug is configured to be disposed within a mouth of the water bottle and form a seal with the mouth of the water bottle.

9. 9. A container according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein the outer surface of the annular sealing plug is tapered.

10. 8. The container of claim 7, wherein the annular sealing plug is configured to be placed over a mouth of the water bottle and form the seal with the mouth of the water bottle.

11. 11. A container according to any one of claims 6 to 7 or 10, wherein the inner surface of the annular sealing plug is tapered.

12. 12. The container of any one of claims 6 to 11, further comprising an actuatable cap disposed over the annular sealing plug.

13. 13. The container of claim 12, wherein the actuatable cap is configured to be opened to transfer water from a water bottle to the container and to be closed during use of the container.

14. 14. The container of claim 1, wherein the flexible tube forms a handle when the second end of the flexible tube is coupled to the port, and the second end of the flexible tube is configured to be coupled to a water bottle when the second end of the flexible tube is free from the port.

15. 15. A container according to any preceding claim, wherein the port is recessed in the top of the container.

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