Hybrid coupling mechanism for endoscope system

Abstract

An exemplary medical device includes a container and tubing set positioned and configured to couple to an endoscope, a first gas supply source, and a second gas supply source for use in an endoscopic procedure, the container and tubing set including: a container having an interior volume configured to contain a fluid; a gas supply tube having a first end and a second end and in fluid communication with the interior volume of the container; and a coupling mechanism having a first end and a second end, the first end of the coupling mechanism configured to engage with the second end of the gas supply tube, and the second end of the coupling mechanism configured to interchangeably engage with both the first gas supply and the second gas supply.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE The present disclosure relates to medical devices and methods for manufacturing medical devices. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to coupling mechanisms for supplying fluids and / or gases to endoscopes. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, endoscopic devices are widely used to perform diagnostic and / or therapeutic procedures. Endoscopic devices are often coupled to additional devices, such as, but not limited to, a processor, a light source, a water source, a gas source, and the like. For example, water is supplied to the endoscope for irrigation and lens cleaning, while air / gas is supplied for insufflation of the working lumen. As new endoscopic technologies emerge, the new technology may not be backward compatible with older technologies. This may require two or more connectors or two or more types of connectors to be available for connecting additional devices to the endoscope. However, multiple components, such as tubes, hoses, couplers, and the like, can be cumbersome within a procedure room. With these considerations in mind, the improvements of the present disclosure may be useful. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The present disclosure provides design, material, manufacturing, and method of use alternatives for medical devices. One example of a medical device may include a container and tubing set arranged and configured to connect to an endoscope, a first gas supply source, and a second gas supply source for use in an endoscopic procedure. The container and tubing set includes: a container having an interior volume configured to contain a fluid; a gas supply tube including a first end, a second end, and a first lumen extending through the gas supply tube, the first end of the gas supply tube terminating at or within the container, the first lumen being in fluid communication with the interior volume of the container; and a coupling mechanism having a first end and a second end, the first end of the coupling mechanism configured to engage with the second end of the gas supply tube. the second end of the coupling mechanism interchangeably engages with both the first gas supply source and the second gas supply source; and a water supply tube including a first end, a second end, and a second lumen extending through the water supply tube, the first end of the water supply tube terminating at or within a bottom of the container, the second lumen being in fluid communication with an interior volume of the container, and the second end of the water supply tube being disposed exterior to the container.

[0004] Alternatively, or in addition to any of the above embodiments, the container and tubing set may include a branch junction at the second end of the water supply tubing, whereby the second lumen of the water supply tubing may be in fluid communication with both the third lumen of the lens cleaning solution tubing and the fourth lumen of the irrigation supply tubing.

[0005] Alternatively, or in addition to any of the above embodiments, the second end of the coupling mechanism may include a plurality of ridges on an outer surface of the coupling mechanism. Alternatively or additionally to any of the above embodiments, an annular seal comprising at least one ridge of the plurality of ridges may be disposed between two other ridges of the plurality of ridges.

[0006] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above embodiments, the plurality of ridges may include at least a first ridge of the plurality of ridges having a size and shape configured to engage with the first gas supply source so that a seal is formed between the coupling mechanism and the first gas supply source, and at least a second ridge of the plurality of ridges having a size and shape configured to engage with the second gas supply source so that a seal is formed between the coupling mechanism and the second gas supply source.

[0007] Alternatively, or in addition to any of the above embodiments, the first end of the coupling mechanism may include a hose barb mechanism. Alternatively, or in addition to any of the above embodiments, the linkage may be a single monolithic structure.

[0008] Alternatively, or additionally, to any of the above embodiments, the second end of the coupling mechanism may be formed to interchangeably allow for an interference fit between the coupling mechanism and the first gas supply and the second gas supply.

[0009] Alternatively, or in addition to any of the above embodiments, the first gas source may be a processor capital configured to pump air through a gas supply tube, and the second gas source is a carbon dioxide (CO2) source configured to pump CO2 through the gas supply tube.

[0010] Another example of a medical device may include a coupling mechanism for an endoscopic system. The coupling mechanism may include a substantially tubular body having an outer surface, an inner surface, a first end, and a second end, and a lumen extending through the tubular body from the first end to the second end. The first end may be configured to engage a gas supply tube, the second end may be configured to interchangeably engage both a first gas supply source and a second gas supply source, and the gas supply tube may be configured to engage a container configured to contain a fluid.

[0011] Alternatively, or in addition to any of the above embodiments, the second end of the linkage may include a plurality of ridges on an outer surface of the linkage. Alternatively, or in addition to any of the above embodiments, the first end of the coupling mechanism may include a hose barb mechanism.

[0012] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above embodiments, an annular seal comprising at least one ridge of the plurality of ridges may be disposed between two other ridges of the plurality of ridges.

[0013] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above embodiments, the plurality of ridges may include at least a first ridge of the plurality of ridges having a size and shape configured to engage with the first gas supply source so that a seal is formed between the coupling mechanism and the first gas supply source, and at least a second ridge of the plurality of ridges having a size and shape configured to engage with the second gas supply source so that a seal is formed between the coupling mechanism and the second gas supply source.

[0014] Alternatively, or in addition to any of the above embodiments, the first gas source may be a processor capital configured to pump air through a gas supply tube.

[0015] Alternatively, or additionally to any of the above embodiments, the second gas source may be a carbon dioxide (CO2) source configured to pump CO2 through the first gas supply tube.

[0016] Another example of a medical device may include a coupling mechanism for an endoscopic system. The coupling mechanism may include a substantially tubular body having an outer surface, an inner surface, a first end, and a second end. A lumen may extend through the tubular body from the first end to the second end, a hose barb mechanism may be disposed at the first end of the tubular body, and a plurality of ridges may be disposed on an outer surface of the second end of the tubular body. An annular seal may be disposed within the plurality of ridges, the first end may be configured to engage with a second end of a gas supply tube, the second end may be configured to interchangeably engage with both a first gas supply source and a second gas supply source, and the first end of the gas supply tube may be configured to engage with a container configured to contain a fluid.

[0017] Alternatively, or in addition to, any of the above embodiments, the first gas source may be a processor capital configured to pump air through a gas supply tube, and the second gas source may be a carbon dioxide (CO2) source configured to pump CO2 through the gas supply tube.

[0018] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above embodiments, the plurality of ridges may include at least a first ridge of the plurality of ridges having a size and shape configured to engage with the first gas supply source so that a seal is formed between the coupling mechanism and the first gas supply source, and at least a second ridge of the plurality of ridges having a size and shape configured to engage with the second gas supply source so that a seal is formed between the coupling mechanism and the second gas supply source.

[0019] Alternatively, or additionally, to any of the above embodiments, the second end of the coupling mechanism may be formed to interchangeably allow for an interference fit between the coupling mechanism and the first gas supply and the second gas supply.

[0020] The above summary of some embodiments is not intended to describe each disclosed embodiment or every implementation of the present disclosure. The figures and detailed description that follow more particularly exemplify these embodiments. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0021] [Figure 1] 1 illustrates an exemplary container and tubing set including a container, a gas supply tube, a lens cleaning solution tube, and an irrigation supply tube. [Figure 2A] 2A is a cross-sectional view of the gas supply tube taken along line 2A-2A in FIG. 1. [Figure 2B] 2B is a cross-sectional view of the water supply tube taken along line 2B-2B in FIG. 1. [Figure 2C] 2C is a cross-sectional view of the lens cleaning solution tube taken along line 2C-2C in FIG. 1. [Figure 2D] 2D-2D is a cross-sectional view of the irrigation supply tube of FIG. 1 taken along line 2D-2D. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary container and tubing set connected to an exemplary first gas source. [Figure 4] 1 illustrates an exemplary endoscopy system including a container and tubing set connected to an exemplary second gas supply, a lens cleaning solution tube, and an irrigation supply tube. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary coupling mechanism. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 illustrates an exemplary coupling mechanism coupled to an exemplary outlet of a first gas source. [Figure 7] 7 is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary coupling mechanism coupled to the exemplary outlet of the first gas source along line 7-7 of FIG. 6. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 illustrates an exemplary coupling mechanism coupled to an exemplary outlet of a second gas source. [Figure 9] 9 is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary coupling mechanism coupled to the exemplary outlet of the second gas source along line 9-9 of FIG. 8. [Figure 10]FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary coupling mechanism coupled to an exemplary outlet of a gas source. [Figure 11] 11 is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary coupling mechanism coupled to the exemplary outlet of the gas supply taken along line 11-11 of FIG. 10. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0022] The present disclosure may be more fully understood from the following detailed description considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: While the present disclosure is amenable to various modifications and alternative forms, specifics thereof 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 of the present disclosure.

[0023] For the following defined terms, these definitions shall be applied, unless a different definition is given in the claims or elsewhere in this specification. All numerical values, whether explicitly stated or not, are contemplated herein to be modified by the term "about." The term "about" generally refers to a range of numbers that one of ordinary skill in the art would consider equivalent to the recited value (i.e., having the same function or result). In many instances, the term "about" may include numbers that are rounded to the nearest significant figure.

[0024] The recitation of numerical ranges by endpoints includes all numbers within that range (eg, 1 to 5 includes 1, 1.5, 2, 2.75, 3, 3.80, 4, and 5). As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural references unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. As used in this specification and the appended claims, the term "or" is generally employed in its sense, including "and / or," unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

[0025] It is noted that references in this specification to "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "other embodiments," etc., indicate that the described embodiment may include one or more particular features, structures, and / or characteristics. However, such a description does not necessarily mean that all embodiments include that particular feature, structure, and / or characteristic. Also, if a particular feature, structure, and / or characteristic is described in connection with one embodiment, it should be understood that such feature, structure, and / or characteristic may also be used in connection with other embodiments, whether or not explicitly described, unless expressly stated otherwise.

[0026] The following detailed description should be read with reference to the drawings, in which like elements in different drawings are numbered the same. The drawings, which are not necessarily to scale, depict illustrative embodiments and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

[0027] Endoscopes are used to observe a test site within a body cavity of a subject by inserting the long shaft of the endoscope into the body and, if necessary, to perform diagnostic and / or therapeutic procedures by inserting a treatment instrument / tool ​​into a working channel within the long shaft of the endoscope. Such endoscopes or endoscopic systems may include a fluid / lens cleaning function or equivalent configured to deliver a fluid, such as a gas (e.g., air, CO2), to the end of the endoscope to insufflate a target site within the subject. The lens cleaning function may deliver sterile water at a relatively high pressure to spray the sterile water onto the camera lens of the endoscope and remove debris from the camera lens. In addition to the air / water delivery function, to rinse the target site of the subject, the endoscope or endoscopic system may also have an irrigation function that provides a larger volume of water at a lower pressure delivered to the target site via a pump (e.g., a peristaltic pump) to ensure a clear field of view for observation and treatment. The water source for the lens cleaning and / or irrigation functions may include one or more fluid reservoirs with tubing and cap assemblies that connect with endoscope channels, valves, and / or connectors to form tubing circuits to achieve the gas and water functions described.

[0028] Such tube and cap assemblies may be available in a variety of configurations, including a water bottle, a cap that fits onto the particular bottle, and an array of tubes that are extendable through openings in the cap, with the tubes arranged to accommodate a particular configuration of endoscope fittings and valves, which are typically not modular or optional.

[0029] As described above, during endoscopic procedures, clinicians utilize insufflation, irrigation, and lens cleaning functions. To accomplish these functions, either compressed air from a processor or carbon dioxide (CO) from a CO source is used to insufflate the working lumen or to increase pressure in a water container (e.g., a water bottle) to force water therein into the lumen or to clean the endoscope's lens. In such cases, connecting air and / or CO to the water container may require two different types of coupling mechanisms (one for air and one for CO). This disclosure describes various coupling mechanisms that address the above-mentioned and / or other problems with existing connectors.

[0030] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary container and tubing set 10 including a container 30, a gas delivery tube 22, a lens cleaning solution tube 36, and an irrigation delivery tube 38. In some cases, the container 30 may be a water reservoir (e.g., a water bottle) and may include an interior volume 40 configured to contain a fluid 41 (e.g., water). The gas delivery tube 22 may include a first end 21, a second end 23, and a first lumen (not shown in FIG. 1 ) extending through the gas delivery tube 22. The first end 21 of the gas delivery tube 22 may terminate at or within the container 30 such that the first lumen is in fluid communication with the interior volume 40 of the container 30. In some cases, the gas delivery tube 22 may pass through an opening 26 in a cap 27 and extend into the interior volume 40 of the container 30. In some cases, the opening 26 may include a void. In some cases, opening 26 may include a rubber seal that may be configured for gas delivery tube 22 to pass through. In some cases, first end 21 of gas delivery tube 22 may be detachable and may engage with cap 27 of container 30 using, for example, a luer lock system. In some cases, gas delivery tube 22 and cap 27 may be a single monolithic component.

[0031] The second end 23 of the gas delivery tube 22 may be configured to engage with the coupling mechanism 20. In some cases, the second end 23 of the gas delivery tube 22 may engage with the coupling mechanism 20 via, for example, a hose barb mechanism. In some cases, the second end 23 of the gas delivery tube 22 may engage with the coupling mechanism 20 via an interference fit, a luer lock system, a luer slip system, or any other suitable type of engagement.

[0032] The water supply tube 32 may include a first end 31, a second end 33, and a second lumen (not shown in FIG. 1 ) extending therethrough. The water supply tube 32 may be configured so that the second lumen terminates at or within the bottom of the container 30 such that the second lumen is in fluid communication with the interior volume 40 of the container 30. In some cases, if the water supply tube 32 terminates at the bottom of the container 30, the water supply tube 32 may include an inner tube 29 that may extend into the interior volume 40 of the container 30, which may contain a fluid 41. For example, other possibilities include the water supply tube 32 functioning as a lens cleaning solution supply tube and the inner tube 29 functioning as an irrigation supply tube, or the water supply tube 32 acting as an irrigation supply tube and the inner tube 29 functioning as a lens cleaning solution supply tube. In some cases, the water supply tube 32 may pass through an opening in the bottom of the container 30 and extend into the interior volume 40 of the container 30. In some cases, the opening in the bottom of the container may include a rubber seal that may be configured for the water supply tube 32 to pass through. In some cases, the first end 31 of the water supply tube 32 may be detachable and may engage with the container 30 using, for example, a luer lock system, and the inner tube 29 may then extend through the opening in the bottom of the container 30 into the interior volume 40 of the container 30. In some cases, the water supply tube 32 and the container 30 may be a single monolithic component.

[0033] The second end 33 of the water supply tube 32 may include a branch junction 35 where the second lumen of the water supply tube 32 may communicate with the third lumen of the lens cleaning solution tube 36 and the fourth lumen of the irrigation supply tube 38. Although the lens cleaning solution tube 36 and the irrigation supply tube 38 are shown to be supplied with fluid 41 (e.g., water) from the same water supply tube 32, it is contemplated that the lens cleaning solution tube 36 may supply fluid 41 from the water supply tube 32 and the irrigation supply tube 38 may supply fluid from a separate fluid source.

[0034] FIG. 2A shows a cross-sectional view of the gas delivery tube 22 taken along line 2A-2A of FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 2A, the gas delivery tube 22 is a single tube. In some cases, the gas delivery tube 22 may have an outer diameter of 2 mm (millimeters) to 7 mm. FIG. 2B shows a cross-sectional view of the water delivery tube 32 taken along line 2B-2B of FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 2B, the water delivery tube 32 may include an inner tube 29 and a second lumen 34 extending through the inner tube 29. While the water delivery tube 32 is shown to include the inner tube 29, it is contemplated that the water delivery tube 32 may be a single tube and not include the inner tube 29. In some cases, the water delivery tube 32 may have an outer diameter of 2 mm to 7 mm. FIG. 2C shows a cross-sectional view of the lens cleaning solution tube 36 taken along line 2C-2C of FIG. 1, and FIG. 2D shows a cross-sectional view of the irrigation delivery tube 38 taken along line 2D-2D of FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 2C, the lens cleaning solution tube may include a third lumen 37 extending therethrough. In some cases, the lens cleaning solution tube 36 may include an outer diameter of 2 mm to 7 mm. As shown in FIG. 2D, the irrigation supply tube 38 may include a fourth lumen 39 extending therethrough. In some cases, the irrigation supply tube 38 may include an outer diameter of 2 mm to 7 mm.

[0035] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary vessel and tubing set 100 coupled to an exemplary first gas supply source 150. The vessel and tubing set 100 may be considered an example of the vessel and tubing set 10 in FIG. 1 . In some cases, the first gas supply source 150 may be processor capital configured to pump air to the vessel 130 through a gas supply tube 122. As shown in FIG. 3 , the gas supply tube 122 may include a first end 121 and a second end 123. Although not shown, the gas supply tube 122 may include a first lumen (e.g., first lumen 24) extending therethrough. The first end 121 of the gas supply tube 122 may terminate at or within the vessel 130 such that the first lumen is in fluid communication with the interior volume 140 of the vessel 130. In some cases, the gas delivery tube 122 may pass through an opening 126 in the cap 127 and extend into the interior volume 140 of the container 130. In some cases, the opening 126 may include a gap. In some cases, the opening 126 may include a rubber seal that may be configured for the gas delivery tube 122 to pass through. In some cases, the first end 121 of the gas delivery tube 122 may be detachable and may engage with the cap 127 of the container 130 using, for example, a Luer lock system. In some cases, the gas delivery tube 122 and the cap 127 may be a single monolithic component.

[0036] The second end 123 of the gas supply tube 122 may be configured to engage with the first end 111 of the coupling mechanism 120. In some cases, the second end 123 of the gas supply tube 122 may engage with the first end 111 of the coupling mechanism 120 via, for example, a hose barb arrangement. In some cases, the second end 123 of the gas supply tube 122 may engage with the first end 111 of the coupling mechanism 120 via an interference fit, a luer lock system, a luer slip system, or any other suitable type of engagement. The second end 112 of the coupling mechanism 120 may be configured to engage with the outlet 110 of the first gas supply source 150. In some cases, the second end 112 of the coupling mechanism 120 may include a size and shape configured to enable an interference fit between the coupling mechanism 120 and the outlet 110 of the first gas supply source 150.

[0037] Water supply tube 132 can include a first end 131, a second end 133, and a second lumen (e.g., second lumen 34) extending therethrough. Water supply tube 132 can be configured to terminate at or within the bottom of container 130 such that the second lumen is in fluid communication with interior volume 140 of container 130. In some cases, when water supply tube 132 terminates at the bottom of container 130, water supply tube 132 can include an inner tube (e.g., inner tube 29) that can extend into interior volume 140 of container 130, which can contain fluid 141. For example, other possibilities include water supply tube 132 functioning as a lens cleaning solution supply tube and an inner tube (e.g., inner tube 29) functioning as an irrigation supply tube, or water supply tube 132 functioning as an irrigation supply tube and an inner tube functioning as a lens cleaning solution supply tube. In some cases, the water supply tube 132 may pass through an opening in the bottom of the container 130 and extend into the interior volume 140 of the container 130. In some cases, the opening in the bottom of the container may include a rubber seal that may be configured for the water supply tube 132 to pass through. In some cases, the first end 131 of the water supply tube 132 may be detachable and may engage with the container 130 using a luer lock system, and the inner tube may then extend through an opening in the bottom of the container 130 into the interior volume 140 of the container 130. In some cases, the water supply tube 132 and the container 130 may be a single monolithic component. In some cases, the second end 133 of the water supply tube 132 may include a connector 135 configured to engage with a shunt junction that may be configured to engage with a lens cleaning solution tube, an irrigation supply tube, or both a lens cleaning solution tube and an irrigation supply tube.

[0038] When the coupling mechanism 120 is connected to the outlet 110 of the first gas source 150 and the gas supply tube 122, gas (e.g., air) can flow from the first gas source 150 through the gas supply tube 122 and into the container 130. This allows the gas (e.g., air) to pressurize the fluid 141 (e.g., water) in the container 130, forcing the fluid 141 through the water supply tube 132 and through the lens cleaning solution tube and / or irrigation supply tube.

[0039] In some cases, when the water supply tube 132 is connected to the lens cleaning solution tube, the magnitude of the lens cleaning solution flow rate is controlled by the gas pressure within the container 130. As the gas pressure within the container 130 begins to decrease, water is forced out of the container 130 through the water supply tube 132, causing the first gas source 150 to replenish the lost air supply within the container 130 to maintain a substantially constant pressure, thereby providing a substantially constant flow rate of lens cleaning solution. In some embodiments, a filter (not shown) may be disposed within the path of the gas supply tube 122 to filter out undesirable contaminants or particulate matter from entering the container 130. In some embodiments, an outflow check valve or other one-way valve configuration (not shown) may be disposed within the path of the water supply tube 132 to help prevent water from flowing back into the container 130 after passing through the valve.

[0040] In some cases, a relatively large flow rate of irrigation water is generally required compared to lens cleaning, since the primary use is to remove debris from the patient's treatment area that obstructs the user's field of vision. In some cases, irrigation can be achieved using a pump (e.g., a peristaltic pump). In some cases, irrigation can be achieved by regulating the flow of gas from the first gas source 150 to the container 130. In some cases, a vent (not shown) can be included in the cap 127 of the container 130 to equalize the pressure within the container 130 as water is pumped from the water supply tube 132 and subsequently from the irrigation supply tube. The vent prevents atmospheric air from entering the water source, creating a negative pressure buildup within the water source. This buildup can create a vacuum, potentially drawing unwanted 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) can be placed in the path of the irrigation supply tube to help prevent water from flowing back into the container 130 after passing through the valve.

[0041] FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary endoscope system including a container and tubing set 200 coupled to an exemplary second gas supply 250, a lens cleaning solution tube 236, and an irrigation supply tube 238. The container and tubing set 200 may be considered an example of the container and tubing set 10 in FIG. 1. In some cases, the second gas supply 250 may be a CO (carbon dioxide) supply source, such as a wall-based CO outlet, as shown in FIG. 4. In some cases, the second gas supply 250 may be a portable CO cylinder coupled to a CO regulator. The second gas supply 250 may be configured to pump CO to the container 230 through a gas supply tube 222. As shown in FIG. 4, the gas supply tube 222 may include a first end 221 and a second end 223. Although not shown, the gas supply tube 222 may include a first lumen (e.g., first lumen 24) extending therethrough. The first end 221 of the gas delivery tube 222 may terminate at or within the container 230 such that the first lumen is in fluid communication with the interior volume 240 of the container 230. In some cases, the gas delivery tube 222 terminates at a cap 227 of the container 230. In some cases, the gas delivery tube 222 may pass through an opening 226 in the cap 227 and extend into the interior volume 240 of the container 230. In some cases, the opening 226 may include a gap. In some cases, the opening 226 may include a rubber seal through which the gas delivery tube 222 may be configured to pass. In some cases, the first end 221 of the gas delivery tube 222 may be detachable and may engage with the cap 227 of the container 230 using, for example, a Luer lock system. In some cases, the gas delivery tube 222 and the cap 227 may be a single monolithic component.

[0042] The second end 223 of the gas supply tube 222 may be configured to engage with the first end 211 of the coupling mechanism 220. In some cases, the second end 223 of the gas supply tube 222 may engage with the first end 211 of the coupling mechanism 220 via, for example, a luer lock system 225. In some cases, the second end 223 of the gas supply tube 222 may engage with the first end 211 of the coupling mechanism 220 via an interference fit, a luer slip system, or any other suitable type of engagement. The second end 212 of the coupling mechanism 220 may be configured to engage with the outlet 210 of the second gas supply source 250. In some cases, the second end 212 of the coupling mechanism 220 may include a size and shape configured to enable an interference fit between the coupling mechanism 220 and the outlet 210 of the second gas supply source 250.

[0043] Water supply tube 232 can include a first end 231, a second end 233, and a second lumen (e.g., second lumen 34) extending therethrough. Water supply tube 232 can be configured to terminate at or within the bottom of container 230 such that the second lumen is in fluid communication with interior volume 240 of container 230. In some cases, when water supply tube 232 terminates at the bottom of container 230, water supply tube 232 can include an inner tube (e.g., inner tube 29) that can extend into interior volume 240 of container 230, which can contain fluid 241. For example, other possibilities include water supply tube 232 functioning as a lens cleaning solution supply tube and inner tube 29 functioning as an irrigation supply tube, or water supply tube 232 functioning as an irrigation supply tube and inner tube 29 functioning as a lens cleaning solution supply tube. In some cases, the water supply tube 232 may pass through an opening in the bottom of the container 230 and extend into the interior volume 240 of the container 230. In some cases, the opening in the bottom of the container may include a rubber seal that may be configured for the water supply tube 232 to pass through. In some cases, the first end 231 of the water supply tube 232 may be detachable and may engage with the container 230 using, for example, a luer lock system, and the inner tube may then extend through the opening in the bottom of the container 230 into the interior volume 240 of the container 230. In some cases, the water supply tube 232 and the container 230 may be a single monolithic component.

[0044] In some cases, the second end 233 of the water supply tube 232 may include a connector 235 configured to engage with a split junction 237, which may be configured to engage both the lens cleaning solution tube 236 and the irrigation supply tube 238. Both the lens cleaning solution tube 236 and the irrigation supply tube 238 may be configured to engage with the endoscope system 260. When the coupling mechanism 220 is connected to the outlet 210 of the second gas source 250 and the gas supply tube 222, gas (e.g., CO) can flow from the second gas source 250 through the gas supply tube 222 and into the container 230. This allows the gas (e.g., CO) to pressurize the fluid 241 (e.g., water) in the container 230, forcing the fluid 241 through the water supply tube 232 and through the lens cleaning solution tube 236 and / or irrigation supply tube 238 to the endoscope system 260.

[0045] In some cases, when the water supply tube 232 is connected to the lens cleaning solution tube 236, the magnitude of the lens cleaning solution flow rate is controlled by the gas pressure within the container 230. As the gas pressure within the container 230 begins to decrease, water is forced out of the container 230 through the water supply tube 232, causing the second gas source 250 to replenish the lost CO2 supply within the container 230 to maintain a substantially constant pressure, thereby providing 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 222 to filter out undesirable contaminants or particulate matter from entering the container 230. In some embodiments, an outflow check valve or other one-way valve configuration (not shown) may be placed within the path of the water supply tube 232 to help prevent water from flowing back into the container 230 after passing through the valve.

[0046] In some cases, a relatively high flow rate of irrigation water is generally required compared to lens cleaning, since the primary use is to remove debris from the patient's treatment area that obstructs the user's field of view. In some cases, irrigation may be achieved using a pump (e.g., a peristaltic pump). In some cases, irrigation may be achieved by regulating the flow of gas from the second gas source 250 to the container 230. In some cases, a vent (not shown) may be included in the cap 227 of the container 230 to equalize the pressure within the container 230 as water is pumped from the water supply tube 232 and subsequently from the irrigation supply tube 238. The vent prevents atmospheric air from entering the water source, causing negative pressure to build up within the water source. This buildup of negative pressure can create a vacuum, potentially drawing unwanted material from the patient through the endoscope system 260 toward the water source. In some embodiments, an outflow check valve or other one-way valve configuration (not shown) may be placed in the path of the irrigation supply tube to help prevent water from flowing back into the container 230 after passing through the valve.

[0047] FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of an exemplary coupling mechanism 300. The coupling mechanism 300 may be considered an example of the coupling mechanisms 20, 120, and 220 shown in FIGS. 1, 2, and 3, respectively. The coupling mechanism 300 may include a substantially tubular body 315 having an outer surface 311, an inner surface 312, a first end 301, and a second end 302. A lumen 310 may extend through the tubular body 315 from the first end 301 to the second end 302. In some cases, the first end 301 of the tubular body 315 may be configured to engage with the second end of a gas delivery tube (e.g., gas delivery tube 22, 122, 222), for example, via a hose barb arrangement. In such cases, a hose barb 335 may be disposed at the first end 301 of the tubular body 315. In some cases, coupling mechanism 300 may include a grip 330 by which a user may grasp coupling mechanism 300 while connecting coupling mechanism 300 to the second end of the gas supply tube and / or the gas supply source. Preferred materials for tubular body 315 include polycarbonate materials. If a polymer is selected as the material for tubular body 315, the material may have a durometer in the range of approximately 75A to 90A Shore hardness, among other possible values.

[0048] The second end 302 of the tubular body 315 may include a plurality of ridges 320a, 320b, 320c, and 320d on the outer surface 311 of the tubular body 315. In some cases, an annular seal 325 may be disposed within the plurality of ridges 320a, 320b, 320c, and 320d (in the illustrated embodiment, between ridges 320b and 320c). In some cases, the annular seal 325 may be overmolded onto the second end 302 of the tubular body 315. Preferred materials for the annular seal 325 include thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs), silicone, or any other suitable material. If a polymer is selected as the material for the annular seal 325, the material may have a durometer in the Shore hardness range of approximately 40A to 60A, among other possible values.

[0049] The plurality of ridges 320a, 320b, 320c, 320d, 325a, 325b may include a size and shape configured to interchangeably enable an interference fit between the coupling mechanism 300 and a first gas supply source (e.g., first gas supply 150) and a second gas supply source (e.g., second gas supply 250). The plurality of ridges 320a, 320b, 320c, 320d may include at least a first ridge (e.g., ridge 320a) of the plurality of ridges 320a, 320b, 320c, 320d configured to engage a first gas supply such that a seal is formed between the coupling mechanism 300 and the first gas supply, and at least a second ridge (e.g., 320d) of the plurality of ridges 320a, 320b, 320c, 320d configured to engage a second gas supply such that a seal is formed between the coupling mechanism 300 and the second gas supply. For example, at least the first ridge (e.g., ridge 320a) may have a larger outer diameter than the remaining ridges of the plurality of ridges 320a, 320b, 320c, 320d. Although the plurality of ridges 320a, 320b, 320c, 320d, 325a, 325b is shown to include six ridges, it is contemplated that the plurality of ridges 320 may include four ridges, five ridges, seven ridges, eight ridges, or any other suitable number of ridges as desired.

[0050] FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary coupling mechanism 400 coupled to an exemplary outlet 450 of a first gas source (e.g., first gas source 150). FIG. 7 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the exemplary coupling mechanism 400 coupled to an exemplary outlet 450 of a first gas source, taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 6. The coupling mechanism 400 may be considered an example of the coupling mechanism 300 in FIG. 5. As shown in FIGS. 6-7, the coupling mechanism 400 may include a substantially tubular body 415 having an outer surface 411, an inner surface 412, a first end 401, and a second end 402. A lumen 410 may extend through the tubular body 415 from the first end 401 to the second end 402. In some cases, the first end 401 of the tubular body 415 may be configured to engage the second end of a gas supply tube (e.g., gas supply tube 22), for example, via a hose barb or another suitable mechanism. In such cases, a hose barb 435 may be disposed at the first end 401 of the tubular body 415. In some cases, the coupling mechanism 400 may include a grip 430 by which a user may grasp the coupling mechanism 400 while connecting the coupling mechanism 400 to the second end of the gas supply tube and / or the gas supply source. Preferred materials for the body include polycarbonate materials. If a polymer is selected as the material for the tubular body 415, the material may have a durometer in the range of approximately 75A to 90A Shore A, among other possible values.

[0051] The second end 402 of the tubular body 415 may include multiple ridges 420a, 420b, 420c, and 420d on the outer surface 411 of the tubular body 415. In some cases, an annular seal 425 may be disposed within the multiple ridges (between ridges 420b and 420c in the illustrated embodiment). The annular seal 425 may include one or more ridges 425a and 425b. In other embodiments (not shown), the one or more ridges may be formed by the surfaces of one or more O-rings. In some cases, the annular seal 425 may be overmolded onto the second end 402 of the tubular body 415. Preferred materials for the annular seal 425 include thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs), silicones, or any other suitable materials. If a polymer is selected as the material for the annular seal 425, the material may have a durometer in the Shore hardness range of approximately 40A to 60A, among other possible values.

[0052] The plurality of ridges 420a, 420b, 420c, 420d, 425a, 425b may include a size and shape configured to interchangeably enable an interference fit between the coupling mechanism 400 and a first gas supply source (e.g., first gas supply 150) and a second gas supply source (e.g., second gas supply 250). The plurality of ridges 420a, 420b, 420c, 420d may include at least a first ridge (e.g., ridge 420a) of the plurality of ridges 420a, 420b, 420c, 420d having a size and shape configured to engage with the first gas supply such that a seal is formed between the coupling mechanism 400 and the first gas supply. For example, at least the first ridge (e.g., ridge 420a) may have a larger outer diameter than the remaining ridges of the plurality of ridges 420a, 420b, 420c, 420d. 7, the first ridge 420d can include a size and shape configured to engage with the first gas source outlet 450 such that a seal is formed between the coupling mechanism 400 and the first gas source outlet 450. Additionally, the ridges 425a, 425b of the annular seal 425 can include a size and shape configured to engage with the first gas source outlet 450 such that an additional seal is formed between the coupling mechanism 400 and the first gas source outlet 450. Although not shown, the ridges 420c, 420d are configured to engage with the second gas source outlet, similar to the ridges 520d, 520e of FIGS. Although the plurality of ridges 420a, 420b, 420c, 420d, 425a, 425b is shown to include six ridges, it is contemplated that the plurality of ridges 420a, 420b, 420c, 420d, 425a, 425b may include three ridges, four ridges, seven ridges, eight ridges, or any suitable number of ridges as desired.

[0053] FIG. 8 illustrates an exemplary coupling mechanism 500 coupled to an exemplary outlet 550 of a second gas source (e.g., second gas source 250). FIG. 9 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the exemplary coupling mechanism 500 coupled to an exemplary outlet 550 of a second gas source, taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 8. Coupling mechanism 500 may be considered an example of coupling mechanism 300, shown in FIG. 5. Coupling mechanism 500 differs slightly from coupling mechanism 400 due to the inclusion of additional ridges, as described below. As shown in FIGS. 8-9, coupling mechanism 500 may include a substantially tubular body 515 having an outer surface 511, an inner surface 512, a first end 501, and a second end 502. A lumen 510 may extend through tubular body 515 from first end 501 to second end 502. In some cases, the first end 501 of the tubular body 515 can be configured to engage with the second end of a gas supply tube (e.g., gas supply tube 22), for example, via a hose barb arrangement. In such cases, a hose barb 535 can be disposed at the first end 501 of the tubular body 515. In some cases, the coupling mechanism 500 can include a grip 530 by which a user can grasp the coupling mechanism 500 while connecting the coupling mechanism 500 to the second end of the gas supply tube and / or the gas source. Preferred materials for the tubular body 515 include polycarbonate materials. If a polymer is selected as the material for the tubular body 515, the material can have a durometer in the range of approximately 75A to 90A Shore A, among other possible values.

[0054] The second end 502 of the tubular body 515 may include a plurality of ridges 520a, 520b, 520c, 520d, and 520e on the outer surface 511 of the tubular body 515. In some cases, an annular seal 525 may be disposed within the plurality of ridges 520a, 520b, 520c, 520d, and 520e (in the illustrated embodiment, between ridges 520b and 520c). The annular seal 525 may include one or more ridges 525a and 525b. In other embodiments (not shown), the one or more ridges may be formed by the surface of one or more O-rings. In some cases, the annular seal 525 may be overmolded onto the second end 502 of the tubular body 515. The plurality of ridges 520a, 520b, 520c, 520d, 520e, 525a, 525b may include a size and shape configured to interchangeably enable an interference fit between the coupling mechanism 500 and a first gas supply source (e.g., first gas supply 150) and a second gas supply source (e.g., second gas supply 250). In some cases, the ridges 525d, 525e of the plurality of ridges 520a, 520b, 520c, 520d, 520e, 520a, 520b may be configured to engage with an outlet 550 of the second gas supply. The ridges 520d, 520e may engage with the outlet 550 via an interference fit or a transition fit. Preferred materials for the annular seal 525 include a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), silicone, or any other suitable material. If a polymer is selected as the material for the annular seal 525, the material may have a durometer in the range of approximately 40A to 60A Shore, among other possible values.

[0055] In some cases, the second end 502 of the coupling mechanism 500 can be inserted into a second gas source, which can be a wall-based CO2 outlet. The second end 502 of the coupling mechanism 500 can be plugged into an outlet 550 of the second gas source, and a valve 540 in the outlet 550 can extend into the lumen 510 of the coupling mechanism 500. The ridges 520d, 502e of the second end 502 cooperate to provide an interference fit to tightly hold the coupling mechanism 500 within the outlet 550 of the second gas source. Additionally, the plurality of ridges 520a, 520b, 520c, 520d, 520e, 525a, 525b can include a first ridge 520a that can have a larger outer diameter than the remaining ridges of the plurality of ridges 520b, 520c, 520d, 520e, 525a, 525b. Although not shown, ridges 520a, 525a, 525b may include a size and shape configured to engage with an outlet of the first gas supply such that a seal is formed between coupling mechanism 500 and the outlet of the first gas supply, similar to ridges 425a, 420a, 425b in Figures 6-7. While the plurality of ridges is shown to include seven ridges 520a, 520b, 520c, 520d, 520e, 525a, 525b, it is contemplated that the plurality of ridges 520 may include three ridges, four ridges, six ridges, eight ridges, or any suitable number of ridges, as desired.

[0056] FIG. 10 illustrates an exemplary coupling mechanism 600 coupled to an exemplary outlet 650 of a gas supply (e.g., first gas supply 150). FIG. 11 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the exemplary coupling mechanism 600 coupled to the exemplary outlet 650 of a gas supply along line 11-11 of FIG. 10 . As shown in FIGS. 10-11 , the coupling mechanism 600 may include an outer surface 611, an inner surface 612, a first end 601, and a second end 602. A lumen 610 may extend through the coupling mechanism 600 from the first end 601 to the second end 602. In some cases, the first end 601 of the coupling mechanism 600 may be configured to engage with the second end of a gas supply tube (e.g., gas supply tube 22) via, for example, a hose barb system, a luer lock system, or any other suitable connection. A preferred material for the coupling mechanism 600 includes a polycarbonate material. If a polymer is selected as the material for linkage 600, the material may have a durometer in the range of approximately 75A to 90A Shore, among other possible values.

[0057] The second end 602 of the coupling mechanism 600 may include an outer lip 635. In some cases, the outer lip 635 may be configured to fit over the outer surface of the outlet 650 of a gas source (e.g., the first gas source 150). The outer lip 635 of the coupling mechanism 600 may include a size and shape configured to provide an interference fit with the gas source outlet 650. This interference fit holds the coupling mechanism 600 tightly over the gas source outlet 650, preventing the coupling mechanism 600 from backing out of the outlet 650. In some cases, the coupling mechanism 600 may include a ridge 620 on the male portion 625 of the coupling mechanism 600. The ridge 620 may form an additional seal between the coupling mechanism 600 and the outlet of the gas source 650.

[0058] Coupling mechanism 600 may include a spring 630 attached to male portion 625 within coupling mechanism 600. Spring 630 may be positioned around lumen 610 so that gas (e.g., air, CO2) may pass from gas source outlet 650 through lumen 610 of coupling mechanism 600 and into the gas supply tube. Spring 630 may be configured to move along the axis of coupling mechanism 600 (similar to a coaxial cable) so that ridge 620 on male portion 625 may engage stop 634 on gas source outlet 650. In other embodiments, internal stop 633 may prevent male portion 625 from moving too distally from coupling mechanism 600.

[0059] In some cases, the male portion 625 of the coupling mechanism 600 may be inserted into a second gas source (not shown), which may be a wall-based CO2 outlet such as the outlet 550 shown in Figures 8-9. The male portion 625 of the coupling mechanism 600 may plug into the outlet (e.g., outlet 550) of the second gas source, and the valve 540 in the outlet may extend into the lumen 610 of the coupling mechanism 600. The ridge 620 may function to provide an interference fit to hold the coupling mechanism 600 tightly within the outlet of the second gas source.

[0060] In addition to the preferred materials described above, the linkages 20, 120, 220, 300, 400, 500, 600 may be made from or otherwise include metals, metal alloys, polymers (some examples of which are disclosed below), metal-polymer composites, ceramics, combinations thereof, and the like, or other suitable materials. Some examples of suitable polymers are polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), ethylene tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE), fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP), polyoxymethylene (POM, e.g., DELRIN® available from DuPont), polyether block esters, polyurethanes (e.g., polyurethane 85A), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyether-esters (e.g., ARNITEL® available from DSM Engineering Plastics), ether or ester-based copolymers (e.g., butylene / poly(alkylene ether) phthalates and / or other polyester elastomers such as HYTREL® available from DuPont), polyamides (e.g., DURETHAN® or Elf® available from Bayer), and the like. CRISTAMID™ available from Atochem), elastomeric polyamides, block polyamide / ethers, polyether block amides (PEBA, e.g., available under the trade name PEBAX™), ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA), silicone, polyethylene (PE), MARLEX™ high density polyethylene, MARLEX™ low density polyethylene, linear low density polyethylene (e.g., REXELL™), polyester, polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polytrimethylene terephthalate, polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polyether ether ketone (PEEK), polyimide (PI), polyetherimide (PEI), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyphenylene oxide (PPO), polyparaphenylene terephthalamide (e.g., KEVLAR™), polysulfone, nylon, nylon-12 (EMS AmericanThe sheath may include materials such as GRILAMID® (available from Grillon), perfluoro(propyl vinyl ether) (PFA), ethylene vinyl alcohol, polyolefins, polystyrene, epoxies, polyvinylidene chloride (PVdC), poly(styrene-b-isobutylene-b-styrene) (e.g., SIBS and / or SIBS 50A), polycarbonates, ionomers, biocompatible polymers, other suitable materials, or blends, combinations, copolymers, polymer / metal composites, and the like. In some embodiments, the sheath may be formulated with a liquid crystal polymer (LCP). For example, the blend may contain up to about 6 percent LCP.

[0061] It should be understood that this disclosure is, in many respects, merely illustrative. Changes may be made in details, particularly in matters of shape, size, and arrangement of steps, without departing from the scope of the disclosure. This may include, to the extent appropriate, using any of the features of one illustrative embodiment in other embodiments. The scope of the invention is, of course, defined in the language in which the appended claims are expressed.

Claims

1. 1. A container and tubing set arranged and configured to connect to an endoscope, a first gas source, and a second gas source for use in an endoscopic procedure, comprising: a container having an interior volume configured to contain a fluid; a gas delivery tube including a first end, a second end, and a first lumen extending therethrough, the first end of the gas delivery tube terminating at or within the vessel, the first lumen in fluid communication with the interior volume of the vessel; a coupling mechanism having a first end and a second end, the first end of the coupling mechanism configured to engage the second end of the gas supply tube and the second end of the coupling mechanism configured to interchangeably engage both the first gas supply source and the second gas supply source; a water supply tube including a first end, a second end, and a second lumen extending therethrough, wherein the first end of the water supply tube terminates at or within a bottom of the container, the second lumen is in fluid communication with the interior volume of the container, and the second end of the water supply tube is disposed outside the container.

2. 10. The container and tubing set of claim 1, further comprising a branch junction at the second end of the water supply tubing, wherein the second lumen of the water supply tubing is in fluid communication with both the third lumen of the lens cleaning solution tubing and the fourth lumen of the irrigation supply tubing.

3. The container and tubing set of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the second end of the coupling mechanism includes a plurality of ridges on an outer surface of the coupling mechanism.

4. The container and tubing set of claim 3 , wherein an annular seal comprising at least one of the plurality of ridges is disposed between two other ridges of the plurality of ridges.

5. 4. The container and tubing set of claim 3, wherein the plurality of ridges includes at least a first ridge of the plurality of ridges having a size and shape configured to engage with the first gas supply source so that a seal is formed between the coupling mechanism and the first gas supply source, and at least a second ridge of the plurality of ridges having a size and shape configured to engage with the second gas supply source so that a seal is formed between the coupling mechanism and the second gas supply source.

6. The container and tubing set of claim 1 , wherein the first end of the coupling mechanism includes a hose barb mechanism.

7. 7. The container and tubing set of claim 1, wherein the coupling mechanism is a single monolithic structure.

8. 8. The container and tubing set of claim 1, wherein the second end of the coupling mechanism is configured to allow interchangeable interference fits between the coupling mechanism and the first gas supply and the second gas supply.

9. The first gas source is a processor capital configured to pump air through the gas supply tube, and the second gas source is a processor capital configured to pump carbon dioxide (CO ) through the gas supply tube. ２ ) configured to pump CO ２ A coupling mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 8, which is a supply source.

10. 1. A coupling mechanism for an endoscope system, comprising: a substantially tubular body having an outer surface, an inner surface, a first end, and a second end; a lumen extending through the tubular body from the first end to the second end; the first end is configured to engage a gas supply tube and the second end is configured to interchangeably engage both a first gas supply source and a second gas supply source; The gas supply tube is configured to engage a container configured to contain a fluid.

11. The coupling mechanism of claim 10 , wherein the second end of the coupling mechanism includes a plurality of ridges on the outer surface of the coupling mechanism.

12. The coupling mechanism of claim 11 , wherein an annular seal comprising at least one of the plurality of ridges is disposed between two other ridges of the plurality of ridges.

13. 12. The coupling mechanism of claim 11 , wherein the plurality of ridges includes at least a first ridge of the plurality of ridges configured to be sized and shaped to engage with the first gas supply source such that a seal is formed between the coupling mechanism and the first gas supply source, and at least a second ridge of the plurality of ridges configured to be sized and shaped to engage with the second gas supply source such that a seal is formed between the coupling mechanism and the second gas supply source.

14. 14. The coupling mechanism of any one of claims 10 to 13, wherein the first end of the coupling mechanism includes a hose barb mechanism.

15. The first gas supply is a processor capital configured to pump air through the gas supply tube, and the second gas supply is a processor capital configured to pump carbon dioxide (CO ) through the first gas supply tube. ２ ) configured to pump CO ２ 15. A coupling mechanism according to any one of claims 10 to 14, which is a supply source.

Images