Manifold apparatus, assembly, and method for an endoscopy system

Abstract

Apparatus, system, and method for connecting tubing to a fluid reservoir for supplying liquid to an endoscope system. A manifold coupled to the fluid reservoir and tubing assembly may include a first portion that interfaces with the interior of the fluid reservoir and a second portion configured to interface with tubing for fluid communication with the interior of the fluid reservoir. The first portion may include one or more openings for allowing gas to pass into the fluid reservoir and liquid to pass out of the fluid reservoir. The second portion may include one or more ports for connecting to tubing that supplies gas to and receives liquid from the fluid reservoir. The manifold may include a valve that selectively allows gas to pass into the fluid reservoir.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE The present disclosure relates generally to manifold devices, assemblies, and methods, and more particularly to manifold devices, assemblies, and methods for endoscopic systems. [Background technology]

[0002] A wide variety of internal and external medical devices and systems have been developed for medical applications, including endoscopic procedures. These devices and systems include guidewires, catheters, catheter systems, endoscopic instruments, and the like. These devices and systems may be manufactured by any of a variety of different manufacturing methods and used according to any one of a variety of different methods. Each of the known medical devices, systems, and methods has certain advantages and disadvantages. There is a continuing need to provide alternatives to the medical devices and systems, as well as alternative methods of manufacturing and using the medical devices and systems. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The present disclosure provides design, material, manufacturing, and use alternatives for medical devices and systems. In a first example, a manifold configured to be coupled to a tubing assembly and a fluid supply in fluid communication with an endoscope may include a first portion configured to be disposed inside the fluid supply. The first portion includes a first opening in fluid communication with a first through-hole and a second opening in fluid communication with a second through-hole. The manifold may include a second portion configured to be disposed outside the fluid supply. The second portion includes a first port in fluid communication with the first through-hole, the first port configured to be coupled to first tubing configured to be in fluid communication with the endoscope. The second portion includes a second port in fluid communication with the second through-hole. The second port is configured to be coupled to second tubing in fluid communication with the endoscope.

[0004] Alternatively or additionally, in another example of any of the above examples, the manifold can include a third opening in the first portion. The third opening is in fluid communication with the third through-hole and the first port. The manifold can also include a valve in fluid communication with the third opening. The valve allows gas to be discharged through the third opening when pressure in the third through-hole is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, and prevents gas from being discharged through the third opening when the pressure is less than the predetermined threshold.

[0005] In another example alternative to or in addition to any of the examples above, the manifold can include a third opening in the first portion. The third opening is in fluid communication with the third through-hole and the first port. The manifold can also include a valve in fluid communication with the third opening. The valve allows gas to be discharged through the third opening when pressure in the third through-hole is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, and prevents gas from being discharged through the third opening when the pressure is less than the predetermined threshold.

[0006] In another example alternative or additional to any of the above examples, the manifold may include an interface configured to engage a wall of the fluid supply source and seal an opening in the wall of the fluid supply source, wherein one or both of the first portion and the second portion extend into the opening.

[0007] In another example, alternatively or additionally to any of the examples above, the interface may define a periphery having a portion configured to be parallel to a bottom surface of the fluid supply. In another example, alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, the manifold may include a connector configured to connect the first portion to the second portion.

[0008] In another example alternative to or in addition to any of the examples above, the connector may include a first set of threads extending around the first portion and a second set of threads extending around the second portion, the first set of threads and the second set of threads configured to threadably mate with one another to secure the first and second portions to the fluid supply.

[0009] In another example, alternatively or additionally to any of the examples above, the manifold may include an actuator adjustably configured to adjust the flow of fluid through the second portion.

[0010] In another example alternative to or in addition to any of the examples above, when the actuator is in a first position, liquid in the fluid supply may be allowed to flow from the fluid supply through a first port, and when the actuator is in a second position, liquid in the fluid supply may be prevented from flowing from the fluid supply through the first port.

[0011] In another example alternative or additional to any of the above examples, the actuator may be configured to couple the first portion to the second portion. In another example, a fluid reservoir assembly configured to be coupled to a tube assembly in fluid communication with an endoscope includes a container having a first opening and a second opening, a cap configured to be coupled to the container and cover the first opening, and a manifold configured to be coupled to the container and cover the second opening, the manifold having a first port and a second port, wherein when the manifold is coupled to the container, the first port and the second port are disposed outside the container and the first port and the second port can be in fluid communication with the interior of the container.

[0012] In another example, alternatively or additionally to any of the examples above, the manifold can include a third port that can be located outside the vessel and in fluid communication with the interior of the vessel when the manifold is coupled to the vessel.

[0013] In another example alternative to or in addition to any of the above examples, the container has a first end, a second end, and a sidewall extending therebetween, with a first opening extending through the first end and a second opening extending through the sidewall proximate the second end.

[0014] In another example, alternatively or additionally to any of the examples above, the manifold may include a periphery, a portion of which is parallel to the second end of the container. In another example alternative to or in addition to any of the examples above, the manifold comprises a first portion configured to be positioned outside the container and a second portion configured to be positioned inside the container, the first portion and the second portion configured to be coupled to each other and configured to fluid-tightly seal the first opening.

[0015] In another example, a medical device assembly includes an endoscope and a tube assembly configured to be coupled to the endoscope, the tube assembly having a first tube, a fluid reservoir, and a manifold, the manifold configured to be coupled to the fluid reservoir, the manifold including a first port configured to fluidly communicate a liquid in the fluid reservoir with the first tubing of the tube assembly, and a second port configured to fluidly communicate a pressurized gas, the interior of the fluid reservoir, and the first tubing of the tube assembly.

[0016] In another example, alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, the manifold may include a third port configured to fluidly connect the liquid in the fluid reservoir with the second tubing of the tube assembly.

[0017] In another example alternative to or in addition to any of the examples above, the fluid reservoir has a first end, a second end, a sidewall extending between the first end and the second end, and an opening extending through the sidewall, and the manifold is configured to extend through the opening in the sidewall.

[0018] In another example alternative to or in addition to any of the examples above, the manifold may include a first portion configured to be disposed outside the fluid reservoir and a second portion configured to be disposed inside the fluid reservoir, the first portion and the second portion being coupled to one another and configured to fluid-tightly seal the opening.

[0019] In another example, alternatively or additionally to any of the above examples, the manifold may include a one-way valve configured to be disposed within the fluid reservoir. These features and other advantages of the present disclosure will become readily apparent from the following detailed description, and are defined by the scope of the invention as set forth in the claims.

[0020] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate various embodiments and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0021] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating components of an exemplary endoscope. [Figure 2] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating components of an exemplary endoscopy system. [Figure 3A] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary endoscope system in operation, supplying air to the atmosphere. [Figure 3B] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary endoscope system in operation to supply air to a patient through the patient end of the endoscope. FIG. [Figure 3C] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary endoscope system in operation delivering lens cleaning solution through the patient end of the endoscope. FIG. [Figure 3D] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary endoscopic system in operation delivering irrigation fluid through the patient end of the endoscope. FIG. [Figure 4]1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary manifold connected to a fluid supply and a tube assembly of an endoscope system, the manifold and tube assembly being shown in cross section. FIG. [Figure 5] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating an exemplary manifold. [Figure 6] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary manifold connected to tubing and the sidewall of a fluid supply; [Figure 7A] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating an exemplary manifold with a valve. [Figure 7B] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating an exemplary manifold with a valve. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view illustrating an exemplary manifold. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a schematic perspective view of a first portion of the exemplary manifold shown in FIG. 8. [Figure 10] 9 is a schematic perspective view of a second portion of the exemplary manifold shown in FIG. 8. FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view illustrating an exemplary manifold. [Figure 12] 1 is a schematic exploded view illustrating an exemplary manifold assembly. [Figure 13] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view illustrating an exemplary manifold assembly. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a schematic exploded view of the exemplary manifold assembly shown in FIG. 13. [Figure 15] 14 is a schematic perspective view of the exemplary manifold assembly shown in FIG. 13 connected to the wall of a fluid supply source. [Figure 16] FIG. 14 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the exemplary manifold assembly shown in FIG. 13. [Figure 17A] FIG. 14 illustrates flow through the exemplary manifold assembly shown in FIG. 13, with the manifold assembly shown in a first position. [Figure 17B] FIG. 14 illustrates flow through the exemplary manifold assembly shown in FIG. 13, with the manifold assembly shown in a second position. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0022] While the invention is susceptible 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 is to be understood, however, that the intention is not to limit the invention to the particular embodiments described. Rather, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the disclosure.

[0023] The present disclosure will be described with reference to an exemplary medical system that may be used in an endoscopic medical procedure. However, it should be noted that the present disclosure references this particular procedure for convenience only and is not intended to be limiting. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the concepts underlying the disclosed devices, systems, assemblies, and / or related methods of use may be utilized in any suitable procedure, not just medical procedures. The present disclosure can be understood by reference to the following description and the accompanying drawings, in which identical elements are designated by the same reference numerals.

[0024] All numerical values ​​herein are assumed to be modified by the term "about," whether explicitly stated or not. The term "about," in the context of numerical values, generally refers to a range of numerical values ​​that one of ordinary skill in the art would consider equivalent to the stated value (e.g., having the same function or result). In many cases, the term "about" may include numerical values ​​that are rounded to the nearest significant figure. Other uses of the term "about" (e.g., in non-numeric contexts) can be assumed to have the ordinary and customary definition(s) that are understood from and consistent with the context of the specification, unless otherwise specified.

[0025] The recitation of numerical ranges by endpoints includes all numbers within that range, inclusive of the endpoints (e.g., 1 to 5 includes 1, 1.5, 2, 2.75, 3, 3.80, 4, and 5.) While several suitable dimensions, ranges, and / or values ​​relating to various components, features, and / or specifications are disclosed, one of ordinary skill in the art, stimulated by this disclosure, will understand that the desired dimensions, ranges, and / or values ​​may deviate from those explicit disclosures.

[0026] 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 generally used in its sense, including "and / or," unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. For ease of understanding, it should be noted that certain features of the present disclosure may be described in the singular even if those features are plural or repeated within the disclosed embodiments. Each instance of a feature may include and / or be encompassed in the singular disclosure unless expressly stated to the contrary. For purposes of simplicity and clarity, not all elements of the present disclosure are necessarily shown in every figure or described in detail below. However, it should be understood that the following description may apply equally to any and / or all of multiple components unless expressly stated to the contrary. Moreover, for clarity, not every instance of some elements or features is shown in every figure.

[0027] It should be noted that references herein to "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "other embodiments," etc., indicate that the described embodiment(s) may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but not all embodiments necessarily include the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Moreover, if a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in the context of one embodiment, it is within the knowledge of one skilled in the art to achieve the particular feature, structure, or characteristic in the context of other embodiments, whether or not explicitly described, unless expressly stated to the contrary. That is, it is contemplated that various individual elements described below, even if not explicitly shown in specific combinations, can nevertheless be combined or arranged with one another to form other or additional embodiments, or to complement and / or enhance the described embodiments, as will be understood by one skilled in the art.

[0028] For clarity, certain distinguishing numerical nomenclature (e.g., first, second, third, fourth, etc.) may be used throughout the specification and / or claims to name and / or distinguish variously described and / or claimed features. It should be understood that the numerical nomenclature is not intended to be limiting, but is merely exemplary. In some embodiments, modifications and departures from previously used numerical nomenclature may be made for brevity and clarity. That is, a feature identified as a "first" element may later be referred to as a "second," "third," etc., or may be omitted entirely, and / or another feature may be referred to as the "first" element. The meaning and / or designation of each instance will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0029] The detailed description is intended to illustrate, not limit, the disclosure. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the various elements described can be arranged in various combinations and configurations without departing from the scope of the disclosure. The detailed description illustrates exemplary embodiments of the disclosure.

[0030] Endoscopes are used to perform diagnostic and / or therapeutic procedures. To do so, the elongated shaft of the endoscope is inserted into a subject, a target site within the subject's body cavity is observed, and, if necessary, a therapeutic instrument / tool ​​is inserted into a working channel within the elongated shaft of the endoscope. Such endoscopes or endoscopic systems may be equipped with a fluid supply / lens cleaning function, etc., configured to supply a fluid, such as a gas (e.g., air, CO2), to the endoscope's tip and insufflate the target site within the subject's body. The lens cleaning mechanism may provide relatively high-pressure sterile water to spray toward the endoscope's camera lens to clean its surface and remove debris. To rinse the target site within the subject, the endoscope or endoscopic system may also be equipped with an irrigation function, separate from the air / water supply function. This irrigation function provides low-pressure, high-flow water delivered via a pump (e.g., a peristaltic pump) to the target site to ensure a clear field of view for observation and treatment. The water supply (e.g., fluid supply) for the lens cleaning mechanism and / or irrigation mechanism may include one or more fluid reservoirs. The fluid reservoir includes a tube assembly and a cap assembly that form a tubing circuit that connects with channels, valves, and / or connectors of the endoscope to achieve predetermined gas and water functions.

[0031] Such tubing and cap assemblies can be provided in a variety of configurations, including a water bottle, a cap that fits the particular bottle, and multiple tubes configured to extend through openings in the cap. Typically, the tubing is arranged to fit particular endoscope fittings and valve configurations and tends not to be modular or selectable. In some cases, one or more connectors are available to connect tubing for irrigation, lens cleaning, and / or insufflation mechanisms to an endoscope umbilical that is in fluid communication with the working channel of the endoscope. Referring to FIG. 1 , an exemplary endoscope 100 is shown, and FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary endoscope system 200. Endoscope 100 may include an elongated tube or shaft 100a configured to be inserted into a subject (e.g., a patient). Details of endoscope 100 and endoscope system 200 are described in more detail in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2022 / 0192479, filed December 21, 2021, and entitled "TUBING ASSEMBLIES AND METHODS FOR FLUID DELIVERY," the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

[0032] The light source 205 of the endoscope system 200 may provide illumination to the distal portion 100b of the endoscope 100. The distal portion 100b of the endoscope 100 may house an image sensor (e.g., a CCD or CMOS image sensor) (not shown). The light source 205 (e.g., a lamp) may be located within the video processing unit 210, which processes signals input from the image sensor and outputs the processed video signal to a video monitor (not shown) for viewing. The video processing unit 210 may also function as a component of an air / water supply circuit by housing a pressurizing or air supply pump 215 (e.g., an air supply pump) within the unit 210. Other suitable pumps for the air / water supply circuit are also contemplated.

[0033] The endoscope shaft 100a may include a distal tip 100c (e.g., a distal tip unit) provided at a distal portion 100b of the shaft 100a and a flexible curved section 105 located proximal to the distal tip 100c. The flexible curved section 105 may include an articulation joint (not shown) to assist in manipulating the distal tip 100c. A gas / lens cleaning solution nozzle 220 is provided at an end face 100d of the distal tip 100c of the endoscope 100. The gas / lens cleaning solution nozzle supplies gas to be insufflated into the subject's body in the treatment area and water to clean the lens covering the imaging device. An irrigation opening 225 provided at the end face 100d supplies irrigation solution to the treatment area of ​​the subject. An illumination window (not shown) for directing illumination light to the treatment site 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 end face 100d of the distal tip 100c. The working channel 235 may extend along the shaft 100a to a proximal channel opening 110 located distal to an operating handle 115 (e.g., a proximal handle) of the endoscope 100. A biopsy valve 120 may be used to seal the channel opening 110 to prevent unwanted fluid outflow.

[0034] The operating handle 115 may include multiple knobs 125 for remotely steering the distal tip in four directions (e.g., one knob may control up / down steering and another knob may control left / right steering) via wires connected to articulation joints within the flexible curved section 105. Multiple video switches 130 for remotely operating the video processing unit 210 may be located on the proximal end of the operating handle 115.

[0035] The operating handle 115 may include a dual valve arrangement 135. One of the valve arrangements 135 may receive a gas / water valve 140 for operating the supply of insufflation gas and lens cleaning solution. A gas supply line 240a and a lens cleaning solution line 245a extend distally from the gas / water valve 140 along the shaft 100a and meet at a distal tip 100c proximal to the gas / cleaning solution nozzle 220 (see FIG. 2).

[0036] The other valve arrangement 135 may receive a suction valve 145 for performing a suction operation. A suction supply line 250a may extend distally from the suction valve 145 along the shaft 100a to a junction in fluid communication with the working channel 235 of the endoscope 100.

[0037] The operating handle 115 can be electrically and fluidly connected to the video processing unit 210. The operating handle and the video processing unit are connected via a flexible umbilical 260 and a connector portion 265 extending between the operating handle and the video processing unit. The flexible umbilical 260 can include a gas (e.g., air or CO2) supply line 240b, a lens cleaning fluid supply line 245b, a suction supply line 250b, an irrigation supply line 255b, a light guide (not shown), an electrical signal cable (not shown), and / or other suitable lines, guides, and / or cables. When the connector portion 265 is connected to the video processing unit 210, the light source 205 within the video processing unit is connected to the light guide. The light guide extends along the length of the umbilical 260 and the endoscope shaft 100a and can transmit light to the distal tip 100c of the endoscope 100. When connector portion 265 is connected to video processing unit 210 , air pump 215 can be connected to gas supply line 240 b within umbilical 260 .

[0038] A fluid supply source, such as a fluid or water reservoir or container 270 (e.g., a water bottle, bag, etc.) and / or other suitable fluid source, can be fluidly connected to the endoscope 100 via the connector portion 265 and the umbilical 260. A length of gas supply tube 240c can extend from one end located in an air layer or gas 275 formed between an upper portion 280 (e.g., a bottle cap, lid, closure, cover, etc.) in the reservoir 270 and the remaining water 285 (e.g., residual water 285) in the reservoir, to a connector 290 provided outside the connector portion 265. A gas supply line 240b from the umbilical 260 branches within the connector portion 265 and is fluidly connected to the gas supply tube 240c at the detachable connector 290, and is also fluidly connected to the air pump 215. A length of lens cleaning solution tubing 245c, with one end located at the bottom of reservoir 270, may extend through top portion 280 of reservoir 270 to a connector 290 that is detachable, similar to gas supply tubing 240c on connector portion 265. In other embodiments, these connections may be separate and / or isolated from one another. Connector portion 265 may also include a detachable irrigation connection 293 for irrigation supply tubing (not shown) that extends from a source of irrigation water (not shown) to irrigation supply line 255b within umbilical 260. In some configurations, irrigation water may be supplied via a pump (e.g., a peristaltic pump) from a water source (not shown) independent of reservoir 270. In other embodiments, the irrigation supply tubing and lens cleaning solution tubing 245c may be supplied with water from the same reservoir. Connector portion 265 may include a detachable suction connection 295. The suction connections are for suction supply line 250 b and suction supply line 250 a that fluidly connect a vacuum source (eg, a hospital's central suction system) (not shown) with umbilical 260 and endoscope 100 .

[0039] Gas supply line 240b and lens cleaning solution supply line 245b may be fluidly connected to valve arrangement 135 for gas / water valve 140, and are configured such that operation of gas / water valve 140 controls the supply of gas or lens cleaning solution to distal tip 100c of endoscope 100. Suction supply line 250b is fluidly connected to valve arrangement 135 for suction valve 145, and is configured such that operation of suction valve 145 mounted in a receptacle of the valve arrangement controls the suction applied to working channel 235 of endoscope 100.

[0040] The gas delivery tube 240c and the lens cleaning solution tube 245c may be coupled in a coaxial relationship, but this is not required. By way of example, the gas delivery tube 240c may define a lumen having a diameter large enough to coaxially receive and accommodate the smaller diameter lens cleaning solution tube 245c therein and to supply air to the water supply and pressurize the reservoir via an annular space surrounding the lens cleaning solution tube (e.g., the gas delivery tube 240c and lens cleaning solution tube 245c shown in FIG. 4 configured in connector 290). The lens cleaning solution tube 245c may be configured to exit the lumen defined by the coaxial gas delivery tube in any suitable sealed manner, such as, for example, an aperture, fitting, collar, and / or link, for transitioning from a coaxial to a side-by-side configuration of the detachable gas / lens cleaning solution connection to the endoscope connector portion 265.

[0041] 3A-3D are schematic diagrams illustrating the operation of an endoscopy system 300 (e.g., a medical device assembly), which may be similar to or different from endoscopy system 200. Here, the irrigation and lens cleaning fluid supply tubing is shown connected to and leading from a single reservoir 270, 305 and / or other suitable fluid source. Hybrid system 300 may include a single reservoir 270, 305, a cover or cap 310 covering the reservoir opening, gas supply tubing 240c, lens cleaning fluid tubing 245c, an irrigation pump 315 that may be associated with a foot switch 318 or other suitable switch, upstream irrigation tubing 255c, 320, and downstream irrigation supply tubing 255c.

[0042] The cap 310 may be configured to sealingly attach to the reservoir 270, 305 via a threaded arrangement and / or other suitable coupling mechanism. The cap 310 may include a gas socket for sealing the cap 310 to the reservoir 270, 305. The gas socket may be an O-ring, flange, collar, and / or the like, and may be formed from any suitable material. The cap 310 may, but need not, be provided with multiple through openings (325a, 325b, 325c) for receiving the gas delivery tube 240c, the lens cleaning solution tube 245c, and the upstream irrigation delivery tube 320, respectively. The system shown in FIGS. 3A-3D includes separate tubing for the gas delivery, lens cleaning solution, and irrigation.

[0043] In other embodiments, gas delivery tube 240c and lens cleaning solution tube 245c may be coaxially coupled. For example, the gas delivery tube may define a lumen having a diameter large enough to coaxially receive and accommodate a smaller diameter lens cleaning solution tube within the gas delivery tube and to supply air to the water source and pressurize the reservoir via an annular space surrounding the lens cleaning solution tube. Lens cleaning solution tube 245c may be configured to exit the lumen defined by the coaxial gas delivery tube in any suitable sealed manner, such as an aperture, fitting, collar, and / or the like, for transitioning from a coaxial to a side-by-side configuration of the detachable gas / lens cleaning solution connection to endoscope connector portion 265 (see, e.g., FIG. 2).

[0044] In various embodiments, different valve configurations can be incorporated into the tubing of the systems 200, 300. For example, an inlet check valve can be placed in the path of the gas delivery tube 240c to help prevent backflow of liquid into the air pump 215. In this way, a pressure increase within the reservoir 270, 305 can create a pressure differential between the reservoir 270, 305 and the gas delivery tube 240c, helping to maintain a positive pressure within the reservoir 270, 305 even when a large amount of water is withdrawn from the water source during perfusion. This configuration can compensate for the time lag between the air pump 215 supplying air to the reservoir 270, 305. If this delay is not compensated for, a negative vacuum can develop within the reservoir 270, 305. Similarly, outlet check valves, such as one-way valves, may be incorporated into the lens cleaning solution tube 245c, the upstream irrigation supply tube 320, and / or the downstream irrigation supply tube 255c, to help prevent backflow of water from either or both of the lens cleaning solution tube and the irrigation tube in the event of a negative pressure condition, as described.

[0045] More generally, in some configurations, a check valve can refer to any type of configuration that passively allows fluid to flow in only one direction. For example, a check valve can 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 check valve, a reed valve, a flow check, a flapper valve, and / or other suitable check valve. Thus, as used herein, a check valve can refer to something separate and distinct from an active valve (e.g., a stopcock valve, a solenoid valve, a peristaltic pump, a blow-off valve) that is binary-actuated as an on / off valve or switch to turn fluid flow on or off.

[0046] During operation of the system of FIGS. 3A-3D, water flow for irrigation can be achieved by activating the irrigation pump 315 via a foot switch 318 and / or other suitable activation mechanism. Water flow for lens cleaning solution can be achieved by depressing the gas / water valve 140 located on the operating handle 115 of the endoscope 100. These functions can be performed independently of one another or simultaneously. When lens cleaning solution and irrigation are activated simultaneously, the pressure within the system can be controlled as fluid is withdrawn from the reservoirs 270, 305. This maintains approximately the pressure required to achieve a low flow rate of lens cleaning solution in the lens cleaning solution tube 245c while compensating for pressure drops in the reservoirs 270, 305 caused by high flow rates of irrigation supply. If pressure drops within the reservoirs 270, 305 due to use of the lens cleaning function, the irrigation function, or both functions simultaneously, the lost pressure can be compensated for by the air pump 215 via the gas supply tube 240c.

[0047] In the schematic configurations shown in each of Figures 3A-3D, the flow paths are highlighted to illustrate different flow path possibilities in a hybrid system 300 having supply tubing (e.g., irrigation tubing 255c, 320, lens cleaning solution tubing 245c, and / or other suitable tubing) connected to and leading from a single reservoir 270, 305. For clarity, not all components shown in each of Figures 3A-3D are labeled with reference numerals, but components shown identically in Figures 3A-3D should be understood to refer to the same or equivalent components in each of Figures 3A-3D.

[0048] As shown in FIG. 3A, endoscope 100 may be in a neutral state with gas / water valve 140 in an open position. In the neutral state, neither gas nor lens cleaning solution is supplied to the distal tip of the endoscope. Rather, gas (pressure) is supplied along path A from pressurizing air pump 215, routed through gas supply line 240b (e.g., in umbilical 260 via connector 265, as shown in FIG. 2), and then vented to atmosphere through gas / water valve 140. Because the system is open via a vent in gas / water valve 140, no pressure buildup occurs that would pressurize reservoir 270, 305 and, as a result, force water through lens cleaning solution tube 245c.

[0049] As shown in FIG. 3B, the endoscope 100 may be in a gas delivery state in which the gas / water valve 140 is in a first position. When gas is required at the distal tip 100c, for example, to clean the end face 100d of the distal tip 100c or to insufflate a treatment area into the subject's body, the user may close the vent 141 on the gas / water valve 140 with a thumb, finger, or the like (first position). In this state, gas (pressure) can be supplied from the air pump 215 along path B and flow through the gas supply line 240b (e.g., through the umbilical 260 via the connector portion 265, as shown in FIG. 2). The gas then passes through the gas / water valve 140 in the endoscope shaft 100a, through the gas supply line 240a, and is then ejected from the gas / lens cleaning solution nozzle 220 on the distal tip 100c. Because the system is open at the gas / lens cleaning solution nozzle 220, there is no pressure buildup that would pressurize the reservoir and thus force fluid through the lens cleaning solution tube 245c.

[0050] As shown in FIG. 3C , the endoscope 100 can be in a lens cleaning solution delivery state in which the gas / water valve 140 is in a second position. When lens cleaning is required at the distal tip 100c, for example to clean the end face 100d of the distal tip 100c, the user closes the vent hole 141 of the gas / water valve 140 and pushes the gas / water valve 140 all the way down within the valve arrangement section 135. In this second position, gas supply to both the atmosphere and the gas supply line 240a within the endoscope 100 is cut off, and the gas / water valve 140 is opened, allowing lens cleaning water to pass through the lens cleaning solution line 245a within the endoscope shaft 100a and be ejected from the gas / lens cleaning solution nozzle 220 provided at the distal tip 100c. In this state, gas (pressure) is delivered from air pump 215 along path C, through a branch line in connector portion 265, and through gas supply tube 240c to reservoirs 270, 305. The gas (pressure) pressurizes the surface of residual water 285 in reservoirs 270, 305, forcing the water up through lens cleaning solution tube 245c (e.g., to connector portion 265 of umbilical 26, as shown in FIG. 2). The pressurized lens cleaning water can be further forced through lens cleaning solution supply line 245b and gas / water valve 140. Because system 300 is closed, the gas pressure is not vented to atmosphere or delivered to the subject, but rather a calibrated pressure level can be built up and maintained within reservoirs 270, 305. This pressure, along with the endoscope supply lines and tubing and external tubing, achieves a predetermined flow range for the lens cleaning water.

[0051] As shown in FIG. 3D , the endoscope 100 is in an irrigation state. This may be performed simultaneously with or at a different time than the delivery of gas and / or lens cleaning water. When irrigation is desired at the distal tip 100c, such as when the treatment area has poor visibility or is obstructed by debris, the user can activate the irrigation pump 315 (by pressing the foot switch 318 or using another suitable actuation mechanism) to supply water or other liquid from the reservoirs 270, 305 along path D. When the pump 315 is activated, water is drawn from the reservoirs 270, 305 through the upstream irrigation supply tubing 255c, 320 and pumped along the downstream irrigation supply tubing 255c toward the connector portion 265. The head pressure of the perfusion pump forces the perfusion water further through the perfusion supply line 255b (e.g., extending through the umbilical 260), via the perfusion supply line 255a in the endoscope shaft 100a, and out of the perfusion openings 225 at the distal tip 100c. The pressure of the perfusion pump can be calibrated in conjunction with the perfusion supply line and supply tubing and external tubing of the endoscope to deliver a predetermined flow rate range of perfusion fluid.

[0052] Coupling the tubing assemblies of the endoscope system 200 to fluid sources can be cumbersome. For example, at the beginning of a day in a procedure room for an endoscope or other scope, the endoscope must be connected to multiple associated tubings that enable irrigation, lens cleaning, insufflation, etc., and these tubings may need to be connected to one or more fluid sources. Furthermore, the connection of the tubing assemblies may need to be repeated multiple times throughout the day for each new procedure and / or to replace fluid sources. Thus, providing a manifold or bulkhead configured as a single location where the tubing of the endoscope assembly can be connected to one or more fluid sources (e.g., gas and water sources) can reduce the number of steps required to fluidly connect the tubing to the fluid sources. As an example, the manifold or bulkhead may be configured to be detachably connected to multiple tubings of the endoscope assembly and may, but need not be, configured to be detachably connected to a liquid container or liquid source.

[0053] 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary manifold 400 (e.g., shown schematically in cross section) connected to the tubing of a tube assembly configured to connect with an umbilical of endoscopic system 200 and to reservoir 270. In some cases, manifold 400 may be a bulkhead fitting or component between reservoir 270 and the tubing, but is not required to be such.

[0054] The manifold 400 may be configured to penetrate a wall of the reservoir 270 (e.g., a sidewall or other suitable wall extending between a first end and a second end of the reservoir 270) to provide communication between the interior and exterior of the reservoir 270 and to function as a conduit to allow fluid (e.g., gas and / or liquid) to enter and exit the reservoir 270. The manifold 400 may facilitate a user to connect tubing at a single point while reducing the number of parts used to connect tubing to the reservoir 270. Furthermore, in some cases, the manifold 400 may reduce the possibility of water contamination by not requiring tubing connected to the manifold 400 to enter the interior of the reservoir 270 (e.g., the water 285 and / or the gas 275 (air, CO2, etc.) within the reservoir 270).

[0055] The manifold 400 may be connected to various tubing sets that facilitate use of the endoscope 100 for lens cleaning, irrigation, insufflation, etc. As shown in FIG. 4 , the manifold 400 may be connected to the lens cleaning tube 245c, the gas or air supply tube 240c, the irrigation tube 255c, the carbon dioxide (CO2) tube 275, and / or other suitable tubing of a tubing assembly. In some cases, the tubing may include a single lumen and / or multiple lumens arranged coaxially and / or side-by-side (e.g., the lens cleaning solution tube 245c and the gas or air tube 240c may be arranged in a coaxial relationship). The manifold 400 may be configured to receive gas from tubing connected to the manifold to achieve and / or maintain a desired pressure in the reservoir 270, and to output water from the reservoir 270 to tubing connected to the manifold 400.

[0056] The manifold 400 may be coupled to the reservoir 270 in any suitable location. For example, the manifold may be coupled to the reservoir 270 along the top or cap 280 of the reservoir 270, along a sidewall extending between the top and bottom (e.g., as shown in FIG. 4 or in other configurations), and / or along the bottom of the reservoir 270. By way of example, the manifold 400 may be configured to be disposed in or extend through a sidewall of the reservoir (e.g., a sidewall of the reservoir 270's container) to facilitate locating an opening in the manifold configured to receive water near the bottom of the reservoir 270.

[0057] The reservoir 270 may have a first opening 272, a second opening 274, and / or any other suitable number of openings. In the example shown schematically in FIG. 4, the reservoir 270 may include a first opening 272 formed in the top of the reservoir 270 or other suitable location. The opening may be covered or sealed by a cap or top 280. The reservoir 270 may also include a second opening 274. The second opening may be configured to receive a manifold 400, as shown in FIG. 4, and may be located in a sidewall near the bottom of the reservoir 270.

[0058] The manifold 400 may be coupled to the reservoir 270 at any suitable location. Exemplary techniques for connecting the manifold 400 to the reservoir 270 include, but are not limited to, adhesives, silicone adhesives, friction fits, threaded connections with the reservoir, snap connections between components of the manifold 400, threaded connections between components of the manifold 400, luer lock connections between components of the manifold 400, heat compression seals, and / or other suitable types of connections. The manifold 400 may be connected to disposable and / or reusable (e.g., refillable) reservoirs 270, as needed. In some cases, the coupling between the reservoir 270 and the manifold 400 may form an airtight seal.

[0059] The manifold 400 may include a core 402. The core may be configured to divide the manifold into a first portion 400a (e.g., an interior portion) and a second portion 400b (e.g., an exterior portion). The first portion 400a of the manifold 400 may be configured to be disposed within the reservoir 270, while the second portion 400b may be configured to remain outside the reservoir (see FIG. 4). The core 402 may be an interface configured to couple to the interior and / or exterior of the reservoir 270 and / or to facilitate sealing of the opening 274.

[0060] Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating an exemplary manifold 400. Although the manifold 400 shown in Figure 5 is depicted as being integrally formed from a single material, the manifold 400 may be formed from two or more materials and / or components.

[0061] The manifold 400 may include one or more openings 404 in the first portion 400a and one or more openings 406 in the second portion 400b. The inner opening 404 and the outer opening 406 may be fluidly coupled to one or more through-holes 408 (e.g., channels, lumens, etc.). In the example shown in FIG. 5, the manifold 400 may include a first opening 404a, a second opening 404b, and a third opening 404c in the first portion 400a. The second portion 400b may include a first opening 406a, a second opening 406b, a third opening 406c, and a fourth opening 406d. The first through-hole 408a may fluidly couple (e.g., provide fluid communication between) the first opening 404a in the first portion 400a of the manifold 400 and the first and second openings 406a and 406b in the second portion 400b. The second through-hole 408b may fluidly couple (e.g., provide fluid communication between) the second opening 404b in the first portion 400a of the manifold 400 and the third opening 406c in the second portion 400b. The third through-hole 408c may fluidly couple (e.g., provide fluid communication between) the third opening 404c in the first portion 400a of the manifold 400 and the fourth opening 406d in the second portion 400b. 5 as being coaxially arranged, this is not required, and the through-holes 408a and 408b may be arranged in one or more other suitable manners. Additionally, while the first opening 406a and the second opening 406b in the second portion 400b of the manifold 400 are in fluid communication with a single through-hole, each of the openings 406a and 406b may have a separate through-hole that is fluidly connected to a single or multiple openings in the first portion 400a of the manifold 400. Other suitable configurations of the openings 404, 406 and the through-holes 408 in the manifold 400 are also contemplated.

[0062] The second portion 400b of the manifold 400 may include any suitable number of ports 410 configured to couple with tubing, connectors, and / or other components of the endoscope system 200. In one example configuration, the second portion 400b of the manifold 400 may include a first port 410a at the first opening 406a, a second port 410b at the second and third openings 406b and 406c, and a third port 410c at the fourth opening 406d. In another example configuration, the manifold 400 may include a single port, two ports (see, for example, the configuration of the manifold 400 shown in FIG. 6), or more than three ports configured to couple with complex tubing, as desired. The ports 410 may be configured to couple with the tubing of the endoscope assembly 200 in any suitable manner, including, but not limited to, friction fit, clamps, clips, screws, protrusions, and / or other suitable connection techniques.

[0063] Fluid flow may pass through the openings 404, 406 and through-holes 408 of the manifold 400 in any suitable manner. In one configuration of the manifold 400, pressurized CO2 may enter through the first opening 406a in the second portion 400b of the manifold 400, travel through the first through-hole 408a, and exit through the first opening 404a in the first portion 400a of the manifold 400. In another example, pressurized air may enter through the second opening 406b in the second portion 400b of the manifold 400, travel through the first through-hole 408a, and exit through the first opening 404a. In operation, only one of air and CO2 may be delivered to the reservoir 270 at a time, and / or both air and CO2 may be delivered to the reservoir 270. As a further example, if the water reservoir 270 is sufficiently pressurized (e.g., by CO2 and / or air received in the water reservoir 270), water (H2O) may be forced out of the water reservoir 270 and flow into the second opening 404b in the first portion 400a of the manifold 400, through the second through-hole 408b, and out the third opening 406c in the second portion 400b of the manifold 400. In another example, if the reservoir 270 is sufficiently pressurized (e.g., by CO and / or air received in the reservoir 270) and / or in response to a downstream pump, water (H2O) may be forced out of the reservoir 270 and into the third opening 404c in the first portion 400a of the manifold 400, through the third through-hole 408c, and out the fourth opening 406d in the second portion 400b of the manifold 400. Other suitable configurations of the manifold 400 for gases and liquids passing through the manifold 400 are also contemplated.

[0064] FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating an exemplary configuration of a manifold 400 coupled and / or engaged with the wall of a reservoir 270. The second portion 400b of the manifold has two ports 410a, 410b. The first port 410a can be configured to connect to a CO2 tube 275, and the second port 410b can be configured to connect to multi-lumen tubing including an air tube 240c, a lens cleaning solution tube 245c, and an irrigation supply tube 255c. However, it is contemplated that other tubes may be added or substituted for the multi-lumen tubing. The tubing shown in FIG. 6 includes coaxial and parallel tubing, with the irrigation supply tube 255c running parallel to the coaxially configured lens cleaning solution tube 245c and air supply tube 240c. Although the manifold 400 shown in FIG. 6 is depicted as being integrally formed from a single material, the manifold 400 may be formed from two or more materials and / or components.

[0065] 7A and 7B schematically illustrate a cross-section of a manifold 400 in an exemplary configuration with a valve 412 (e.g., a check valve or other suitable valve) disposed in the first opening 404a. FIG. 7A illustrates the manifold 400 with the valve 412 in a closed or standby position (e.g., a first position). FIG. 7B illustrates the manifold 400 with the valve 412 in an open or actuated position (e.g., a second position).

[0066] Valve 412 can be any suitable type of valve. Examples of suitable valves include, but are not limited to, one-way valves, check valves, ball check valves, diaphragm check valves, umbrella valves, swing check valves, tilting disc check valves, flapper valves, stop check valves, lift check valves, in-line check valves, duckbill valves, pneumatic check valves, reed valves, flow checks, spring-loaded valves, flapper valves, flex systems, and other suitable valves.

[0067] 7A and 7B, the valve 412 can include a connector 414 and a resilient cover 416. The connector 414 can be connected to the resilient cover 416 and can extend through a wall of the first portion 400a that defines the first opening 404a of the manifold 400 (e.g., the wall that defines the opening 415 through which the connector 414 extends). When the connector 414 secures the valve 412 to the first portion 400a of the manifold 400, the cover 416 can extend over the first opening 404a in a rest position and can prevent flow from the reservoir 270 into the first opening 404a.

[0068] 7A , in operation, if the pressure within the first through-hole 408a does not reach a desired threshold pressure, the valve cover 416 remains in a closed or resting position to prevent fluid from the reservoir 270 from flowing into the first through-hole 408a through the first opening 404a. If the pressure within the first through-hole 408b reaches or exceeds the threshold pressure, the cover 416 may automatically adjust to an open position to allow fluid (e.g., CO2 in the illustrated example) to pass through the first opening 404a. If the pressure within the first through-hole 408a returns to a pressure below the threshold pressure, the cover 416 may automatically return to the closed or resting position to prevent fluid from flowing from the reservoir 270 into the first opening 404a and first through-hole 408a. While the cover 416 is in the open or actuated position, the fluid passing through the first through-hole 408a and the first opening 404a has a pressure and / or flow rate sufficient to prevent fluid from flowing into the first opening 404a from the reservoir 270. The cover 416 can be configured to close before the fluid from the first through-hole 408a falls below the pressure or flow rate required to prevent fluid from flowing from the reservoir 270 into the first opening 404a.

[0069] The cover 416 may be formed from any suitable material configured to adjust the position of a desired pressure differential across the valve 412 and / or first opening 404a. By way of example, the cover 416 may be formed from silicone, an elastomer, a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), a vulcanized rubber material, and / or other suitable materials.

[0070] 8-10 are schematic diagrams illustrating a manifold 400 configuration having two openings in a first portion 400a and three ports corresponding to the openings on a second side of the manifold 400. The manifold 400 configuration illustrated in FIGS. 8-10 may allow all or multiple tubing lines of the endoscope system 200 to extend to or from a single location (e.g., a bulkhead) at or near the reservoir. The manifold 400 may include any suitable number of ports. As an example, the manifold 400 may include a first port 410a for connecting to CO2 (or air insufflation) tubing, a second port 410b for connecting to lens cleaning solution tubing, and a third port 410c for connecting to irrigation tubing. Other suitable port configurations are also contemplated for connecting additional and / or alternative tubing lines.

[0071] As shown in FIG. 8 , a first port 410a, a second port 410b, and a third port 410c can extend from the center portion 402. In the configurations of the manifold 400 shown in FIGS. 8-10 , the center portion 402 of the manifold 400 can be configured to couple with a fluid reservoir (e.g., reservoirs 270, 305 and / or other suitable fluid reservoirs). By way of example, adhesive, silicone adhesive, and / or other suitable connecting materials can be used to bond or otherwise connect the side of the center portion 402 opposite the first portion 400a of the manifold 400 to a wall of the fluid reservoir that defines an opening configured to receive the first portion 400a of the manifold 400. As described above, the coupling between the manifold 400 and the fluid reservoir can form an airtight seal.

[0072] One or more of the ports 410a, 410b, 410c may include a fitting configured to secure tubing thereto. Examples of fittings include, but are not limited to, barbs, ribs, ridges, tapered surfaces, ball detents, luer locks, and / or other suitable fittings. As an example, one or more of the ports 410a, 410b, 410c may include a tapered ridge (e.g., the third port 410c may include a tapered ridge as shown in FIG. 8). The tapered ridge may be configured to facilitate attachment of the tubing and prevent unintentional separation of the tubing from the port.

[0073] FIG. 9 shows a schematic perspective view of the first portion 400a of the manifold 400. In some cases, the first portion 400a of the manifold 400 may include an extension 418 that may extend outward from a side of the central portion 402 opposite the first portion 400a. In one configuration of the extension 418, the extension 418 may include a first internal opening 404a and a second internal opening 404b and / or may fully or partially define the first internal opening 404a and the second internal opening 404b. The first internal opening 404a is in fluid communication with the first through-hole 408a, and the second internal opening 404b is in fluid communication with the second through-hole 408b. A third internal opening 404c may be defined on a side of the central portion 402 opposite the first portion 404a of the manifold, and the third opening 404c may be in fluid communication with the third through-hole 408c. Alternatively or additionally, all or some of the interior openings 404 a , 404 b , 404 c and / or other openings may be formed in the extension 418 and / or in the central portion 402 .

[0074] 9, the first internal opening 404a can include multiple sub-openings 420. The material of the extension 418 extends between the multiple sub-openings 420. Although not required, such a configuration of the first internal opening 404a can facilitate the extension 418 defining an opening 415 through which a valve can extend to control fluid flow through the first internal opening 404a (e.g., the connector 414 of the valve 412 can extend through the opening 415). Other suitable configurations of the first internal opening 404a and / or the extension 418 can be envisioned to facilitate utilizing a valve to control fluid flow through the first internal opening 404a.

[0075] 10 shows a schematic perspective view of the second portion 400b of the manifold 400. In some cases, the second portion 400b of the manifold 400 may include a first external opening 406a at, i.e., defined by, the first port 410a, second and third external openings 406b, 406c at, i.e., defined by the second port 410b, and a fourth external opening 406d at, i.e., defined by the third port 410c, although other suitable configurations are also contemplated. The first external opening 406a and the second external opening 406b may be in fluid communication with the first through-hole 408a and the first internal opening 404a to introduce air and / or CO2 into a fluid reservoir to which the manifold 400 is coupled to achieve a desired pressure within the fluid reservoir. The third external opening 406c may be in fluid communication with the second through-hole 408b and the second internal opening 404b to receive pressurized water or other suitable liquid from the fluid reservoir in response to the pressure in the fluid reservoir reaching and maintaining a liquid actuation pressure. The fourth external opening 406d may be in fluid communication with the third through-hole 408c and the third internal opening 404c to draw liquid from or receive pressurized liquid from the fluid reservoir. In some cases, a downstream pump (e.g., a peristaltic pump and / or other suitable type of pump) may draw liquid from the fluid reservoir through the fourth external opening 406d, although this is not required.

[0076] Additionally, ports 410a, 410b, 410c and / or other suitable ports may include one or more identifying features to indicate which tubing should be connected to which port. As one example, the ports may include color coding configured to match color coding on the tubing. In such a configuration, the tubing and ports have the same or similar colors and are mated with each other. As another example, each port may be sized only to be mated with a predetermined tubing. However, the ports may include other suitable tubing identifying features as desired.

[0077] Ports 410a, 410b, 410c, and / or other suitable ports may be configured to connect to tubing in any suitable manner. By way of example, ports 410a and / or 410b may include a shoulder 411 for abutting the end of tubing inserted therein (e.g., as with second port 410b shown in FIG. 10). Alternatively or additionally, tubing may be placed over the port and / or coupled to the port in one or more other suitable ways.

[0078] 8-10 may have several advantages. As one example, the location of ports 410a, 410b, and 410c may facilitate fluidly coupling tubing to a fluid reservoir without requiring placement of tubing inside the reservoir or inside a container for the fluid reservoir. As another example, the location of second interior opening 404b and third opening 404c may facilitate retrieving as much liquid as possible from a fluid reservoir when manifold 400 is positioned near the bottom of the fluid reservoir.

[0079] 11 shows a schematic perspective view of an exemplary configuration of a manifold 400 having a contoured surface 422 that defines the periphery of the central portion 402. While the contoured surface 422 can have any desired configuration, the contoured surface 422 shown in FIG. 11 may be a straight line that extends along the periphery of the central portion 402 and forms a flat surface to facilitate positioning the manifold 400 at or near the bottom of the fluid reservoir and positioning the second and third openings 404b, 404c of the first portion 400a as close as possible to the bottom of the fluid reservoir while ensuring that the manifold 400 does not interfere with the mounting surface of the fluid reservoir (e.g., the manifold does not extend below the bottom outer surface of the fluid reservoir). In some cases, contoured surface 422 may be positioned parallel to first internal opening 404a and a valve (e.g., valve 412 and / or other suitable valve) controlling fluid flow through first internal opening 404a, and may be positioned on the manifold opposite the side toward which first opening 404a faces.

[0080] As described above, manifold 400 may be configured as a single member and / or as multiple components configured to couple together. In some cases, when manifold 400 is composed of multiple components, the multiple components may be coupled or connected to one another in a manner that secures or couples manifold 400 to a fluid reservoir. As an example, manifold 400 may be formed from at least a first component and a second component, which are configured to couple together to form manifold 400. When so configured, the first component may be inserted into the fluid reservoir through an opening through which manifold 400 is configured to extend and / or other suitable opening. Once inserted into the fluid reservoir, the first component may couple with the second component of manifold 400 through an opening in the fluid reservoir (e.g., an opening in a wall of the fluid reservoir) and seal the opening so that fluid can only enter or exit through manifold 400.

[0081] When constructed from multiple components, manifold 400 may include features that facilitate maintaining a fluid-tight seal between the multiple components, including, but not limited to, elastomeric O-rings, layers of elastomeric material between the components, adhesives, etc.

[0082] The components of manifold 400 may be coupled to one another in any suitable manner via connectors (e.g., connection techniques and / or connection components). Examples of suitable connection techniques include, but are not limited to, threaded connections, luer lock connections, snap connections, friction fit connections, ball and detent connections, adhesives, and / or other suitable connection techniques.

[0083] 12 shows a schematic perspective exploded view of a manifold 400 configuration having a first component 424 configured to mate with a second component 426 via a connector. As shown in FIG. 12, the first component 424 has a threaded male component 430 configured to engage or connect with a threaded female component 432, which may collectively comprise a connector.

[0084] In operation, when the first component 424 is inserted into the fluid reservoir, the threaded male component 430 can be positioned through the opening of the fluid reservoir. The second component 426 can be extended through the opening of the fluid reservoir and engaged with the first component 424 by being rotated so that the threads of the threaded female component 432 engage the threads of the threaded male component 430. When fully engaged, the surface of the center portion 402 facing the second component 426 can engage the inner surface of the manifold wall that defines the opening through which the manifold 400 extends. Furthermore, when fully engaged, the shoulder 434 of the second component 426 facing the first component 424 can engage the outer surface of the fluid reservoir.

[0085] In some cases, the threaded male component 430 may be keyed with the threads of the threaded female component 432 so that the internal through-holes of the manifold 400 align with the internal and external openings when the first and second components are fully mated around the openings of the fluid reservoir. When the manifold 400 is mated to the fluid reservoir and tubing is not engaged with the ports of the manifold 400, one or both of the first and second components 424, 426 of the manifold may be overtightened or slightly loosened to intentionally misalign the internal and / or external openings with the through-holes of the manifold 400 to prevent fluid from entering or exiting the fluid reservoir when the manifold 400 is mated to the fluid reservoir.

[0086] When manifold 400 is formed from two or more components, one or both of the components may be replaceable and may be replaced due to wear, to change the functionality of manifold 400, and / or one or more other suitable reasons. By way of example, first component 424 may be secured to the interior surface of a fluid reservoir, and second component 426 may be replaced to change the functionality of manifold 400 (e.g., port configuration, etc.) depending on the needs of a procedure utilizing an endoscope in fluid communication with the fluid reservoir.

[0087] In another example configuration of the multi-component manifold 400, rather than a single large-diameter component configured to extend into a fluid reservoir through a single large-diameter hole that contains all of the manifold's 400 through-holes, one or more of the components may be configured to have one or more smaller diameter portions configured to extend into the fluid reservoir through smaller diameter holes in the fluid reservoir. In such a configuration, a first component of the manifold 400 may have a smaller diameter male component (e.g., a cylindrical post or other suitable component) for each through-hole in the manifold 400, and a second component of the manifold 400 may be configured to engage with the smaller diameter male component extending through the smaller diameter opening in the fluid reservoir and seal the smaller diameter opening. In such a configuration, the first and second components may be bonded together using a silicone adhesive to facilitate preventing fluid leakage through the smaller diameter holes.

[0088] 13-17 illustrate exemplary configurations of manifold 400 that allow tubing coupled to manifold 400 to extend from manifold 400 in a direction perpendicular to manifold 400 and tangential to the fluid reservoirs. In such a configuration, tubing can exit manifold 400 and be directed to a desired path to couple with a pump (e.g., a peristaltic pump in the case of irrigation tubing and / or other suitable pump), an endoscope umbilical, and / or other features of the endoscope system.

[0089] FIG. 13 shows a schematic perspective view of an exemplary configuration of a manifold 400, with coupled tubing configured to extend perpendicularly therefrom. The manifold 400 shown in FIG. 13 may include a first portion 400a and a second portion 400b and may be formed from multiple components. By way of example, the manifold 400 may include, among other components, a base 440, a middle component 442, a cover 444, and an actuator 446. The actuator 446 may be accessible from the second portion 400b and may be actuable or otherwise adjustable to regulate fluid flow through the manifold 400 (e.g., fluid flow through the first portion 400a and / or the second portion 400b), although this is not required.

[0090] As described in more detail below, the manifold 400 of Figure 13 can include one or more ports. As shown in Figure 13, the middle component 442 and the cover 444 cooperate to form a third port 410c, which is configured to couple with irrigation tubing and / or other suitable tubing.

[0091] FIG. 14 shows a schematic exploded view of the example manifold 400 shown in FIG. 13. As shown in FIG. 15, the manifold 400 can include, among other components, a clip connector 448, a valve 412, a base 440, an intermediate component 442, a cover 444, and an actuator 446. To couple the components of the manifold 400 to one another (e.g., across a wall of a fluid reservoir), the clip connector 448 can be inserted through the valve 412, the base 440, and into the intermediate component 442. The actuator 446 can be inserted through the cover 444, the intermediate component 442, the base 440, the valve 412, and the clip connector 448 (e.g., in a direction opposite to the direction in which the clip connector 448 is inserted). The actuator 446 can engage with the clip connector 448 to secure the components of the manifold 400 to one another. In the configuration of the manifold 400 shown in FIG. 14, the actuator 446 and / or clip connector 448 can be inserted through axially aligned central openings extending through the valve 412, the base 440, the intermediate component 442, and the cover 444.

[0092] The actuator 446 may include a clip mechanism 450 configured to extend through a central opening in the clip connector 448 and clip into engagement with the clip connector 448. When connected to the clip connector 448, the actuator 446 may couple the first portion 400a (e.g., the clip connector 448, the valve 412, and the base 440) and the second portion 400b (e.g., the middle component 442 and the cover 444) of the manifold 400 while allowing for free rotation. Although the actuator 446 is shown with a clip mechanism 450, the actuator 446 and / or the clip connector 448 may be configured for engagement in one or more other suitable ways, including, but not limited to, a threaded connection, a luer lock connection, a ball-and-detent connection, and / or other suitable engagement techniques such that the actuator 446 is rotatable after engaging or otherwise coupling with the clip connector 448.

[0093] The actuator 446 may be any suitable actuator 446 configured to facilitate coupling of the components of the manifold 400 and to regulate the flow of pressurized fluid (e.g., liquid) from a fluid reservoir to the manifold 400 and / or tubing. As described above, the actuator 446 may include a clip mechanism 450 at a first end of the actuator 446 and a user interface 452 at a second end of the actuator 446. The user interface 452 may facilitate user interaction (e.g., rotating or otherwise) with the actuator 446 to regulate the flow of liquid from the fluid reservoir through the manifold 400. Between the user interface 452 and the clip mechanism 450, the actuator 446 may include one or more windows 454. As shown in FIG. 14 , the actuator may include two windows, although any other suitable number of windows may be used as desired.

[0094] The cover 444 may be any suitable type of cover 444. In some cases, the cover 444, together with the intermediate component 442, may be configured to at least partially define one or more chambers of the manifold 400 (e.g., first chamber 456 and second chamber 458, or other suitable chambers). Additionally or alternatively, the cover 444 may at least partially define a port 410 for engaging with and / or receiving tubing. As an example, the cover 444 may include a side opening 460 configured to align with a side opening 462 of the intermediate component forming the port 410. Such a port configuration may facilitate receiving tubing or its fittings, placing the tubing within the side opening 462 of the intermediate component 442, and then placing the cover 444 over the received and placed tubing, such that the side opening 460 of the cover 444 engages with the tubing and / or its fittings to secure the tubing in place.

[0095] As described above, the intermediate component 442 may form, or at least partially form, one or more chambers. As shown in FIG. 14 , the intermediate component 442 may at least partially define a first chamber 456 and a second chamber 458. In some cases, the first chamber 456 may be configured to receive liquid from a fluid reservoir. The liquid may flow into the first chamber 456 via a central opening through the clip connector 448, a central opening in the actuator 446, and one or more windows 454 in the actuator 446. The second chamber 458 may be configured to receive and deliver gas to the fluid reservoir via the base 440 and the valve 42.

[0096] Either the cover 444 or the intermediate component 442 may include one or more fluid stops 464 defining one or more fluid openings 466. When the actuator 446 is in a first position (e.g., a fluid-flow position), the window 454 of the actuator 446 may be fully or at least partially aligned with the one or more fluid openings 466, and pressurized liquid may flow from the fluid reservoir into the first chamber 456 and through the first port 410 a and / or the second port 410 b. When the actuator 446 is in a second position (e.g., a fluid-blocking position), the window 454 of the actuator 446 may be fully or at least partially blocked by the fluid stop such that liquid does not flow from the fluid reservoir into the first chamber 456.

[0097] The intermediate component 442 can be configured to engage an exterior surface of the fluid reservoir at or near the opening of the fluid reservoir. By way of example, the bottom exterior surface (not shown in FIG. 14 ) can be configured to engage an exterior surface of the wall of the fluid reservoir to seal the opening of the fluid reservoir through which the manifold 400 can extend.

[0098] The base 440 may include an upper surface 468 configured to engage the inner surface of the fluid reservoir near the opening through which the manifold 400 may extend. As an example, a sidewall of the fluid reservoir defines the opening through which the manifold 400 may extend. The sidewall may be sandwiched between the base 440 and the intermediate component 442. In such a case, the base 440 and the intermediate component may be bonded to one another, i.e., to the inner and outer surfaces of the fluid reservoir walls, respectively, with adhesive, silicone adhesive, thermal bonding, and / or other suitable fluid-tight bonding techniques. In some cases, silicone and / or other suitable elastic material may be disposed between two or more of the base 440, the intermediate component 442, and / or the fluid reservoir walls between the base 440 and the intermediate component 442.

[0099] Base 440 may include a recess 470 having a plurality of openings 472. The plurality of openings 472 may extend completely through (e.g., completely through) base 440. Although the plurality of openings 472 are shown in recess 470, recess 470 may be omitted and openings 472 may extend completely through the non-recessed portion of base 440.

[0100] In operation, gas entering manifold 400 may be routed from second chamber 458 (e.g., an opening in intermediate component 442 at second chamber 458) through opening 472 and into the fluid reservoir. In some cases, manifold 400 may include valve 412, which may be configured to cover and seal opening 472 until pressure in second chamber 458 reaches or exceeds a predetermined threshold pressure.

[0101] Valve 412 may be any suitable one-way valve described herein or elsewhere. By way of example, valve 412 may be coupleable to base 440 via actuator 446 and clip connector 448 and sized to cover opening 472. In this manner, when valve 412 is in a first position (e.g., a resting position), valve 412 may cover opening 472. When pressure in opening 472 and / or second chamber 458 reaches or exceeds a predetermined threshold pressure, valve 412 may open to allow fluid to pass through opening 472 until pressure in second chamber 458 and / or opening 472 falls below the threshold pressure.

[0102] 14 may be formed from any suitable material. By way of example, the valve 412 may be made from silicone, elastomer, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), rubberized material, and / or other suitable materials.

[0103] FIG. 15 shows a schematic diagram of the exemplary manifold 400 shown in FIG. 13 coupled to the wall of the reservoir 270, 305. As shown in FIG. 15, the manifold 400 can include a first port 410a configured to couple to a CO2 tubing, a second port 410b configured to couple to a lens cleaning solution tubing and / or an air delivery tubing, and a third port 410c configured to couple to an irrigation tubing. Other suitable tubing can be coupled to the manifold 400 as desired. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 14, the intermediate component 442, the cover 444, and the actuator 446 can form a second portion 400b of the manifold 400.

[0104] 16 shows a central cross-sectional view of the manifold 400 coupled to the wall of the reservoir 270, 305 with the actuator in the open position. If gas enters the reservoir 270, 305 from the second chamber 458 through the opening 472 and the open valve 412, the fluid can pass from the reservoir 270, 305 through the central opening 474 of the actuator 446, through the window 454 of the actuator 446, and into the first chamber 456.

[0105] 17A and 17B show manifold 400 coupled to tubing with the top surface of cover 444 removed to reveal first chamber 456 and second chamber 458. As shown in FIGS. 17A and 17B, the tubing is secured to ports in the manifold that are formed at least in part by middle component 442 and cover 444.

[0106] 17A shows the actuator 446 in a first, actuated, or open position in which, if fluid is sufficiently pressurized within the fluid reservoir, the fluid may flow into the manifold 400. By way of example, pressurized fluid may flow from the fluid reservoir into the central opening 474 of the actuator 446, through the window 454 of the actuator 446, through the fluid opening 466 in the post 476 of the middle component 442, into the first chamber 456, and into one or both of the irrigation tubing 255s and / or the lens cleaning solution tubing 245c.

[0107] To pressurize the fluid in the fluid reservoir, gas or other suitable fluid may flow into second chamber 458 via air supply tube 240c and / or CO2 tube 245c and into opening 472 in base 440 that opens to second chamber 458. When the pressure in second chamber 458 and opening 472 reaches or exceeds a predetermined threshold, valve 412 (not shown in FIGS. 17A and 17B ) covering opening 272 may open to allow gas in second chamber 458 to exit manifold 400 and enter the fluid reservoir. When the pressure in second chamber 458 falls below the predetermined threshold, valve 412 may close (e.g., automatically) to prevent liquid from flowing into opening 472 and second chamber 458.

[0108] 17B shows the actuator 446 in a second, resting, or closed position in which fluid may be prevented from flowing into the first chamber 456 of the manifold 400, regardless of the pressure in the fluid reservoir. As shown in FIG. 17B, the actuator 446 has been rotated relative to the state shown in FIG. 17A so that the actuator 446 covers the opening 466 in the post 476, preventing any flow from the fluid reservoir into the first chamber 456. Utilizing the actuator in this manner may facilitate switching tubing connected to the manifold 400 and / or removing the tubing from the endoscope umbilical, preventing or mitigating leakage from the removed tubing or manifold 400, without depressurizing the fluid reservoir.

[0109] It will 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 exceeding the scope of the invention. This may include, to the extent appropriate, the use of any feature of one illustrative embodiment in another embodiment. The scope of the invention will, of course, be defined in the language in which the appended claims are expressed.

Claims

1. a manifold configured to be coupled to a fluid source and to a tubing assembly in fluid communication with an endoscope, The manifold includes a first portion configured to be disposed within the fluid supply, the first portion comprising: a first opening in fluid communication with the first through-hole; a second opening in fluid communication with the second through-hole; Equipped with The manifold includes a second portion configured to be disposed external to the fluid supply, the second portion comprising: a first port in fluid communication with the first through-hole, the first port configured to be coupled to first tubing configured to be in fluid communication with the endoscope; a second port in fluid communication with the second through-hole, the second port configured to be coupled to second tubing in fluid communication with an endoscope; A manifold comprising:

2. a third opening in the first portion, the third opening in fluid communication with the third through-hole and the first port; a valve in fluid communication with the third opening, the valve allowing gas to be discharged through the third opening when the pressure in the third through-hole is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, and preventing gas from being discharged through the third opening when the pressure in the third through-hole is less than the threshold; The manifold of claim 1 further comprising:

3. the first portion includes a third through hole and a third opening in fluid communication with the first port; the second portion includes a third port in fluid communication with the third through-hole and the third opening; the third opening is configured to receive gas passing through one or both of the first port and the third port. The manifold according to claim 1 or 2.

4. 4. The manifold of claim 1, further comprising an interface configured to engage a wall of the fluid supply and seal an opening in the wall of the fluid supply, the interface having one or both of the first and second portions extending into the opening.

5. The manifold of claim 4 , wherein the interface defines a periphery having a portion configured to be parallel with a bottom surface of the fluid supply.

6. The manifold of any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising a connector configured to connect the first portion to the second portion.

7. The connector comprises: a first set of screws extending around the first portion; a second set of screws extending around the second portion; and Equipped with 7. The manifold of claim 1, wherein the first set of screws and the second set of screws are configured to threadably engage with one another to secure the first portion and the second portion to the fluid supply source.

8. The manifold of any preceding claim, further comprising an actuator adjustably configured to adjust the flow of fluid through the second portion.

9. when the actuator is in a first position, liquid in the fluid supply is able to flow from the fluid supply through the first port; 9. The manifold of claim 8, wherein when the actuator is in the second position, liquid in the fluid supply is prevented from flowing from the fluid supply through the first port.

10. 10. The manifold of claim 8 or 9, wherein the actuator is configured to couple the first portion to the second portion.

11. 1. A medical device assembly comprising: the medical device assembly comprises an endoscope; The medical device assembly includes a tube assembly configured to be coupled to the endoscope, the tube assembly comprising: A first tubing; a fluid reservoir; a manifold configured to be coupled to the fluid reservoir; and the manifold comprises: a first port configured to be in fluid communication with a liquid in the fluid reservoir and the first tubing of the tubing assembly; a second port configured to be in fluid communication with a pressurized gas, the interior of the fluid reservoir, and the first tubing of the tube assembly; 12. A medical device assembly comprising:

12. the manifold further comprising a third port configured to be in fluid communication with a liquid in the fluid reservoir and a second tubing of the tubing assembly. The medical device assembly of claim 11.

13. the fluid reservoir having a first end, a second end, a sidewall extending between the first end and the second end, and an opening extending through the sidewall; The medical device assembly of claim 11 or 12, wherein the manifold is configured to extend through the opening in the side wall.

14. the manifold comprising a first portion configured to be disposed external to the fluid reservoir and a second portion configured to be disposed internal to the fluid reservoir; The medical device assembly of claim 13 , wherein the first portion and the second portion are configured to be joined together and to fluid-tightly seal the opening.

15. The medical device assembly of any one of claims 11 to 14, wherein the manifold comprises a one-way valve configured to be disposed within the fluid reservoir.

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