Endoscopic examination display system

Abstract

To provide an endoscopic inspection display system which can provide a wider visual field while maintaining a functionality and allows a treatment instrument to access to a wider range.SOLUTION: An endoscopic inspection display system includes: an endoscope with a distal tip having image capturing components, and a handle with an actuator that, when activated, generates a video processing command; a controller on the outside of the endoscope including a video processing system adapted to transmit commands to the image capturing components and receive an image feed from each of said image capturing components; and a display system including a monitor that receives processed image feeds from the video processing system and visually displays the processed image feeds. The video processing system is adapted to emphasize one processed image on the basis of input of the user with the handle. When the video processing system is not emphasizing the specific processed image, execution of the prescribed video processing command is suppressed.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 89

Description

Technical Field

[0001] <Cross - Reference to Related Applications> This application claims priority to and relies on the following U.S. Provisional Patent Applications, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference: · U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 821,579, filed on May 9, 2013, entitled "Operational Interface in" "Multi-Viewing Element Endoscope" · U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 822,563 (filed on May 13, 2013), invention title "Systems and Methods of Displaying a Plurality of Contiguous Images with Minimal Distortion" · U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 824,236 (filed on May 16, 2013), invention title "Multi-Viewing Endoscope" · U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 824,653 (filed on May 17, 2013), invention title "Interface Unit for Endoscopic System" · U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 824,863 (filed on May 17, 2013), invention title "Multi-Viewing Element Endoscope Having Two Front Service Channels" · U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 828,039 (filed on May 28, 2013), invention title "Multi-Viewing Element Endoscope Having Two Front Service Channels" · U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 840,691 (filed on June 28, 2013), invention title "Multi-Viewing Element Endoscope With Modular Imaging Units" · U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 840,706 (filed on June 28, 2013), invention title "Multi-Jet Distributor For An Endoscope" · U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 841,863 (filed on July 1, 2013), invention title "Circuit Board Assembly of a Multi Viewing Elements Endoscope" · U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 881,661 (filed on September 24, 2013), invention title "Circuit Board Assembly of An Endoscope" · U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 897,896 (filed on October 31, 2013), invention title "Circuit Board Assembly of a Multi "Viewing Elements Endoscope" · U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 899,465 (filed on November 4, 2013), invention title "Illuminator" "Circuit Board Assembly of An Endoscope" · U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 910,863 (filed on December 2, 2013), invention title "Multi-Jet Endoscope" · U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 925,080 (filed on January 8, 2014), invention title "Circuit Board Assembly of a Multi Viewing Elements Endoscope" · U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 926,732 (filed on January 13, 2014), invention title "Multi-Jet Endoscope" · U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 935,647 (filed on February 4, 2014), invention title "Circuit Board Assembly of An Endoscope" · U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 936,562 (filed on February 6, 2014), invention title "Method and System for Video Processing In A Multi-Viewing Element Endoscope" · U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 948,009 (filed on March 4, 2014), invention title "Manifold for Multi-Viewing Element Endoscope" · U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 950,696 (filed on March 10, 2014), invention title "Service Channel Connector of An Endoscope" · U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 968,436 (filed on March 21, 2014), invention title "System for Connecting and Disconnecting A Main Connector and A Main Control Unit of An Endoscope", and · U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 987,984 (filed on May 2, 2014), invention title "Circuit Board Assembly of An Endoscope"

[0002] This specification is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13 / 984,028, filed Aug. 22, 2013, with the same title, which claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 439,948, filed Feb. 7, 2011, and is a national stage entry under 35 USC 371 of PCT Application No. PCT / IL2012 / 050037, filed Feb. 6, 2012, with the title "Multi-Element Cover for a Multi-Camera Endoscope". The contents of the specification of the above U.S. patent application are incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] This specification is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13 / 992,021, filed Jun. 6, 2013, with the title "Fluid Channeling Component of a Multi-Camera Endoscope", which claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 421,240, filed Dec. 9, 2010, and is a national stage entry under 35 USC 371 of PCT Application No. PCT / IL2011 / 050050, filed Dec. 8, 2011, with the title "Flexible Electronic Circuit Board Multi-Camera Endoscope". The contents of the specification of the above U.S. patent application are incorporated herein by reference.

[0004] This specification is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13 / 992,014, filed Jun. 6, 2013, with the same title, which claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 421,238, filed Dec. 9, 2010, and is a national stage entry under 35 USC 371 of PCT Application No. PCT / IL2011 / 050049, filed Dec. 8, 2011, with the title "Flexible Electronic Circuit Board for a Multi-Camera Endoscope". The contents of the specification of the above U.S. patent application are incorporated herein by reference.

[0005] This specification is also a specification of a continuation-in-part application of U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 882,004, filed on May 23, 2013 (same title of the invention), which is a U.S. national stage entry under 35 USC 371 of PCT Application No. PCT / IL2011 / 000832, filed on October 27, 2011 (title of the invention "Optical Systems for Multi-Sensor Endoscopes"), claiming priority based on U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 407,495, filed on October 28, 2010. The content of the specification of the above U.S. patent application is incorporated herein by reference.

[0006] This specification is also a specification of a continuation-in-part application of U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 822,908, filed on March 13, 2013 (same title of the invention), which is a U.S. national stage entry under 35 USC 371 of PCT Application No. PCT / IL2011 / 000745, filed on September 20, 2011 (title of the invention "Multi-Camera Endoscope Having Fluid Channels"), claiming priority based on U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 384,354, filed on September 20, 2010. The content of the specification of the above U.S. patent application is incorporated herein by reference.

[0007] This specification is also a specification of a continuation-in-part application of U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 713,449, filed on December 13, 2012 (title of the invention "Removable Tip Endoscope"), claiming priority based on U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 569,796, filed on December 9, 2010. The content of the specification of the above U.S. patent application is incorporated herein by reference.

[0008] This application is also a continuation-in-part of the following U.S. patent applications, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference, all of which are continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13 / 119,032 (same-titled), filed July 15, 2011, which is a U.S. national stage entry under 35 U.S.C. 371 of PCT Application No. PCT / IL2010 / 000476 (same-titled "Multi-Camera Endoscope"), filed June 16, 2010, which relies on and claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61 / 218,085: U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 655,120 (filed October 18, 2012), entitled "Multi-Camera Endoscope" U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 212,627 (filed August 18, 2011), entitled "Multi-Viewing Element Endoscope" and U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 190,968 (filed July 26, 2011), entitled "Multi-Camera Endoscope"

[0009] This specification is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13 / 413,252 (of the same title), filed March 6, 2012, which relies on and claims priority from U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 61 / 449,746 (of the same title, "Multi Camera Endoscope Assembly Having Multiple Working Channels"), filed March 7, 2011. The contents of the above U.S. patent application are incorporated herein by reference.

[0010] This specification is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13 / 413,141 (of the same title), filed March 6, 2012, which relies on and claims priority from U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 61 / 449,743 (of the same title, "Multi Camera Endoscope Having a Side Service Channel"), filed March 7, 2011. The contents of the above U.S. patent application are incorporated herein by reference.

[0011] This specification is also a specification of a continuation-in-part application of U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 413,059 (same title of the invention), filed on March 6, 2012, which claims priority based on U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 449,741 (title of the invention "Endoscope Circuit Board Assembly") filed on March 7, 2011. The content of the specification of the above U.S. patent application is incorporated herein by reference.

[0012] This specification is also a specification of a continuation-in-part application of U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 412,974 (same title of the invention), filed on March 6, 2012, which claims priority based on U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 449,739 (title of the invention "Camera Assembly for Medical Probes") filed on March 7, 2011. The content of the specification of the above U.S. patent application is incorporated herein by reference.

[0013] This specification is also related to the following U.S. provisional patent applications: · U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 806,065 (filed on March 28, 2013), title of the invention "Multi Camera, Multi Jet Endoscope Having Two Side Service Channels"; · U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 812,709 (filed on April 16, 2013), title of the invention "Multi Camera, Multi Jet Endoscope Having Two Side Service Channels"; · U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 817,237 (filed on April 29, 2013), title of the invention "Method and System for Video Processing in a Multi-Viewing Element Endoscope", and · U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 820,100 (filed on May 6, 2013), title of the invention "Image Capture Assembly for Use with Endoscope"

[0014] The entire content of all the above-mentioned applications is incorporated herein by reference.

[0015] This specification generally relates to a multi-view element endoscope assembly having a tip with a modular or component-based structure according to various embodiments, and thus capable of storing the tip in a small size.

Background Art

[0016] Endoscopes have been widely accepted in the medical community to provide a means for physicians to perform medical procedures while observing a patient's internal structures with minimal patient trauma. Over the years, numerous endoscopes have been developed and classified according to specific applications (e.g., cystoscopy, colonoscopy, laparoscopy, upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, and other examinations). An endoscope can be inserted into a natural body orifice of a patient, or an endoscope can be inserted through an incision in the skin.

[0017] An endoscope is typically a rigid or flexible, tubular elongate shaft having a video camera or an optical fiber lens assembly at its distal end portion. The shaft is connected to a handle that may include an eyepiece for direct viewing. Usually, it can also be confirmed by an external screen. Various treatment tools can be inserted through the working channel of the endoscope to perform various surgical procedures.

[0018] Currently used endoscopes (such as colonoscopes) typically have a forward camera for observing organs (such as the colon), illumination, a fluid injector for cleaning the lens of the camera and sometimes the illumination, and a working channel for inserting treatment tools (such as for removing polyps found in the colon). Often, the endoscope also has a fluid injector (a "jet outlet") for flushing the body cavity when inserted into a body cavity such as the colon. Commonly used illumination is an optical fiber that transmits light generated at a remote location to the tip of the endoscope. It is also known to use light-emitting diodes (LEDs) as illumination.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0019] The disadvantages of such an endoscope are that the field of view of the endoscope is limited and the options for operating medical devices and treatment tools are limited.

[0020] Therefore, in this field, there is a need for an endoscope (such as a colonoscope) that can provide a wider field of view while maintaining functionality, allow treatment tools to access a wider range, and enable efficient storage of all necessary elements at the distal end.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0021] The following embodiments and aspects of embodiments related to systems, tools, and methods are described and illustrated. The embodiments and aspects of embodiments are intended to be exemplary and explanatory and not limiting in scope. This application discloses a number of embodiments.

[0022] In one embodiment, this specification provides an endoscope inspection display system comprising an endoscope having a distal tip with at least three image capture elements and a handle having at least one actuator that generates video processing commands when activated, a controller external to the endoscope comprising a video processing system adapted to send commands to the three image capture elements and receive image feeds from each of the three image capture elements, and a display system comprising at least one monitor that simultaneously receives each of the processed image feeds from the video processing system and visually displays each of the processed image feeds simultaneously. The video processing system is adapted to cause at least one of processing each of the image feeds according to video processing commands to change the position of each of the processed image feeds on at least one monitor, zooming in on at least one of the processed image feeds, recording at least one of the processed image feeds, freezing at least one of the processed image feeds, highlighting one of the processed image feeds, or superimposing a movement indicator on at least one of the processed image feeds.

[0023] Optionally, the display system can include three separate monitors positioned in a series and in a row horizontally, with a first image feed being displayed on the central monitor, a second image feed being displayed on the left monitor, and a third image feed being displayed on the right monitor, such that each of the three monitors displays one of the processed image feeds, and when the video processing commands change the position of each of the processed image feeds, the change in the position of each image feed results in the second image feed being on the central monitor, the first image feed being on the right monitor, and the third image feed being on the left monitor.

[0024] Optionally, the display system can include three separate monitors positioned in a series and in a row horizontally, with a first image feed being displayed on the central monitor, a second image feed being displayed on the left monitor, and a third image feed being displayed on the right monitor, such that the three monitors display one of the processed image feeds, and when the video processing commands change the position of each of the processed image feeds, the change in the position of each image feed results in the third image feed being on the central monitor, the first image feed being on the left monitor, and the second image feed being on the right monitor. [[ID=⑨]]

[0025] [[ID=⑩]] Optionally, the display system can include only one monitor, with the first image feed positioned centrally on the monitor, the second image feed being to the right of the centrally positioned image feed, and the third image feed being to the left of the centrally positioned image feed, such that the monitor displays all three processed image feeds, and when the video processing commands change the position of each of the processed image feeds, the change in the position of each image feed results in the second image feed being centrally positioned, the first image feed being on the right, and the third image feed being on the left.

[0026] Optionally, the display system can include only one monitor, with the first image feed positioned centrally on the monitor, the second image feed to the right of the centrally positioned image feed, and the third image feed to the left of the centrally positioned image feed, such that the monitor displays all three processed image feeds. When the video processing commands change the positions of the respective processed image feeds, the changes in the positions of the respective image feeds result in the third image feed being positioned centrally, the first image feed being to the left, and the second image feed being to the right.

[0027] In certain embodiments, the video processing commands can cause only one of the processed image feeds to be zoomed in. Optionally, the processed image feed being zoomed in can be emphasized while it is being zoomed in.

[0028] Optionally, in response to the video processing commands, the video processing system can record only one of the processed image feeds. Further optionally, the processed image feed being recorded can be emphasized while it is being recorded.

[0029] Optionally, in response to the video processing commands, the video processing system can freeze only one of the processed image feeds. Further optionally, the processed image feed being frozen can be emphasized while it is being frozen.

[0030] Optionally, the video processing commands can simultaneously cause only two of the processed image feeds to be zoomed in. Further optionally, both of the processed image feeds being zoomed in can be emphasized while they are being zoomed in.

[0031] Optionally, in response to the video processing commands, the video processing system can record only two of the processed image feeds simultaneously. Further optionally, the two processed image feeds being recorded can be emphasized while they are being recorded.

[0032] Optionally, in response to the video processing command, the video processing system simultaneously freezes only two of the processed image feeds. Further optionally, the two frozen processed image feeds are emphasized while frozen.

[0033] Optionally, the video processing command simultaneously causes each of the three processed image feeds to zoom in. Further optionally, the three processed image feeds being zoomed are emphasized while being zoomed.

[0034] Optionally, in response to the video processing command, the video processing system simultaneously records each of the three processed image feeds. Further optionally, the three recorded processed image feeds are emphasized while being recorded.

[0035] Optionally, in response to the video processing command, the video processing system simultaneously freezes each of the three processed image feeds. Further optionally, the three frozen processed image feeds are emphasized while frozen.

[0036] Optionally, the video processing system is adapted to generate an image of a path of movement that visually represents the time-based position or progression of at least a portion of the endoscope passing through an anatomical region and to send the image of the path of movement to the display system.

[0037] Optionally, the video processing system generates a timer, which is a decrementing timing mechanism that counts down from a preset amount of time, and is adapted to send the timer to the display system.

[0038] Optionally, the first of the three image capture elements is disposed on the front surface of the distal tip, the second of the three image capture elements is disposed on the first side of the distal tip, and the third of the three image capture elements is disposed on the second side of the distal tip opposite the first side.

[0039] Optionally, the display system includes a left monitor, a center monitor, and a right monitor that are positioned in series and continuously in the horizontal direction. Each of the three separate monitors has its own native aspect ratio associated with it. The image feed from the first imaging element is displayed on the center monitor, the image feed from the second imaging element is displayed on the left monitor, and the image feed from the third imaging element is displayed on the right monitor.

[0040] Optionally, the video processing system, in combination with the display system, tilts the image feed from the second imaging element towards the right side of the left monitor and tilts the image feed from the third imaging element towards the left side of the right monitor.

[0041] Optionally, the video processing system, in combination with the display system, generates patient data that is separate from and distinguishable from the image feed from the second imaging element and is adapted to be displayed adjacent to the left side of the left monitor, or the video processing system, in combination with the display system, generates patient data that is separate from and distinguishable from the image feed from the third imaging element and is adapted to be displayed adjacent to the right side of the right monitor.

[0042] Optionally, the video processing system, in combination with the display system, aligns the upper boundary of the image feed from the first imaging element with the upper boundary of the image feed from the second imaging element and with the image feed from the third imaging element.

[0043] ]>Optionally, the native aspect ratio is 4:3 or 5:4. Further optionally, the native aspect ratios of the left and right monitors are modulated by no more than 30%.

[0044] Optionally, the left monitor, the center monitor, and the right monitor are integrated into an integrated frame container. Further optionally, the center monitor defines a first face, the left monitor is positioned at a first angle with respect to the first face, the right monitor is positioned at a second angle with respect to the first face, and the first angle and the second angle are in the range of 10° to 30°.

[0045] Optionally, the video processing system, in combination with the display system, tilts the image feed from the first image capture element towards the lower side of the center monitor, tilts the image feed from the second image capture element towards the lower side of the left monitor, and tilts the image feed from the third image capture element towards the lower side of the right monitor.

[0046] Optionally, the video processing system, in combination with the display system, separates and differentiates patient data from the image feed from the first image capture element, generates patient data that can be distinguished from the image feed, displays the patient data adjacent to the upper part of the center monitor, separates and differentiates patient data from the image feed from the second image capture element, generates patient data that can be distinguished from the image feed, displays the patient data adjacent to the upper part of the left monitor, and separates and differentiates patient data from the image feed from the third image capture element, generates patient data that can be distinguished from the image feed, and is adapted to display the patient data adjacent to the upper part of the right monitor.

[0047] Optionally, the display system includes a left monitor, a center monitor, and a right monitor that are positioned horizontally in a series and continuously, the image feed from the first image capture element having a first field of view is displayed on the center monitor, the image feed from the second image capture element having a second field of view is displayed on the left monitor, and the image feed from the third image capture element having a third field of view is displayed on the right monitor.

[0048] Optionally, the video processing system combines the image feeds from the first image capture element, the second image capture element, and the third image capture element and integrates them into a single integrated image feed.

[0049] Optionally, the display system includes a left monitor, a center monitor, and a right monitor, and a single integrated image feed is displayed across the left monitor, the center monitor, and the right monitor.

[0050] Optionally, in combination with the display system, the video processing system generates and displays a black stripe at the boundary between the left monitor and the center monitor and also generates and displays a black stripe at the boundary between the right monitor and the center monitor. Further optionally, the width of the black stripe is 6 inches or less.

[0051] Optionally, the single integrated image feed has a right portion, a left portion, and a center portion, and the video processing system tilts the right and left portions of the single integrated image feed with respect to the center portion.

[0052] Optionally, the portion of the single integrated image feed displayed on the center monitor includes a portion of the field of view of a second image capture element and a portion of the field of view of a third image capture element. Further optionally, the portion of the field of view is in the range of 15° to 30°.

[0053] Optionally, when combining the image feeds, the video processing system identifies the overlap between the fields of view of the first image capture element, the second image capture element, and the third image capture element, and eliminates the overlap to remove the redundancy of the overlapping fields of view.

[0054] Optionally, the video processing system is adapted to highlight one of the processed images based on user input via the handle. Further optionally, the video processing system can only process the image feed to cause a zoom-in of the processed image feed if the processed image feed is first highlighted. Further optionally, when the video processing system is not highlighting a specific processed image, the video processing system cannot execute a predetermined video processing command.

[0055] In another embodiment, the present specification provides an endoscope comprising a distal tip having at least three image capturing elements and a handle having at least one actuator that generates a video processing command when activated, a controller external to the endoscope and adapted to send commands to the three image capturing elements and receive image feeds from each of the three image capturing elements, and a display system comprising at least one monitor that simultaneously receives each of the processed image feeds from the video processing system and visually displays each of the processed image feeds simultaneously. The video processing system is adapted to cause at least one of processing each of the image feeds according to a video processing command to change the position of each of the processed image feeds on at least one monitor, zooming in on only one of the three processed image feeds, recording only one of the three processed image feeds, recording all three of the three processed image feeds, freezing only one of the three processed image feeds, freezing all three of the three processed image feeds, enhancing only one of the three processed image feeds, or superimposing a movement indicator on only one of the three processed image feeds, for an endoscope inspection display system.

[0056] The present specification also discloses an endoscope tip portion. The endoscope tip portion includes a first lens positioned on the front surface of the tip portion, a second lens positioned on the side portion of the tip portion, a third lens positioned on the side portion of the tip portion and substantially opposite to the second lens, an image sensor having a plurality of photosensitive surfaces, a first light guide for directing light from the first lens to one of the plurality of photosensitive surfaces, a second light guide for directing light from the second lens to a second one of the plurality of photosensitive surfaces, and a third light guide for directing light from the third lens to a third one of the plurality of photosensitive surfaces. The light waves passing through each of the first, second, and third light guides are separated from each other.

[0057] This specification also discloses an endoscopic tip portion. The endoscopic tip portion includes a first lens positioned on the front surface of the tip portion, a second lens positioned on the side portion of the tip portion, a third lens positioned on the side portion of the tip portion and substantially opposite to the second lens, a first image sensor having a first photosensitive surface, a second image sensor having a plurality of photosensitive surfaces, a first light guide for directing light from the first lens to the first photosensitive surface of the first image sensor, a second light guide for directing light from the second lens to the first one of the plurality of photosensitive surfaces of the second image sensor, and a third light guide for directing light from the third lens to the second one of the plurality of photosensitive surfaces of the second image sensor, wherein the light waves passing through each of the first, second, and third light guides are separated from each other.

[0058] This specification also discloses an endoscopic tip portion. The endoscopic tip portion includes a first lens positioned on the front surface of the tip portion, a second lens positioned on the side portion of the tip portion, a third lens positioned on the side portion of the tip portion and substantially opposite to the second lens, a bilateral image sensor having a first side surface and a second side surface, wherein the first side surface is substantially opposite to the second side surface, and further the first side surface includes a first photosensitive surface, and the second side surface includes a plurality of photosensitive surfaces, a first light guide for directing light from the first lens to the first photosensitive surface of the first side surface of the bilateral image sensor, a second light guide for directing light from the second lens to the first one of the plurality of photosensitive surfaces of the second side surface of the bilateral image sensor, and a third light guide for directing light from the third lens to the second one of the plurality of photosensitive surfaces of the second side surface of the bilateral image sensor, wherein the light waves passing through each of the first, second, and third light guides are separated from each other.

[0059] Certain embodiments of the present specification are directed to a manifold for use in an endoscope, the manifold comprising: 1) a manifold housing having a partially cylindrical shape including a curved upper surface, a partially curved first side surface, and a partially curved second side surface, the manifold housing including a base having a first width, a first length, and a proximal surface, and an elongate portion attached to the base and having a second width, a second length, and a distal surface, the first width being wider than the second width and the first length being shorter than the second length; 2) a first channel extending from the base through the elongate portion and having an inlet port positioned on the proximal surface of the base and an outlet port positioned on the distal surface of the elongate portion; 3) a second channel extending from the base through the elongate portion and having an inlet port positioned on the proximal surface of the base and an outlet port positioned on the distal surface of the elongate portion; 4) a Y-shaped fluid conduit including a central stem portion, a first prong portion, and a second prong portion, the central stem portion extending from the inlet port on the proximal surface of the base through the base, the first prong portion extending from an end of the central stem portion through the base to the outlet port on the partially curved first side surface, and the second prong portion extending from an end of the central stem portion through the base to the outlet port on the partially curved second side surface; 5) a third channel extending from the inlet port on the proximal surface of the base to the outlet port on the partially curved first side surface; and 6) a fourth channel extending from the inlet port on the proximal surface of the base to the outlet port on the partially curved second side surface, wherein each of the first channel, the second channel, the third channel, and the fourth channel is fluidly separated and independent of each other.

[0060] Optionally, the manifold further includes a fifth channel extending from the base through the elongate portion, the third channel having an inlet port positioned on the proximal surface of the base and an outlet port positioned on the distal surface of the elongate portion, and the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth channels being fluidly separated and independent of each other. The manifold housing is formed from an integral mass of material. The outlet port of the partially curved first side surface of the first prong portion is positioned within the recess of the partially curved first side surface. The outlet port of the partially curved second side surface of the second prong portion is positioned within the recess of the partially curved second side surface. A portion of the third channel closest to the outlet port positioned on the partially curved first side surface is bent at an angle with respect to a portion of the third channel closest to the inlet port. The angle of the bend with respect to the longitudinal axis of the endoscope ranges from 45° to 135°. A portion of the fourth channel closest to the outlet port positioned on the partially curved first side surface is bent at an angle with respect to a portion of the fourth channel closest to the inlet port.

[0061] Optionally, the angle of the bend with respect to the longitudinal axis of the endoscope ranges from 45° to 135°. The diameters of the third and fourth channels range from about 2.8 to 3.2 millimeters. The diameter of the first channel of the manifold is substantially constant within the range of 2.8 millimeters to 4.8 millimeters. The manifold is configured to be a heat sink for transferring heat generated by multiple illuminations. The manifold further includes a groove for receiving a utility cable, which is disposed on a side of the base.

[0062] In another embodiment, the present application discloses an image capture component of a certain length adapted to be attached to the end of the shaft of an endoscope. The shaft has a longitudinal length that defines a longitudinal axis. 1) The image capture component includes a housing that is substantially cylindrical in shape and defines a partially enclosed internal volume and includes a substantially flat front surface, a first curved side surface, and a second curved side surface. 2) The image capture component further includes a manifold, and the manifold A manifold housing having a partially cylindrical shape including a curved upper surface, a partially curved first side surface, and a partially curved second side surface, the manifold housing including a base having a first width, a first length, and a proximal surface, and an elongate portion attached to the base and having a second width, a second length, and a distal surface, the first width being wider than the second width and the first length being shorter than the second length, the manifold housing, A first channel extending from the base through the elongate portion and having an inlet port positioned on the proximal surface of the base and an outlet port positioned on the distal surface of the elongate portion, A second channel extending from the base through the elongate portion and having an inlet port positioned on the proximal surface of the base and an outlet port positioned on the distal surface of the elongate portion, A Y-shaped fluid conduit including a central stem portion, a first prong portion, and a second prong portion, the central stem portion extending from the inlet port on the proximal surface of the base through the base, the first prong portion extending from an end of the central stem portion through the base to the outlet port on the partially curved first side surface, and the second prong portion extending from an end of the central stem portion through the base to the outlet port on the partially curved second side surface, the Y-shaped fluid conduit, A third channel extending from the inlet port on the proximal surface of the base to the outlet port on the partially curved first side surface, A fourth channel extending from an inlet port on the hand side surface of the base to an outlet port on the partially curved second side surface. Each of the first channel, the second channel, the third channel, and the fourth channel is fluidly separated and independent from each other, and the elongate portion of the manifold is configured to occupy a first portion of the internal volume. 3) The imaging component further comprises a front imaging sensor characterized by a first optical axis and having a lens and an electrical assembly, the lens being positioned on a substantially flat front surface. 4) The imaging component further comprises a first side imaging sensor characterized by a second optical axis and having a lens and an electrical assembly, the lens being positioned on the first curved side surface. 5) The imaging component further comprises a first integrated circuit assembly comprising a printed circuit board, on which the electrical assemblies of the front imaging sensor and the first side imaging sensor are mounted and configured to occupy a second portion of the internal volume.

[0063] Optionally, the outlet port of the third channel is positioned 9.5 to 10.5 millimeters from the first side imaging sensor. The imaging component further comprises a second side imaging sensor characterized by a third optical axis and having a lens and an electrical assembly, the lens being positioned on the second curved side surface. The first integrated circuit assembly further comprises the electrical assembly of the second side imaging sensor. Each of the front imaging sensor, the first side imaging sensor, and the second side imaging sensor generates and receives at least 12 signals respectively. Each of the front imaging sensor, the first side imaging sensor, and the second side imaging sensor generates and receives at least 12 signals respectively. The first integrated circuit assembly is connected to the video processing system by a utility cable and transmits 35 or fewer signals between the first integrated circuit assembly and the video processing system. The imaging component further comprises a plurality of separate illuminations. The manifold is configured to be a heat sink for conducting heat generated by the plurality of separate illuminations.

[0064] Optionally, the maximum volume of the partially enclosed internal volume ranges from 2.75 cm 3 to 3.5 cm 3 Over this range, each of the front imaging sensor and the first side imaging sensor creates a field of view angle ranging from 120° to 180° and a depth of field ranging from 3 millimeters to 100 millimeters, with peripheral distortion that does not depend on aspherical elements being less than about 80%, and is configured such that the maximum focal length ranges from 1 millimeter to 1.4 millimeters.

[0065] In one embodiment, the present application discloses an imaging component of a certain length adapted to be attached to the end of the shaft of a colonoscope. The shaft has a longitudinal length that defines a longitudinal axis. 1) The imaging component includes a housing that defines a partially enclosed internal volume, is substantially cylindrical in shape, and has a substantially flat front face, a first curved side surface, and a second curved side surface. The substantially flat front face has four quadrants defined by a longitudinal axis passing through the center of the substantially flat front face and a transverse axis passing through the center. The four quadrants are the upper left, upper right, lower left, and lower right quadrants. Each of the first curved side surface and the second curved side surface includes a substantially flat recess. 2) The imaging component further includes a manifold that includes an elongate housing extending the length of the imaging component and having a first end and a second end. The manifold has at least three independent and fluidically separated conduits extending from the first end to the second end through the elongate housing. The manifold is configured to occupy a first portion of the internal volume. 3) The imaging component further includes a forward imaging sensor characterized by a first optical axis and having a lens and an electrical assembly. The lens is positioned on the surface of the substantially flat front face and is configured to image an image within a range of at least 0° to 80° from the first optical axis. The first optical axis is arranged parallel to the center of the lens and the longitudinal axis of the colonoscope. The electrical assembly is arranged within the internal volume. 4) The imaging component further includes a first forward illumination that includes a first transparent cover and a first electrical assembly. The first transparent cover is at least partially disposed within the lower right and lower left quadrants of the substantially flat front face. The first electrical assembly is arranged within the internal volume. 5) The imaging component further includes a second forward illumination that includes a second transparent cover and a second electrical assembly. The second transparent cover is at least partially disposed within the lower left quadrant of the substantially flat front face. The second electrical assembly is arranged within the internal volume. 6) The imaging component further includes a third forward illumination that includes a third transparent cover and a third electrical assembly.The third transparent cover is at least partially disposed within the lower right quadrant of the substantially flat front face. The third electrical assembly is disposed within the internal volume. 7) The imaging component further includes a forward working channel, which includes an outlet port and a conduit. The outlet port is disposed along the vertical axis of the substantially flat front face and is at least partially present in the upper left and upper right quadrants, and the conduit is defined by one of the three independent and fluidically separated conduits that extends through the elongate housing of the fluid manifold. 8) The imaging component further includes a fluid injector channel, which includes an outlet port and a conduit. The outlet port is disposed in the upper right quadrant. The conduit is defined by one of the three independent and fluidically separated conduits that extends through the elongate housing of the fluid manifold.

[0066] This embodiment further includes an ejection channel, which includes an outlet port and a conduit. The outlet port is disposed in the upper left quadrant. The conduit is defined by one of the three independent and fluidically separated conduits that extends through the elongate housing of the fluid manifold. This embodiment is characterized by a second optical axis and further includes a first lateral imaging sensor having a lens and an electrical assembly. The lens is positioned within a recess of the first curved side surface and is configured to image an image within a range of 0° to 80° from the second optical axis. The second optical axis is disposed perpendicular to the center of the lens and the longitudinal axis of the colonoscope. The electrical assembly is disposed within the internal volume. This embodiment further includes at least two first lateral illuminations. Each of the first lateral illuminations includes a first transparent lateral cover and a first lateral electrical assembly. The first transparent lateral cover is disposed on both sides of the lens of the first lateral imaging sensor within the recess of the first curved side surface. The first lateral electrical assembly is disposed within the internal volume. This embodiment further includes a first lateral fluid injector having an outlet port disposed within a recess of the first curved side surface and configured to discharge fluid toward the lens of the first lateral image sensor. This embodiment is characterized by a third optical axis and further includes a second side imaging sensor having a lens and an electrical assembly. The lens is positioned within a recess in the second curved side surface and is configured to image an image within a range of 0° to 80° from the third optical axis. The third optical axis is disposed perpendicular to the center of the lens and the longitudinal axis of the colonoscope. The electrical assembly is disposed within the internal volume. This embodiment further includes at least two second side illuminations. Each of the second side illuminations includes a second transparent side cover and a second side electrical assembly. The second transparent side covers are disposed on both sides of the lens of the second side imaging sensor within the recess in the second curved side surface. The second side electrical assemblies are disposed within the internal volume. This embodiment further includes a second side fluid injector having an outlet port disposed within a recess in the second curved side surface and configured to discharge fluid toward the lens of the second side image sensor. This embodiment further includes a first integrated circuit assembly including a printed circuit board. The electrical assemblies of the front imaging sensor, the first side imaging sensor, and the second side imaging sensor are mounted on the printed circuit board, and the first integrated circuit board assembly is configured to occupy a second portion of the internal volume.

[0067] Optionally, the manifold further includes at least one service channel. The service channel includes at least one outlet port and at least one conduit. The at least one outlet port is disposed within a recess in at least one of the curved side surfaces. At least one hand-held side portion of the at least one conduit extends from a first end of the fluid manifold through the elongate housing. At least one distal side portion of the at least one conduit bends toward at least one of the curved side surfaces.

[0068] Optionally, at least one outlet port of at least one lateral service channel is positioned 9.5 - 10.5 millimeters, preferably 10.2 millimeters, from the second and / or third optical axes of the first and / or second lateral imaging sensors.

[0069] Optionally, the diameter of at least one conduit of at least one lateral service channel ranges from about 2.8 - 3.2 millimeters.

[0070] Optionally, at least one distal end portion of at least one conduit bends at an acute angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the colonoscope. At least one distal end portion of at least one conduit bends at an angle in the range of 45° - 60° with respect to the longitudinal axis of the colonoscope. At least one distal end portion of at least one conduit bends at a 90° angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the colonoscope. At least one distal end portion of at least one conduit bends at an obtuse angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the colonoscope. At least one distal end portion of at least one conduit bends at an angle in the range of 120° - 135° with respect to the longitudinal axis of the colonoscope. The outlet angle of at least one outlet port ranges from 5 - 90°. The outlet angle of at least one outlet port is 45°.

[0071] Optionally, the housing is a cover for the imaging components configured to cover and fluid - tightly seal the first integrated circuit assembly and the fluid manifold. The substantially flat front surface of the housing includes a first opening corresponding to the outlet port of the front working channel, a second opening corresponding to the outlet port of the fluid injection channel, a third opening corresponding to the outlet port of the ejection channel, a fourth opening corresponding to the lens of the front imaging sensor, a fifth opening corresponding to the first front illumination, a sixth opening corresponding to the second front illumination, and a seventh opening corresponding to the third front illumination.

[0072] Optionally, the housing is a cover for an image imaging component configured to cover and fluidly seal the first integrated circuit assembly and the manifold. The first curved side surface of the housing includes a first opening corresponding to the lens of the first side imaging sensor, a second opening corresponding to the outlet port of the first side fluid injection channel, and third and fourth openings corresponding to two first side illuminations.

[0073] Optionally, the housing is a cover for an image imaging component configured to cover and fluidly seal the first integrated circuit assembly and the manifold. The second curved side surface of the housing includes a first opening corresponding to the lens of the second side imaging sensor, a second opening corresponding to the outlet port of the second side fluid injection channel, and third and fourth openings corresponding to two second side illuminations. Optionally, the manifold functions as a heat sink for conducting heat generated by the front and side illuminations.

[0074] Optionally, the diameter of the image imaging component ranges from about 10 - 15 millimeters, about 9 - 17 millimeters, about 5 - 18 millimeters or about 7 - 12 millimeters, or is about 11.7 millimeters or about 11.9 millimeters. Optionally, the focal length of the lens of the front imaging sensor is about 3 - 100 millimeters, 100 millimeters or 110 millimeters. Optionally, the focal length of the lens of the first and / or second side imaging sensors is about 3 - 100 millimeters, 2 - 33 millimeters or 2 - 100 millimeters.

[0075] Optionally, the second and third optical axes of the first and second side imaging sensors are located at about 8 - 10 millimeters from the flat front surface, about 7 - 11 millimeters from the flat front surface, 9 or 9.1 millimeters from the flat front surface, about 6 - 9 millimeters from the flat front surface, or 7.8 or 7.9 millimeters from the flat front surface.

[0076] Optionally, the centers of each of at least two first side illuminations are separated by a distance in the range of 5.5 - 6.5 millimeters. Optionally, the centers of each of at least two second side illuminations are separated by a distance in the range of 5.5 - 6.5 millimeters.

[0077] Optionally, the conduit of the front working channel extends substantially constantly through the shaft and the imaging components, and the diameter of the conduit is in the range of about 2.8 - 4.8 millimeters, in the range of about 3.2 - 4.8 millimeters or in the range of about 4.2 - 4.8 millimeters. Optionally, the diameter is 3.2 millimeters, 3.8 millimeters or 4.8 millimeters.

[0078] Optionally, the lenses of the front imaging sensor, the first side imaging sensor and the second side imaging sensor are each configured to produce less than 80% peripheral distortion. Optionally, the lenses of the front imaging sensor, the first side imaging sensor and the second side imaging sensor are each configured such that the optical path length is 5 millimeters or less. Optionally, the lenses of the front imaging sensor, the first side imaging sensor and the second side imaging sensor are each configured such that the field of view angle is at least 90° and basically 180° or less. Optionally, the outlet ports of the corresponding first and second side fluid injectors are each positioned at a distance in the range of 5.8 - 7.5 millimeters, preferably 6.7 millimeters, from the second and third optical axes.

[0079] In another embodiment, the present application discloses an imaging component of a certain length adapted to be attached to the end of the shaft of a colonoscope. The shaft has a longitudinal axis and a longitudinal length. 1) The imaging component includes a housing that defines a partially enclosed internal volume, is substantially cylindrical in shape, and has a substantially flat front surface, a first curved side surface, and a second curved side surface. The substantially flat front surface has four quadrants defined by a longitudinal axis passing through the center of the substantially flat front surface and a transverse axis passing through the center. The four quadrants are the upper left, upper right, lower left, and lower right quadrants. Each of the first curved side surface and the second curved side surface includes a substantially flat recess. 2) The imaging component further includes a fluid manifold. The fluid manifold has a first end and a second end. The fluid manifold includes a base having a first width and a first length and is attached to an elongate housing. The elongate housing has a second width and a second length, and the second width is narrower than the first width. The second length is longer than the first length and extends the length of the imaging component. The fluid manifold has at least three independent and fluidly separated conduits that extend from the first end to the second end through the elongate housing and the base. The manifold is configured to occupy a first portion of the internal volume. The bottom surface of the base includes a hand-side portion of a service channel conduit that extends through the center of the base. The hand-side portion of the service channel conduit bends towards the first curved side surface and divides into a first tip-side portion of the service channel conduit that connects to an outlet port and a second tip-side portion of the service channel conduit that bends towards the second curved side surface and connects to an outlet port. The outlet port of the first tip-side portion is installed in the recess of the first curved surface, and the outlet port of the second tip-side portion is installed in the recess of the second curved surface. 3) The imaging component is characterized by a first optical axis and further includes a forward imaging sensor having a lens and an electrical assembly. The lens is positioned on the surface of the substantially flat front surface and is configured to image an image within a range of at least 0° to 80° from the first optical axis. The first optical axis is arranged parallel to the center of the lens and the longitudinal axis of the colonoscope. The electrical assembly is arranged within the internal volume.4) The image capturing component further includes a first front illumination, and the first front illumination includes a first transparent cover and a first electrical assembly. The first transparent cover is at least partially disposed within the lower right and lower left quadrants of the substantially flat front surface. The first electrical assembly is disposed within an internal volume. 5) The image capturing component further includes a second front illumination, and the second front illumination includes a second transparent cover and a second electrical assembly. The second transparent cover is at least partially disposed within the lower left quadrant of the substantially flat front surface. The second electrical assembly is disposed within an internal volume. 6) The image capturing component further includes a third front illumination, and the third front illumination includes a third transparent cover and a third electrical assembly. The third transparent cover is at least partially disposed within the lower right quadrant of the substantially flat front surface. The third electrical assembly is disposed within an internal volume. 7) The image capturing component further includes a front working channel, and the front working channel includes an outlet port and a conduit. The outlet port is disposed along the vertical axis of the substantially flat front surface and at least partially exists in the upper left and upper right quadrants, and the conduit is defined by one of the three independent and fluidly separated conduits that extends through the long housing of the fluid manifold. 8) The image capturing component further includes a fluid injector channel, and the fluid injector channel includes an outlet port and a conduit. The outlet port is disposed within the upper right quadrant. The conduit is defined by one of the three independent and fluidly separated conduits that extends through the long housing of the fluid manifold.

[0080] Optionally, the present embodiment includes an ejection channel. The ejection channel includes an exit port and a conduit. The exit port is disposed in the upper left quadrant. The conduit is defined by one of the three independent and fluidically separated conduits that extends through the elongate housing of the fluid manifold. Optionally, the present embodiment is characterized by a second optical axis and includes a first lateral imaging sensor having a lens and an electrical assembly. The lens is positioned within a recess of the first curved side surface and is configured to image an image within a range of 0° to 80° from the second optical axis. The second optical axis is disposed perpendicular to the center of the lens and the longitudinal axis of the colonoscope. The electrical assembly is disposed within the internal volume. Optionally, the present embodiment includes at least two first lateral illuminations. Each of the first lateral illuminations includes a first transparent lateral cover and a first lateral electrical assembly. The first transparent lateral cover is disposed on both sides of the lens of the first lateral imaging sensor within the recess of the first curved side surface. The first lateral electrical assembly is disposed within the internal volume. Optionally, the present embodiment includes a first lateral fluid injector having an exit port disposed within a recess of the first curved side surface and configured to discharge fluid toward the lens of the first lateral image sensor. Optionally, the present embodiment is characterized by a third optical axis and includes a second lateral imaging sensor having a lens and an electrical assembly. The lens is positioned within a recess of the second curved side surface and is configured to image an image within a range of 0° to 80° from the third optical axis. The third optical axis is disposed perpendicular to the center of the lens and the longitudinal axis of the colonoscope. The electrical assembly is disposed within the internal volume.

[0081] Optionally, the present embodiment includes at least two second side illuminations. Each of the second side illuminations includes a second transparent side cover and a second side electrical assembly. The second transparent side cover is disposed on both sides of the lens of the second side imaging sensor within the recess of the second curved side surface. The second side electrical assembly is disposed within the internal volume. Optionally, the present embodiment includes a second side fluid injector having an outlet port disposed within the recess of the second curved side surface and configured to discharge fluid toward the lens of the second side image sensor. Optionally, the present embodiment includes a first integrated circuit assembly including a printed circuit board. The electrical assemblies of the front imaging sensor, the first side imaging sensor, and the second side imaging sensor are mounted on the printed circuit board, and the first integrated circuit board assembly is configured to occupy a second portion of the internal volume.

[0082] In another embodiment, the present application discloses a manifold for use in endoscopic imaging components. The manifold has a first end and a second end and includes a base having a first width and a first length and being attached to an elongate housing. The elongate housing has a second width and a second length, the second width being narrower than the first width. The second length is longer than the first length and extends the length of the imaging component. The manifold has at least three independent and fluidly separated conduits extending from the first end to the second end through the elongate housing and the base. The manifold is configured to occupy a first portion of the internal volume. The bottom surface of the base includes a hand-side portion of a service channel conduit extending through the center of the base. The hand-side portion of the service channel conduit bifurcates into a first tip-side portion of the service channel conduit that bends toward the first curved side surface and leads to an outlet port and a second tip-side portion of the service channel conduit that bends toward the second curved side surface and leads to an outlet port. The outlet port of the first tip-side portion is installed in the recess of the first curved surface, and the outlet port of the second tip-side portion is installed in the recess of the second curved surface.

[0083] In another embodiment, the present application discloses an imaging component of a certain length adapted to be attached to the end of the shaft of a colonoscope. The shaft has a longitudinal axis and a longitudinal dimension that defines the longitudinal axis. 1) The imaging component includes a housing that defines a partially enclosed internal volume and is substantially cylindrical in shape, having a substantially flat front face, a first curved side face, and a second curved side face. The substantially flat front face has four quadrants defined by a longitudinal axis passing through the center of the substantially flat front face and a transverse axis passing through the center. The four quadrants are the upper left, upper right, lower left, and lower right quadrants. Each of the first curved side face and the second curved side face includes a substantially flat recess. 2) The imaging component further includes a fluid manifold. The fluid manifold has a first end and a second end. The fluid manifold includes a base having a first width and a first length and is attached to an elongate housing. The elongate housing has a second width and a second length, and the second width is narrower than the first width. The second length is longer than the first length and extends the length of the imaging component. The fluid manifold has at least three independent and fluidly separated conduits that extend from the first end to the second end through the elongate housing and the base. The manifold is configured to occupy a first portion of the internal volume. The bottom surface of the base includes a proximal portion of a service channel conduit that extends through the center of the base and a distal portion of the service channel conduit that bends toward the first curved side face and leads to an outlet port. The outlet port is located in the recess of the first curved face. 3) The imaging component further includes a forward imaging sensor characterized by a first optical axis and having a lens and an electrical assembly. The lens is positioned on the surface of the substantially flat front face and is configured to image an image within a range of at least 0° to 80° from the first optical axis. The first optical axis is arranged parallel to the center of the lens and the longitudinal axis of the colonoscope. The electrical assembly is disposed within the internal volume. 4) The imaging component further includes a first forward illumination that includes a first transparent cover and a first electrical assembly. The first transparent cover is at least partially disposed within the lower right and lower left quadrants of the substantially flat front face. The first electrical assembly is disposed within the internal volume.

[0084] Optionally, the present embodiment discloses a second front illumination, which includes a second transparent cover and a second electrical assembly. The second transparent cover is at least partially disposed within the lower left quadrant of the substantially flat front face. The second electrical assembly is disposed within an internal volume. Optionally, the present embodiment discloses a third front illumination, which includes a third transparent cover and a third electrical assembly. The third transparent cover is at least partially disposed within the lower right quadrant of the substantially flat front face. The third electrical assembly is disposed within an internal volume. Optionally, the present embodiment discloses a front work channel, which includes an outlet port and a conduit. The outlet port is disposed along the vertical axis of the substantially flat front face and is at least partially present in the upper left and upper right quadrants, and the conduit is defined by one of the three independent and fluidly separated conduits that extends through the elongated housing of the fluid manifold. Optionally, the present embodiment discloses a fluid injector channel, which includes an outlet port and a conduit. The outlet port is disposed in the upper right quadrant. The conduit is defined by one of the three independent and fluidly separated conduits that extends through the elongated housing of the fluid manifold. Optionally, the present embodiment discloses a jet channel. The jet channel includes an outlet port and a conduit. The outlet port is disposed in the upper left quadrant. The conduit is defined by one of the three independent and fluidly separated conduits that extends through the elongated housing of the fluid manifold. Optionally, the present embodiment discloses a first side imaging sensor characterized by a second optical axis and having a lens and an electrical assembly. The lens is positioned within a recess on the first curved side surface and is configured to image an image within a range of 0° to 80° from the second optical axis. The second optical axis is disposed perpendicular to the center of the lens and the longitudinal axis of the colonoscope. The electrical assembly is disposed within an internal volume.

[0085] Optionally, this embodiment discloses at least two first side illuminations. Each of the first side illuminations includes a first transparent side cover and a first side electrical assembly. The first transparent side cover is disposed on both sides of the lens of the first side imaging sensor within the recess of the first curved side surface. The first side electrical assembly is disposed within the internal volume. Optionally, this embodiment discloses a first side fluid injector, which has an outlet port disposed within the recess of the first curved side surface and is configured to discharge fluid toward the lens of the first side image sensor. Optionally, this embodiment discloses a second side imaging sensor characterized by a third optical axis and having a lens and an electrical assembly. The lens is positioned within the recess of the second curved side surface and is configured to image an image within a range of 0° to 80° from the third optical axis. The third optical axis is disposed perpendicular to the center of the lens and the longitudinal axis of the colonoscope. The electrical assembly is disposed within the internal volume. Optionally, this embodiment discloses at least two second side illuminations. Each of the second side illuminations includes a second transparent side cover and a second side electrical assembly. The second transparent side cover is disposed on both sides of the lens of the second side imaging sensor within the recess of the second curved side surface. The second side electrical assembly is disposed within the internal volume.

[0086] Optionally, this embodiment discloses a second side fluid injector, which has an outlet port disposed within the recess of the second curved side surface and is configured to discharge fluid toward the lens of the second side image sensor. Optionally, this embodiment discloses a first integrated circuit assembly comprising a printed circuit board. The electrical assemblies of the front imaging sensor, the first side imaging sensor, and the second side imaging sensor are mounted on the printed circuit board, and the first integrated circuit board assembly is configured to occupy a second portion of the internal volume.

[0087] In another embodiment, the present application discloses a fluid manifold for use in an endoscopic imaging component. The fluid manifold has a first end and a second end and includes a base having a first width and a first length and being attached to an elongate housing. The elongate housing has a second width and a second length, the second width being narrower than the first width. The second length is longer than the first length and extends the length of the imaging component. The fluid manifold has at least three independent and fluidly separated conduits extending from the first end to the second end through the elongate housing and the base. The manifold is configured to occupy a first portion of the internal volume. The bottom surface of the base includes a hand side portion of a service channel conduit extending through the center of the base and a tip side portion of the service channel conduit that bends toward the first curved side surface and leads to an outlet port. The outlet port is installed in a recess of the first curved surface.

[0088] In another embodiment, the present application discloses an imaging component of a certain length adapted to be attached to the end of the shaft of a colonoscope. The shaft has a longitudinal axis and a longitudinal length. 1) The imaging component comprises a housing that defines a partially enclosed internal volume, is substantially cylindrical in shape, and has a substantially flat front face, a first curved side face, and a second curved side face. The substantially flat front face has four quadrants defined by a longitudinal axis passing through the center of the substantially flat front face and a transverse axis passing through the center. The four quadrants are the upper left, upper right, lower left, and lower right quadrants. Each of the first curved side face and the second curved side face includes a substantially flat indentation. 2) The imaging component further comprises a manifold. The fluid manifold has a first end and a second end. The fluid manifold includes a base having a first width and a first length and is attached to a elongate housing. The elongate housing has a second width and a second length, and the second width is narrower than the first width. The second length is longer than the first length and extends the length of the imaging component. The manifold has at least three independently fluidically separated conduits extending from the first end to the second end through the elongate housing and the base. The manifold is configured to occupy a first portion of the internal volume. The bottom surface of the base includes a proximal portion of a first service channel conduit extending through the base, a distal portion of the first service channel conduit that bends toward the first curved side face and is connected to an outlet port disposed in the indentation of the first curved face, a proximal portion of a second service channel conduit extending through the base in a similar manner, and a distal portion of the second service channel conduit that bends toward the second curved side face and is connected to an outlet port disposed in the indentation of the second curved face. 3) The imaging component is characterized by a first optical axis and further comprises a forward imaging sensor having a lens and an electrical assembly. The lens is positioned on the surface of the substantially flat front face and is configured to image an image within a range of at least 0° to 80° from the first optical axis. The first optical axis is arranged parallel to the center of the lens and the longitudinal axis of the colonoscope. The electrical assembly is disposed within the internal volume.4) The image capturing component further includes a first front illumination, and the first front illumination includes a first transparent cover and a first electrical assembly. The first transparent cover is at least partially disposed within the lower right and lower left quadrants of the substantially flat front surface. The first electrical assembly is disposed within the internal volume. 5) The image capturing component further includes a second front illumination, and the second front illumination includes a second transparent cover and a second electrical assembly. The second transparent cover is at least partially disposed within the lower left quadrant of the substantially flat front surface. The second electrical assembly is disposed within the internal volume.

[0089] Optionally, the present application discloses a third forward illumination, which comprises a third transparent cover and a third electrical assembly. The third transparent cover is at least partially disposed within the lower right quadrant of the substantially flat front face. The third electrical assembly is disposed within an internal volume. Optionally, the present application discloses a forward working channel, which includes an outlet port and a conduit. The outlet port is disposed along a vertical axis of the substantially flat front face and is at least partially present in the upper left and upper right quadrants, and the conduit is defined by one of the three independent and fluidly separated conduits that extends through the elongate housing of the fluid manifold. Optionally, the present application discloses a fluid injector channel, which includes an outlet port and a conduit. The outlet port is disposed in the upper right quadrant. The conduit is defined by one of the three independent and fluidly separated conduits that extends through the elongate housing of the fluid manifold. Optionally, the present application discloses an ejection channel. The ejection channel includes an outlet port and a conduit. The outlet port is disposed in the upper left quadrant. The conduit is defined by one of the three independent and fluidly separated conduits that extends through the elongate housing of the fluid manifold. Optionally, the present application discloses a first side imaging sensor characterized by a second optical axis and having a lens and an electrical assembly. The lens is positioned within a recess of the first curved side surface and is configured to image an image within a range of 0° to 80° from the second optical axis. The second optical axis is disposed perpendicular to the center of the lens and the longitudinal axis of the colonoscope. The electrical assembly is disposed within an internal volume. Optionally, the present application discloses at least two first side illuminations. Each of the first side illuminations comprises a first transparent side cover and a first side electrical assembly. The first transparent side covers are disposed on both sides of the lens of the first side imaging sensor within the recess of the first curved side surface. The first side electrical assemblies are disposed within an internal volume.

[0090] Optionally, the present application discloses a first lateral fluid injector, the first lateral fluid injector having an outlet port disposed within a recess of the first curved side surface and configured to discharge fluid toward the lens of the first lateral image sensor. Optionally, the present application discloses a second lateral imaging sensor characterized by a third optical axis and having a lens and an electrical assembly. The lens is positioned within a recess of the second curved side surface and is configured to image an image within a range of 0° to 80° from the third optical axis. The third optical axis is disposed perpendicular to the center of the lens and the longitudinal axis of the colonoscope. The electrical assembly is disposed within the internal volume. Optionally, the present application discloses at least two second lateral illuminations. Each of the second lateral illuminations includes a second transparent lateral cover and a second lateral electrical assembly. The second transparent lateral cover is disposed on both sides of the lens of the second lateral imaging sensor within the recess of the second curved side surface. The second lateral electrical assembly is disposed within the internal volume. Optionally, the present application discloses a second lateral fluid injector, the second lateral fluid injector having an outlet port disposed within a recess of the second curved side surface and configured to discharge fluid toward the lens of the second lateral image sensor. Optionally, the present application discloses a first integrated circuit assembly comprising a printed circuit board. The electrical assemblies of the front imaging sensor, the first lateral imaging sensor, and the second lateral imaging sensor are mounted on the printed circuit board, and the first integrated circuit board assembly is configured to occupy a second portion of the internal volume.

[0091] In another embodiment, the present application discloses a manifold for use in an endoscopic imaging component. The fluid manifold has a first end and a second end and includes a base having a first width and a first length and being attached to an elongate housing. The elongate housing has a second width and a second length, the second width being narrower than the first width and the second length being longer than the first length. The fluid manifold has at least three independent and fluidly separated conduits extending from the first end to the second end through the elongate housing and the base. The manifold is configured to occupy a first portion of the internal volume. The bottom surface of the base includes a proximal portion of a first service channel conduit extending through the base, a distal portion of the first service channel conduit that bends toward a first curved side surface and is disposed in a recess of the first curved surface and is connected to an outlet port, a proximal portion of a second service channel conduit extending through the base in a similar manner, and a distal portion of the second service channel conduit that bends toward a second curved side surface and is disposed in a recess of the second curved surface and is connected to an outlet port.

[0092] In another embodiment, the present application discloses an imaging component of a certain length adapted to be attached to the end of the shaft of a colonoscope. The shaft has a longitudinal axis defining a length. 1) The imaging component includes a housing that defines a partially enclosed internal volume, is substantially cylindrical in shape, and has a substantially flat front face, a first curved side face, and a second curved side face. The substantially flat front face has four quadrants defined by a longitudinal axis passing through the center of the substantially flat front face and a transverse axis passing through the center. The four quadrants are the upper left, upper right, lower left, and lower right quadrants. Each of the first curved side face and the second curved side face includes a substantially flat recess. 2) The imaging component further includes a fluid manifold, which includes an elongate housing extending the length of the imaging component and having a first end and a second end. The fluid manifold has at least three independent and fluidically separated conduits extending from the first end to the second end through the elongate housing. The fluid manifold is configured to occupy a first portion of the internal volume. 3) The imaging component further includes a forward imaging sensor characterized by a first optical axis and having a lens and an electrical assembly. The lens is positioned on the surface of the substantially flat front face and is configured to image an image within a range of at least 0° to 80° from the first optical axis. The first optical axis is disposed parallel to the center of the lens and the longitudinal axis of the colonoscope. The electrical assembly is disposed within the internal volume. 4) The imaging component further includes a first forward illumination, which includes a first transparent cover and a first electrical assembly. The first transparent cover is at least partially disposed within the lower right and lower left quadrants of the substantially flat front face. The first electrical assembly is disposed within the internal volume. 5) The imaging component further includes a second forward illumination, which includes a second transparent cover and a second electrical assembly. The second transparent cover is at least partially disposed within the lower left quadrant of the substantially flat front face. The second electrical assembly is disposed within the internal volume. 6) The imaging component further includes a third forward illumination, which includes a third transparent cover and a third electrical assembly.The third transparent cover is at least partially disposed within the lower right quadrant of the substantially flat front face. The third electrical assembly is disposed within the internal volume. 7) The imaging component further comprises a forward working channel, the forward working channel including an outlet port and a conduit. The outlet port is disposed along the vertical axis of the substantially flat front face and is at least partially present in the upper left and upper right quadrants, and the conduit is defined by one of the three independent and fluidically separated conduits that extends through the elongate housing of the fluid manifold. 8) The imaging component further comprises a fluid injector channel, the fluid injector channel including an outlet port and a conduit. The outlet port is disposed in the upper right quadrant. The conduit is defined by one of the three independent and fluidically separated conduits that extends through the elongate housing of the fluid manifold. 9) The imaging component further comprises an ejection channel, the ejection channel including an outlet port and a conduit. The outlet port is disposed in the upper left quadrant. The conduit is defined by one of the three independent and fluidically separated conduits that extends through the elongate housing of the fluid manifold. 10) The imaging component is characterized by a second optical axis and further comprises a first lateral imaging sensor having a lens and an electrical assembly. The lens is positioned within a recess of the first curved side surface and is configured to image an image within a range of 0° to 80° from the second optical axis. The second optical axis is disposed perpendicular to the center of the lens and the longitudinal axis of the colonoscope. The electrical assembly is disposed within the internal volume. 11) The imaging component further comprises at least two first lateral illuminations. Each of the first lateral illuminations comprises a first transparent lateral cover and a first lateral electrical assembly. The first transparent lateral covers are disposed on both sides of the lens of the first lateral imaging sensor within the recess of the first curved side surface. The first lateral electrical assemblies are disposed within the internal volume. 12) The imaging component further comprises a first lateral fluid injector having an outlet port disposed within the recess of the first curved side surface and configured to discharge fluid toward the lens of the first lateral image sensor. 13) The imaging component is characterized by a third optical axis and further comprises a second lateral imaging sensor having a lens and an electrical assembly.The lens is positioned within the recess of the second curved side surface and is configured to image an image within a range of 0° to 80° from the third optical axis. The third optical axis is disposed perpendicular to the center of the lens and the longitudinal axis of the colonoscope. The electrical assembly is disposed within the internal volume. 14) The image capturing component further includes at least two second side illuminations. Each of the second side illuminations includes a second transparent side cover and a second side electrical assembly. The second transparent side cover is disposed on both sides of the lens of the second side imaging sensor within the recess of the second curved side surface. The second side electrical assembly is disposed within the internal volume. 15) The image capturing component further includes a second side fluid injector, and the second side fluid injector has an outlet port disposed within the recess of the second curved side surface and is configured to discharge fluid toward the lens of the second side image sensor. 16) The image capturing component further includes at least one side ejection channel, and the at least one side ejection channel includes at least two outlet ports and at least one conduit. The at least two outlet ports are disposed around the housing. The at least one conduit has at least one corresponding entry port at the first end of the fluid manifold. 17) The image capturing component further includes a first integrated circuit assembly including a printed circuit board. The electrical assemblies of the front imaging sensor, the first side imaging sensor, and the second side imaging sensor are mounted on the printed circuit board, and the first integrated circuit board assembly is configured to occupy the second portion of the internal volume.

[0093] Optionally, the present application discloses that at least one of at least two outlet ports of at least one lateral ejection channel is partially disposed within the recess. Optionally, one or both of the lateral fluid injectors are disposed between at least two outlet ports of the at least one lateral ejection channel. Optionally, the at least two outlet ports of the at least one lateral ejection channel include two, four, six, or eight outlet ports. Optionally, the diameter of at least one conduit of the at least one lateral ejection channel is about 1.4 - 1.7 millimeters. Optionally, the outlet angle of at least one outlet port of the at least one lateral ejection channel is an acute angle. Optionally, the outlet angle of at least one outlet port of the at least one lateral ejection channel is an obtuse angle. Optionally, the outlet angle of at least one outlet port of the at least one lateral ejection channel ranges from 45 - 60°. Optionally, the outlet angle of at least one outlet port of the at least one lateral ejection channel ranges from 120 - 135°. Optionally, at least one outlet port of the at least one lateral ejection channel operates according to a predetermined algorithm. Optionally, at least one outlet port of the at least one lateral ejection channel operates according to different predetermined algorithms.

[0094] In another embodiment, the present application discloses an image imaging component of a certain length adapted to be attached to the end of the shaft of a gastric endoscope. The shaft has a longitudinal axis and a longitudinal length. 1) The image imaging component includes a housing that defines a partially enclosed internal volume, is substantially cylindrical in shape, and includes a substantially flat front surface, a first curved side surface, and a second curved side surface. The substantially flat front surface has four quadrants defined by a longitudinal axis passing through the center of the substantially flat front surface and a transverse axis passing through the center. The four quadrants are the upper left, upper right, lower left, and lower right quadrants. Each of the first curved side surface and the second curved side surface includes a substantially flat recess. 2) The image imaging component further includes a fluid manifold, which includes an elongate housing extending the length of the image imaging component and having a first end and a second end. The fluid manifold has at least three independent and fluidically separated conduits extending from the first end to the second end through the elongate housing. The fluid manifold is configured to occupy a first portion of the internal volume. 3) The image imaging component further includes a forward imaging sensor characterized by a first optical axis and having a lens and an electrical assembly. The lens is positioned on the surface of the substantially flat front surface and is configured to image an image within a range of at least 0° to 80° from the first optical axis. The first optical axis is arranged parallel to the center of the lens and the longitudinal axis of the gastric endoscope. The electrical assembly is arranged within the internal volume. 4) The image imaging component further includes a first forward illumination, which includes a first transparent cover and a first electrical assembly. The first transparent cover is at least partially disposed within the lower right and lower left quadrants of the substantially flat front surface. The first electrical assembly is arranged within the internal volume. 5) The image imaging component further includes a second forward illumination, which includes a second transparent cover and a second electrical assembly. The second transparent cover is at least partially disposed within the lower left quadrant of the substantially flat front surface. The second electrical assembly is arranged within the internal volume. 6) The image imaging component further includes a third forward illumination, which includes a third transparent cover and a third electrical assembly.The third transparent cover is at least partially disposed within the lower right quadrant of the substantially flat front face. The third electrical assembly is disposed within the internal volume. 7) The imaging component further comprises a forward working channel, the forward working channel including an outlet port and a conduit. The outlet port is disposed along the vertical axis of the substantially flat front face and is at least partially present in the upper left and upper right quadrants, and the conduit is defined by one of the three independent and fluidically separated conduits that extends through the elongate housing of the fluid manifold. 8) The imaging component further comprises a fluid injector channel, the fluid injector channel including an outlet port and a conduit. The outlet port is disposed in the upper right quadrant. The conduit is defined by one of the three independent and fluidically separated conduits that extends through the elongate housing of the fluid manifold. 9) The imaging component further comprises an ejection channel, the ejection channel including an outlet port and a conduit. The outlet port is disposed in the upper left quadrant. The conduit is defined by one of the three independent and fluidically separated conduits that extends through the elongate housing of the fluid manifold. 10) The imaging component is characterized by a second optical axis and further comprises a lateral imaging sensor having a lens and an electrical assembly. The lens is positioned within the recess of the first curved side surface and is configured to image an image within the range of 0° to 80° from the second optical axis. The second optical axis is disposed perpendicular to the center of the lens and the longitudinal axis of the gastroscope. The electrical assembly is disposed within the internal volume. 11) The imaging component further comprises at least two lateral illuminations. Each lateral illumination comprises a transparent lateral cover and a lateral electrical assembly. The transparent lateral covers are disposed on both sides of the lens of the lateral imaging sensor within the recess of the first curved side surface. The lateral electrical assemblies are disposed within the internal volume. 12) The imaging component further comprises a lateral fluid injector having an outlet port disposed within the recess of the first curved side surface and configured to discharge fluid toward the lens of the lateral image sensor. 13) The imaging component further comprises a first integrated circuit assembly comprising a printed circuit board.The electrical assembly of the front imaging sensor and the electrical assembly of the side imaging sensor are mounted on a printed circuit board, and the first integrated circuit board assembly is configured to occupy a second portion of the internal volume.

[0095] In another embodiment, the present application discloses an imaging component of a certain length adapted to be attached to the end of the shaft of a gastric endoscope. The shaft has a longitudinal axis and a longitudinal length. 1) The imaging component includes a housing that defines a partially enclosed internal volume, is substantially cylindrical in shape, and includes a substantially flat front face, a first curved side surface, and a second curved side surface. The substantially flat front face has four quadrants defined by a longitudinal axis passing through the center of the substantially flat front face and a transverse axis passing through the center. The four quadrants are the upper left, upper right, lower left, and lower right quadrants. Each of the first curved side surface and the second curved side surface includes a substantially flat recess. 2) The imaging component further includes a fluid manifold, which includes an elongate housing extending the length of the imaging component and having a first end and a second end. The fluid manifold has at least three independent and fluidically separated conduits extending from the first end to the second end through the elongate housing. The fluid manifold is configured to occupy a first portion of the internal volume. 3) The imaging component further includes a forward imaging sensor characterized by a first optical axis and having a lens and an electrical assembly. The lens is positioned on the surface of the substantially flat front face and is configured to image an image within a range of at least 0° to 80° from the first optical axis. The first optical axis is arranged parallel to the center of the lens and the longitudinal axis of the gastric endoscope. The electrical assembly is arranged within the internal volume. 4) The imaging component further includes a first forward illumination, which includes a first transparent cover and a first electrical assembly. The first transparent cover is at least partially disposed within the lower right and lower left quadrants of the substantially flat front face. The first electrical assembly is arranged within the internal volume. 5) The imaging component further includes a second forward illumination, which includes a second transparent cover and a second electrical assembly. The second transparent cover is at least partially disposed within the lower left quadrant of the substantially flat front face. The second electrical assembly is arranged within the internal volume. 6) The imaging component further includes a third forward illumination, which includes a third transparent cover and a third electrical assembly.The third transparent cover is at least partially disposed within the lower right quadrant of the substantially flat front face. The third electrical assembly is disposed within the internal volume. 7) The imaging component further comprises a forward working channel, the forward working channel including an outlet port and a conduit. The outlet port is disposed along the vertical axis of the substantially flat front face and is at least partially present in the upper left and upper right quadrants, and the conduit is defined by one of the three independent and fluidically separated conduits that extends through the elongate housing of the fluid manifold. 8) The imaging component further comprises a fluid injector channel, the fluid injector channel including an outlet port and a conduit. The outlet port is disposed in the upper right quadrant. The conduit is defined by one of the three independent and fluidically separated conduits that extends through the elongate housing of the fluid manifold. 9) The imaging component further comprises an ejection channel, the ejection channel including an outlet port and a conduit. The outlet port is disposed in the upper left quadrant. The conduit is defined by one of the three independent and fluidically separated conduits that extends through the elongate housing of the fluid manifold. 10) The imaging component is characterized by a second optical axis and further comprises a side imaging sensor having a lens and an electrical assembly. The lens is positioned within a recess of the first curved side surface and is configured to image an image within a range of 0° to 80° from the second optical axis. The second optical axis is disposed perpendicular to the center of the lens and the longitudinal axis of the gastroscope. The electrical assembly is disposed within the internal volume. 11) The imaging component further comprises at least two side illuminations. Each side illumination comprises a transparent side cover and a side electrical assembly. The transparent side covers are disposed on both sides of the lens of the side imaging sensor within the recess of the first curved side surface. The side electrical assemblies are disposed within the internal volume. 12) The imaging component further comprises a side fluid injector having an outlet port disposed within the recess of the first curved side surface and configured to discharge fluid toward the lens of the side image sensor. 13) The imaging component further comprises a side service channel, the side service channel including an outlet port and a conduit. The outlet port is disposed within the recess of the first curved side surface.The proximal portion of the conduit extends from the first end of the fluid manifold through the elongated housing. The distal portion of the conduit bends toward the first curved side surface. 14) The image capturing component further includes a first integrated circuit assembly including a printed circuit board. The electrical assemblies of the front imaging sensor and the side imaging sensor are mounted on the printed circuit board, and the first integrated circuit board assembly is configured to occupy the second portion of the internal volume.

[0096] In another embodiment, the present application discloses an imaging component of a certain length adapted to be attached to the end of the shaft of a gastroscope. The shaft has a longitudinal axis and a length. 1) The imaging component includes a housing that defines a partially enclosed internal volume and is substantially cylindrical in shape, having a substantially flat front face, a first curved side surface, and a second curved side surface. The substantially flat front face has four quadrants defined by a longitudinal axis passing through the center of the substantially flat front face and a transverse axis passing through the center. The four quadrants are the upper left, upper right, lower left, and lower right quadrants. Each of the first curved side surface and the second curved side surface includes a substantially flat recess. 2) The imaging component further includes a fluid manifold, which includes an elongate housing extending the length of the imaging component and having a first end and a second end. The fluid manifold has at least three independent and fluidly separated conduits extending from the first end to the second end through the elongate housing. The fluid manifold is configured to occupy a first portion of the internal volume. 3) The imaging component further includes a forward imaging sensor characterized by a first optical axis and having a lens and an electrical assembly. The lens is positioned on the surface of the substantially flat front face and is configured to image an image within a range of at least 0° to 80° from the first optical axis. The first optical axis is arranged parallel to the center of the lens and the longitudinal axis of the gastroscope. The electrical assembly is arranged within the internal volume. 4) The imaging component further includes a first forward illumination, which includes a first transparent cover and a first electrical assembly. The first transparent cover is at least partially disposed within the lower right and lower left quadrants of the substantially flat front face. The first electrical assembly is arranged within the internal volume. 5) The imaging component further includes a second forward illumination, which includes a second transparent cover and a second electrical assembly. The second transparent cover is at least partially disposed within the lower left quadrant of the substantially flat front face. The second electrical assembly is arranged within the internal volume. 6) The imaging component further includes a third forward illumination, which includes a third transparent cover and a third electrical assembly.The third transparent cover is at least partially disposed within the lower right quadrant of the substantially flat front face. The third electrical assembly is disposed within the internal volume. 7) The imaging component further comprises a forward working channel, the forward working channel including an outlet port and a conduit. The outlet port is disposed along the vertical axis of the substantially flat front face and is at least partially present in the upper left and upper right quadrants, and the conduit is defined by one of the three independent and fluidically separated conduits that extends through the elongate housing of the fluid manifold. 8) The imaging component further comprises a fluid injector channel, the fluid injector channel including an outlet port and a conduit. The outlet port is disposed in the upper right quadrant. The conduit is defined by one of the three independent and fluidically separated conduits that extends through the elongate housing of the fluid manifold. 9) The imaging component further comprises an ejection channel, the ejection channel including an outlet port and a conduit. The outlet port is disposed in the upper left quadrant. The conduit is defined by one of the three independent and fluidically separated conduits that extends through the elongate housing of the fluid manifold. 10) The imaging component is characterized by a second optical axis and further comprises a lateral imaging sensor having a lens and an electrical assembly. The lens is positioned within a recess of the first curved side surface and is configured to image an image within a range of 0° to 80° from the second optical axis. The second optical axis is disposed perpendicular to the center of the lens and the longitudinal axis of the gastroscope. The electrical assembly is disposed within the internal volume. 11) The imaging component further comprises at least two lateral illuminations. Each of the lateral illuminations comprises a transparent lateral cover and a lateral electrical assembly. The transparent lateral covers are disposed on both sides of the lens of the lateral imaging sensor within the recess of the first curved side surface. The lateral electrical assemblies are disposed within the internal volume. 12) The imaging component further comprises a lateral fluid injector having an outlet port disposed within the recess of the first curved side surface and configured to discharge fluid toward the lens of the lateral image sensor. 13) The imaging component further comprises at least one lateral ejection channel, the at least one lateral ejection channel including at least one outlet port and at least one conduit.At least one outlet port is disposed around the housing. At least one conduit has at least one corresponding entry port at a first end of the fluid manifold. 14) The imaging component further comprises a first integrated circuit assembly including a printed circuit board. The electrical assemblies of the front imaging sensor and the side imaging sensor are mounted on the printed circuit board, and the first integrated circuit board assembly is configured to occupy a second portion of the internal volume.

[0097] Optionally, the present application discloses that at least one outlet port of at least one side ejection channel is partially disposed within the recess. The at least one outlet port of the at least one side ejection channel includes two, four, six, or eight outlet ports. The at least one outlet port of the at least one side ejection channel is positioned at a distance in the range of 8.5 - 9.5 millimeters from the optical axis of the corresponding side imaging sensor. The fluid exiting from the at least one outlet port of the at least one side ejection channel forms an angle in the range of 50 - 60° with a transverse plane including the lens of the corresponding side image sensor and side illumination. The diameter of the at least one conduit of the at least one side ejection channel is about 1.4 - 1.7 millimeters. The outlet angle of the at least one outlet port of the at least one side ejection channel is an acute angle. The outlet angle of the at least one outlet port of the at least one side ejection channel is an obtuse angle. The outlet angle of the at least one outlet port of the at least one side ejection channel is in the range of 45 - 60°. The outlet angle of the at least one outlet port of the at least one side ejection channel is in the range of 120 - 135°. The at least one outlet port of the at least one side ejection channel operates according to a predetermined algorithm. The at least one outlet port of the at least one side ejection channel operates according to different predetermined algorithms.

[0098] In another embodiment, the present application discloses an imaging component of a certain length adapted to be attached to the end of the shaft of a colonoscope. The shaft has a longitudinal axis and a longitudinal extent that defines the longitudinal axis. 1) The imaging component includes a housing that defines a partially enclosed internal volume, is substantially cylindrical in shape, and has a substantially flat front face, a first curved side surface, and a second curved side surface. The substantially flat front face has four quadrants defined by a longitudinal axis passing through the center of the substantially flat front face and a transverse axis passing through the center. The four quadrants are the upper left, upper right, lower left, and lower right quadrants. Each of the first curved side surface and the second curved side surface includes a substantially flat recess. 2) The imaging component further includes a fluid manifold, which includes an elongate housing that extends the length of the imaging component and has a first end and a second end. The fluid manifold has at least four independent and fluidly separated conduits that extend from the first end to the second end through the elongate housing. The fluid manifold is configured to occupy a first portion of the internal volume. 3) The imaging component further includes a forward imaging sensor characterized by a first optical axis and having a lens and an electrical assembly. The lens is positioned on the surface of the substantially flat front face and is configured to image an image within a range of at least 0° to 80° from the first optical axis. The first optical axis is arranged parallel to the center of the lens and the longitudinal axis of the colonoscope. The electrical assembly is arranged within the internal volume. 4) The imaging component further includes a first forward illumination, which includes a first transparent cover and a first electrical assembly. The first transparent cover is elliptical in shape and is at least partially disposed within the lower right and lower left quadrants of the substantially flat front face. The first electrical assembly is arranged within the internal volume. 5) The imaging component further includes a second forward illumination, which includes a second transparent cover and a second electrical assembly. The second transparent cover is elliptical in shape and is at least partially disposed within the lower left quadrant of the substantially flat front face. The second electrical assembly is arranged within the internal volume. 6) The imaging component further includes a third forward illumination, which includes a third transparent cover and a third electrical assembly.The third transparent cover is elliptical in shape and is at least partially disposed within the lower right quadrant of the substantially flat front face. The third electrical assembly is disposed within the internal volume. 7) The imaging component further comprises a first forward working channel, the first forward working channel including an outlet port and a conduit. A substantial portion of the outlet port is disposed in the upper right quadrant of the substantially flat front face, and the conduit is defined by one of the four independent and fluidly separated conduits that extends through the elongate housing of the fluid manifold. 8) The imaging component further comprises a second forward working channel, the second forward working channel including an outlet port and a conduit. A substantial portion of the outlet port is disposed in the upper left quadrant of the substantially flat front face. The conduit is defined by one of the four independent and fluidly separated conduits that extends through the elongate housing of the fluid manifold. 9) The imaging component further comprises a fluid injector channel, the fluid injector channel including an outlet port and a conduit. The outlet port is at least partially disposed within the upper right quadrant and the lower right quadrant. The conduit is defined by one of the four independent and fluidly separated conduits that extends through the elongate housing of the fluid manifold. 10) The imaging component further comprises an ejection channel, the ejection channel including an outlet port and a conduit. The outlet port is at least partially disposed within the upper left quadrant and the upper right quadrant. The conduit is defined by one of the four independent and fluidly separated conduits that extends through the elongate housing of the fluid manifold. 11) The imaging component is characterized by a second optical axis and further comprises a first lateral imaging sensor having a lens and an electrical assembly. The lens is positioned within a recess of the first curved side surface and is configured to image an image within a range of 0° to 80° from the second optical axis. The second optical axis is disposed perpendicular to the center of the lens and the longitudinal axis of the colonoscope. The electrical assembly is disposed within the internal volume. 12) The imaging component further comprises at least two first lateral illuminations. Each of the first lateral illuminations comprises a first transparent lateral cover and a first lateral electrical assembly. The first transparent lateral cover is elliptical in shape and is disposed on both sides of the lens of the first lateral imaging sensor within the recess of the first curved side surface.The first lateral electrical assembly is disposed within the internal volume. 13) The imaging component further includes a first lateral fluid injector, and the first lateral fluid injector has an outlet port disposed within the recess of the first curved side surface and is configured to discharge fluid toward the lens of the first lateral image sensor. 14) The imaging component is characterized by a third optical axis and further includes a second lateral imaging sensor having a lens and an electrical assembly. The lens is positioned within the recess of the second curved side surface and is configured to image an image within a range of 0° to 80° from the third optical axis. The third optical axis is disposed perpendicular to the center of the lens and the longitudinal axis of the colonoscope. The electrical assembly is disposed within the internal volume. 15) The imaging component further includes at least two second lateral illuminations. Each of the second lateral illuminations includes a second transparent lateral cover and a second lateral electrical assembly. The second transparent lateral cover is elliptical in shape and is disposed on both sides of the lens of the second lateral imaging sensor within the recess of the second curved side surface. The second lateral electrical assembly is disposed within the internal volume. 16) The imaging component further includes a second lateral fluid injector, and the second lateral fluid injector has an outlet port disposed within the recess of the second curved side surface and is configured to discharge fluid toward the lens of the second lateral image sensor. 17) The imaging component further includes a first integrated circuit assembly including a printed circuit board. The electrical assemblies of the front imaging sensor, the first lateral imaging sensor, and the second lateral imaging sensor are mounted on the printed circuit board, and the first integrated circuit board assembly is configured to occupy a second portion of the internal volume.

[0099] Optionally, both the first and second front working channels are adapted for inserting medical devices. Both the first and second front working channels are adapted for suction. One of the first and second front working channels is adapted for inserting medical devices, and the other of the first and second front working channels is adapted for suction. The distance between the outlet ports of the first and second front working channels is in the range of 0.40 millimeters - 0.45 millimeters. The diameter of the conduit of the first front working channel is in the range of 3.6 - 4.0 millimeters, and the diameter of the conduit of the second front working channel is in the range of 2.6 - 3.0 millimeters. The diameter of the conduit of the first front working channel is 3.8 millimeters, and the diameter of the conduit of the second front working channel is 2.8 millimeters.

[0100] In another embodiment, the present application discloses an imaging component of a certain length adapted to be attached to the end of the shaft of a gastroscope. The shaft has a longitudinal axis defining a length. 1) The imaging component includes a housing that defines a partially enclosed internal volume, is substantially cylindrical in shape, and includes a substantially flat front surface, a first curved side surface, and a second curved side surface. The substantially flat front surface has four quadrants defined by a longitudinal axis passing through the center of the substantially flat front surface and a transverse axis passing through the center. The four quadrants are the upper left, upper right, lower left, and lower right quadrants. Each of the first curved side surface and the second curved side surface includes a substantially flat recess. 2) The imaging component further includes a fluid manifold, which includes an elongate housing extending the length of the imaging component and having a first end and a second end. The fluid manifold has at least four independent and fluidly separated conduits extending from the first end to the second end through the elongate housing. The fluid manifold is configured to occupy a first portion of the internal volume. 3) The imaging component further includes a forward imaging sensor characterized by a first optical axis and having a lens and an electrical assembly. The lens is positioned on the surface of the substantially flat front surface and is configured to image an image within a range of at least 0° to 80° from the first optical axis. The first optical axis is arranged parallel to the center of the lens and the longitudinal axis of the gastroscope. The electrical assembly is disposed within the internal volume. 4) The imaging component further includes a first forward illumination, which includes a first transparent cover and a first electrical assembly. The first transparent cover is elliptical in shape and is at least partially disposed within the lower right and lower left quadrants of the substantially flat front surface. The first electrical assembly is disposed within the internal volume. 5) The imaging component further includes a second forward illumination, which includes a second transparent cover and a second electrical assembly. The second transparent cover is elliptical in shape and is at least partially disposed within the lower left quadrant of the substantially flat front surface. The second electrical assembly is disposed within the internal volume. 6) The imaging component further includes a third forward illumination, which includes a third transparent cover and a third electrical assembly.The third transparent cover is elliptical in shape and is at least partially disposed within the lower right quadrant of the substantially flat front face. The third electrical assembly is disposed within the internal volume. 7) The imaging component further comprises a first forward working channel, and the first forward working channel includes an outlet port and a conduit. A substantial portion of the outlet port is disposed in the upper right quadrant of the substantially flat front face, and the conduit is defined by one of the four independent and fluidly separated conduits that extends through the elongated housing of the fluid manifold. 8) The imaging component further comprises a second forward working channel, and the second forward working channel includes an outlet port and a conduit. A substantial portion of the outlet port is disposed in the upper left quadrant of the substantially flat front face. The conduit is defined by one of the four independent and fluidly separated conduits that extends through the elongated housing of the fluid manifold. 9) The imaging component further comprises a fluid injector channel, and the fluid injector channel includes an outlet port and a conduit. The outlet port is at least partially disposed within the upper right quadrant and the lower right quadrant. The conduit is defined by one of the four independent and fluidly separated conduits that extends through the elongated housing of the fluid manifold. 10) The imaging component further comprises an ejection channel, and the ejection channel includes an outlet port and a conduit. The outlet port is at least partially disposed within the upper left quadrant and the upper right quadrant. The conduit is defined by one of the four independent and fluidly separated conduits that extends through the elongated housing of the fluid manifold. 11) The imaging component is characterized by a second optical axis and further comprises a lateral imaging sensor having a lens and an electrical assembly. The lens is positioned within a recess of the first curved side surface and is configured to image an image within a range of 0° to 80° from the second optical axis. The second optical axis is disposed perpendicular to the center of the lens and the longitudinal axis of the gastroscope. The electrical assembly is disposed within the internal volume. 12) The imaging component further comprises at least two lateral illuminations. Each of the lateral illuminations comprises a transparent lateral cover and a lateral electrical assembly. The transparent lateral cover is elliptical in shape and is disposed on both sides of the lens of the first lateral imaging sensor within the recess of the first curved side surface. The lateral electrical assembly is disposed within the internal volume.13) The image capturing component further includes a lateral fluid injector, the lateral fluid injector having an outlet port disposed within a recess of the first curved side surface and configured to discharge fluid toward the lens of the first lateral image sensor. 14) The image capturing component further includes a first integrated circuit assembly including a printed circuit board. The electrical assemblies of the front imaging sensor and the lateral imaging sensors are mounted on the printed circuit board, and the first integrated circuit board assembly is configured to occupy a second portion of the internal volume.

[0101] Optionally, both the first and second front working channels are adapted for inserting medical devices. Both the first and second front working channels are adapted for suction. One of the first and second front working channels is adapted for inserting medical devices and the other of the first and second front working channels is adapted for suction. The distance between the outlet ports of the first and second front working channels is in the range of 0.40 millimeters - 0.45 millimeters. The diameter of the conduit of the first front working channel is in the range of 3.6 - 4.0 millimeters and the diameter of the conduit of the second front working channel is in the range of 2.6 - 3.0 millimeters. The diameter of the conduit of the first front working channel is 3.8 millimeters and the diameter of the conduit of the second front working channel is 2.8 millimeters.

[0102] Optionally, the optical axis of the at least one lateral observation view element forms an obtuse angle with the optical axis of the at least one forward view element. The optical axis of the at least one lateral observation view element forms an acute angle with the optical axis of the at least one forward view element. The opening is positioned such that at least one lateral observation camera can view a medical device protruding from the opening.

[0103] In connection with any of the above-described embodiments, at least one lateral ejection channel circulates fluid through a groove connected to the at least one lateral ejection channel, and the housing further includes a plurality of holes drilled above the groove, and the plurality of holes discharge the liquid circulating through the groove. The one or more lateral ejection channels include two lateral ejection channels disposed on both sides of the distal end of the endoscope assembly. The plurality of holes are bent at an acute angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the endoscope assembly. The plurality of holes are bent at 90° with respect to the longitudinal axis of the endoscope assembly. The plurality of holes are bent at an obtuse angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the endoscope assembly. The plurality of holes are bent at an angle combining an acute angle, a right angle, and an obtuse angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the endoscope assembly. The plurality of holes are installed linearly above the groove. Each of the plurality of holes is spaced at least 0.2 millimeters from the adjacent holes. The diameter of each of the plurality of holes is 5 millimeters.

[0104] Optionally, at least one lateral ejection channel circulates fluid through a detachable ring assembly installed in the housing. The detachable ring assembly includes a peripheral groove installed on the inner circumference of the ring assembly and a plurality of holes drilled along the peripheral groove. At least two outlet ports of the at least one lateral ejection channel are aligned with the peripheral groove, and the plurality of holes can discharge the fluid circulating through the detachable ring assembly.

[0105] Optionally, the first diameter of the tip cover is smaller than the second diameter of the peripheral groove. The one or more side ejection channels include two side ejection channels positioned on both sides of the tip of the endoscope assembly. The plurality of holes are bent at an acute angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the endoscope assembly. The plurality of holes are bent at 90° with respect to the longitudinal axis of the endoscope assembly. The plurality of holes are bent at an obtuse angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the endoscope assembly. The plurality of holes are bent at an angle combining acute, right, and obtuse angles with respect to the longitudinal axis of the endoscope assembly. The plurality of holes are linearly installed above the peripheral groove. Each of the plurality of holes is positioned at a distance of at least 0.2 millimeters from the adjacent holes. The diameter of each of the plurality of holes is 5 millimeters.

[0106] In connection with any of the above-described embodiments, the present application discloses a sprinkler assembly at the tip. The tip of the multi-view element endoscope assembly comprises: 1) one or more ejection channels for circulating fluid; 2) a tip cover associated with the tip and having one or more ejection channel openings aligned with the one or more ejection channels; and 3) a detachable sprinkler assembly including patches installed on each of the openings of the one or more ejection channels and a plurality of holes drilled along the patches, wherein the plurality of holes can discharge the fluid circulating through the one or more ejection channels, the detachable sprinkler assembly.

[0107] Optionally, one or more ejection channels include two lateral ejection channels positioned on both sides of the distal end of the endoscope assembly. One or more ejection channels include a forward ejection channel positioned on the front panel of the distal end of the endoscope assembly. A plurality of holes are bent at an acute angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the endoscope assembly. A plurality of holes are bent at 90° with respect to the longitudinal axis of the endoscope assembly. A plurality of holes are bent at an angle that combines acute, right, and obtuse angles with respect to the longitudinal axis of the endoscope assembly. A plurality of holes are bent at different angles with respect to the longitudinal axis of the endoscope assembly. A plurality of holes are installed linearly on a patch along the outer periphery of the tip cover. The openings of the one or more ejection channels operate according to a predetermined algorithm. Each of the openings of the one or more lateral ejection channels operates according to a different predetermined algorithm.

[0108] Optionally, the distal end further comprises a forward injector, at least one lateral injector, at least one forward viewing element, at least one forward illumination associated with the forward viewing element, at least one sideward viewing element, at least one sideward illumination associated with the sideward viewing element, and a forward working channel configured for inserting a medical device.

[0109] In connection with any of the above-described embodiments, the present application discloses a multi-jet dispenser for supplying fluid to a plurality of ejection openings at the distal end of a multi-view endoscope. The multi-jet dispenser includes a dispenser housing, a dispenser motor disposed within the housing of the dispenser, a motor shaft connected to the dispenser motor and disposed within the housing of the dispenser, and a dispenser disk disposed within the housing of the dispenser and connected to the motor shaft. The dispenser disk includes a fluid inlet pipeline for supplying the fluid to the multi-jet dispenser and at least one fluid outlet pipeline for providing the fluid supplied by the fluid inlet pipeline to the plurality of ejection openings.

[0110] Optionally, the plurality of ejection openings includes a front ejection opening and at least one side ejection opening. The plurality of ejection openings includes a front ejection opening, a first side ejection opening, and a second side ejection opening. The dispenser housing further includes a locking element for fixedly positioning the dispenser disk within the dispenser housing. The dispenser disk further includes a plug for connecting the dispenser disk to the motor shaft. The dispenser disk further includes a groove on the outer surface of the dispenser disk for receiving the locking element. The pump supplies the fluid to the fluid inlet pipeline. The multi-jet dispenser is connected to the endoscope via a main connector. The main connector has a multi-jet controller with a shaft connected to a valve, and the valve is installed in a housing that operably connects the valve to the main controller through an ejection connector. The valve has threads formed on its surface. The first position of the shaft rotates the threads to cause the fluid to exit only through the front ejection opening, and the second position of the shaft rotates the threads to cause the fluid to exit through both the front ejection opening and at least one side ejection opening.

[0111] Optionally, the speed of the dispenser of the dispenser disk ranges from 30 revolutions per minute to 100 revolutions per minute. The speed of the dispenser of the dispenser disk ranges from 50 revolutions per minute to 65 revolutions per minute. At least one fluid outlet pipeline includes three fluid pipelines for providing the fluid supplied by the fluid inlet pipeline to a plurality of ejection openings. The plurality of ejection openings include a front ejection opening and at least one side ejection opening. The plurality of ejection openings include a front ejection opening, a first side ejection opening, and a second side ejection opening. At least one fluid outlet pipeline includes two fluid outlet pipelines for providing the fluid supplied by the fluid inlet pipeline to a plurality of ejection openings. The plurality of ejection openings include a front ejection opening and at least one side ejection opening. The plurality of ejection openings include a front ejection opening, a first side ejection opening, and a second side ejection opening. The main connector has a multi-jet outlet controller with a shaft connected to the valve, and the valve is installed in a housing that operably connects the valve to the main controller through the ejection connector. The valve has threads formed on its surface. The first position of the shaft rotates the threads to let the fluid out only through the front ejection opening, and the second position of the shaft rotates the threads to let the fluid out through both the front ejection opening and at least one side ejection opening.

[0112] In connection with any of the above-described embodiments, the present application discloses a housing having a front portion and a rear portion. The image capturing component further includes a front sealed modular unit including the front imaging sensor, a lens, and an associated front printed circuit board. The image capturing component further includes a first side sealed modular unit including the first front imaging sensor, a lens, and an associated first side printed circuit board. The image capturing component further includes a second side sealed modular unit including the second front imaging sensor, a lens, and an associated second side printed circuit board. The front printed circuit board, the first side printed circuit board, and the second side printed circuit board are connected to each other. The image capturing component further includes a holder that encapsulates the front modular unit, the first side modular unit, and the second side modular unit from each other. The holder has a front concave region for carrying the front sealed modular unit, a first side compartment for carrying the first side sealed modular unit, a second side compartment for carrying the second side sealed modular unit, and a rectangular strip for carrying an electrical cable connected to the connected printed circuit boards of the front modular unit and the side modular units. The compartment has a slot configured to carry the lens of the side modular unit. The holder is configured to occupy a third portion of the internal volume.

[0113] Optionally, the housing has a front portion and a rear portion. The image capturing component further includes a front sealed modular unit that includes the front imaging sensor, a lens, and an associated front printed circuit board. The image capturing component further includes a first side sealed modular unit that includes the first front imaging sensor, a lens, and an associated first side printed circuit board. The image capturing component further includes a second side sealed modular unit that includes the second front imaging sensor, a lens, and an associated second side printed circuit board. The front printed circuit board, the first side printed circuit board, and the second side printed circuit board are connected to each other. The image capturing component further includes a holder that includes a front surface, a first side surface, a second side surface, and a rear portion. Each of the front surface and the first and second side surfaces has a plurality of recesses configured to receive a plurality of connectors of the front modular unit and the side modular units. The rear portion is configured to carry an electrical cable for supplying power to the front and side modular units and transmitting data from the front and side modular units. The image capturing component further includes a frame that supports the holder. The frame includes a front concave region for receiving the front modular unit, a first side surface having a slot configured to carry the lens of the first side modular unit, and a second side surface having a slot configured to carry the lens of the second side modular unit. The holder and the frame are configured to occupy a third portion of the internal volume.

[0114] In connection with any of the above-described embodiments, the present application discloses an electronic circuit board at the tip of a multi-view element endoscope. The electronic circuit board includes one or more optical assemblies, and each of the one or more optical assemblies includes 1) at least one lens assembly and 2) an imaging sensor. Each of the one or more optical assemblies supports the at least one lens assembly and the imaging sensor. The imaging sensor is installed in a bent posture such that a first surface faces the tip of the endoscope and an opposite second surface faces away from the tip of the endoscope. The first surface is the front surface and the second surface is the rear surface. The first surface receives the associated lens assembly of the at least one lens assembly, one or more illuminations associated with the at least one lens assembly, upper and lower substrates adapted to support the one or more optical assemblies, and a plurality of grooves in the upper and lower substrates for supporting the one or more illuminations.

[0115] Optionally, the first surface is a glass surface. The second surface includes an electronic chip. The second surface includes a printed circuit board. Each of the one or more optical assemblies is a metal frame that serves as a heat sink for heat generated by one or more illuminations.

[0116] In connection with any of the above-described embodiments, the present application discloses an electronic circuit board at the tip of a multi-view element endoscope. The electronic circuit board includes a plurality of view element holders, and each view element holder supports an optical lens assembly and an associated imaging sensor. One or more illuminations are associated with the optical lens assembly. Each view element holder includes one or more grooves for supporting one or more illuminations.

[0117] Optionally, the imaging sensor is installed in a bent posture such that the first front surface faces the distal end of the endoscope, and the opposite second rear surface faces away from the distal end of the endoscope. The first front surface receives the associated optical lens assembly. Optionally, the first front surface is a glass surface. The second rear surface comprises an electronic chip. The second rear surface comprises a printed circuit board. The electronic circuit board comprises an upper substrate and a lower substrate. The view element holder is a metal frame that serves as a heat sink for the heat generated by one or more illuminations. The metal element is installed between the plurality of view element holders and functions as a heat sink for the one or more illuminations, and the metal element fixedly supports the view element holder between the upper substrate and the lower substrate.

[0118] Optionally, the electronic circuit board comprises one or more view element holders at the distal end of the multi-view element endoscope, and each of the one or more view element holders includes at least one optical lens assembly, an imaging sensor, one or more illuminations, and one or more grooves for supporting the one or more illuminations.

[0119] Optionally, the distal end further comprises a front injector, at least one side injector, a front jet outlet, at least one side jet outlet, and a front working channel configured for inserting a medical device. The front jet outlet and the front injector are adjacent to each other and are positioned on one side of the front working channel. The front jet outlet and the front injector are positioned on both sides of the front working channel.

[0120] In connection with any of the above-described embodiments, the present application discloses an illumination electronic circuit board assembly for a distal end of a multi-view element endoscope. The illumination electronic circuit board assembly includes a front illumination electronic circuit board that supports one or more front illuminations and is associated with a front optical assembly, at least one side illumination electronic circuit board that supports one or more side illuminations and is associated with one or more side optical assemblies, and an upper substrate and a lower substrate, and includes an upper substrate and a lower substrate adapted to hold the front illumination electronic circuit board and the at least one side illumination electronic circuit board between the upper substrate and the lower substrate. The front optical assembly includes a front lens assembly and a front imaging sensor. Each of the one or more side optical assemblies includes a side lens assembly and a side imaging sensor.

[0121] Optionally, the illumination electronic circuit board assembly comprises a metal frame having a front portion and a rear portion that supports the front illumination electronic circuit board and the at least one side illumination electronic circuit board. The metal frame serves as a heat sink for the one or more front and side illuminations. The metal frame approximates an H shape and has four side support walls extending outward at 90° from each leg of the H shape, and two front support walls are disposed at two ends of the four side support walls and perpendicular to two of the four side support walls. The front illumination electronic circuit board and the at least one side illumination electronic circuit board are formed in a U shape. The front illumination electronic circuit board supports three illuminations. Two of the three illuminations are disposed between the upper substrate and the lower substrate, and one of the three illuminations is installed on the upper substrate. The at least one side illumination electronic circuit board supports two illuminations. The at least one side illumination electronic circuit board includes two side illumination electronic circuit boards, and one side illumination electronic circuit board is present on either side of the tip portion. The tip portion further includes a front injector, at least one side injector, a front jet outlet, a side jet outlet, and a front working channel configured for inserting a medical device. The front jet outlet and the front injector are adjacent to each other and positioned on one side of the front working channel. The front jet outlet and the front injector are positioned on both sides of the front working channel.

[0122] In connection with any of the above-described embodiments, the present application discloses an electronic circuit board assembly for the tip of a multi-view element endoscope. The electronic circuit board comprises a substrate configured to carry a first metal frame to support a front observation view element and a second metal frame to support a side observation view element, a front illumination circuit board comprising a front panel configured to carry three sets of front illuminations for irradiating the field of view of the front observation view element, and a side illumination circuit board comprising a side panel configured to carry at least one set of side illuminations for irradiating the field of view of the side observation view element.

[0123] Optionally, each of the three sets of the front illumination includes two, three, or four illumination elements. Each of at least one set of the side illumination includes two, three, or four illumination elements. The front illumination circuit board and the side illumination circuit board approximate a U shape. The board is approximately L-shaped and includes a first member extending in the y direction and the x direction and a second member extending in the y direction and the x direction. The first member is integrally formed with the second member. The first member and the second member are in the same horizontal plane. The second member extends from the first member at an angle of substantially 90°. The front observation view element includes a front observation imaging sensor and a corresponding lens assembly having an associated printed circuit board. The side observation view element includes a side observation imaging sensor and a corresponding lens assembly having an associated printed circuit board. The axes of the first metal frame and the second metal frame form an angle in the range of 70 - 135° with each other. The axes of the first metal frame and the second metal frame form an angle of 90° with each other.

[0124] In connection with any of the above-described embodiments, the present application discloses a tip portion of a multi-view element endoscope. The tip portion includes a front observation view element and three sets of front illumination associated with the front observation view element, a side observation view element and two sets of side illumination associated with the side observation view element, and an electronic circuit board assembly. The electronic circuit board assembly includes a board configured to carry a first metal frame to support the front observation view element and a second metal frame to support the side observation view element, a foldable front panel configured to carry three sets of front illumination for irradiating the field of view of the front observation view element, and a side panel configured to carry a set of side illumination for irradiating the field of view of the side observation view element, an illumination circuit board.

[0125] Optionally, the forward viewing view element comprises a corresponding lens assembly having a forward viewing imaging sensor and an associated printed circuit board. The side viewing view element comprises a corresponding lens assembly having a side viewing imaging sensor and an associated printed circuit board. The axes of the first metal frame and the second metal frame form an angle within the range of 70 - 135° with each other. The axes of the first metal frame and the second metal frame form an angle of 90° with each other. The distal end further comprises a distal cover and a fluid channeling element. The diameter of the distal end is less than 11 millimeters. The diameter of the distal end is 10.5 millimeters. The fluid channeling element includes a forward working channel adapted for inserting a medical device, a forward ejection channel adapted to wash the body cavity into which the endoscope is inserted, and an injector opening having a nozzle directed towards the forward viewing view element and associated illumination.

[0126] Optionally, the fluid channeling element further includes a side injector opening having a nozzle directed towards the side viewing view element and associated illumination. The fluid channeling element further includes at least one side ejection channel opening. Adapt the forward working channel to suction. The diameter of the forward working channel ranges from 2.8 - 4.8 millimeters. The diameter of the forward working channel ranges from 3.2 - 3.5 millimeters. The diameter of the forward working channel ranges from 3.8 - 4.2 millimeters.

[0127] In connection with any of the above-described embodiments, the present application discloses an interface unit configured to be functionally related to an endoscope system, including at least two displays and at least two simultaneously operating imaging channels respectively associated therewith. The interface unit includes an image processor configured to be functionally associated with the at least two imaging channels and generate an image including image data simultaneously received from the at least two imaging channels, and a display of the interface unit functionally associated with the image processor. The image generated by the image processor and including image data from the at least two image capture channels can be displayed on the display of the interface unit.

[0128] Optionally, each imaging channel is respectively associated with an image capture device. The display of the interface unit is made to be substantially portable. The display of the interface unit is functionally associated with the image processor wirelessly. The image capture device captures a video image, and the image data of each of the at least two imaging channels includes an input video stream corresponding to the video image. And the image processor is configured to generate a single video stream that can be displayed on the display of the interface unit, and the reduced-size images corresponding to the respective input video streams can be simultaneously displayed on the display of the interface unit. The image processor is configured to generate a single video stream from at least two input video streams substantially in real time.

[0129] Optionally, the interface unit further includes a computer of the interface unit that operates a file management system and includes a file storage module, and the computer of the interface unit is configured to generate and store a file of the image produced by the image processor in the file storage module. The interface unit further includes a user interface module, and the user can issue commands to the computer through the user interface module.

[0130] Optionally, the user interface module includes a touch screen. The interface unit further includes a communication channel configured to enable communication between a computer of the interface unit and a computer network, at least for transferring files between the interface unit and the computer network. The computer network is a local computer network. The local computer network is a hospital network. The computer network is the Internet. The communication channel includes a LAN communication interface port and operates the Internet protocol. The communication channel includes a Wi-Fi communication interface port. The communication channel includes a video / audio communication interface port configured to output a video stream. The communication interface port includes an S terminal or a composite port. The communication interface port includes an HDMI (registered trademark, the same hereinafter) port. The interface unit is configured to transmit the video stream generated by the image processor to a network computer through the communication interface port substantially in real time. The image processor is configured to capture, when instructed, substantially a single video frame of each of the imaging channels at the instant of the instruction, and transmit a video stream sequentially including still images of the single video frames to a network computer through the communication interface port, each such still image being included in the video stream for a predetermined period of time.

[0131] Optionally, the interface unit further includes a synchronization module functionally associated with at least two of the image capture devices. The synchronization module is configured to generate a synchronization signal for synchronizing the input video streams of the imaging channels corresponding to the at least two image capture devices.

[0132] In connection with any of the above-described embodiments, the present application discloses a method of capturing an image using an interface unit of an endoscope system. The endoscope system includes a plurality of simultaneously operating imaging channels. The interface unit has a display of the interface unit and can receive and individually capture images from each of the plurality of imaging channels. The method includes causing an image capture event, displaying a first image from a first imaging channel of the plurality of imaging channels on the display of the interface unit, transmitting a first trigger pulse from the interface unit to an image capture computer to notify the image capture computer to store a digital copy of the first image in a non-volatile medium, displaying a second image from a second imaging channel of the plurality of imaging channels on the display of the interface unit, and transmitting a second trigger pulse from the interface unit to the image capture computer to notify the image capture computer to store a digital copy of the second image in a non-volatile medium, wherein the first and second images are sequentially captured and stored, and the original aspect ratios of the first and second images are maintained.

[0133] Optionally, the step of causing the image capture event is performed by pressing a button of the endoscope of the endoscope system. The step of causing the image capture event is performed by pressing a button of the interface unit. The display of the interface unit includes a touch screen, and the step of causing the image capture event is performed by pressing a part of the touch screen. The interface unit and the capture computer are connected by a serial connection.

[0134] In connection with any of the above-described embodiments, the present application discloses a system for displaying videos corresponding to a left lateral observation view element, a front observation view element, and a right lateral observation view element of a distal portion of an endoscope, generated in an original aspect ratio. The system includes a left lateral wide screen monitor for displaying a first video from the left lateral observation view element, a square-shaped central monitor for displaying a second video from the front observation view element, a right lateral wide screen monitor for displaying a third video from the right lateral observation view element, and a main control unit for aligning and modulating the original aspect ratios of the first and third videos. The first video is right-aligned, the third video is left-aligned, the left lateral monitor, the central monitor, and the right lateral monitor are arranged continuously, and the lower edges of each of the first, second, and third videos are substantially at the same height.

[0135] Optionally, the original aspect ratio is 4:3 or 5:4. The main control unit modulates the original aspect ratios of the first and third videos by 30% or less. The main control unit modulates the original aspect ratios of the first and third videos by 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, or 30%. The main control unit modulates the original aspect ratios of the first and third videos by 0%. The long edges of each of the left lateral monitor and the right lateral monitor are horizontal. The left lateral monitor, the central monitor, and the right lateral monitor are arranged linearly. The first portion on the left side of the right-aligned first video and the second portion on the right side of the left-aligned third video include a plurality of patient-related information.

[0136] In connection with any of the above-described embodiments, the present application discloses a method of displaying videos corresponding to a left-side observation view element, a front observation view element, and a right-side observation view element of a distal end portion of an endoscope, which are generated in an original aspect ratio. The method includes displaying a first video from the left-side observation view element on a left-side wide-screen monitor; displaying a second video from the front observation view element on a square-shaped central monitor; displaying a third video from the right-side observation view element on a right-side wide-screen monitor; and aligning and modulating the original aspect ratios of the first and third videos, wherein the first video is aligned to the right, the third video is aligned to the left, and the first video, the second video, and the third video are continuously positioned such that the upper edges of the first, second, and third videos are substantially at the same height.

[0137] Optionally, the original aspect ratio is 4:3 or 5:4. Modulate the original aspect ratios of the first and third videos by 30% or less. Modulate the original aspect ratios of the first and third videos by 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, or 30%. Modulate the original aspect ratios of the first and third videos by 0%. The respective long edges of the left-side monitor and the right-side monitor are horizontal. Install the left-side monitor, the central monitor, and the right-side monitor linearly. The first portion on the left side of the first video aligned to the right and the second portion on the right side of the third video aligned to the left include a plurality of patient-related information.

[0138] In connection with any of the above-described embodiments, the present application discloses a system for displaying videos corresponding to a left-side observation view element, a front observation view element, and a right-side observation view element of a distal end portion of an endoscope, which are generated in an original aspect ratio. The system includes a left-side wide-screen monitor for displaying a first video from the left-side observation view element, a center wide-screen monitor for displaying a second video from the front observation view element, a right-side wide-screen monitor for displaying a third video from the right-side observation view element, and a main control unit for aligning, rotating, and modulating at least one original aspect ratio of the first, second, or third video. The left-side monitor, the center monitor, and the right-side monitor are installed continuously. The left-side monitor, the center monitor, and the right-side monitor are integrated with an integrated frame container. Optionally, the left-side monitor and the right-side monitor are installed at an angle "N" with respect to the center monitor. The angle "N" can be in the range of 10 - 30°.

[0139] Optionally, the original aspect ratio is 4:3 or 5:4. Modulate the original aspect ratios of the first and third videos by 30% or less. Modulate the original aspect ratios of the first and third videos by 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25% or 30%. The long edges of each of the left and right side monitors are horizontal. Arrange the left side monitor, the center monitor and the right side monitor linearly. The first part on the left side of the right-aligned first video and the second part on the right side of the left-aligned third video contain a plurality of patient-related information. The main control unit modulates the original aspect ratios of the first, second and third videos by 0%. The long edges of each of the left and right side wide screen monitors are horizontal, and the short edge of the center wide screen monitor is horizontal. The lower edges of the left side, center and right side wide screen monitors are substantially at the same height. Align the first, second and third videos to the right, bottom and left respectively. Rotate the second video also for display on the center wide screen monitor. The first part on the left side of the right-aligned first video, the second part on the upper side of the bottom-aligned second video and the third part on the right side of the left-aligned third video contain a plurality of patient-related information. The upper edges of the left side wide screen monitor, the center wide screen monitor and the right side wide screen monitor are substantially at the same height. Align the first, second and third videos to the right, top and left respectively. Rotate the second video also for display on the center wide screen monitor. Align the first, second and third videos to the right, centered vertically, and left respectively. The short edges of each of the left side wide screen monitor, the center wide screen monitor and the right side wide screen monitor are horizontal. The centers of gravity of each of the left side wide screen monitor, the center wide screen monitor and the right side wide screen monitor are substantially at the same height. Align all of the first, second and third videos to the bottom. Rotate all of the first, second and third videos respectively for display on the left side, center and right side wide screen monitors. The first, second and third parts on the upper side of the bottom-aligned first, second and third videos contain a plurality of patient-related information.Align all of the first, second, and third videos at the top. The left-side monitor, the center monitor, and the right-side monitor are integrated with an integrated frame container. Optionally, install the left-side monitor and the right-side monitor at an angle “N” with respect to the center monitor. The angle “N” can be in the range of 10 - 30°.

[0140] In connection with any of the above-described embodiments, the present application discloses a method for displaying videos corresponding to a left-side observation view element, a front observation view element, and a right-side observation view element of a distal end portion of an endoscope, which are generated in an original aspect ratio. The method includes the steps of displaying a first video from the left-side observation view element on a left-side wide screen monitor, displaying a second video from the front observation view element on a center wide screen monitor, displaying a third video from the right-side observation view element on a right-side wide screen monitor, and aligning, rotating, and modulating at least one original aspect ratio of the first, second, or third video, and upper and lower edges of each of the first, second, and third videos are linearly continuous.

[0141] In connection with any of the above-described embodiments, the present application discloses a system for displaying first, second, and third videos corresponding to a left-side observation view element, a front observation view element, and a right-side observation view element of a distal end portion of an endoscope, which are generated in an original aspect ratio. The system includes a monitor and a main control unit for combining the first, second, and third videos into a single composite video frame. The single composite video frame represents a combined field of view of the left-side observation view element, the center observation view element, and the right-side observation view element. The main control unit slices the single composite video frame to generate modulated left, center, and right video frames for continuous display on the monitor, and displays the modulated left and right video frames while tilted with respect to the modulated center video frame.

[0142] Optionally, the central video frame includes a total view of X° on both sides of the center of the combined field of view of the single composite video frame, and the left and right video frames each include the remaining left and right portions of the single composite video frame. X is about 15°. X ranges from 15° to 30° or less. The left, central, and right video frames are separated by stripes of black images. The width of the stripes of black images is 6 inches (0.1524 meters) or less. The original aspect ratio is 4:3 or 5:4. The main control unit modulates the left, central, and right video frames by 30% or less.

[0143] In connection with any of the above-described embodiments, the present application discloses a method of displaying first, second, and third videos corresponding to a left-side observation view element, a front observation view element, and a right-side observation view element of the tip portion of an endoscope, which are generated in the original aspect ratio. The method includes combining the first, second, and third videos into a single composite video frame; slicing the single composite video frame to generate modulated left, central, and right video frames for continuous display on a monitor. The single composite video frame represents the combined field of view of the left-side observation view element, the central observation view element, and the right-side observation view element. The modulated left and right video frames are displayed while being tilted with respect to the modulated central video frame.

[0144] Optionally, the central video frame includes a total view of X° on both sides of the center of the combined field of view of the single composite video frame, and the left and right video frames each include the remaining left and right portions of the single composite video frame. X is about 15°. X ranges from 15° to 30° or less. The left, central, and right video frames are separated by stripes of black images. The width of the stripes of black images is 6 inches (0.1524 meters) or less.

[0145] In connection with any of the above-described embodiments, the present application discloses a system for displaying one of first, second, and third videos corresponding to a left-side observation view element, a front observation view element, and a right-side observation view element at the distal end of an endoscope, which are generated in their original aspect ratios. The system includes a monitor and a main control unit for slicing one of the selected first, second, and third videos to generate modulated left, center, and right video frames for continuous display on the monitor, and the modulated left and right video frames are displayed while being tilted with respect to the modulated video frames.

[0146] In connection with any of the above-described embodiments, the present application discloses a method for displaying one of first, second, and third videos corresponding to a left-side observation view element, a front observation view element, and a right-side observation view element at the distal portion of an endoscope, which are generated in their original aspect ratios. The method includes selecting one of the first, second, and third videos for display on the monitor, and slicing the selected one of the first, second, and third videos to generate modulated left, center, and right video frames for continuous display on the monitor, and the modulated left and right video frames are displayed while being tilted with respect to the modulated center video frame.

[0147] In connection with any of the above-described embodiments, the present application discloses an endoscope configured to provide N (greater than 1) views that are pseudo-simultaneous. The endoscope includes N optical systems configured to collect light from directions associated with the N views, and further includes M (less than N) image capture devices. The image capture devices are configured to capture the light collected by the N optical systems, thereby providing N views pseudo-simultaneously. Optionally, at least one of the M image capture devices includes a CCD. M is approximately 1. The image capture device includes a single photosensitive plane. Each of the optical systems is configured to direct the collected light to a relevant portion of the photosensitive plane. N is approximately 3. The first optical system collects light from a first direction that substantially faces the photosensitive surface, and the second and third optical systems each collect light from a direction that is substantially perpendicular to the first direction. At least two of the optical systems are configured to direct the collected light to the same portion of the photosensitive plane.

[0148] Optionally, the endoscope further comprises a stepped rotating optical element configured to be controllably positioned in at least two postures respectively corresponding to the at least two optical elements. In each such posture, the stepped rotating optical element can carry the light collected from the respective optical systems to the portion of the photosensitive plane. The stepped rotating optical element comprises a mirror. The mirror includes a translucent portion. The stepped rotating optical element comprises a lens. The endoscope further comprises at least one shutter operable to open and close in synchronization with the stepped rotating optical element. The image pickup device comprises N photosensitive planes, and each of the optical systems is configured to carry light to one of the N photosensitive planes. The image pickup device is substantially rigid, and the N photosensitive planes are inclined at a certain angle with respect to each other. The image pickup device includes a substantially flexible portion, and by means of the flexible portion, the angle of one of the N photosensitive planes with respect to another one of the N photosensitive planes can be controllably inclined. The image pickup device includes two photosensitive planes aligned back to back, and as a result, the two photosensitive planes are substantially oriented in opposite directions. M is greater than 1, N is greater than 2, and at least two of the optical systems carry light onto one photosensitive plane element of the optical pickup device. M is equal to 2 and N is equal to 3.

[0149] In connection with any of the above-described embodiments, the present application discloses an endoscope tip portion. The endoscope tip portion includes a first lens positioned on the front surface of the tip portion, a second lens positioned on the side portion of the tip portion, a third lens positioned on the side portion of the tip portion and substantially opposite to the second lens, an image pickup element having a plurality of photosensitive surfaces, a first light guide for directing light from the first lens to one of the plurality of photosensitive surfaces, a second light guide for directing light from the second lens to the second one of the plurality of photosensitive surfaces, and a third light guide for directing light from the third lens to the third one of the plurality of photosensitive surfaces, and light waves passing through each of the first, second, and third light guides are separated from each other.

[0150] In connection with any of the above-described embodiments, the present application discloses an endoscopic distal portion. The endoscopic distal portion includes a first lens positioned on the front surface of the distal portion, a second lens positioned on the side portion of the distal portion, a third lens positioned on the side portion of the distal portion and substantially opposite to the second lens, a first image sensor having a first photosensitive surface, a second image sensor having a plurality of photosensitive surfaces, a first light guide for directing light from the first lens to the first photosensitive surface of the first image sensor, a second light guide for directing light from the second lens to the first one of the plurality of photosensitive surfaces of the second image sensor, and a third light guide for directing light from the third lens to the second one of the plurality of photosensitive surfaces of the second image sensor, wherein light waves passing through each of the first, second, and third light guides are separated from each other.

[0151] In connection with any of the above-described embodiments, the present application discloses an endoscopic distal portion. The endoscopic distal portion includes a first lens positioned on the front surface of the distal portion, a second lens positioned on the side portion of the distal portion, a third lens positioned on the side portion of the distal portion and substantially opposite to the second lens, a bilateral image sensor having a first side surface and a second side surface, the first side surface being substantially opposite to the second side surface, the first side surface further including a first photosensitive surface, the second side surface including a plurality of photosensitive surfaces, a first light guide for directing light from the first lens to the first photosensitive surface of the first side surface of the bilateral image sensor, a second light guide for directing light from the second lens to the first one of the plurality of photosensitive surfaces of the second side surface of the bilateral image sensor, and a third light guide for directing light from the third lens to the second one of the plurality of photosensitive surfaces of the second side surface of the bilateral image sensor, wherein light waves passing through each of the first, second, and third light guides are separated from each other.

[0152] In connection with any of the above-described embodiments, the present application discloses a main control unit connected to an endoscopic imaging component using a utility cable. The imaging component includes a front view element together with at least one associated front illumination, a first side view element together with at least one associated first side illumination, and a second side view element together with at least one associated second side illumination. The main control unit includes a video processing system comprising a camera circuit board, a power supply, an electronic memory, a plurality of interfaces, and further processing elements, and an electrical cable extending through the utility cable to connect the front view element, the side view elements, and the associated illuminations to the camera circuit board. N signals are configured to be transmitted between the camera circuit board and the imaging component. A set of M signals from the N signals is shared such that N < 36, and the camera board processes the M signals to generate signals specific to each of the view elements.

[0153] Optionally, the M signals include a synchronization signal for the view element. The M signals include a clock signal for the view element. The M signals supply the voltage of the view element. The diameter of the electrical cable ranges from 2 to 2.5 millimeters.

[0154] In connection with any of the above-described embodiments, the present application discloses an imaging component or a tip portion, the maximum volume of the imaging component being in the range of 2.75 cm 3 to 3.5 cm 3 Each of the view elements is configured to produce a field of view angle in the range of 120 to 180°, the depth of field is in the range of 3 millimeters to 100 millimeters, the peripheral distortion that does not depend on the aspherical element is less than 80%, and the maximum focal length is in the range of 1 to 1.4 millimeters. Optionally, the depth of field is in the range of 3.5 millimeters to 50 millimeters. The maximum volume of the imaging component is 3.12 cm 3The maximum focal length of the view element is about 1.2 millimeters. At least one field of view of the front view element and the side view element intersects over a depth of field of view ranging from 3 to 100 millimeters. At least one field of view of the front view element and the side view element intersects at a distance of 15 millimeters or less from the side view element.

[0155] In connection with any of the above-described embodiments, the present application discloses a method of operating an endoscope having a plurality of view elements. The method includes generating a forward view using a forward-facing view element disposed on a front panel at a distal end of the endoscope, generating one or more side views using one or more side-facing view elements disposed at or proximate to a distal end side edge of the distal end, displaying the forward view and the side views in real time on at least one display, generating data indicating which display is selected based on interaction with an interface of a handle of the endoscope, and switching between the forward view and the side views on at least one display based on the generated data, wherein fields of view of the front view element and the one or more side view elements overlap.

[0156] Optionally, the handle includes a plurality of buttons, and operation of the buttons causes the display to zoom in on and out of an image, record an image, capture an image, or freeze an image in at least one of the forward view and the side views. The forward view and the side views are displayed on a single screen. The forward view and the side views are displayed on different screens. The handle includes a plurality of buttons, and operation of the buttons causes the at least one display to record an image, capture an image, or freeze an image simultaneously in all of the forward view and the side views.

[0157] In connection with any of the above-described embodiments, the present application discloses a method of operating an endoscope having a plurality of view elements. The method includes generating a forward view using a forward-facing view element disposed at a distal end of the endoscope; generating at least one side view using at least one side-facing view element disposed at or proximate to a distal-side end of the distal end; simultaneously and in real time displaying the forward view and the side view on at least one display; generating data indicating which display is selected based on an operation of at least one button of an endoscope handle; performing at least one operation selected from recording, zooming, or freezing; and performing the at least one selected operation on the forward view, at least one side view, or both the forward view and at least one side view based on the generated data, and also displaying at least one icon or indicator regarding the at least one selected operation.

[0158] Optionally, the method further includes displaying a timer that visually represents a progression of the endoscope through an anatomical region over time. As the endoscope progresses, the timer counts down from a preset amount of time.

[0159] In connection with any of the above-described embodiments, the present application discloses an endoscope having a plurality of view elements. The endoscope includes a forward-facing view element disposed at the distal end of the endoscope for generating a forward view, at least one side-facing view element disposed at or proximate to the distal end side edge of the tip portion for generating at least one side view, one or more displays for simultaneously and in real-time displaying the forward view and the side view, at least one button on the endoscope handle that can be operated to generate data indicating which display is selected, and processing means for performing at least one operation selected from recording, zooming, or freezing, and performs the at least one selected operation on the forward view, at least one side view, or both the forward view and at least one side view based on the generated data, and also displays at least one icon or indicator related to the at least one selected operation. Optionally, the processing means includes an FPGA processor and an MPEG digital signal processor.

[0160] In connection with any of the above-described embodiments, the present application discloses a method for visualizing a movement path of an endoscope assembly including a tip portion having a forward-facing view element and two side-facing view elements. The method includes inserting the endoscope assembly into the lumen of a body cavity, moving the endoscope assembly through the lumen, operating the endoscope assembly to display video outputs from each of the forward-facing view element and the side-facing view elements onto at least one monitor, operating the endoscope assembly through the lumen, and guiding the endoscope assembly through the lumen when the endoscope assembly is blocked by a plurality of junction points, wherein the lumen defines the movement path, the movement path includes the plurality of junction points where the movement path substantially changes, the video outputs represent the movement path within the body cavity, and the guiding step is guided by at least one visual emphasis on the at least one monitor.

[0161] In connection with any of the above-described embodiments, the present application discloses a service channel connector. The service channel connector includes at least one service channel opening positioned at the distal end portion of the connector, a working channel opening positioned at the distal end portion of the connector, a front wall including a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion, and a rear wall including a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion, each portion having a substantially flat surface, the rear wall, and two side walls. To insert a medical device through the working channel opening, the service channel opening and the working channel opening are communicated by an intermediate channel, and the working channel opening is connected to the insertion tube of the endoscope.

[0162] Optionally, in the service channel connector of claim 1, the first, second, and third portions of the front wall include four portions that are connected to each other at an angle, and the first, second, and third portions of the rear wall are substantially linear and rectangular with no surface depressions. The two side walls approximate a "Y-shape". The service channel connector further includes a suction channel. The intermediate channel is a service channel. The intermediate channel is a combined channel formed from a service channel and a suction channel. The service channel connector includes a first component and a second component. The first and second components are fixedly connected to each other to form the service channel connector. The first component and the second component are joined together by using a laser welding process. The second component is a mirror image of the first component. The first component and the second component are joined together by aligning one or more edges of the two components without leaving a gap along the seam between the two components. The first component and the second component are manufactured using milling. The first component and the second component include a smooth inner surface. The length of the connector, measured along the rear wall from the proximal end portion to the distal end portion, is in the range of about 15 - 21 millimeters. The inner diameter of the working channel opening is in the range of about 2.5 - 8 millimeters.

[0163] In connection with any of the above-described embodiments, the present application discloses an endoscope assembly comprising a handle for connecting an endoscope to a control unit. The handle comprises a Y-shaped service channel connector, the Y-shaped service channel connector comprising a first part and a second part, each part comprising at least a service channel opening connected to a working channel opening by an intermediate channel, the intermediate channel being for inserting a medical device through the working channel opening. The first and second parts are fixedly connected to each other to form the service channel connector, and the first part is a mirror image of the second part. Each part further comprises a suction channel. The intermediate channel is a service channel. The intermediate channel is a combined channel formed from the service channel and the suction channel. The first part and the second part are fixedly connected to each other using a laser welding process.

[0164] Optionally, at least one service channel opening is left at the proximal end of the top of the service channel connector, and at least one working channel opening is left at the distal end of the bottom of the service channel connector to fixedly connect the first part and the second part to each other. At least one service channel opening is used for inserting one or more medical devices into the insertion tube of the endoscope through the working channel opening. The first part and the second part are fixedly connected to each other by aligning one or more edges of the two parts without leaving a gap along the line of the joint between the two parts. The first part and the second part are manufactured using milling. The inner surfaces of the first part and the second part are smooth.

[0165] The presently disclosed embodiments enable a plurality of innovative medical procedures. In one embodiment, the present specification discloses an improved endoscopic mucosal resection procedure. The procedure includes inserting an endoscope into a body cavity and positioning a distal portion of the endoscope adjacent to a target tissue; inserting an injection needle through a forward working channel of the endoscope and positioning the injection needle closest to the target tissue; injecting a fluid into the target tissue using the injection needle; inserting a grasping forceps device through a first lateral service channel of the endoscope; inserting a dissection device through a second lateral service channel of the endoscope; detaching the target tissue from the submucosal tissue of the body cavity; withdrawing the dissection tool from the second lateral service channel; inserting a retrieval net through the second lateral service channel of the endoscope; and placing the detached target tissue into the retrieval net using the grasping forceps. Optionally, the dissection device is a snare, a needle, a knife, or other cutting tool.

[0166] In another embodiment, the present application discloses another improved endoscopic mucosal resection procedure. The procedure includes inserting an endoscope into a body cavity and positioning a distal portion of the endoscope adjacent to a target tissue; inserting an injection needle through a first channel of the endoscope and positioning the injection needle closest to the target tissue; injecting a fluid into the target tissue using the injection needle; inserting a grasping forceps device through a second channel of the endoscope; inserting a dissection device through a third channel of the endoscope; detaching the target tissue from the submucosal tissue of the body cavity; withdrawing the dissection tool from the third channel; inserting a retrieval net through the third channel; and placing the detached target tissue into the retrieval net using the grasping forceps. Optionally, the dissection device is a snare, a needle, a knife, or other cutting tool.

[0167] In another embodiment, the present application discloses another improved endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography procedure. The procedure includes inserting an endoscope into a body cavity and positioning the endoscope closest to the target papilla; inserting a guide wire through a first channel such as a forward working channel; inserting a grasper through a second channel such as one of two lateral service channels; using the grasper to position the papilla in a position to facilitate cannulation of the papilla with the guide wire; inserting a sphincterotome through a third channel such as the second of two lateral service channels; using the sphincterotome to incise the papilla; withdrawing the sphincterotome; inserting a balloon by means of the guide wire; positioning the balloon at the papilla and inflating the balloon to expand the sphincter; and inserting another device through the third channel to perform an operation. Optionally, the other device can be a stone basket, a stent, an injection needle, an ablation device, biopsy forceps and / or a cytology brush.

[0168] The above-described and other embodiments in this specification will be further described in depth with reference to the drawings and the following detailed description.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0169]

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Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0170] When considered in connection with the accompanying drawings, these configurations, other configurations, and advantages of the present invention will be recognized while understanding better by referring to the following detailed description.

[0171] Aspects of some embodiments relate to an endoscope having a tip portion with two or more view elements. According to one embodiment, one of the view elements is positioned at the distal end side end of the tip portion and directed forward, and the remaining view elements are positioned further rearward of the tip portion and directed laterally.

[0172] According to another embodiment, one of the view elements is positioned at the distal (front) end face of the tip portion and directed forward, and the remaining view elements are positioned further rearward of the tip portion and directed laterally.

[0173] According to another embodiment, two or more (e.g., three or more, or four or more) view elements are positioned close to or at the distal end side end of the distal end portion, and are directed laterally. As a result, the field of view provided by the view element includes the forward view and the lateral view. In such a structure according to some embodiments, there is no view element positioned on the distal end side (front) end face of the distal end portion (i.e., in other words, there is no view element directly facing forward), yet the field of view of the lateral camera allows the forward direction of the distal end portion to be viewed, and thus the forward portion of the endoscope can be viewed.

[0174] Advantageously, this structure can increase the detection rate of pathological objects present in the body cavity in which the endoscope operates as compared to the conventional structure.

[0175] Another aspect of some embodiments relates to an endoscope having a distal end portion with one or more forward working / service channels. According to a further aspect of some embodiments, the distal end portion of the endoscope comprises one or more lateral working / service channels. The structure of the distal end portion of the endoscope having two or more forward and / or lateral working / service channels can significantly improve the performance of the endoscope, allowing the operator of the endoscope to perform more complex medical procedures using multiple medical devices simultaneously. Such a structure can also better improve the access of the endoscope operator to the object of interest, and can provide the endoscope operator with greater flexibility regarding the operation of medical devices while viewing the procedure through multiple forward and lateral view elements.

[0176] A further aspect of some embodiments relates to an endoscope having a distal end portion with a plurality of advantageous structures of an electronic circuit board assembly. The space occupied by these structures is reduced, leaving more volume for additional necessary components.

[0177] Further aspects of some embodiments relate to an endoscope having a tip portion with a plurality of side outlets in addition to a front outlet, which can improve the flushing performance of the endoscope.

[0178] The view element and optionally other elements present at the tip (such as multiple illumination or light sources, one or more front and / or side working / service channels, one or more front and side ejection channels, side fluid injectors, and / or electronic circuit board assemblies, etc.) are uniquely reduced, configured, and housed to fit within the minimum necessary space within the tip while still providing beneficial effects.

[0179] This specification is directed to multiple embodiments. The following disclosure is provided to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention. The language used in this specification should not be construed as a general negation of any specific embodiment, nor should it be used to limit the claims beyond the meaning of the terms used in the claims. The general principles characterized in this specification can be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Also, the technical terms and expressions are used to describe exemplary embodiments and should not be regarded as limiting. Therefore, the invention is in line with the broadest scope that encompasses numerous alternative means, modifications, and equivalents that are consistent with the disclosed principles and configurations. For clarity, details of technical items known in the technical field related to the present invention are not described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure the present invention. In the specification and claims of this application, each of the words "comprising", "including", and "having", and their forms, are not necessarily limited to the elements of the list that can be associated with the term.

[0180] As used in this specification, the indefinite articles "a" and "an" mean "at least one" or "one or more" unless the context clearly indicates a different meaning.

[0181] Embodiments of the methods and / or apparatuses of this specification can include performing or completing a selected operation manually, automatically, or a combination thereof. Some embodiments of this specification are implemented using elements including hardware, software, firmware, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, some elements are general-purpose elements (such as a general-purpose computer or an oscilloscope, etc.). In some embodiments, some elements are dedicated or custom-ordered elements (such as a circuit, an integrated circuit, or software, etc.).

[0182] For example, in some embodiments, some of the embodiments are implemented as multiple software instructions executed by a data processing device, which is, for example, a component of a general-purpose or custom-ordered computer. In some embodiments, the data processing device or computer includes a volatile memory for storing instructions and / or data, and / or a non-volatile storage (such as a magnetic hard disk and / or removable media) for storing instructions and / or data. In some embodiments, the implementation includes a network connection. In some embodiments, the implementation generally includes a user interface that includes one or more input devices (such as enabling input of commands and / or parameters) and an output device (such as enabling reporting of operation parameters and results).

[0183] It is understood that a certain configuration of this specification, which has been described in the context of separate embodiments for clarity, can also be provided in a single embodiment in combination. Conversely, various configurations of this specification, which have been described in the context of a single embodiment for brevity, can also be provided separately, provided in any suitable sub-combination, or provided appropriately in any other embodiment described in this specification. A certain configuration described in the context of various embodiments is not considered an essential configuration of those embodiments, except when the embodiments do not operate without those elements.

[0184] Note that the term "endoscope" as referred to in this specification refers to a colonoscope according to some embodiments in particular, but is not limited to colonoscopes only. The term "endoscope" can refer to any instrument used to examine the interior of a hollow organ or cavity of the body.

[0185] Similarly worthy of note is that the following plurality of terms appearing in this specification are used without distinction to apply to or refer to similar elements. - The utility tube / cable is also an umbilical tube / cable. - The main control unit is also the main controller unit, the main controller, or the fuse box. - The view element is also the image pickup device / element, the view element, the camera, the television camera, or the video camera. - The working channel is also the service channel. - The illumination is also the LED or the illumination light source. - The flexible shaft is also the bending part or the vertebral mechanism.

[0186] Currently used endoscopes typically have a front and side view element for observing organs, illumination, a fluid injector for cleaning the lens of the view element and sometimes the illumination, and a working channel for inserting treatment tools. Commonly used illumination is an optical fiber that transmits light generated at a remote location to the tip of the endoscope. It is also known to use light-emitting diodes (LEDs) as illumination.

[0187] The tip of the endoscope assembly can be inserted into the patient's body through a natural body opening (mouth, nose, urethra, vagina, or anus).

[0188] According to an embodiment of the present specification, the tip cover can accommodate the tip portion. The tip portion having the tip cover can be adjusted or manipulated by a flexible shaft, also called a bending portion, exemplified by a vertebral mechanism. The tip cover can be configured to fit on the inner portion of the tip portion, which includes an electronic circuit board assembly and a fluid channeling element, and protect the internal elements (such as body cavities) of the inner portion. Thereafter, the endoscope can perform diagnosis or surgical procedures within the body cavity. The tip portion carries one or more view elements (such as a camera) to observe the area within the body cavity that is the subject of these procedures.

[0189] The tip cover can include a panel having an optical assembly for the view element. The panel and the view element are disposed on the front and side portions of the tip portion. The optical assembly can include a plurality of fixed or movable lenses. The lenses can provide different fields of view.

[0190] The electronic circuit board assembly can be configured to carry the view element. The view element can observe through the opening of the panel. The view element can include an imaging sensor, which can be, for example, a charge-coupled device (CCD) imaging sensor or a complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) imaging sensor, but is not limited thereto.

[0191] The electronic circuit assembly can be configured to carry illumination that can irradiate through the optical window of the illumination. The illumination can be associated with the view element and positioned to irradiate the field of view of the view element.

[0192] One or more illuminations can irradiate the field of view of the viewing element. In one embodiment, the illumination can be the illumination of an optical fiber that transmits light from a remote source. The optical fiber is an optical carrier that transmits light from a light source disposed at a remote location to the illumination. The optical fiber extends along the insertion tube between the tip of the distal end portion of the endoscope and the handle of the proximal end portion. The umbilical / utility tube connects the handle to the main control unit. The main control unit can control some functions of the endoscope assembly, particularly including power supply and signal communication between the endoscope and its display.

[0193] Now, refer to FIG. 1A, which represents a multi-view element endoscope system 100. The system 100 can include a multi-view element endoscope 102. The multi-view element endoscope 102 can include a handle 104, from which a long shaft 106 emerges. The long shaft 106 terminates at a distal end 108 that can be adjusted by a bending portion 110. The handle 104 can be used to operate the long shaft 106 within the body cavity. The handle can include one or more buttons and / or knobs, and / or switches 105 that control the bending portion 110 and functions such as liquid injection or liquid suction. The handle 104 can further include at least one, and in some embodiments one or more, working channel openings 112 and one or more lateral service channel openings, through which treatment instruments can be inserted.

[0194] A utility cable 114, also called an umbilical cable, can connect between the handle 104 and the main control device 199. The utility cable 114 can include one or more fluid channels and one or more electrical channels therein. The electrical channels can include at least one data cable that receives video signals from the forward and side-facing viewing elements, and at least one power cable that supplies power to the viewing elements and a separate illumination.

[0195] The main control device 199 includes a control device that requests display of an image of an organ imaged by the endoscope 102. The main control device 199 can manage power transmission to, for example, the view element and illumination at the distal end 108 of the endoscope 102. The main control device 199 can further control one or more fluids, liquids, and / or suction pumps that provide corresponding functionality to the endoscope 102. One or more input devices 118 (keyboard, touch screen, etc.) can be connected to the main control device 199 for a human to interact with the main control device 199. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1A, the main control device 199 includes a screen / display 120 for displaying operation information regarding the endoscope procedure when the endoscope 102 is in use. The screen 120 can be configured to display an image and / or video stream received from the view element of the multi-view element endoscope 102. The screen 120 can further operate to display a user interface that enables a human operator to set various configurations of the endoscope system.

[0196] Optionally, at least one monitor (not shown) can separately display the video streams received from various view elements of the multi-view element endoscope 102 by uploading information from the main control device 199. The video streams can be displayed side by side or alternately (i.e., the operator can manually switch the views from various view elements). Alternatively, these video streams can be processed by the main control device 116 and combined into a panoramic single video frame based on the overlap between the fields of view of multiple view elements. In one embodiment, two or more displays can be connected to the main control device 199 to respectively display the video streams from different view elements of the multi-view element endoscope 102. The main control device 199 is described in U.S. Patent Provisional Application No. 61 / 817,237, filed on April 29, 2013, with the title "Method and System for Video Processing in a Multi-Viewing Element Endoscope". The entire content of this provisional application is incorporated herein by reference.

[0197] Figure 1B shows a perspective view of an embodiment of the control panel of the main control device of the multi-camera endoscope system. As shown in Figure 1B, the control panel 101 includes a main connector housing 103 having a front panel 107. The front panel 107 of the main connector housing includes a first portion 111 having a light guide opening 113 and a gas channel opening 115, and a second portion 117 having a utility cable opening 119. The light guide opening 113 and the gas channel opening 115 are each configured to receive and connect a light guide and a gas channel on the main connector. And the utility cable opening 119 is configured to receive and connect the electrical connector of the scope. The switch 121 is used to turn on and turn off the switch of the main control device.

[0198] Figures 1C through 1F show a plurality of exemplary structures 123, 125, 127, and 129 of the distal end 108.

[0199] In Structure 123, the forward-facing camera 131 and the side-facing camera 133 are basically perpendicular to each other, and accordingly, have perpendicular fields of view.

[0200] In Structure 125, the forward-facing camera 137 is basically perpendicular to the first side-facing camera 139 and the second side-facing camera 141. The first side-facing camera 139 and the second side-facing camera 141 face each other perpendicularly and are basically positioned 90° apart on the cylindrical surface of the tip. In another structure (not shown), the first side-facing camera and the second side-facing camera are basically positioned more than 90° apart (e.g., 120 - 150° apart, or 150° - 180° apart) on the cylindrical surface of the tip. For example, the first side-facing camera and the second side-facing camera can be arranged 180° apart on both sides of the cylindrical surface of the tip so that they face in opposite directions. In yet another structure (not shown), three or more side-facing cameras can be positioned on the cylindrical surface of the tip, for example, three cameras 120° apart from each other can be arranged.

[0201] In Structure 127, the side-facing camera 143 is directed slightly rearward, and the side-facing camera 143 forms an angle exceeding 90° with respect to the forward-facing camera 145. As an example, an angle of 120° is illustrated. In another structure (not shown), the range of the angle is 100 - 145°.

[0202] In Structure 129, two opposing side-facing cameras 147 and 149 are shown, these cameras are directed slightly rearward, and these cameras each form an angle exceeding 90° with respect to the forward-facing camera 151. As an example, an angle of 120° is illustrated. In another structure (not shown), the range of the angle is 100 - 145°.

[0203] Similarly, in other structures (not shown), three or more side cameras can be positioned on the cylindrical surface of the tip, and each side camera can be directed slightly rearward and have an angle between each side camera. When there are three cameras, an angle of 120° can be provided between the cameras.

[0204] Referring now to FIG. 1G, which shows a perspective view of a multi-camera endoscope 153 according to some embodiments. The endoscope 153 includes a long shaft 155 typically including a bend (not shown) and a tip 157 at which the endoscope terminates. The tip 157 includes three side cameras: a first side camera 158A, a second side camera, and a third side camera. The first side camera 158A has an associated first field of view 159A, the second side camera has an associated second field of view 159B, and the third side camera has an associated third field of view 159C. Individual side illuminations (e.g., LEDs) can be associated with these side cameras to illuminate the fields of view 159A, 159B, and 159C, respectively. The tip 157 further includes a working channel 161 that can be configured as a hollow opening for inserting treatment tools that act on various tissues. For example, small forceps can be inserted through the working channel 161 to remove polyps or biopsy samples.

[0205] As described herein, according to various embodiments, the tip 157 can further include other elements / components such as a fluid injector for cleaning the camera and / or the illumination of the camera, and a fluid path injector for inflating and / or cleaning the body cavity into which the endoscope 153 is inserted.

[0206] Refer to FIG. 1H, which shows a perspective view of a multi-camera endoscope 153 according to another embodiment. The endoscope shown in FIG. 1H is similar to the endoscope shown in FIG. 1G, but does not have a working channel. The elongate shaft 155, the distal end portion 157, the first side-facing camera 158A, the second side-facing camera, and the third side-facing camera, and the respective fields of view 159A, 159B, and 159C of these cameras are similar to those described above with reference to FIG. 1G.

[0207] Refer to FIG. 1I, which shows a cross-sectional view of the distal end portion 163 of a multi-camera endoscope according to one embodiment. The distal end portion 163 can include a forward-facing imaging sensor 169, such as a charge-coupled device (CCD) imaging sensor or a complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) imaging sensor. The forward-facing imaging sensor 169 can be mounted on an integrated circuit board 179. The integrated circuit board 179 can be rigid or flexible. The integrated circuit board 179 can supply the power required for the forward-facing imaging sensor 169 and can obtain still images and / or video feeds captured by the imaging sensor. The integrated circuit board 179 can be connected to a set of electrical cables (not shown) that can be attached via an electrical channel passing through the elongate shaft of the endoscope. The forward-facing imaging sensor 169 can have a lens assembly 181 mounted on its top to provide the optical system necessary to receive images. The lens assembly 181 can include a plurality of fixed or movable lenses. The lenses can provide a field of view of at least 90° and basically 180° or less. The lens assembly 181 can provide a focal length of about 3 to 100 millimeters. With or without the integrated circuit board 179, the forward-facing imaging sensor 169 and the lens assembly 181 can be collectively referred to as the "forward-facing camera."

[0208] One or more separate forward illuminations 183 can be installed adjacent to the lens assembly 181 to illuminate the field of view of the lens assembly 181. Optionally, the separate forward illumination 183 can be attached to the same integrated circuit board 179 on which the forward-facing imaging sensor 169 is mounted (this structure is not shown).

[0209] The distal end portion 163 can be provided with a side-facing imaging sensor 185 such as a charge-coupled device (CCD) imaging sensor or a complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) imaging sensor. The side-facing imaging sensor 185 can be mounted on an integrated circuit board 187. The integrated circuit board 187 can be made rigid or flexible. The integrated circuit board 187 can supply the power necessary for the side-facing imaging sensor 185 and can obtain the still images and / or video feeds captured by the imaging sensor. The integrated circuit 187 can be connected to a set of electrical cables (not shown) that can be mounted via an electrical channel passing through the long shaft of the endoscope.

[0210] The side-facing imaging sensor 185 can have a lens assembly 168 that is mounted on its topmost part and provides the optical system necessary for receiving an image. The lens assembly 168 can include a plurality of fixed or movable lenses. The lenses can provide a field of view of at least 90° and basically 180° or less. The lens assembly 168 can provide a focal length of about 2 to 33 millimeters. With or without the integrated circuit board 187, the side-facing imaging sensor 185 and the lens assembly 168 can be jointly referred to as a "side-facing camera".

[0211] One or more separate illuminations 176 can be installed adjacent to the lens assembly 168 to irradiate the field of view of the lens assembly 168. Optionally, a separate side illumination 176 can be attached to the same integrated circuit board 187 on which the side-facing imaging sensor 185 is mounted (this structure is not shown).

[0212] In another configuration (not shown), the integrated circuit boards 179 and 187 can be a single integrated circuit board on which both the forward-facing imaging sensor 169 and the side-facing imaging sensor 185 are respectively mounted. For this purpose, the integrated circuit board can be basically L-shaped.

[0213] The front-facing imaging sensor 169 and the side-facing imaging sensor 185 can be made similar or identical, for example, in terms of fields of view, resolution, light sensitivity, pixel size, focal length, and / or focal distance.

[0214] Optionally, the side-facing imaging sensor 185 and the lens assembly 168 are advantageously positioned relatively close to the distal end face of the distal end portion 163. For example, the center of the side-facing camera (the central axis of the side-facing imaging sensor 185 and the lens assembly 168) is positioned at about 7 to 11 millimeters from the distal end of the distal end portion. This becomes possible by advantageously miniaturizing the front-facing camera and the side-facing camera, allowing sufficient internal space for angular positioning without the cameras colliding at the distal end portion.

[0215] Refer to FIG. 1J, which shows a cross-sectional view of the distal end 162 of a multi-camera endoscope according to another embodiment of the specification. The distal end 162 is similar to the distal end 163 of FIG. 1I and can include a forward-facing imaging sensor 169, such as a charge-coupled device (CCD) imaging sensor or a complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) imaging sensor. The forward-facing imaging sensor 169 can be mounted on an integrated circuit board 179. The integrated circuit board 179 can be rigid or flexible. The integrated circuit board 179 can supply the power required for the forward-facing imaging sensor 169 and obtain still images and / or video feeds captured by the imaging sensor. The integrated circuit board 179 can be connected to a set of electrical cables (not shown) that can be attached via an electrical channel through the long shaft of the endoscope. The forward-facing imaging sensor 169 can have a lens assembly 181 mounted on its top to provide an optical system for receiving images. The lens assembly 181 can include a plurality of fixed or movable lenses. The lenses can provide a field of view of at least 90° and basically 180° or less. The lens assembly 181 can provide a focal length of about 3 to 100 millimeters. With or without the integrated circuit board 179, the forward-facing imaging sensor 169 and the lens assembly 181 can be jointly referred to as the "forward-facing camera". One or more separate front illuminations 183 can be installed adjacent to the lens assembly 181 to illuminate the field of view of the lens assembly 181. Optionally, the separate front illumination 183 can be attached to the same integrated circuit board 179 on which the forward-facing imaging sensor 169 is mounted (this structure is not shown).

[0216] The distal end 162 can include another side-facing imaging sensor 164 in addition to the side-facing imaging sensor 185. The side-facing imaging sensors 185 and 164 can include a charge-coupled device (CCD) imaging sensor or a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) imaging sensor. The side-facing imaging sensors 185 and 164 can be mounted on integrated circuit boards 187 and 166, respectively. The integrated circuit boards 187 and 166 can be rigid or flexible. The integrated circuit boards 187 and 166 can supply the power necessary for the side-facing imaging sensors 185 and 164 and can obtain still images and / or video feeds captured by the imaging sensors. The integrated circuits 187 and 166 can be connected to a set of electrical cables (not shown) that can be mounted via an electrical channel passing through the elongate shaft of the endoscope.

[0217] The side-facing imaging sensors 185 and 164 can each have lens assemblies 168 and 174 mounted on their uppermost portions to provide the optical systems necessary to receive images. The lens assemblies 168 and 174 can include a plurality of fixed or movable lenses. The lenses can provide a field of view of at least 90° and basically 180° or less. The lens assemblies 168 and 174 can provide a focal length of about 2 to 33 millimeters. With or without the integrated circuit boards 187 and 166, the side-facing imaging sensors 185 and 164 and the lens assemblies 168 and 174 can each be collectively referred to as a "side-facing camera."

[0218] Separate illuminations 176 and 189 can be installed adjacent to the lens assemblies 168 and 174, respectively, to illuminate the fields of view of the lens assemblies 168. Optionally, the separate side illuminations 176 and 189 can be attached to the same integrated circuit boards 187 and 166 on which the side-facing imaging sensors 185 and 164 are mounted (this structure is not shown).

[0219] In another configuration (not shown), the integrated circuit boards 179, 187, and 166 can be a single integrated circuit board on which the forward imaging sensor 169 and the side imaging sensors 185 and 164 are respectively mounted.

[0220] The forward imaging sensor 169 and the side imaging sensors 185 and 164 can be made similar, identical, or different in terms of, for example, field of view, resolution, light sensitivity, pixel size, focal length, and / or focal distance.

[0221] Optionally, the side imaging sensors 185 and 164 and the lens assemblies 168 and 174 are advantageously positioned relatively close to the distal end face of the distal end portion 162. For example, the center of the side cameras (the central axis of the side imaging sensors 185 and 164 and the lens assemblies 168 and 174) is positioned at about 7 to 11 millimeters from the distal end side end portion of the distal end portion. This is made possible by advantageously miniaturizing the forward camera and the side cameras, allowing sufficient internal space for angular positioning without the cameras colliding at the distal end portion.

[0222] According to some embodiments, all of the forward and side cameras are positioned in the same (virtual) plane that "divides" the distal end portion 162 into two equal parts along its length. According to some embodiments, each of the side cameras is perpendicular to the forward camera.

[0223] In one aspect of the present specification, the fields of view of the forward and side view elements overlap. These fields of view can be configured such that the overlapping region is maximized (and the blind spot defined as the region not covered by this overlap is minimized), and the position of the intersection of these fields of view is brought as close as possible to the tip of the endoscope.

[0224] In one embodiment, there is a region where the fields of view overlap or intersect over a depth of field in the range from 3 millimeters to 100 millimeters with respect to the front observation view element, and also over a depth of field in the range from 3 millimeters to 100 millimeters with respect to the first side view element. In another embodiment, there is a region where the fields of view overlap or intersect over a depth of field in the range from the minimum depth of field to the maximum depth of field with respect to the front observation view element, and also over a depth of field in the range from the minimum depth of field to the maximum depth of field with respect to the first side view element.

[0225] In another embodiment, there is a region where the fields of view overlap or intersect over a depth of field in the range from 3 millimeters to 100 millimeters with respect to the front observation view element, and also over a depth of field in the range from 3 millimeters to 100 millimeters with respect to each of the two side view elements. In another embodiment, there is a region where the fields of view overlap or intersect over a depth of field in the range from the minimum depth of field to the maximum depth of field with respect to the front observation view element, and also over a depth of field in the range from the minimum depth of field to the maximum depth of field with respect to each of the side view elements.

[0226] In one embodiment, the front observation view element and the side observation view element each produce a field of view in the range from 120° to 180° as measured from the plane defined by the front observation view element and the plane defined by the side observation view element. In one embodiment, the angular ranges of the front view element and the side view element overlap.

[0227] In one embodiment, at a distance of 15 millimeters or less from the tip of the endoscope, the first view element, the second view element, or the third view element, the field of view of the first view element intersects the field of view of the second and / or third view element. Preferably, the distance is less than 15 millimeters (for example, 14, 13, 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, or 2 millimeters).

[0228] Figures 2A and 2B respectively represent exploded views of the distal end 200 of a multi-view element endoscope assembly 100 according to various embodiments, having one and two front / service working channels respectively. Aspects of some embodiments also relate to an endoscope assembly 100 having a distal end 200 with one or more lateral working / service channels.

[0229] One of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the available space in the distal end places constraints on the total number and / or relative orientation of the imaging devices that can be housed within the distal end. Further, each view element, and associated support electronics, consume power in the form of heat. As such, the acceptable operating temperature of the distal end, and the acceptable rate of heat dissipation from the distal end to the patient's body, place yet another constraint on the total number of view elements operating at the distal end. Still further, each view element generally uses a dedicated video cable to output image data through the imaging channel. Moreover, each view element can require a dedicated control signal that is further transmitted by a wire along the endoscope for proper operation. Thus, the number of view elements can also be limited by the total amount of wiring that can be included within the endoscope. Still further, generally, electronic interference between wires and cables increases with the number of such wires along the endoscope, adversely affecting the quality and integrity of the signals.

[0230] In particular, various embodiments of the distal end of the endoscope assembly of the present specification address the above-described constraints or limitations. Accordingly, in one embodiment, the distal end 200 of the endoscope 100 of FIGS. 2A and 2B can include a distal cover 300, an electronic circuit board assembly 400, and a fluid channeling element 600.

[0231] According to some embodiments, the fluid channeling element 600 can be configured as a separate element from the electronic circuit board assembly 400. This structure is adapted to separate fluid channels, at least one lateral service channel (such as lateral service channel 650), and at least one front working / service channel (such as working / service channel 640) from sensitive electronic components and optical components that can be disposed in the region of the electronic circuit board assembly 400. These channels are positioned within the fluid channeling element 600. Thus, the configuration of the elements at the distal end 200 enables effective insulation of the plurality of electronic elements from the plurality of fluid channels.

[0232] According to some embodiments, using metal to form the flexible electronic circuit board holder is important for electrical conductivity and heat transfer purposes. The flexible electronic circuit board holder (such as flexible electronic circuit board holder 500 in FIG. 19) according to the embodiments herein can be used as a heat sink for some or all of the electronic elements disposed at the distal end (in particular, illumination such as lateral or front LEDs), and can reduce the temperature of the entire endoscope distal end. This can solve or at least mitigate the major problem of temperature rise of the endoscope distal end and / or any element of the endoscope distal end, especially when using LED illumination.

[0233] According to some embodiments, the view element and optionally other elements (a plurality of illuminations or light sources, one or more front and / or lateral working / service channels, one or more front and lateral ejection channels, lateral fluid injectors, and / or an electronic circuit board assembly, etc.) present at the distal end are uniquely modularized into a three-component element structure including the distal cover 300, the electronic circuit board assembly 400, and the fluid channeling element 600, and are housed to fit into the minimum required space within the distal end while still providing beneficial effects.

[0234] Referring to FIG. 2A, according to some embodiments, the tip 200 includes a front panel 320 having four quadrants defined by a vertical axis passing through the center of the front panel 320 and a horizontal axis passing through the center. The four quadrants are the upper left, upper right, lower left, and lower right quadrants.

[0235] In various embodiments, the front optical assembly 256 can be positioned on the front panel 320. In various embodiments, a first front optical window 242b for the first front illumination 240b is positioned at least partially within the lower right quadrant and at least partially within the lower left quadrant of the front panel 320. In various embodiments, a second front optical window 242a for the second front illumination 240a is positioned at least partially within the lower left quadrant of the front panel 320. In various embodiments, a third front optical window 242c for the third front illumination 240c is positioned at least partially within the lower right quadrant of the front panel 320.

[0236] In various embodiments, a front work channel opening 340 for the work channel 640 is positioned on the front panel 320 along the vertical axis at least partially within the upper left quadrant and at least partially within the upper right quadrant. In various embodiments, a fluid injector opening 346 for the fluid injector channel 646 is positioned at least partially within the upper right quadrant of the front panel 320. In various embodiments, an ejection channel opening 344 for the ejection channel 644 is positioned at least partially within the upper left quadrant of the front panel 320.

[0237] Reference will now be made to FIGS. 2A, 3A, and 3B. FIGS. 3A and 3B depict perspective views of a fluid channeling element 600 of an endoscopic assembly according to one embodiment. According to some embodiments, the fluid channeling element 600 can include a proximal fluid channeling portion 602 (or base), which can be substantially cylindrical in shape, and an integral distal channeling portion 604 (or elongate housing). The distal fluid channeling portion 604 can be partially continuous with the cylindrical shape of the proximal fluid channeling portion 602 and can be of a partial cylindrical shape (optionally a partial elongate cylindrical shape). The distal fluid channeling portion 604 can be only a fragment of a cylinder (along the height or length axis of the cylinder). Other fragments of the cylinder (along the height or length axis of the cylinder) are missing. In other words, in various embodiments, the proximal fluid channeling portion 602 has a wider width than the distal fluid channeling portion 604. The distal fluid channeling portion 604 can be integrally formed as a unit with the proximal fluid channeling portion 602. The height or length of the distal fluid channeling portion 604 can be made higher or longer than the height or length of the proximal fluid channeling portion 602. In embodiments including the distal fluid channeling portion 604, the shape of the partial cylinder (e.g., a partial cylinder having only a fragment of the cylindrical shape along one side of the height axis) can create a space for accommodating the electronic circuit board assembly 400 (FIG. 2A).

[0238] The distal fluid channeling portion 604 can include a working channel 640. The working channel 640 can be configured for inserting a treatment tool (e.g., for removing, treating, and / or extracting a sample of an object of interest or the entire object of interest found in the colon for biopsy).

[0239] The distal fluid channeling portion 604 can further include a fluid ejection channel 644 configured to provide a high-pressure ejection of fluid (such as water or saline) for washing the wall of the body cavity (such as the colon) and optionally for aspiration. The distal fluid channeling portion 604 can further include an injector channel 646. The injector channel 646 can be used to inject fluid (liquid and / or gas) to wash contaminants such as blood, excrement, and other debris from the front optical assembly 256 (FIG. 2A) of the forward viewing view element 116 (FIG. 2A). The proximal fluid channeling portion 602 of the fluid channeling element 600 can include a lateral injector channel 666 that can be connected to the lateral injector opening 266 (FIG. 2A).

[0240] In one embodiment, the fluid channeling element 600 can include a fluid manifold and can include a lateral service channel 650 having a lateral service channel opening 350 (FIG. 2A). The lateral service channel 650 includes a proximal portion 652, a curved portion 654, and a distal portion 656 and is disposed within the fluid channeling element 600.

[0241] The proximal portion 652 of the lateral service channel 650 is generally oriented along the longitudinal direction of the endoscope.

[0242] The curved portion 654 of the lateral service channel 650 is configured to connect the proximal portion 652 and the distal portion 656 and to curve the distal portion 656 toward the side of the fluid channeling element 600 (generally at 90° or at an obtuse angle).

[0243] Note that according to some embodiments, the curved portion (such as the curved portion 654) can be configured to form an acute angle between the proximal portion 652 and the distal portion 656.

[0244] The lateral service channel 650 can be configured such that an operator of the endoscope can insert a treatment tool (not shown) to remove, treat, and / or extract a sample of the object of interest or the entire object for biopsy.

[0245] Advantageously, the lateral service channel 650 provides the endoscope operator with greater flexibility and allows additional treatment instruments to be inserted in addition to the treatment instruments that can be inserted through the working channel 640.

[0246] Reference will now be made to FIG. 2A, together with FIGS. 4A, 4B and 4C. FIGS. 4A, 4B and 4C represent perspective views of a fluid channeling element 700 of an endoscope assembly according to another embodiment. The fluid channeling element 700 comprises a fluid ejection channel 744 that can be configured to provide a high-pressure jet of fluid (such as water or saline) for flushing the wall of a body cavity (such as the colon) and optionally for suction. The element 700 can further comprise an injector channel 746. The injector channel 746 can be used to inject a fluid (liquid and / or gas) to wash contaminants such as blood, excrement and other debris from the front optical assembly 256 (FIG. 2A) of the front observation view element 116 (FIG. 2A).

[0247] According to some embodiments, the fluid channeling element 700 can include a proximal fluid channeling portion 702 (or base) that can be substantially cylindrical in shape, and an integral distal channeling portion 704 (or elongate housing). The distal fluid channeling portion 704 can be partially continuous with the cylindrical shape of the proximal fluid channeling portion 702 and can be partially cylindrical (optionally partially elongate cylindrical). The distal fluid channeling portion 704 can be only a fragment of a cylinder (along the height or length axis of the cylinder). Other fragments of the cylinder (along the height or length axis of the cylinder) are missing. In other words, in various embodiments, the proximal fluid channeling portion 702 has a wider width than the distal fluid channeling portion 704. The distal fluid channeling portion 704 can be integrally formed as a single piece with the proximal fluid channeling portion 702. The height or length of the distal fluid channeling portion 704 can be greater than the height or length of the proximal fluid channeling portion 702. In embodiments that include the distal fluid channeling portion 704, the shape of the partial cylinder (e.g., a partial cylinder having only a fragment of the cylindrical shape along one side of the height axis) can create a space in which the electronic circuit board assembly 400 can be received (FIG. 2A).

[0248] According to some embodiments, the fluid channeling element 700 can include a fluid manifold and can include a lateral service channel 750 having two lateral service channel openings 758a and 758b. In various embodiments, the lateral service channel openings 758a and 758b have an exit angle in the range of 5° to 90° with respect to the longitudinal axis of the endoscope. In one embodiment, the lateral service channel openings 758a and 758b have an exit angle of 45° with respect to the longitudinal axis of the endoscope.

[0249] The lateral service channel 750 can be disposed within the fluid channeling element 700 and can include a proximal portion 752, a splitting portion 754, and two distal portions 756a and 756b.

[0250] The proximal portion 752 of the lateral service channel 750 can basically be oriented along the longitudinal direction of the endoscope and can be positioned at the bottom and the center of the proximal fluid channeling portion 702.

[0251] The diverging portion 754 of the lateral service channel 750 can be configured to diverge the proximal portion 752 into two distal portions 756a and 756b and basically direct the distal portions 756a and 756b to both sides of the fluid channeling element 700.

[0252] In various embodiments, the distal portions 756a and 756b are bent at different angles with respect to the longitudinal direction of the endoscope. In one embodiment, the distal portions 756a and 756b are bent at an acute angle with respect to the longitudinal direction of the endoscope. In another embodiment, the distal portions 756a and 756b are bent at an angle in the range of 45° to 60° with respect to the longitudinal direction of the endoscope. In another embodiment, the distal portions 756a and 756b are bent at a 90° angle with respect to the longitudinal direction of the endoscope. In another embodiment, the distal portions 756a and 756b are bent at an obtuse angle with respect to the longitudinal direction of the endoscope. In yet another embodiment, the distal portions 756a and 756b are bent at an angle in the range of 120° to 135° with respect to the longitudinal direction of the endoscope.

[0253] The lateral service channel 750 can be configured such that an operator of the endoscope can insert a treatment instrument (not shown) to remove, treat, and / or extract a sample of an object of interest or the entire object for biopsy.

[0254] Advantageously, the lateral service channel 750 provides greater flexibility to the operator of the endoscope and allows insertion of additional treatment instruments in addition to the treatment instruments that can be inserted through the working channel 740.

[0255] Through the front panel 320 (FIG. 2A) of the endoscope, several objects of interest can be viewed and / or accessed. On the other hand, through the side viewing view element 116b (FIG. 2A), several objects of interest can be further viewed and / or accessed through the side service channel 750 of the endoscope. Therefore, the side service channel 750 can reduce the need to direct the distal end 200 towards the object of interest. Further, with the side service channel 750, the operator of the endoscope can access the object of interest, and with one of the side viewing view elements 116b and the side viewing view element 116c (present on the opposite side of the view element 116b in FIG. 2B), the object of interest can still remain visible and surgery can be performed.

[0256] Referring to FIGS. 3A, 3B, 4A, 4B, and 4C, in various embodiments, an instrument inserted into the side service channel 650 or 750 can be exited from the endoscope at various angles with respect to the longitudinal axis of the endoscope depending on the degree of flexion of the distal end of the service channel 650 or 750. In one embodiment, the instrument exits the endoscope at an acute angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the endoscope. In another embodiment, the instrument exits the endoscope at an angle in the range of 45° to 60° with respect to the longitudinal axis of the endoscope. In another embodiment, the instrument exits the endoscope at a 90° angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the endoscope. In another embodiment, the instrument exits the endoscope at an obtuse angle with respect to the longitudinal direction of the endoscope. In yet another embodiment, the instrument exits the endoscope at an angle in the range of 120° to 135° with respect to the longitudinal direction of the endoscope.

[0257] Referring now to FIGS. 5A and 5B. FIGS. 5A and 5B show perspective views of the fluid channeling element 815 of an endoscope assembly according to another embodiment.

[0258] According to some embodiments, the fluid channeling element 815 can include a proximal fluid channeling portion 802 (or base), which can be substantially cylindrical in shape, and an integral distal channeling portion 804 (or elongated housing). The distal fluid channeling portion 804 can be partially continuous with the cylindrical shape of the proximal fluid channeling portion 802 and can be of a partial cylindrical shape (optionally a partial elongated cylindrical shape). The distal fluid channeling portion 804 can be only a fragment of a cylinder (along the height or length axis of the cylinder). Other fragments of the cylinder (along the height or length axis of the cylinder) are missing. In other words, in various embodiments, the proximal fluid channeling portion 802 has a wider width than the distal fluid channeling portion 804. The distal fluid channeling portion 804 can be integrally formed as a single piece with the proximal fluid channeling portion 802. The height or length of the distal fluid channeling portion 804 can be made higher or longer than the height or length of the proximal fluid channeling portion 802. In embodiments including the distal fluid channeling portion 804, the shape of the partial cylinder (e.g., a partial cylinder having only a fragment of a cylindrical shape along one side of the height axis) can create a space in which the electronic circuit board assembly 400 can be accommodated (FIG. 2A).

[0259] The fluid channeling element 815 comprises two lateral service channels 810a and 810b leading to corresponding two lateral service channel openings 805a and 806b, and is provided on both sides of the distal end of the endoscope (such as the distal end 200 in FIG. 61A, etc.). Therefore, two independent and distinguishable lateral service channels 810a and 810b are arranged in the fluid channeling element 815, and one lateral service channel is arranged on each side of the fluid channeling element 815. The lateral service channels 810a and 810b include a proximal portion 812 facing along the longitudinal direction of the endoscope and a distal portion 813 bent toward each side of the fluid channeling element 815. In various embodiments, the proximal portions 812 of the two lateral service channels 810a and 810b extend through the bottom of the proximal side fluid channeling portion 802. In one embodiment, the distal portion 813 is bent at an acute angle with respect to the longitudinal direction of the endoscope. In one embodiment, the distal portion 813 is bent within a range of 5° to 90° with respect to the longitudinal direction of the endoscope, with an arbitrary increase amount at the distal portion 813. However, it is preferable that the distal portion 813 is bent at 45° with respect to the longitudinal direction of the endoscope.

[0260] According to some embodiments of the present specification, in addition to a front view element and one or more side view elements, and a front working / service channel, an endoscope (such as a colonoscope, etc.) including a second front working / service channel configured for inserting a medical device (such as a treatment instrument, etc.) (at the distal end of the endoscope) is provided. This medical device is optionally different from the medical device inserted from the above-described front working / service channel.

[0261] Now refer to FIG. 2B together with FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C. FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C represent perspective views of a fluid channeling element 600 of an endoscope assembly 100 according to another embodiment.

[0262] According to some embodiments, the fluid channeling element 600 can be configured as an element separated from the electronic circuit board assembly 400 (FIG. 2B). This structure is adapted to separate the fluid channels 640b and the working channels 640a disposed in the fluid channeling element 600 from sensitive electronic components and optical components that can be disposed in the region of the electronic circuit board assembly 400 (FIG. 2B).

[0263] According to some embodiments, the fluid channeling element 600 can include a proximal fluid channeling portion 602 that can be substantially cylindrical in shape, a first distal channeling portion 604a, and a second distal channeling portion 604b. The first distal fluid channeling portion 604a and the second distal channeling portion 604b can be partially continuous with the cylindrical shape of the proximal fluid channeling portion 602 and can be of a partial cylindrical shape (optionally a partial elongated cylindrical shape). The first distal fluid channeling portion 604a and the second distal channeling portion 604b can form only two parallel segments of a cylinder (along the height axis of the cylinder). A third segment of the cylinder (along the height axis of the cylinder) is missing. The first distal fluid channeling portion 604a and the second distal channeling portion 604b can be integrally formed as a unit with the proximal fluid channeling portion 602. The height of the first distal fluid channeling portion 604a and the second distal channeling portion 604b can be made higher than the height of the proximal fluid channeling portion 602. The first distal fluid channeling portion 604a and the second distal channeling portion 604b can have a partial cylinder shape (e.g., a partial cylinder having only a cylindrical-shaped segment along one side of the height axis) that creates a space for accommodating the electronic circuit board assembly 400 (FIG. 2B).

[0264] The proximal fluid channeling portion 602 can include integral screw nuts 606a and 606b that can be configured to secure the tip portion 200 (FIG. 2B) to the shaft of an endoscope (not shown).

[0265] The first tip-side fluid channeling portion 604a can include a working channel 640a having a working channel opening 340a. The working channel 640a can be configured for inserting a medical device (such as a treatment tool) (e.g., for removing, treating, and / or extracting a sample of an object of interest found in the colon or the entire object for biopsy).

[0266] The working channel 640a can be formed as a basically cylindrical channel disposed within the first tip-side channeling portion 604a along the longitudinal direction of the endoscope and installed parallel to the first tip-side fluid channeling portion 604a.

[0267] Once an object of interest is detected, the endoscope operator may wish to insert one or more medical devices to remove, treat, and / or extract a sample of the polyp or the entire polyp for biopsy. Thus, it can be beneficial for the endoscope operator to be able to use multiple medical devices.

[0268] Advantageously, the second tip-side channeling portion 604b can include a second working channel 640b having a working channel opening 340b, which can be made similar to the working channel 640a and configured for inserting a medical device. For example, this medical device can be different from the medical device that can be inserted through the working channel 640a, but not necessarily. The operator can also select the working channel into which he wants to insert the medical device, for example, depending on the position of the polyp.

[0269] The second working channel 640b can be formed as a basically cylindrical channel disposed within the second tip-side channeling portion 604b along the longitudinal direction of the endoscope and installed parallel to the second tip-side fluid channeling portion 604b. Other structures are also possible. The first and second working channels can be made the same or different in terms of shape and size.

[0270] A second working channel 640b can be configured to improve the performance of an endoscope (especially a colonoscope). Current colonoscopes typically have one working channel that opens at the front proximal part of the colonoscope. Such a front working channel is adapted for inserting treatment instruments. Physicians are required to perform all necessary medical procedures (such as biopsies, polyp removals, and other procedures) through this one channel.

[0271] The second working channel (such as the second working channel 640b) provides greater flexibility to the endoscope operator and enables the insertion of medical devices in addition to (or instead of) medical devices that can be inserted through the working channel 640a.

[0272] This can significantly improve the performance of the endoscope, and the endoscope operator can perform more complex medical procedures using two medical devices. The second working channel 640b can better improve the access of the endoscope operator to the object of interest and provide greater flexibility to the endoscope operator regarding the operation of medical devices while observing the treatment through the forward view element 116a (Figure 2B). This significantly improves the performance of the endoscope. Furthermore, for medical procedures, two front working channels can be used simultaneously. Examples of such procedures can include surgeries that require stitching, which can be more easily performed using two instruments from two channels.

[0273] Another example of using two working channels simultaneously can include colon cleansing. When a doctor discovers that a patient's colon is not clean enough, there are usually problems. In such cases, the doctor may try to clean a part of the colon using a "jet" that exits from the front part of the tip, and in a bad situation, the doctor has to send the patient home and reschedule the appointment. According to the embodiments of the present specification, two channels can be used simultaneously for cleaning. For example, a cleaning liquid (such as water, or water containing air, etc.) can be inserted through one working channel and sucked from the second working channel. This can improve the cleaning action, which can solve or reduce the problem that the efficiency of colonoscopy is low due to the unclean colon.

[0274] Furthermore, colonoscopy performed using a colonoscope according to the embodiments of the present specification can suppress the need for the cleaning action that the patient himself currently performs before colonoscopy.

[0275] The distal fluid channeling portion 604a can further include a fluid ejection channel 644 configured to provide a high-pressure jet of fluid (such as water or physiological saline, etc.) for cleaning the wall of a body cavity (such as the colon, etc.) and optionally for suction. The distal side fluid channeling portion 604a can further include an injector channel path 647 of the injector channel 646. The injector channel path 647 can be used to mix two fluids (such as air and water), and the injector channel path 647 can carry the fluid mixture into the injector channel 646. The injector channel 646 can be configured to inject the fluid mixture to wash away contaminants such as blood, excrement, and other debris from the front optical assembly 256a (FIG. 2B) of the forward view element 116a (FIG. 2B).

[0276] The proximal fluid channeling portion 602 of the fluid channeling element 600 can include lateral injector channels 666a and 666b. The lateral injector channels 666a and 666b can be connected to a first lateral injector opening 266a and a second lateral injector opening (not visible in FIG. 2B but present on the opposite side of the opening 266), respectively.

[0277] In another embodiment, the present specification provides an endoscope including a second front working / service channel in very close proximity to the first front working / service channel. In one embodiment, the distance between the two front working / service channels ranges from 0.40 millimeter to 0.45 millimeter. In certain embodiments, the two front working / service channels can be configured to insert medical devices that can be simultaneously manipulated for a particular procedure (such as treating a tumor or a polyp). In another embodiment, one or both of the front working / service channels can be adapted to be aspirated during the procedure.

[0278] FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of the distal end of an endoscope assembly representing a fluid channeling element 645 according to an embodiment of the present specification. As shown, the fluid channeling element 645 includes a front panel 320 having a fluid ejection channel 644, an injector channel path 647, a first front working / service channel 648, and a second front working / service channel 649. In one embodiment, the diameter of the first front working / service channel 648 ranges from 3.6 millimeters to 4.0 millimeters, and the diameter of the second front working / service channel 649 ranges from 2.6 millimeters to 3.0 millimeters. In one embodiment, the diameters of the first front working / service channel 648 and the second front working / service channel 649 are 3.8 millimeters and 2.8 millimeters, respectively.

[0279] According to some embodiments similar to FIG. 2A, the front panel 320 of the fluid channeling element 645 depicted in FIG. 7 includes four quadrants defined by a vertical axis passing through the center of the front panel 320 and a horizontal axis passing through the center. The four quadrants are the upper left, upper right, lower left, and lower right quadrants. In various embodiments, the first front working / service channel 648 includes an exit port positioned substantially within the upper right quadrant of the front panel 320, and the second front working / service channel 649 includes an exit port positioned substantially within the upper left quadrant of the front panel 320.

[0280] By providing two front working / service channels, the performance of the endoscope can be significantly improved, and the endoscope operator can perform more complex medical procedures using two treatment instruments. The second working / service channel can provide better access to the object of interest by the endoscope operator and can provide the endoscope operator with greater flexibility with respect to the operation of medical devices, allowing the operator to perform the operation while viewing the procedure through the forward viewing element. This significantly improves the performance of the endoscope. Further, for medical procedures, the two front working / service channels can be used simultaneously. Examples of such procedures include surgeries that require stitching, which can be more easily performed using two instruments from the two channels.

[0281] Another example of using two working / service channels simultaneously involves colon cleansing. When a doctor discovers that a patient's colon is not clean enough, there is usually a problem. In such cases, the doctor may try to clean a part of the colon using a "spray" that exits from the front part of the tip. However, if the colon cannot be cleaned at the front nozzle, the doctor has to send the patient home and reschedule the appointment. According to the embodiments of this specification, two channels can be used simultaneously for cleaning. For example, a cleaning liquid (such as water or water containing air) can be inserted through one service channel and suctioned from the second service channel. This can improve the cleaning action, which can solve or reduce the problem that the efficiency of colonoscopy is reduced because the colon is not clean.

[0282] Furthermore, the colonoscopy performed using a colonoscope according to the embodiments of this specification can eliminate the need for the patient to perform a cleaning action currently before the colonoscopy.

[0283] Furthermore, the gastroscopy performed using a gastroscope according to the embodiments of this specification can eliminate the need for the patient to perform a cleaning action currently before the gastroscopy.

[0284] In one embodiment, a colonoscope with a front optical assembly is provided with two front working / service channels and two optical assemblies. In another embodiment, a gastroscope with a front optical assembly and one side optical assembly is provided with two front working / service channels.

[0285] According to some embodiments of this specification, a tip of a multi-view element endoscope is provided. The tip includes an integrated fluid channeling element adapted to direct fluid for a gas injection method and / or a cleaning method (hereinafter abbreviated as "I / I"). The integrated fluid channeling element includes a proximal opening adapted to receive a fluid tube. The proximal opening is in fluid communication with a front fluid channel and a side fluid channel according to one embodiment.

[0286] FIG. 8 schematically depicts a perspective view of a proximal side of an inner portion of a distal end of an endoscope according to an exemplary embodiment of the present specification, and represents inlets of various channels of the inner portion of the distal end.

[0287] The inner portion 890 of the distal end is disposed within the distal end and can be used to hold elements (injectors 364, 366a and 366b, view elements, lenses, and other elements, etc.) of the distal end of the endoscope in a fixed position. A cover (not shown in FIG. 8) is installed on the inner portion 890. After installing the cover, some elements (e.g., injectors 364, 366a and 366b, and optionally the side view element 256b) can be attached.

[0288] The inner portion 890 of the distal end can comprise several parts. In the depicted embodiment (see also FIGS. 9A and 9B), the inner portion 890 of the distal end comprises an integrated fluid channeling element 190, a central portion 192, and a front portion 194. The integrated fluid channeling element 190 can be manufactured from metal or any other material (polymer, composite material or any other suitable material, or a combination of these materials). According to some embodiments, the integrated fluid channeling element 190 can generally comprise two parts, a proximal side fluid channeling element part 190a and a distal side fluid channeling element part 190b. The proximal side fluid channeling element part 190a can be basically cylindrical in shape. The distal side integrated fluid channeling element part 190b can be partially continuous with the cylindrical shape of the proximal side fluid channeling element part 190a. The distal side integrated fluid channeling element part 190b can be made as a part of a cylindrical shape (optionally a part of an elongated cylindrical shape) having only a fragment (along the height axis of the cylinder) of the cylinder, and other fragments of the cylinder are missing.

[0289] The distal fluid channeling element portion 190b can be integrally formed together with the proximal fluid channeling element portion 190a. The height of the distal fluid channeling element portion 190b can be made higher than the height of the proximal fluid channeling portion 190a. In an embodiment including the distal fluid channeling element portion 190b, a space for accommodating the central portion 192 can be created by the shape of a partial cylinder (for example, a partial cylinder having only a cylindrical-shaped fragment along one side of the height axis). The central portion 192 can include electronic elements as well as optical elements (for example, light source means such as an LED, viewing elements (for example, CCD or CMOS), lenses, and other elements). Therefore, this structure of the inner portion 890 of the distal end can be adapted to separate the fluid channels and working channels arranged in the fluid channeling element 190 from sensitive electronic components and optical components positioned in the central portion 192.

[0290] On the proximal surface 191 of the integrated fluid channeling element 190, there is a proximal opening 144 of the fluid ejection channel that connects to the proximal opening of the ejection channel. A fluid tube (not shown in FIG. 8 for simplicity) can be inserted into the distal opening of the fluid ejection channel and adhered to the distal opening. The fluid ejection tube is passed through a flexible shaft and used to carry fluid into the body cavity.

[0291] On the proximal surface 191 of the integrated fluid channeling element 190, there is a proximal opening 165 of the working channel that connects to the proximal opening 340 (FIG. 9B) of the working channel. A tube / instrument of the working channel can be inserted into the distal opening 165 of the working channel and optionally adhered to the distal opening 165. The working channel is attached to a flexible shaft and used to carry a treatment tool into the body cavity. The working channel can also be used to suck fluid from the body cavity.

[0292] On the proximal surface 191 of the integrated fluid channeling element 190, there is an electrical cable opening 150 for an electrical cable. Connect the electrical cable at its distal end to electronic elements (such as a camera) and a light source inside the distal end of the endoscope. Pass the electrical cable through the flexible shaft to transmit power and command signals to the distal end and to transmit the video signal displayed to the user from the camera.

[0293] On the proximal surface 191 of the integrated fluid channeling element 190, there is a proximal I / I tube opening 891 for the gas tube 892 and the liquid tube 893 (see FIG. 9A). The gas tube and the liquid tube can be inserted into and adhered to the proximal opening 110 of the I / I channel manifold that carries the cleaning liquid to the I / I injectors 364, 366a, and 366b. The gas tube and the liquid tube (such as the gas tube 892 and the liquid tube 893) can be passed through the flexible shaft. The gas tube and the liquid tube can be used to carry fluid (gas and / or liquid) to the I / I injectors 364, 366a, and 366b for cleaning the optical surface of the distal end of the endoscope and for expanding the body cavity. The gas tube and the liquid tube (such as the gas tube 892 and the liquid tube 893) can also be joined into one tube and connected to the distal end as one tube.

[0294] Naturally, it is important to keep the dimensions of the distal end of the endoscope small. The sensor, the lens, the electrical cable, at least one working channel, and the plurality of fluid channels are present in the narrow region of the distal end of the endoscope. In contrast to endoscopes with a technique where each fluid tube is directed to its respective destination, the embodiments of the present specification provide an I / I channel manifold that supplies cleaning liquid and gas to a plurality of I / I injectors.

[0295] FIG. 8 generally depicts the integrated fluid channeling element 190 and represents its proximal surface 191, while the following figures depict some specific exemplary embodiments of the I / I channel manifold and the body (such as a cylinder) according to the embodiments included in the entire scope of the present specification.

[0296] FIG. 9A schematically depicts a partially disassembled distal end 230a of an endoscope having an I / I channel manifold into the interior of an integrated fluid channeling element 894, in accordance with a first exemplary embodiment of the present specification.

[0297] Cover 196a is designed to fit over the inner portion 890a (of the distal end) and is designed to protect the internal elements within the inner portion. The holes 164’, 340’, 344’, 242a’, 336’, 242b’, 256b’, 252b’ and 166b’ of cover 196a are aligned respectively with corresponding elements and channel openings 164, 165, 144, 242a, 336, 242b, 256b, 252b and 366b of the inner component 890a. Optional groove 370b of cover 196a allows cleaning fluid from injector 366b to reach and clean the front face 252b of the side viewing view element. Although not shown in this figure, on the other side of inner portion 100a there are grooves and holes of cover 196a aligned respectively with corresponding elements and channel openings.

[0298] After fitting and attaching cover 196a over inner portion 890a, injectors 364, 366b and 366a can be inserted respectively through corresponding front holes 164’, first side holes 166b’ and opposite side holes of cover 196a into corresponding front openings 164, first side openings 166b and opposite side openings of integrated fluid channeling element 894. Preferably, injectors 364, 366a and 366b are made removable from the corresponding openings for cleaning the endoscope after use. Optionally, injectors 364, 366a and 366b can be made replaceable or disposable. Optionally, especially when the integrated fluid channeling element and nozzle are made of metal, a nozzle (such as nozzle 348 or any other nozzle, see FIGS. 2A and 2B) can be inserted into an insulating portion (such as plastic) within the opening of the integrated fluid channeling element (such as integrated fluid channeling element 894) to improve electrical insulation.

[0299] In the first exemplary embodiment of the present specification, the front opening 164, the first side opening 166b, and the opposite opening are connected to the proximal side opening 891 for the gas tube 892 and the liquid tube 893 through the I / I manifold channels of the integrated fluid channeling element 894. The distal side opening 344' is an opening of a fluid ejection channel that can be used to wash the wall of a body cavity (such as the colon) and optionally for suction to provide a high-pressure jet of fluid (such as water or physiological saline)...

Claims

**Claim 1** An endoscope system comprising: a distal tip having a first image capturing element and a second image capturing element; at least one actuator that generates a video processing command when activated; said endoscope system; a controller comprising: transmitting at least one command to the first image capturing element and the second image capturing element; receiving a first image feed from the first image capturing element; receiving a second image feed from the second image capturing element; processing the first image feed and the second image feed; a video processing system adapted to; said controller; a display system comprising: receiving at least one processed image feed from the video processing system; visually displaying a single integrated image feed including a first portion of the first image feed and a second portion of the second image feed; a single monitor adapted to; said display system; wherein: a first field of view of the first image capturing element at least partially overlaps a second field of view of the second image capturing element; the video processing system identifies an overlap between the first portion of the first image feed and the second portion of the second image feed and eliminates the overlap to remove redundancy in the single integrated image feed; when the single integrated image feed is displayed on the single monitor, an upper edge of the second image feed is angled with respect to an upper edge of the first image feed. An endoscope examination display system. **Claim 2** The endoscope examination display system according to claim 1, wherein the single integrated image feed includes an overlapping portion of the first image feed and the second image feed. **Claim 3** The endoscope examination display system according to claim 1, wherein the controller is further adapted to receive a third image feed from a third image capturing element. **Claim 4** The single monitor displays the first image feed disposed at the center on the single monitor, the second image feed disposed to the right of the image feed disposed at the center, and the third image feed disposed to the left of the image feed disposed at the center. When the actuator generates the video processing command, the endoscopic examination display system according to claim 3 changes the positions of the respective image feeds so that the second image feed is disposed at the center, the first image feed is disposed to the right, and the third image feed is disposed to the left.

5. The single monitor displays the first image feed disposed at the center on the single monitor, the second image feed disposed to the right of the image feed disposed at the center, and the third image feed disposed to the left of the image feed disposed at the center. When the actuator generates the video processing command, the endoscopic examination display system according to claim 3 changes the positions of the respective image feeds so that the third image feed is disposed at the center, the first image feed is disposed to the left, and the second image feed is disposed to the right.

6. In response to the video processing command, the video processing system zooms in on a portion of the at least one processed image feed, the endoscopic examination display system according to claim 1.

7. The zoomed-in portion of the at least one processed image feed is emphasized during zooming, the endoscopic examination display system according to claim 6.

8. In response to the video processing command, the video processing system records only a portion of the at least one processed image feed, the endoscopic examination display system according to claim 1.

9. The recorded portion is emphasized during recording, the endoscopic examination display system according to claim 8.

10. In response to the video processing command, the video processing system freezes only a portion of the at least one processed image feed, the endoscopic examination display system according to claim 1.

11. The frozen portion is emphasized during freezing, the endoscopic examination display system according to claim 10.

12. The endoscopic examination display system according to claim 1, wherein in response to the video processing command, the video processing system simultaneously records two portions of the at least one processed image feed.

13. The endoscopic examination display system according to claim 12, wherein the two recorded portions of the at least one processed image feed are emphasized during recording.

14. The video processing system changes the position of each of the first portion of the first image feed and the second portion of the second image feed, zooms in on at least one of the first portion of the first image feed and the second portion of the second image feed, records at least one of the first portion of the first image feed and the second portion of the second image feed, freezes at least one of the first portion of the first image feed and the second portion of the second image feed, emphasizes one of the first portion of the first image feed and the second portion of the second image feed, or superimposes a movement indicator on the at least one processed image feed The endoscopic examination display system according to claim 1, adapted to process the first image feed and the second image feed according to a video processing command that causes at least one of the above to occur.

15. The video processing system is adapted to emphasize a portion of the single integrated image feed based on user input by a handle, The endoscopic examination display system according to claim 1, wherein execution of a predetermined video processing command is prohibited when the video processing system does not emphasize a specific portion of the single integrated image feed.

16. The endoscopic examination display system according to claim 1, wherein the first image capturing element is disposed on the front surface of the distal end side tip portion, and the second image capturing element is disposed on the first side portion of the distal end side tip portion.

17. The endoscopic examination display system according to claim 1, wherein the video processing system combined with the display system tilts a first portion of the single integrated image feed toward the right side of the single monitor and tilts a second portion of the single integrated image feed toward the left side of the single monitor.

18. The endoscopic examination display system according to claim 1, wherein the video processing system in combination with the display system is adapted to generate and display patient data that is separable and distinguishable from the single integrated image feed.

19. The endoscopic examination display system according to claim 1, wherein the original aspect ratio of the single integrated image feed is 4:3 or 5:4.

Images