Borescope articulation control mechanisms and related systems and methods

The articulation control mechanism with a pivotable and rotatable spherical element and automatic braking system addresses the challenge of precise tip manipulation in borescopes, enabling intuitive and efficient control without continuous user input.

WO2026128873A1PCT designated stage Publication Date: 2026-06-18XENOCOR
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
XENOCOR
Filing Date
2025-12-12
Publication Date
2026-06-18

AI Technical Summary

⚠Technical Problem

Existing borescopes lack efficient articulation control mechanisms that allow for precise and intuitive manipulation of the articulable tip, and they often require continuous user input to maintain the desired orientation, which can be cumbersome during medical procedures.

⚗Method used

The implementation of an articulation control mechanism featuring a pivotable and rotatable spherical element with an automatic braking system, allowing for non-binary braking modulation through adjustable frictional interfaces, which locks the articulable tip in place upon release, enabling precise control and reducing the need for continuous user input.

🎯Benefits of technology

The solution provides precise and intuitive control over the articulable tip, allowing for easier manipulation and maintaining the desired orientation without continuous user input, enhancing the usability and efficiency of borescopes in medical procedures.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

Borescopes, such as laparoscopes and endoscopes, configured with articulation control mechanisms and / or automatic braking / locking features. In some preferred embodiments, a borescope may comprise an articulation control mechanism comprising an articulation control piece, such as a spherical or partially spherical element which may protrude from a surface of the handle of the scope. The articulation control piece may be pivotable and / or rotatable to cause a corresponding bending / articulation of a portion of a shaft of the scope, such as the tip. Preferably, the articulation control piece further comprises an automatic braking system configured to automatically re-seat the control piece once a user releases it to lock the articulable portion of the scope in its current orientation.
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