Articulating Sheath for Flexible Endoscope Steering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscopic instruments face limitations in maneuverability due to their limited range of motion, making it difficult to navigate acute angles, which can cause patient discomfort and increase the risk of tissue trauma, and are often laborious and costly to use.
Innovation Solution
A sheath with an elongate shaft and multiple pairs of links, connected by cables, allows for manual manipulation from the proximal end to remotely steer and guide the insertion tube at the distal end, enabling greater flexibility and ease of use by forming complex three-dimensional configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional flexible endoscopes are used, then the instrument can be easily inserted, but the range of motion is limited making it difficult to navigate acute angles
Solution Approach 1:
The sheath is divided into multiple articulated segments or links connected by flexible joints, allowing each segment to move independently relative to the others. This segmentation enables the distal end of the sheath to achieve a wider range of motion and navigate acute angles while the proximal end remains stable for easy insertion and manipulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The sheath incorporates dynamic articulation mechanisms that allow the structure to change its configuration from a straight state during insertion to articulated configurations during manipulation. The flexible joints and links enable real-time adaptation to different anatomical pathways, providing both ease of insertion and extended range of motion.
2Adaptability or versatility
If steerable endoscopes with wires and pulleys are used, then the range of motion is improved, but the device becomes laborious and expensive to use
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates the complex wire actuation systems, pulleys, and knobs from the design. Instead of using multiple wires running through the sheath that require separate manipulation, the patent uses a simplified link-based articulation system that achieves steerable motion through a more intuitive manipulation mechanism at the proximal end.
Solution Approach 2:
The sheath employs a simpler, more cost-effective articulation mechanism using links and flexible joints rather than expensive wire-based steerable systems. The design prioritizes ease of manufacture and operational simplicity, reducing the complexity and cost while maintaining improved range of motion.
3Stability of the object's composition
If rigid endoscopes are used, then the structure is stable, but the maneuverability is limited with little ability to navigate independently
Solution Approach 1:
The sheath is segmented into multiple links connected by flexible joints, allowing the structure to maintain stability in its proximal portion while enabling maneuverability at the distal end. The articulated segments can be stabilized during insertion then independently maneuvered during manipulation, combining structural stability with enhanced maneuverability.
Solution Approach 2:
The sheath transitions from a rigid, stable structure during insertion to a dynamically articulated structure during manipulation. The flexible joints and links enable the distal end to navigate acute angles and change direction independently while the proximal end maintains structural integrity for stable manipulation.
4Adaptability or versatility
If complex wire actuation mechanisms are used, then the range of motion is improved, but the device becomes expensive to maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes the complex wire actuation mechanisms, pulleys, and associated components that require expensive maintenance. The simplified link-based articulation system with flexible joints reduces the number of moving parts that can fail, thereby lowering maintenance costs while preserving improved range of motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The sheath uses a more cost-effective articulation mechanism that is easier to manufacture and maintain. The link and joint construction avoids the expensive wire-based systems, reducing both initial manufacturing costs and long-term maintenance expenses while achieving the desired range of motion.
Data Source
AI summary
A sheath useful for remote steering, guidance and/or manipulation of a flexible instrument, including e.g. an endoscope, received through the sheath.