Rotary Two-Way Bronchoscopy Valve for Suction and Insufflation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current endoscopic procedures require unnecessary time and cause trauma due to the need to switch between suction and insufflation, as existing devices do not allow for simultaneous application of both functions during bronchoscopy.
Innovation Solution
A two-way valve assembly with a knob, valve body, and spring mechanism that allows for seamless switching between suction and insufflation by rotating the knob to change fluid communication paths, enabling simultaneous application of suction and gas supply through the endoscope.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a single-function valve is used for either suction or insufflation, then the device structure is simple, but the procedural time increases and patient trauma increases due to switching between functions
Solution Approach 1:
The valve assembly is designed to perform multiple functions (suction and insufflation) through a single integrated structure. The valve body contains multiple passages (first inlet passage for suction, second inlet passage for insufflation, and common outlet passage) that can be selectively connected to the outlet by rotating the valve core, allowing one device to replace what would traditionally require separate suction and insufflation valves.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve core is designed to be rotatable relative to the valve body, allowing dynamic switching between different functional positions. The rotation mechanism enables the valve to transition between a first position (suction mode) and a second position (insufflation mode), providing operational flexibility without requiring multiple static valve components.
2Reliability
If suction and insufflation are performed separately with different devices, then each device can be optimized for its specific function, but the overall procedure requires more time and causes extra trauma
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines suction and insufflation functions into a single valve assembly. The valve body integrates multiple passages for both functions, and the rotatable valve core allows selective connection of either the first inlet passage (suction) or second inlet passage (insufflation) to the common outlet passage, enabling both functions to be performed through one unified device rather than requiring separate devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve assembly is pre-configured with all necessary passages and sealing elements to handle both suction and insufflation functions. The guide pins and guide grooves are预先 positioned to ensure proper alignment and sealing when the valve core rotates between positions, allowing immediate switching between functions without requiring additional setup or adjustment actions during the procedure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a rotatable valve mechanism is implemented for function switching, then simultaneous suction and insufflation is enabled, but the valve structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The valve core acts as an intermediary rotating element that mediates between the inlet passages and outlet passage. By rotating the valve core, the operator can selectively connect either the first inlet passage or second inlet passage to the common outlet passage, enabling function switching without requiring complex multiple-valve mechanisms or complicated flow control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the rotational switching function from a potentially complex multi-valve system and isolates it into a single rotatable valve core component. This extracted rotation mechanism, combined with the integrated passage structure, simplifies the overall valve assembly while maintaining the ability to switch between suction and insufflation functions.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient and minimally invasive bronchoscopy procedures by allowing medical professionals to apply suction and insufflation as needed without interrupting the process, reducing procedural time and trauma.
Implementation Method 1
The spring applies force to press the side wall of the knob barrel against an inner surface of the valve well
Implementation Method 2
the inlet opening in the knob barrel forms a seal with the first inlet passage in the valve body and the outlet opening in the knob barrel forms a seal with the outlet passage in the valve body
Data Source
AI summary
Devices, systems, and methods for a two-way valve assembly for a medical device. The two-way valve assembly has a knob seated within a valve body, two inlet passages leading to a suction source and a gas source, an outlet passage leading to an endoscope fluid channel, and an internal channel connecting one of the two inlet passages to the outlet passage. A spring presses the knob into the valve body to seal the openings along the channels and passages. Rotating the knob slides one or more guide pins on the knob along one or more guide grooves on the body and connects the other inlet passage to the outlet passage, such that the same endoscope fluid channel can be used both for suction, as in clearing fluid from within a patient, and delivering gas, as in insufflation.