Endoscopic Capsule Delivery Retention Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for delivering image capturing capsules through the human body are hindered by difficulties in swallowing and delayed passage, leading to incomplete image capture due to capsule size and battery life issues, especially in patients with anatomical abnormalities or mechanical dysphagia.
Innovation Solution
A device with a retention and expulsion mechanism that allows for direct delivery of capsules to targeted locations within the body, using a handle, tube, and cable system to securely hold and release the capsule during endoscopic procedures, ensuring effective capsule placement and image capture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a capsule is delivered through the endoscope instrument channel, then the capsule can be transported through the esophagus, but the capsule cannot be delivered if the patient cannot swallow it or has anatomical abnormalities
Solution Approach 1:
The delivery device acts as an intermediary carrier that holds the capsule and transports it through the endoscope to the target location. The device includes a retention unit that secures the capsule and a release mechanism that delivers it to the stomach or small intestine, enabling delivery to patients who cannot swallow the capsule independently
Solution Approach 2:
The delivery system is divided into separate functional components: the endoscope for navigation, the retention unit for capsule securing, and the release mechanism for targeted delivery. This segmentation allows the capsule to be delivered passively through the endoscope channel without requiring the patient to swallow it actively
2Reliability
If the capsule is made larger to improve image capturing capabilities, then the image quality improves, but the capsule cannot pass through the endoscope instrument channel
Solution Approach 1:
The capsule is nested within the delivery device's retention unit, which itself is transported through the endoscope channel. This nested arrangement allows the capsule to be larger than the endoscope channel diameter while still being deliverable, as the retention unit facilitates passage through its structured design
3Device complexity
If the capsule is delivered passively without retention control, then the delivery process is simple, but the capsule may be expelled too early or not reach the target location
Solution Approach 1:
The retention unit incorporates a dynamic release mechanism that transitions from a retained state during delivery to an expelled state at the target location. The mechanism is activated by manipulation of the endoscope or delivery device, providing controlled release at the desired location while maintaining simplicity in the overall delivery process
Data Source
AI summary
A device for delivering an apparatus or object to a targeted location within a human subject is disclosed. The device includes a body, a handle mounted to and movable relative to the body, a tube, a cable, and retention unit. The tube has a first end fixed to the body and a second end fixed to the retention unit. The cable has a first end fixed to the handle and a second end remote from the body. The cable extends substantially through the tube. The retention unit applies a retention force sufficient to retain the capsule during endoscopic delivery to the targeted release location. Manipulation of the handle in a direction relative to the retention unit generates a force on the apparatus greater than the retention force. A method of use is also disclosed.