Elastic Cover Removal Jig for Endoscope Tip Detachment
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing endoscope systems face difficulties in efficiently removing the tip cover due to its sticky nature after use, which can lead to slipping and make the detachment process cumbersome, especially when stained with body fluids.
Innovation Solution
A cover removal jig is designed with an enclosing portion that fits around the tip cover and a cylinder with elasticity, allowing it to come into close contact with the insertion portion's outer surface, facilitating the detachment by applying force through a grip handle with anti-slip features, thereby improving the workability and ease of removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the tip cover is detached manually after use, then the detachment process can be simple, but the sticky nature of the tip cover causes slipping and makes the process cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a cover removal jig as an intermediary tool between the operator's hand and the tip cover. The jig includes a holding portion with a cylindrical shape that fits over the tip cover, and an elastic member that provides gripping force. This intermediary device solves the slipping problem by providing a stable mechanical interface that can reliably grip the sticky tip cover without direct hand contact.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover removal jig is divided into distinct functional segments: a holding portion that contacts the tip cover, an elastic member that provides gripping force, and a handle portion that the operator controls. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function - the holding portion for reliable grip, the elastic member for adaptive force application, and the handle for operator control.
2Productivity
If force is applied to remove the sticky tip cover, then the detachment efficiency improves, but the sticky surface causes the applied force to be ineffective due to slipping
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic member acts as a mediator that translates the operator's input force into effective gripping force on the tip cover. The elastic deformation of this member allows it to adapt to the tip cover's surface and maintain reliable contact, ensuring that applied force is effectively transmitted without slipping.
3Ease of operation
If a specialized tool is introduced to improve tip cover removal, then the workability and safety improve, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The jig is segmented into simple, distinct components that can be manufactured separately and assembled. The holding portion, elastic member, and handle portion are separate elements with clear functional boundaries, making the overall device simpler to manufacture and maintain despite its specialized function.
Solution Approach 2:
The jig applies local quality by concentrating the complex functional elements (elastic member, holding portion with specific geometry) only where needed for tip cover interaction, while the handle portion remains simple for operator control. This localized complexity minimizes overall device complexity while achieving the desired functionality.
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
The cover removal jig enhances the ease and efficiency of removing the tip cover from the endoscope by preventing slipping and allowing for effective application of force, making the process cleaner and safer for operators.
Implementation Method 1
a cylinder connected to the first enclosing portion, capable of coming into close contact with a part of an outer surface of the insertion portion, and having elasticity
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosed technology is directed to a cover removal jig for an endoscope that removes a tip cover applied to a distal end of an insertion section of an endoscope. The cover removal jig includes an enclosing portion and a cylinder connected to the enclosing portion. The enclosing portion is to be applied to the tip cover to surround its circumference, and has a portion engageable with the tip cover. The cylinder is made from elastic material and capable to come into close contact with a part of an outer surface of the insertion section.