Endoscope Actuation Handle for One-Handed Accessory Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Endoscopic procedures often require operators to rely on assistants to actuate accessory devices, limiting the operator's ability to control both the endoscope and accessory devices simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
An actuation device with a device body, an operable mechanism, and a fastener that allows a single hand to operate both endoscope controls and accessory devices, featuring a first and second fixation mechanism for elongate members, enabling independent movement of these members relative to each other and attachment to an endoscope.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If an operator relies on assistants to actuate accessory devices, then the operator can focus on endoscope control, but the operator cannot independently control both the endoscope and accessory devices simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the endoscope holder and accessory device actuator into a single integrated device body. The first fixation mechanism secures the endoscope while the second fixation mechanism and operable mechanism control the accessory device, allowing one-handed operation of both devices simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The device body serves multiple functions: it holds the endoscope via the first fixation mechanism, actuates the accessory device via the second fixation mechanism and operable mechanism, and provides a unified interface for controlling both devices. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate control mechanisms.
2Productivity
If a single hand operates both endoscope controls and accessory devices, then procedural efficiency increases, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The actuation device is segmented into distinct functional components: a first fixation mechanism for the endoscope, a second fixation mechanism for the accessory device, and an operable mechanism for actuation. These segments are integrated into a unified device body that enables independent control of both devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The device body acts as an intermediary structure that interfaces with both the endoscope and accessory device. It provides mechanical coupling through fixation mechanisms and transmits operator input through the operable mechanism to control the accessory device while maintaining endoscope stability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the accessory device elongate members are fixed relative to each other, then the device structure is simpler, but the accessory device cannot be actuated independently
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic fixation system where the second fixation mechanism allows relative movement between the first and second elongate members. The operable mechanism enables independent actuation of the accessory device by moving the second elongate member relative to the first, while the fixation mechanisms maintain secure attachment during operation.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides an actuation device that comprises: (a) a device body that comprises a first fixation mechanism configured to affix a proximal end of a first elongate member of an accessory device to the device body, (b) an actuator that comprises an operable mechanism and a second fixation mechanism configured to affix a proximal end of a second elongate member of the accessory device to the actuator, wherein the operable mechanism is configured to move the second elongate member relative to the first elongate member, and (c) a fastener configured to attach the device body to an endoscope. The present disclosure further provides endoscopic systems comprising an actuation device of this type in an assembly with an endoscope and an accessory device, and also provides kits that comprise an actuation device of this type and one or more accessory devices.