Endoscope Branch Channel Rotation Restriction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscope designs face challenges in preventing rotation of branch channels during operation, which can lead to tilting forces being applied to the fixing sections, potentially compromising the watertightness and stability of the system.
Innovation Solution
A configuration that includes a rotation restriction portion fitted into a notch on the connecting tube, which prevents the branch channel connection unit from rotating, thereby reducing tilting forces applied to the fixing section, ensuring water tightness and stability by scattering the tilting force over a longer length.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the branch channel is connected to the main channel in the operation portion, then the branch channel can supply treatment instruments or ultrasound transmission medium, but the branch channel may rotate during operation causing tilting forces that compromise watertightness and stability
Solution Approach 1:
The branch channel connection structure is divided into multiple functional segments: the connecting tube with notch for rotational constraint, the branch channel connection unit with rotation restriction portion, and the fixing section. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while collectively preventing rotation and maintaining watertightness.
Solution Approach 2:
The notch in the connecting tube and the rotation restriction portion are designed with asymmetric geometries that engage in a specific orientation. This asymmetric design prevents the branch channel connection unit from rotating relative to the connecting tube, thereby eliminating tilting forces that would compromise the fixing section's watertightness.
2Ease of operation
If the branch channel is allowed to rotate during operation, then the operator can adjust the position, but tilting forces are applied to the fixing section causing potential leakage
Solution Approach 1:
The rotation restriction portion and notch are designed to engage before operation begins, creating preliminary mechanical constraint that prevents rotation. This preliminary anti-action counteracts any potential tilting forces that would otherwise be applied to the fixing section during subsequent operational movements.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotation restriction portion acts as an intermediary mechanical element between the branch channel connection unit and the connecting tube. It mediates the interaction by providing rotational constraint while allowing the branch channel to remain connected, thereby preventing harmful tilting forces without compromising connectivity.
3Reliability
If a rotation restriction mechanism is added to prevent branch channel rotation, then watertightness is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rotation restriction function is merged into the existing connecting tube and branch channel connection unit structures. The notch is formed as part of the connecting tube, and the rotation restriction portion is integrated into the branch channel connection unit, eliminating the need for separate rotation prevention components and reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting tube serves multiple functions: it connects the branch channel to the main channel, provides structural support, and through its integrated notch, prevents rotation. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components, thereby maintaining simplicity while improving watertightness.
Data Source
AI summary
An endoscope includes an insertion portion; an operation portion; a balloon water injection channel; a first opening portion; a balloon pipe sleeve provided with a first end portion and a second end portion; a branch channel connection unit; a rotation restriction portion; and a connecting tube on which the branch channel connection unit is assembled.