Endoscope Sheath Channel Switching for Incision and Irrigation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscope treatment tools face challenges in efficiently switching between fluid delivery modes for both incision and irrigation processes, requiring multiple tools or complex operations.
Innovation Solution
The endoscope treatment tool incorporates a sheath with a dual-channel design, allowing a single tool to switch between modes for fluid delivery through a main flow channel and additional channels for incision, facilitated by a slider mechanism for the incision device, enabling seamless transitions between incision and irrigation processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single endoscope treatment tool is used for both incision and irrigation processes, then tool complexity is reduced and ease of operation is improved, but the ability to efficiently switch between fluid delivery modes becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The treatment tool is segmented into multiple independent channels: a first channel for incision fluid delivery and a second channel for irrigation fluid delivery. Each channel can be independently controlled, allowing the tool to perform multiple functions while maintaining operational simplicity through modular channel design.
Solution Approach 2:
The treatment tool is designed with multi-functionality to perform both incision and irrigation processes using a single device. The sheath incorporates multiple channels that can be selectively activated, enabling the tool to serve universal purposes in different surgical modes without requiring tool changes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple channels are incorporated in the sheath for different fluid delivery modes, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sheath is divided into separate functional channels: a first channel extending from the distal end for incision fluid delivery and a second channel for irrigation fluid delivery. This segmentation allows each channel to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall system adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The incision device is inserted within the first channel of the sheath, creating a nested structure where the incision device resides inside the sheath's first channel. This nesting arrangement allows compact integration of multiple functional components within the single sheath structure, enhancing adaptability without proportionally increasing external complexity.
3Ease of operation
If the incision device is inserted in the first channel and can be positioned at different locations, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The incision device is designed to be movable within the first channel, allowing dynamic positioning between a first position where the incision device contacts the sheath and a second position where it is retracted. This dynamic adjustability enables easy switching between operational modes while the mechanical guidance within the channel constrains movement to prevent excessive complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
An endoscope treatment tool includes a sheath and an incision device. The sheath includes a distal end portion having a first channel. The first channel extends internal to the distal end portion between a distal opening at a distal end surface of the distal end portion and a proximal opening at a main flow chamber. The incision device is inserted in the first channel and includes a second channel extending between a distal end of the incision device and a proximal end of the incision device. The endoscope treatment tool is switchable between a first mode and a second mode. In the first mode, a first path for fluid is formed between the main flow chamber and the first channel. In the second mode, a second path for fluid is formed between the main flow chamber and the second channel.