Endoscope Conduit with Localized Projections for Stable Instrument Insertion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional endoscopes face challenges in maintaining a stable insertion and suction force when using a treatment instrument insertion channel as both a conduit for treatment and suction, due to the need for a larger diameter which can lead to misalignment and reduced operability.
Innovation Solution
The endoscope features a conduit with strategically placed projecting and recessed portions on its inner surface, ensuring a consistent inner diameter and preventing suction force reduction while allowing stable insertion and holding of treatment instruments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the inner diameter of the conduit is increased to ensure high suction force, then the suction capability is improved, but the treatment instrument may not advance stably in the conduit due to large gaps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing projecting portions at specific locations on the inner circumference of the conduit rather than uniformly increasing the conduit diameter. This allows the conduit to maintain a large overall diameter for high suction force while having localized restrictions that prevent treatment instrument misalignment. The projecting portions create localized contact points that guide the treatment instrument without reducing the overall suction capability of the conduit.
2Ease of operation
If the inner diameter of the conduit is increased to allow treatment instrument insertion, then the operability is improved, but the suction force is reduced due to larger diameter
Solution Approach 1:
The conduit is designed with projecting portions at specific locations that provide localized guidance for the treatment instrument, improving operability without requiring a uniform increase in diameter. This maintains the conduit's overall large diameter for high suction force while creating localized features that ensure stable instrument advancement and positioning.
3Ease of operation
If projecting portions are provided on the inner surface of the conduit to restrict radial movements, then the treatment instrument operability is improved, but the suction force may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The projecting portions are strategically positioned on the inner circumference of the conduit to provide localized guidance and radial restriction only where needed for treatment instrument stability. The majority of the conduit cross-section remains open, preserving the large diameter necessary for high suction force. This selective placement ensures operability improvement without significant suction force reduction.
Data Source
AI summary
An endoscope of the disclosure includes an insertion section including a conduit having an inner surface. The inner surface comprises a first projecting portion provided at a first position, and a second projecting portion provided at a second position. In a longitudinal direction of the insertion section, the first position is different from the second position.