Integrated Endoscope Control Lever for Single-Handed Stone Retrieval
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscope systems require multiple operators to control the endoscope and stone retrieval devices simultaneously, limiting the surgeon's ability to perform procedures independently and increasing the risk of losing stone fragments during retrieval.
Innovation Solution
A medical apparatus with an endoscopic tool featuring first and second members that are longitudinally slidable relative to each other, integrated with a control system that includes a housing and actuation mechanism, allowing for single-handed control of both the endoscope deflection and basket deployment/retrieval through a combined lever mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple operators are used to control endoscope and stone retrieval devices simultaneously, then the control precision and operational reliability are improved, but the device complexity and operational coordination requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the endoscope control lever and basket actuation mechanism into a single integrated control system. The lever includes both a deflection control portion for controlling the endoscope bending section and a basket actuator portion for controlling the basket device, allowing one operator to control both functions simultaneously through a unified mechanical interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The control lever is designed as a multi-functional device that performs both endoscope deflection control and basket deployment/retrieval operations. This universal control mechanism eliminates the need for separate control systems and multiple operators, while maintaining full control capabilities for both functions.
2Ease of operation
If a single operator controls both endoscope and basket device, then the operational simplicity and independence are improved, but the control precision and coordination accuracy may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The control lever merges endoscope deflection control and basket actuation into a single mechanical interface, allowing the operator to control both functions with one hand while maintaining precise control over each function through dedicated control portions on the lever.
3Measurement precision
If separate control systems are used for endoscope and basket device, then the control precision for each function is maintained, but the need for multiple operators and coordination increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates separate control functions into a unified lever mechanism that maintains distinct control pathways for endoscope deflection and basket actuation. The lever includes a deflection control portion connected to the endoscope bending section and a basket actuator portion connected to the basket device, preserving functional independence while consolidating the control interface.
4Reliability
If assistant personnel are required for basket deployment and retrieval, then the operational safety and precision are improved, but the procedural efficiency and surgeon independence deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated control lever enables the surgeon to independently perform all basket deployment and retrieval operations without requiring assistant personnel. The lever's basket actuator portion allows the surgeon to control the basket device directly while maintaining control of the endoscope, eliminating the need for additional operators and improving procedural efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
A medical apparatus including an endoscopic tool including first and second members longitudinally slidable relative to each other; and a control connected to a proximal end of the endoscopic tool. The control includes a housing and an actuation mechanism. The actuation mechanism is longitudinally slidably connected to the housing. The actuation mechanism has the first member and/or the second member connected thereto. The housing includes a connector configured to removably connect the housing to a control section of an endoscope.