Endoscope Coupling Member for Precise Tube-to-Handle Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscopes, particularly duodenoscopes, face challenges in assembly efficiency and cost due to complex arrangements and difficulty in maintaining precise angular orientation of the insertion tube with respect to the handle, which is crucial for intuitive operation and alignment of the camera and tool lifting mechanism.
Innovation Solution
A coupling member with a threaded sector engaging the helical member of the insertion tube and surface features on the handle parts ensures precise angular positioning, allowing for easy assembly and secure attachment to the handle, using a system of interlocking ribs and a hoop for stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a complex arrangement of multiple mouth rings and parts is used to secure the insertion tube to the handle, then the connection strength is improved, but the assembly complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate components (mouth rings, securing parts, coupling elements) into a single integrated coupling member. This coupling member includes a proximal end with external threading for engagement with the helical member, a distal end for engagement with the handle, and intermediate securing features all in one piece, thereby reducing assembly steps while maintaining connection strength
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling member performs multiple functions simultaneously: it secures the insertion tube to the handle, provides rotational positioning through engagement features, ensures longitudinal alignment through the threaded engagement, and acts as a structural connector. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate components for each function
2Reliability
If multiple mouth rings and securing parts are used to attach the insertion tube, then the attachment reliability is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple separate parts into a single coupling member, the patent reduces the total number of components that need to be manufactured, stored, and assembled. This single piece approach maintains reliable attachment through its integrated threading and engagement features while lowering manufacturing complexity and cost
3Adaptability or versatility
If the camera and exit port are positioned at an angle perpendicular to the insertion tube axis, then the tool guiding capability is improved, but the assembly precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling member includes pre-formed engagement features (threaded sections, coupling elements, positioning protrusions) that are manufactured at specific angular orientations during the single piece formation process. These features pre-establish the correct angular relationship between the insertion tube and camera assembly, eliminating the need for precision alignment during final assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling member acts as an intermediary component that translates the angular positioning requirements into mechanical engagement features. The threaded engagement with the helical member and the coupling elements with the handle work together to maintain the perpendicular orientation, serving as a mechanical mediator that ensures precision without requiring precise manual alignment
4Stability of the object's composition
If the insertion tube is secured with threaded engagement and coupling elements, then the connection stability is improved, but the assembly time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling member integrates the threaded engagement section, coupling elements, and positioning features into a single component that can be installed in one operation. This eliminates the need to assemble multiple separate securing parts sequentially, reducing assembly time while maintaining stable connection through the integrated design
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Facilitates low-cost, efficient assembly of endoscopes with precise angular alignment, ensuring correct operation and reducing material costs while maintaining the integrity of the camera and tool lifting mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
said first sector is provided with a thread adapted to engage the inside of a wound helical member of an insertion tube
Implementation Method 2
said second sector comprises surface features distributed along the circumference and adapted to engage rotation preventing features within the endoscope handle
Data Source
AI summary
An endoscope including a coupling member (19) for coupling an insertion tube of the endoscope to an endoscope handle. The coupling member includes a proximal end (21) and a distal end (22) and a passage (20) between an opening in said proximal end (21) and an opening at said distal end (22). The coupling member (19) includes surface features (24) distributed along the circumference and adapted to engage rotation preventing features within an endoscope handle. The coupling member is used in a method for assembling the endoscope.