Endoscope Combined Deflection Control and Lock Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscope designs require the use of two hands or fingers, or multiple steps, to operate deflection control and lock mechanisms, which is inefficient and inconvenient for users.
Innovation Solution
A combined deflection control and lock mechanism is integrated into the endoscope, featuring a control lever and a lock lever that can be pivoted with a single finger, allowing for simultaneous deflection and locking of the distal end, utilizing a spring-loaded assembly and a lock pin that engages with a lock pad for ergonomic one-handed operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If separate deflection control and lock levers are used, then deflection control and locking functions are provided, but operation requires two hands or fingers and multiple steps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the deflection control lever and lock lever into a single integrated control mechanism. The control lever includes both a deflection control portion and a lock portion, allowing both deflection and locking functions to be performed by a single lever that can be operated with one hand, eliminating the need for separate levers and reducing operational complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The control lever is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides both deflection control of the distal end and locking of the distal end position. By making the control lever universal for both functions, the patent eliminates the need for separate specialized levers, thereby improving ease of operation without significantly increasing device complexity
2Productivity
If two separate levers are used for deflection control and lock, then distinct functions are achieved, but user efficiency and convenience are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the deflection control lever and lock lever into a single integrated control lever. This allows the user to perform both deflection control and locking operations using one hand on one lever, significantly improving operation efficiency and user convenience by eliminating the need to switch between multiple levers or use multiple hands
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
Enables intuitive and efficient operation of the endoscope with a single finger, eliminating the need for two hands or multiple steps, enhancing user convenience and ease of use by integrating deflection and locking functions into a single, ergonomic control mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
a lock lever pivotably connected to the control lever... a locking section on a first end of the lock lever engages a lock section of the handle section
Implementation Method 2
the control lever is connected to a control wire pulley of a deflection control system... adapted to be rotated on the handle section to rotate the pulley
Data Source
AI summary
An endoscope including a shaft having a deflectable distal end; a main section at a proximal end of the shaft, where the main section forms a handle of the endoscope; and a deflection control connected to the distal end. The deflection control includes a combined lock and deflection control member at the main section comprising a control lever pivotably connected to the main section at a pivot and extending away from the pivot in a general cantilever fashion, and a lock lever pivotably connected to the control lever. A first end of the lock lever is configured to contact the main section. A second end of the lock lever is configured to be pressed inward on the control lever towards the main section to pivot the first end out of contact with the main section.