Endoscope Deflection Control and Lock Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscope designs require the use of two hands or fingers, or two steps, to operate deflection control and lock mechanisms, which is inefficient and cumbersome.
Innovation Solution
A combined deflection control and lock mechanism is introduced, featuring a single lever assembly with a spring-loaded design that allows a single finger to control and lock the deflection of the endoscope's distal end, enabling one-handed operation by pivoting the lever to select a desired position and using a pin and pad system for locking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate deflection control and lock levers are used, then the locking function is reliable, but the operation requires two hands or fingers increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the deflection control lever and lock lever into a single integrated control member. This control member has a first portion that deflects the distal end and a second portion that engages with a lock mechanism. By merging two separate control functions into one lever, the patent reduces the number of components while maintaining both deflection control and locking capabilities, directly resolving the contradiction between reliability and device complexity.
2Reliability
If separate deflection control and lock levers are used, then the locking function is reliable, but the operation requires two steps reducing ease of operation
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated control member allows the user to perform both deflection and locking operations simultaneously with a single hand. The first portion of the control member deflects the distal end while the second portion engages or disengages the lock mechanism in the same motion. This eliminates the need for separate lock/unlock steps, making the operation more efficient and easier to perform while maintaining reliable locking.
3Reliability
If separate deflection control and lock levers are used, then the locking function is reliable, but using two hands or fingers reduces productivity
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the deflection control and lock functions into a single control member that can be operated with one hand, the patent enables the user to maintain control of the endoscope with minimal hand usage. This allows the other hand to remain free for surgical manipulation or other tasks, thereby improving overall operational efficiency and productivity in the surgical procedure.
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
This solution allows for efficient, one-handed operation of endoscope deflection and locking, enhancing ergonomic design and reducing the need for multiple steps or hands, thereby improving user convenience and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The second lever is biased by a spring towards the locked position
Data Source
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AI summary
An endoscope including a shaft having a deflectable distal end; a handle at a proximal end of the shaft; and a deflection control connected to the distal end. The deflection control includes a combined lock and deflection control member at the handle. The control member is adapted to be moved to a selected location by a single finger of a user and thereby deflect the distal end. The control member is adapted to be locked at the user selected location by movement of the control member to a locked position by the single finger of the user.