Endoscope Dynamic Seal for Movable Accessory Channels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Specialized endoscopes with movable accessory channels and exposed deflection wires require dynamic sealing solutions to prevent fluid leakage and ensure proper functionality, as static seals are insufficient for these configurations.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a dynamic seal system with a flexible elastomeric seal and movable members, such as accessory channels or wires, that translate through the seal, and a variably adjustable seal member to manage friction and prevent fluid flow, while allowing for rotational decoupling and locking mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If static seals are used to prevent fluid leakage, then sealing effectiveness is improved, but adaptability to movable components deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by replacing static seals with dynamic seals that can accommodate movable accessory channels and deflection wires. The dynamic seal includes a seal member that can deform and move with the movable components, maintaining sealing effectiveness while adapting to their motion. This resolves the contradiction by making the seal itself dynamic rather than static, allowing it to function with both sealing reliability and adaptability to movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by allowing the seal member to change its physical state and position dynamically. The seal member can deform, compress, and move in response to the motion of accessory channels and deflection wires, changing its parameters (position, shape, volume) to maintain effective sealing throughout the range of motion. This resolves the contradiction by enabling the seal to adapt its parameters rather than maintaining a fixed configuration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If accessory channels are made movable to change camera configuration, then versatility is improved, but fluid leakage risk worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by creating a seal system that moves with the accessory channels rather than resisting their motion. The dynamic seal member is designed to deform and reconfigure as the accessory channels move between positions, maintaining sealing effectiveness throughout the movement cycle. This resolves the contradiction by allowing the harmful fluid leakage to be prevented while preserving the beneficial versatility of movable channels.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies the intermediary principle by introducing a dynamic seal member as a mediator between the movable accessory channels and the stationary insertion tube. This intermediary seal component absorbs the motion and deformation, transferring the movement from the accessory channels to itself while maintaining the seal integrity. This resolves the contradiction by protecting against fluid leakage without restricting the movement capability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If deflection wires are exposed distally to allow bending, then versatility is improved, but sealing effectiveness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by designing a seal member that can deform and move with the deflection wires rather than maintaining a rigid seal. The dynamic seal accommodates the exposure and movement of deflection wires by changing its own configuration, maintaining sealing effectiveness while allowing the versatility of wire exposure for bending.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies the flexible shells principle by using a flexible seal member that can deform and conform to the movement of deflection wires. The flexible seal member acts like a flexible shell that can bend and move with the wires while maintaining continuity and sealing effectiveness. This resolves the contradiction by allowing wire exposure for deflection while preventing fluid leakage through the flexible seal.
4Adaptability or versatility
If electrical or fiber optic wires are used for power and signaling, then functionality is improved, but sealing complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single dynamic seal member that accommodates multiple types of movable components including electrical wires, fiber optic wires, accessory channels, and deflection wires. This multi-functional seal resolves the contradiction by handling all these different elements with one unified sealing mechanism rather than requiring separate sealing solutions for each component type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by creating a seal member that can dynamically adapt to the movement and positioning of various movable components. The dynamic seal changes its configuration based on the specific components present, maintaining sealing effectiveness while reducing the need for complex fixed sealing arrangements for each component type.
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 effectively seals against fluid leakage, maintains functionality, and allows for the necessary movement and rotation of endoscope components, enhancing the performance and reliability of specialized endoscope systems.
Implementation Method 1
a flexible seal through which the movable member extends longitudinally
Implementation Method 2
The dynamic seal member is variably adjustable and configured to increase or decrease friction on the movable member
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed herein is a medical device including a dynamic seal and a movable member. The device allows the movable member to translate proximally and distally through the dynamic seal while fluid does not flow proximally to the dynamic seal member.