Endoscope Elevator Stopper Structure for Stable Tool Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscopes face issues with deformation and positional deviation of the contact member due to forces applied during the operation of the elevator, which affects the precision and stability of treatment tool positioning.
Innovation Solution
The endoscope design incorporates a contact member with a stopper portion and a restriction surface formed of inclined or parallel surfaces to prevent deformation and positional deviation, using materials like resin for the contact member and metal for the distal-end-part body, with a cap that is attachable and detachable for replacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If the contact member is made of insulating material to prevent electrical interference, then electrical isolation is improved, but the contact member deforms under force and moves from the distal-end-part body
Solution Approach 1:
The contact member is divided into multiple contact portions arranged along the treatment tool. This segmentation distributes the force received from the treatment tool across multiple points, preventing deformation at any single location and maintaining positional stability while retaining electrical isolation properties
Solution Approach 2:
The contact member acts as an intermediary between the treatment tool and the elevator mechanism. It receives force from the treatment tool, transmits it to the elevator through the distal-end-part body, while maintaining electrical isolation. The segmented structure allows this force transmission without deformation
2Measurement precision
If the contact member is pressed and fixed by the elevator to stand the treatment tool, then treatment tool positioning is improved, but the contact member deforms and turns in the standing direction
Solution Approach 1:
The contact member is segmented into multiple contact portions that can independently withstand force. When the elevator presses the treatment tool against the contact member, the force is distributed across multiple segments, preventing deformation and turning while maintaining precise positioning capability
Solution Approach 2:
The contact member is made of insulating material with specific mechanical properties that provide both electrical isolation and resistance to deformation. The material composition allows the contact member to maintain its shape under the pressing force from the elevator while enabling precise treatment tool positioning
Data Source
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AI summary
An endoscope (10) includes: an operation unit (22) that is provided with an operation member; an insertion unit (24) that is provided on a distal end side of the operation unit and is to be inserted into an object to be examined; a distal-end-part body (32) which is positioned at a distal end of the insertion unit and where a front end face (61) on which at least a treatment tool outlet (60) is formed and an elevator-housing space (66) communicating with the treatment tool outlet are formed; an elevator (36) that is disposed in the elevator-housing space, is rotatable about a rotating shaft (86) between a fallen position and a standing position, and includes a treatment tool-guide surface (36A); and a contact member (37) that is disposed on the front end face of the distal-end-part body and is provided at a position facing the treatment tool-guide surface in a case where the elevator is in the standing position. The contact member includes a stopped portion (37D) that is provided on a rear end face (37C) thereof facing the front end face of the distal-end-part body, the distal-end-part body includes a stopper portion (63) that is provided on the front end face and is to be engaged with the stopped portion, and the stopper portion restricts at least movement of the contact member in a case where a treatment tool led out of the treatment tool outlet is made to stand by the elevator.