Endoscope Fluid Control Device with Integrated Valve
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscope fluid control devices face challenges in efficiently switching between gas feeding and fluid suction operations while preventing backward flow of liquids, particularly in devices with small diameters, which can lead to reduced suction force and potential contamination.
Innovation Solution
A fluid control device with a gas feeding conduit featuring a side hole for communication between the flow passage and external space, an operation button, and a deforming portion that closes the passage when not pushed, allowing gas to flow only when the button is operated, and a suction conduit with a sealing mechanism to prevent gas entry during suction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a valve element is disposed in the gas feeding conduit to prevent backward flow of liquid, then liquid backward flow is prevented, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the suction operation button and the gas feeding valve element into a single integrated component. The suction button serves dual functions: it acts as the operational interface for suction mode and simultaneously functions as the valve element that closes the gas feeding conduit during suction. This merging eliminates the need for separate valve components while maintaining reliable prevention of liquid backward flow into the gas feeding system.
2Length of moving object
If only one conduit is disposed in the endoscope to thin the diameter, then the insertion section diameter is reduced, but the ability to separately control gas feeding and suction is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic control of a single conduit through an operation button that switches between two operational states. In the first state, the conduit functions as a gas feeding pathway with the valve element open. In the second state, the same conduit functions as a suction pathway with the valve element closed. This dynamic switching capability allows the single conduit to adapt its function based on operational requirements, maintaining versatility while achieving thinning of the insertion section.
3Ease of operation
If a suction button is disposed on the upstream side of the valve element, then suction operation is enabled, but the suction force may be reduced due to potential liquid backward flow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the suction button as an intermediary component between the external control interface and the internal fluid pathways. The button is integrated with the valve element such that pressing the button simultaneously opens the suction pathway and closes the gas feeding valve. This intermediary mechanism ensures that suction operations are enabled while preventing liquid backward flow into the gas feeding system, thereby maintaining both ease of operation and suction force reliability.
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 configuration ensures reliable switching between gas feeding and suction operations, prevents backward liquid flow, and maintains suction force by using a simple design with minimal parts, enhancing the operational efficiency and safety of endoscope procedures.
Implementation Method 1
a deforming portion continuously connected with the operation button and disposed in the gas feeding conduit, the deforming portion configured to be brought into contact with an inside of the gas feeding conduit thus closing the flow passage in a state where the operation button is not pushed
Implementation Method 2
the deforming portion configured to be deformed in the penetrating direction thus opening the flow passage in a state where the operation button is pushed
Implementation Method 3
a side hole which causes the flow passage and an external space to communicate with each other in an intermediate portion of the gas feeding conduit
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid control device for endoscope includes a gas feeding conduit, an operation button and a deforming portion. The deforming portion is disposed on a downstream side with respect to the operation button, and has a closing portion which is brought into contact with an inner wall of the gas feeding conduit in a state where the operation button is not pushed.