Endoscope Forceps Elevator Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional endoscope apparatuses face challenges in improving the operability of forceps elevators due to complex structures and the inability to apply varying loads based on the position and movement direction of the erecting operation member, leading to issues in maintaining the erected state of forceps elevators during procedures like tissue sampling and ERCP.
Innovation Solution
The endoscope apparatus incorporates a simple structure with a first and second projection mechanism that applies different forces when the forceps elevator is erected or reclined, allowing for adjustable load application based on the position and direction of the erecting operation member, enhancing the operability and preventing tool damage by indicating when the operation range exceeds normal limits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a friction member is pressed against the operation wire to apply friction force for maintaining the erected state, then the holding force is improved, but unnecessary friction force increases the load when operating toward the erecting side
Solution Approach 1:
The friction member is designed to be movable along the operation wire, allowing it to dynamically adjust its position. When the forceps elevator is erected, the friction member moves to engage with the operation wire and apply friction force. When the forceps elevator is reclined, the friction member moves away to release the friction force, thereby reducing operational load during erection operations.
Solution Approach 2:
A friction member is introduced as an intermediary element between the operation wire and the forceps elevator mechanism. This friction member can be selectively engaged or disengaged from the operation wire to control the application of friction force, serving as a mediator that provides holding force only when needed without continuously increasing operational load.
2Reliability
If a complex load generating device with friction addition device and clutch device is used, then the ability to apply directional friction force is improved, but the structure becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The friction member integrates multiple functions into a single component: it provides friction force for holding, moves directionally along the operation wire, and automatically engages or disengages based on the forceps elevator position. This merging eliminates the need for separate clutch devices and friction addition devices, simplifying the overall structure while maintaining directional friction control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The friction member is designed to automatically perform its function based on the operational state of the forceps elevator. When the forceps elevator is erected, the friction member self-engages to provide holding force. When the forceps elevator is reclined, the friction member self-disengages to reduce operational load, eliminating the need for complex clutch control mechanisms.
3Reliability
If uniform friction force is applied throughout the operation range, then the holding force is maintained, but the ability to apply position-specific or direction-specific loads is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The friction member transitions from a static friction application to a dynamic one, where the friction force varies based on the position and movement direction of the forceps elevator. This dynamic friction application allows for position-specific and direction-specific load control while maintaining reliable holding force when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The friction force is applied locally and selectively rather than uniformly throughout the entire operation range. The friction member engages with the operation wire at specific positions and orientations, providing friction force only where and when needed, thereby enabling position-specific and direction-specific load control.
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 improves the operability of the forceps elevator by allowing precise control over the load applied, maintaining the erected state effectively and preventing tool damage, thus facilitating procedures like tissue sampling and ERCP with enhanced precision and safety.
Implementation Method 1
a friction member which applies a friction force to the movement of an erecting operation member in a direction (reclining side) in which the forceps elevator reclines
Implementation Method 2
a one-way clutch configured so as not to add a friction force from the friction member to the movement of the erecting operation member in a direction (erecting side) in which the forceps elevator is erected
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided an endoscope apparatus which can achieve the improvement of operability with a simple configuration related to the operation of a forceps elevator. The endoscope includes: a forceps elevator which is erectably provided at the distal end part of an operation part that is provided to the insertion part, in an erecting motion range from the minimum angular position to the maximum angular position, and which guides a treatment tool led out from the distal end part; and a locking mechanism which locks the movement of the forceps elevator. An amount of force for locking the movement of the forceps elevator may be varied depending on a direction of that movement and a position of the forceps elevator.