Endoscope Handle Rotation Mechanism with Dynamic Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current endoscope systems require operators to manually maintain scope orientation, limiting their ability to control both the scope and accessory channel simultaneously, especially in anatomically challenging regions, necessitating a solution for more precise and comfortable operation.
Innovation Solution
A handle with an actuator that moves between locked and unlocked configurations, allowing the elongate tube to rotate relative to the handle, enabling precise control by disengaging from a catch to facilitate rotation and re-engaging to lock the tube in place, thereby allowing for controlled manipulation of the endoscope system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the operator manually maintains scope orientation by holding the scope, then the scope orientation can be controlled, but the operator cannot simultaneously control the accessory channel and experiences operator fatigue
Solution Approach 1:
The scope handle incorporates a dynamic locking mechanism that can transition between locked and unlocked states. The actuator allows the scope to be locked at specific orientations (such as 12 o'clock position) or unlocked for rotation, enabling the operator to maintain orientation without continuous manual holding. This dynamic state change resolves the contradiction by providing both orientation control and freedom for accessory channel manipulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism uses a spring-biased actuator that automatically maintains the locked position once set, eliminating the need for continuous operator input to maintain scope orientation. The mechanism serves itself by holding the scope in the desired position without requiring the operator to constantly apply force, thereby freeing the operator's hands for accessory channel control.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the operator rotates the body to maintain torqued position, then the scope orientation is maintained, but the operator experiences discomfort and fatigue after hours of endoscopy
Solution Approach 1:
The handle allows dynamic switching between locked and unlocked states. When locked, the scope maintains its torqued position and orientation stability without requiring the operator to maintain body rotation. The operator can unlock, rotate the scope to a new orientation, and relock, thereby maintaining scope stability while eliminating the need for sustained uncomfortable body positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The control function is segmented into orientation control (via locking mechanism) and position adjustment (via unlocking and rotation). This segmentation allows the operator to independently control scope orientation without being constrained by continuous body rotation, improving operator comfort while maintaining the ability to achieve stable scope positioning when needed.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the actuator is always locked to prevent rotation, then the scope orientation is stable, but the operator cannot adjust the scope position when needed
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator is designed to be spring-biased toward the locked configuration but can be easily actuated to the unlocked configuration. This dynamic design allows the scope to maintain stable orientation when locked, while enabling quick adjustment when the operator needs to change position. The spring bias ensures automatic return to the stable locked state after adjustment, resolving the contradiction between stability and adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein is an endoscope system and a handle for a medical device that allows for rotation of the device when a locking member is disengaged by an operator, but does not allow for rotation when the locking member is engaged. Such a handle allows for an operator to maintain the position of an endoscope even when the operator removes his or her hand from the controls of the scope.