Endoscope Ligator Trigger Unit Single-Wire Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current medical ligating instruments require multiple assistants to maneuver an endoscope and release elastic bands, risking tissue compression and bleeding due to crossed trigger cords, and are inconvenient for patients.
Innovation Solution
A one-man-operated endoscope with a firmly mounted automatic trigger unit using a single-stranded metal wire trigger cord, secured by a U-shaped bracket and toggle joints, which eliminates the need for additional hands and reduces tissue compression risks by using a single-stranded trigger cord with beads for precise elastic band release.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple trigger cords are used to release elastic bands, then the ligation function is achieved, but the cords can cross and squeeze tissue causing bleeding
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the problematic crossing mechanism by using a single continuous trigger cord that travels through a channel, eliminating the harmful interaction between multiple cords while maintaining the multi-band release function
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (the channel and guide structure) that allows the single trigger cord to control multiple elastic bands without direct cord-to-cord interaction, preventing tissue squeezing
2Ease of operation
If the surgeon manually maneuvers the endoscope and releases elastic bands, then complete control is achieved, but multiple assistants are required increasing operational complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the endoscope handling and elastic band release functions into a single integrated system where the trigger unit is firmly mounted on the endoscope, allowing one operator to control both functions simultaneously
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a mounting dimension by attaching the trigger unit to the endoscope body, transforming the system from separate handheld components to an integrated instrument that can be operated with one hand
3Reliability
If a single-stranded trigger cord is used, then tissue squeezing is eliminated, but larger knots or beads are required which reduce space for flushing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter of the trigger cord from flexible material to metal wire, which maintains strength with smaller dimensions, reducing the volume occupied in the accessory channel while preserving the single-strand safety advantage
4Strength
If twisted metal wire is used for the trigger cord, then strength and flexibility are achieved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent specifies twisted metal wire as the trigger cord material, changing the physical parameters to achieve both high strength and flexibility while maintaining manufacturability through standard wire twisting processes
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus applicable for the ligation of internal tissue in a created or natural cavity in animals or in the human body, for example varicose veins in the gullet or a duodenal diverticulum, by means of an elastic band (19) while observing the ligations through an endoscope. The apparatus includes an automatic trigger unit (1) mounted firmly on the handle of the endoscope which can release a number of elastic bands (19) with the aid of a single-stranded trigger cord (11). Only a single elastic band (19) is released for each ligation thereby establishing a one-man-operated apparatus.