Endoscope System Nested Operation Sections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current endoscope systems require complex hand movements for operating multiple devices simultaneously, leading to reduced dexterity and efficiency during medical procedures, as users often need to manage both the endoscope and treatment instruments with limited control over bending operations.
Innovation Solution
The endoscope system incorporates a mother-baby endoscope configuration with interconnected operation sections and a fixing member, allowing the operators of both devices to protrude in intersecting directions, enabling simultaneous operation and spacing to maintain independent control over bending devices, thus facilitating easier manipulation and insertion of treatment instruments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the operation sections of multiple endoscopes are connected together, then the operators can be positioned close to each other for coordinated operation, but the operators may interfere with each other's movement and control
Solution Approach 1:
The baby endoscope is inserted through the treatment instrument channel of the mother endoscope, creating a nested configuration where one endoscope operates within another. This allows both endoscopes to be positioned and operated simultaneously without physical interference, as the nested structure provides spatial separation while maintaining operational accessibility.
2Device complexity
If the operator of the second device is spaced apart from the operator of the first device, then independent control is maintained, but simultaneous operation becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing member acts as an intermediary component that connects the operation section of the mother endoscope with the operation section of the baby endoscope. This intermediary structure positions the operators at optimal distances for independent control while maintaining the ability to operate both devices simultaneously, mediating between the requirements for independence and coordination.
3Area of stationary object
If the operators protrude toward each other in intersecting directions, then space utilization is optimized, but the risk of operator collision and control interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The operators of the two endoscopes are configured to protrude in asymmetric, intersecting directions rather than symmetrically opposite directions. This asymmetric arrangement optimizes space utilization within the operation section while reducing the risk of collision, as the intersecting but non-collinear paths minimize interference opportunities while maintaining compact positioning.
Data Source
AI summary
An endoscope system includes: a first endoscope including an insertion section, an operation section, and a bending operation device; a second endoscope including an insertion section, an operation section, and a bending operation device; and a fixing member configured to connect and fix the operation sections to each other such that the bending operation device of the first endoscope is made to protrude toward the operation section of the second endoscope, the bending operation device of the second endoscope is made to protrude toward the operation section of the first endoscope, and the bending operation device of the second endoscope is spaced apart from the bending operation device of the first endoscope toward an insertion section side.