Endoscope Nozzle Curved Flow Path Cleaning
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscope nozzles struggle to efficiently eject fluid over the entire observation window, leading to incomplete cleaning and potential obstruction of the view.
Innovation Solution
The endoscope incorporates a nozzle with a flow path that includes a first flow path parallel to the insertion portion, a second flow path with a 90-degree curved surface, and a third flow path with an opening that ejects fluid towards the observation window. The curved surface features a first surface, a second surface, and a ridge, which directs the fluid efficiently towards the opening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a conventional nozzle design is used, then the nozzle size can be kept small, but the fluid ejection range is limited and cleaning effectiveness is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The flow path is divided into multiple segments: a first flow path portion, a second flow path portion with a curved surface, and a third flow path portion. This segmentation allows the fluid to be directed through different orientations, expanding the ejection range without significantly increasing the overall nozzle size or complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The nozzle design transitions the fluid flow from a single linear direction to multiple dimensions by incorporating a curved surface that redirects flow at approximately 90 degrees. This dimensional change in flow direction enables broader coverage of the observation window while maintaining a compact nozzle structure.
2Manufacturing precision
If the flow path is simplified, then the nozzle size is reduced, but the fluid distribution uniformity across the observation window deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The curved surface in the second flow path portion is designed with specific local geometric characteristics to optimize fluid distribution. The curved surface geometry is tailored to redirect fluid flow in a manner that ensures uniform coverage across the observation window, with different regions of the flow path having optimized local properties for their specific functions.
3Productivity
If the nozzle is designed to eject fluid over a wide range, then cleaning effectiveness improves, but the pressure drop increases
Solution Approach 1:
The curved surface in the second flow path portion uses smooth curvature to redirect fluid flow, minimizing turbulence and energy loss. This curved geometry allows the fluid to change direction efficiently while maintaining flow velocity and reducing pressure drop compared to sharp angles or abrupt transitions.
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 design allows for efficient ejection of fluid over a wide range, effectively cleaning the observation window and ensuring clear visibility, while maintaining a small nozzle size and minimizing pressure drop.
Implementation Method 1
a second flow path communicating with the first flow path and having a curved surface for directing the fluid from the first flow path towards the opening
Data Source
AI summary
An endoscope of an embodiment of the present disclosure includes an observation window and a nozzle at a distal end of an insertion portion. The nozzle configures a flow path having an opening, the opening ejects fluid toward the observation window. The flow path includes a first flow path parallel to a longitudinal direction of the insertion portion and a second flow path communicating with the first flow path and having a curved surface for directing the fluid from the first flow path towards the opening. The curved surface includes a first surface, a second surface and a ridge sandwiched by respective edges of the first surface and the second surface. The respective edges are along a direction of extension of the second flow path.