Endoscope Single-Handed Rotative Actuator for Intubation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional endoscopes used for intubation are either fragile and expensive (fiberscopes) or require longer setup times and more space (videoscopes), and existing intubation aids like stylets and bougies lack efficient visualization and control during the intubation process.
Innovation Solution
An endoscope design featuring a housing with a display screen and an operative member that is rotatable relative to the display screen, allowing single-handed operation without rotating the display, and including actuator members for controlling the operative member's rotation and distal tip orientation, enabling efficient visualization and control during intubation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional fiberscope is used for intubation, then visualization capability is provided, but the device becomes fragile and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent describes a disposable intubation device that combines an endotracheal tube with an integrated stylet and imaging capabilities. This single-use device eliminates the need for expensive, fragile fiberscopes while providing adequate visualization for the intubation procedure. The disposable nature resolves the contradiction by accepting limited device lifespan in exchange for improved reliability (no sterilization concerns) and reduced manufacturing cost.
2Loss of time
If a videoscope is used for intubation, then visualization capability is provided, but setup time increases and more space is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the stylet, endotracheal tube, and imaging components into a single unified device. This merging eliminates the need for separate videoscope setup and reduces the space required in the clinical environment. The integrated design allows the device to be ready for use immediately, resolving the contradiction between reduced setup time and device complexity.
3Ease of operation
If the display screen is fixed to the housing, then the display position is stable, but the operative member cannot be rotated independently
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the device into functionally independent segments: the housing with fixed display screen and the rotatable operative member (stylet). This segmentation allows the operative member to be rotated independently for different intubation angles while the display screen remains fixed and stable, providing consistent visual feedback. The segmentation resolves the contradiction by allowing independent optimization of each component's function.
4Ease of operation
If a stylet is used for intubation, then the endotracheal tube can be pre-formed, but visualization during insertion is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a multi-functional device that combines the stylet's tube-forming capability with integrated imaging functionality. The stylet maintains its ability to pre-form and position the endotracheal tube while simultaneously providing real-time visualization through the integrated camera and display. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by allowing the device to perform multiple functions (mechanical positioning and visual feedback) that were previously provided by separate devices.
Data Source
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AI summary
There is provided an endoscope for use in intubation. The endoscope comprises a housing, a display device having a display screen, and an operative member extending from the housing, the operative member being configured to be inserted into a patient's airway and to transmit images to the display screen. The housing comprises an actuator coupled to the operative member and a retainer coupled to the display screen, the housing having a handle portion comprising at least the actuator, and the actuator being single-handedly rotatable by a user relative to the retainer, such that the operative member is rotatable relative to the display screen.