Endoscope Integrated Sampling Device and Actuator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current endoscope systems for procedures like bronchial lavage and bronchoalveolar lavage face challenges with sample loss due to the Lukens trap orientation and instability when using syringes, requiring complex tube connections and disconnections, which complicates the sampling process.
Innovation Solution
An endoscope with a built-in sampling device that allows suction diversion to a sample container, integrated with a digitally displaceable actuator for liquid propulsion and a rack and pinion mechanism, enabling direct tactile feedback and efficient liquid instillation, along with a single-use design for cost-effectiveness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a Lukens trap is attached to the endoscope via a flexible suction line, then suction can be applied for sample extraction, but the operator has little sense of and attention to the orientation of the trap, causing the sample to be lost when inadvertently oriented incorrectly
Solution Approach 1:
The sampling device is merged with the endoscope handle as an integrated unit. The sample container is positioned in the handle and connected to the working channel, eliminating the need for a separate suspended Lukens trap. This integration ensures the sample container maintains correct orientation with the endoscope handle, preventing sample loss while improving operator control and awareness of the sampling system's orientation throughout the procedure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If tubes and connectors are used for sample extraction, then suction can be applied, but there is a lot of work involved in connecting and disconnecting tubes, especially when changing between sampling and suction for cleaning
Solution Approach 1:
The endoscope is designed with a single integrated sampling device that serves multiple functions. The same working channel and sample container system can be used for both sampling procedures and suction for cleaning, eliminating the need for separate tube connections. The integrated design allows the operator to switch between functions by controlling the sampling device's valve, reducing the complexity of connecting and disconnecting multiple tubes while maintaining versatility.
3Ease of operation
If a syringe is connected to the working channel at the proximal end of the endoscope handle, then liquid can be instilled into the lung, but the aggregate height of the handle and syringe becomes quite high, leading to instability and lack of handiness when operating the plunger rod
Solution Approach 1:
The liquid instillation function is merged into the endoscope handle itself. A liquid container with a displaceable piston is integrated within the handle, and a digitally displaceable actuator is built into the handle to directly operate the piston. This eliminates the need for an external syringe, reducing the aggregate height and improving stability and handiness during plunger operation while maintaining the ability to instill liquid into the lung.
4Quantity of substance
If multiple syringes are used for repeated instillation and extraction, then sufficient sample volume can be obtained, but the procedure requires frequent changing of syringes, increasing procedural complexity and time
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated sample container serves as a universal receptacle for multiple sampling operations. The container can accommodate cumulative sample volumes from repeated instillation and extraction cycles without requiring changes between containers. The digitally displaceable actuator enables efficient operation for multiple instillations, reducing the time and complexity associated with changing multiple syringes while maintaining the ability to obtain sufficient total sample volume.
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
The solution reduces the risk of sample loss by maintaining the sample container orientation with the endoscope handle, simplifies the sampling process with direct tactile feedback for liquid instillation, and reduces the need for complex tube handling, enhancing procedural efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
a sampling device through which suction may be applied to the working channel
Implementation Method 2
a valve for diverting the suction applied through the sampling device so that the suction is diverted though a sample container
Implementation Method 3
a rack and pinion mechanism, enabling direct tactile feedback and efficient liquid instillation
Data Source
AI summary
An endoscope (1) having a suction channel and a suction connector in communication with said suction channel, and a working channel through which a liquid may pass. A valve for diverting the suction through the sampling device through a sample container is provided. The endoscope (1) further includes an actuator (7) for propelling the liquid through said working channel.