External Endoscope Suction Button Layout for One-Handed Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional endoscopes face difficulties in effective suction operations due to restricted pipeline diameters and insufficient suction capacity, particularly when attempting to suction blood during procedures, and the existing suction buttons interfere with the operation of the angle knob, requiring both hands for operation.
Innovation Solution
An endoscope system with an externally provided suction unit featuring a suction button unit that is positioned to allow single-handed operation, avoiding interference with the angle knob, and includes a design that prevents displacement during use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the suction button is positioned on the operation portion, then the suction function can be operated, but the angle knob operation is interfered with and both hands are required
Solution Approach 1:
The suction button is positioned on the bending portion rather than the operation portion, utilizing a different spatial dimension (distal end vs proximal end) to avoid interference with the angle knob while maintaining suction functionality. This dimensional relocation enables single-handed operation without compromising either function.
Solution Approach 2:
The endoscope is segmented into distinct functional zones: the operation portion for angle control, the bending portion for suction operation, and the insertion portion for subject access. This segmentation allows independent operation of each function without interference, as the suction button and angle knob are separated in space.
2Ease of operation
If the suction button is positioned on the bending portion, then single-handed operation is enabled, but the suction force may be insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The suction function is extracted from the conventional endoscope body and relocated to an externally provided suction device connected via a suction tube. This extraction allows the suction mechanism to be positioned optimally on the bending portion for ease of operation while the actual suction power is delivered by the external device, resolving the contradiction between operability and suction force.
3Power
If the suction unit is externally provided, then suction capacity is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The externally provided suction device serves multiple functions: it provides enhanced suction capacity, acts as a support structure for the bending portion, and houses the suction button operation mechanism. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby managing system complexity while improving suction performance.
Data Source
AI summary
An endoscope system includes an endoscope and a suction unit. The endoscope includes an insertion portion configured to be inserted into a subject, an operation portion provided on a proximal end side of the insertion portion, and an angle knob provided on the operation portion for operating the bending portion; and an opening provided in the operation portion, wherein the opening is connected to a lumen provided in the endoscope. The suction unit includes a suction conduit, a protrusion inserted into the opening, and a suction button. In a side view perpendicular to an axis of rotation of the angle knob, a center of a top surface of the suction button, a center of the opening, and the angle knob are arranged along an imaginary straight line with the center of the opening located between the center of the top surface of the suction button and the angle knob.