Endoscope Suction Attachment With Pressure Regulator and Split Conduits
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscopes face limitations in suction performance due to restricted flow of objects through the first suction conduit, which is often smaller than the treatment instrument channel, and the layout of internal components interferes with the operation of the suction mechanism.
Innovation Solution
A suction attachment comprising a plug, a first and second tube, and a pressure regulator with an actuator that allows for independent control of suction pressure, enabling direct connection of the suction pump to the treatment instrument channel without the first and second suction tubes, and includes a leak tube to release pressure externally, ensuring operability and increased conduit diameter.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the first suction tube is connected to the treatment instrument channel through the operation portion, then the suction mechanism can be integrated into the endoscope, but the inner diameter of the first suction tube is restricted and interferes with the layout of internal components
Solution Approach 1:
The suction conduit is divided into two separate paths: one through the operation portion (first suction tube) and another through the insertion portion (second suction tube). This segmentation allows each path to serve specific functions without interfering with each other, resolving the contradiction between integrated design and suction performance.
Solution Approach 2:
A suction switching valve is introduced as an intermediary component that controls the flow path of the suction conduit. This valve allows the operator to switch between the first suction tube (through operation portion) and the second suction tube (through insertion portion), enabling flexible control over which path is used for suction.
2Ease of operation
If the inner diameter of the first suction tube is made larger to improve suction performance, then better suction capability is achieved, but the layout of internal components in the operation portion is interfered with
Solution Approach 1:
The suction system is segmented into two independent conduits with different diameter requirements. The second suction tube through the insertion portion can have a larger inner diameter for good suction performance, while the first suction tube through the operation portion maintains a smaller diameter that does not interfere with internal component layout.
Solution Approach 2:
The suction switching valve acts as a mediator that directs the suction flow through either the first or second suction tube based on operational needs. This allows the system to utilize the larger diameter second suction tube when suction performance is critical, without permanently altering the operation portion layout.
3Device complexity
If the suction conduit is routed through the operation portion, then the endoscope structure is simplified, but the bending mechanism and other operational components are interfered with
Solution Approach 1:
The suction conduit is segmented to provide a dedicated path through the insertion portion (second suction tube) that is separate from the operation portion. This allows the bending mechanism and other operational components to be arranged in the operation portion without being constrained by a large-diameter suction tube, while still maintaining structural integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The suction switching valve serves as an intermediary that enables the operator to select the appropriate suction path. When bending mechanism operation is needed, the operator can switch to the first suction tube path, allowing the bending mechanism to operate without interference from suction-related components.
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 enhances suction performance by allowing larger objects to be suctioned efficiently while maintaining good operability of the endoscope, avoiding interference with other operational components and ensuring seamless operation of the bending mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
When the suction pump connected to the endoscope connector is driven and when the suction button is pressed, a negative pressure is introduced into the treatment instrument channel or the like
Implementation Method 2
The second opening in the body connects the interior cavity to atmosphere
Data Source
AI summary
A suction attachment includes a plug including a plug conduit, a first tube including a first conduit having a first end portion and a second end portion, a second tube having a second conduit including a third end portion and a fourth end portion, and a pressure regulator including a body with an interior cavity, a first opening, a second opening, and an actuator. The pressure regulator is connected to the fourth end portion and the interior cavity is in fluid communication with second conduit via the first opening in the body, and the second opening in the body connects the interior cavity to atmosphere. The actuator is movable between a first position and a second position, when the actuator is in the first position, the second opening is open and, when the actuator is in the second position, the second opening is closed.