Endoscope Suction Valve Assembly With Integrated Multi-Seal Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for alternative medical devices and systems, particularly suction supply valve assemblies for endoscopes, that offer improved fluid control and manufacturing efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A valve assembly for medical devices featuring a valve body with internal seals and a valve stem that translates between positions, utilizing multiple seals to obstruct fluid flow based on stem position, and a spring mechanism to return to the upper position, combined with injection molding for cost-effective production.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple seals are used to control fluid flow in the valve assembly, then fluid control reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple seal functions into a single integrated seal component that is injection-molded as one piece. This seal component includes multiple sealing surfaces and contact areas that work together to control fluid flow in different positions, eliminating the need for separate seal elements and reducing assembly complexity while maintaining reliable fluid control.
Solution Approach 2:
The single seal component performs multiple functions: it seals against the valve body at different positions, controls flow in both open and closed states, and accommodates the valve stem's movement. This multi-functional design reduces the overall number of components needed in the valve assembly.
2Productivity
If injection molding is used to manufacture the seal component, then manufacturing efficiency and cost-effectiveness are improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent specifies a durometer range of 20-80 shore A for the seal material, which is a key parameter change that enables successful injection molding. This range provides sufficient flexibility for the sealing function while maintaining the structural integrity needed for precision manufacturing. The parameter specification allows for cost-effective production while achieving the required sealing precision.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the valve stem translates between upper and lower positions to control flow, then fluid flow control versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic valve stem that can translate between upper and lower positions to control fluid flow. This dynamic mechanism provides versatility in flow control by allowing the valve to operate in different states (open, closed, partially open) based on stem position, while the integrated seal design keeps the overall mechanism relatively simple.
Data Source
AI summary
Devices, systems, and methods for a suction valve assembly for a medical device. The valve assembly includes a valve cap and valve stem with a central lumen that fits within the internal valve well of a valve body. The central lumen opens in the bottom of the valve stem, where the valve body connects to a source of suction. The valve is lowered to open a working channel to the source of suction. At least one, and as many as three, seals surround the valve stem to obstruct fluid flow along the side of the valve well.