Expandable Endoscope Tip Attachment for Camera Obstruction Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Endoscope tips with cameras can be obstructed by tissue or foreign bodies, limiting the effectiveness of endoscopic procedures.
Innovation Solution
An attachment member for the endoscope distal tip comprising an outer and inner barrel with expandable and contractable features to securely fit over the endoscope, minimizing damage and preventing foreign bodies from contacting the camera.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a clear attachment is placed at the distal end of the endoscope to prevent foreign bodies from contacting the camera, then the field of view is protected, but the attachment may obscure the camera view due to its presence
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment uses a transparent or translucent distal tip made of flexible material that allows light transmission while physically blocking foreign bodies. The material is chosen to be optically clear yet mechanically protective, creating a thin film barrier that does not significantly obstruct the camera view while preventing tissue or foreign objects from contacting the lens
Solution Approach 2:
The distal tip attachment is designed with optical properties that minimize light interference. The transparent or translucent material is selected to match the optical characteristics of the surrounding tissue as much as possible, reducing visual obstruction while maintaining protective function
2Object-affected harmful factors
If an attachment member is secured to the distal end of the endoscope, then protection against foreign bodies is improved, but the complexity of securing the attachment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment features an expandable ring structure that transitions from a compressed state during insertion to an expanded state for securing. This dynamic mechanism allows the attachment to be easily inserted in a low-profile configuration and then automatically expand to engage with the endoscope, simplifying the securing process while maintaining strong attachment
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment is divided into functional segments: an inner barrel for receiving the endoscope, an outer barrel providing structural support, and an expandable ring for securing. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall assembly and securing mechanism
3Reliability
If the attachment is made secure to prevent movement, then protection effectiveness is improved, but the force required to secure and remove the attachment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The expandable ring provides a dynamic securing mechanism that creates friction-based holding force through expansion rather than mechanical interlocking. This allows the attachment to be securely held during use through controlled expansion, yet easily released by compressing the ring, reducing the force needed for both attachment and removal
Solution Approach 2:
The expandable ring acts as an intermediary securing element between the attachment and the endoscope. It provides the necessary holding force through its expansion mechanism while allowing for controlled engagement and disengagement, mediating between the need for secure attachment and ease of installation/removal
4Object-affected harmful factors
If the attachment fits tightly around the endoscope, then prevention of foreign body contact is improved, but the risk of damage to the endoscope during insertion increases
Solution Approach 1:
The expandable ring allows the attachment to be inserted in a compressed, low-profile state that minimizes contact pressure on the endoscope. Once inserted, the ring expands to provide a tight fit for protection. This dynamic size change reduces insertion force requirements and prevents damage while maintaining protective effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The inner barrel is designed with a softer material than the outer barrel, providing a cushioning interface between the attachment and the endoscope during insertion. This softer inner layer absorbs insertion forces and prevents direct transmission of high stresses to the endoscope, protecting it from damage while maintaining secure fit
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
Maintains a clear field of view for the endoscope camera while protecting it from obstructions, with minimal effort in securing and reducing potential damage to the endoscope.
Implementation Method 1
The outer barrel can include a ring that extends around the cavity and is coupled with the ribs. The ring can be expandable to allow fitment of the outer and inner barrels around an endoscope and contractable to provide a snug fit around the endoscope.
Data Source
AI summary
An endoscope distal tip attachment is provided that can include a barrel and distal tip extending from the barrel. The barrel can have a proximal end and a distal end along with a first shoulder and a second shoulder. The first shoulder can be at a first side of the distal end and can be configured to engage with a distal end of an endoscope. The second shoulder can be at second side of the distal end opposing the distal end first side. The barrel can have a set of ribs extending away from the first shoulder and towards the barrel proximal end where the set of ribs define a cavity. The barrel can include a ring coupled with the set of ribs and extends around the cavity. The distal tip can extend from the second barrel shoulder and can be formed as a single piece with the barrel.