Endoscope Tool Compound Movement Control Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscopes with integrated tools are limited in performing complex actions, such as gripping or removing implants, due to the need for separate control of the tool and bending section, often requiring two hands and lacking stereoscopic vision, which complicates precise reciprocating movements.
Innovation Solution
An endoscope design with a control mechanism that allows a single hand to control both the linear movement and task-specific actions of the tool at the distal end, using a compound movement system involving a rotary member, levers, and motion transfer members to perform actions like gripping, cutting, or expanding, while maintaining control of the bending section.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a separate control mechanism is used for the tool and bending section, then the tool can perform its function, but two hands are required for operation reducing ease of use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the control of the tool and the bending section into a single integrated control mechanism. The tool operating member is coupled to both the tool (directly or indirectly) and the bending section, allowing one hand to control both functions simultaneously. This merging of control functions resolves the contradiction by enabling single-handed operation while maintaining the necessary control capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool operating member serves multiple functions: it controls the tool's reciprocating movement and simultaneously controls the bending section's positioning. This multi-functionality allows a single control element to manage multiple aspects of the endoscope's operation, thereby enabling single-handed use without sacrificing control precision.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a built-in tool is integrated into the endoscope, then gripping actions can be performed, but the tool is limited to gripping only and requires separate control channels
Solution Approach 1:
The tool is designed with multi-functionality, capable of performing not only gripping actions but also cutting, expanding, contracting, pinching, and other tasks. This is achieved by providing a tool with a task movement degree of freedom in addition to its linear movement, allowing it to adapt to various surgical requirements without needing separate specialized tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The control of the tool's linear movement and task-specific movements is merged into a single control mechanism. The tool operating member controls both movements through a compound movement system, eliminating the need for separate control channels and simplifying the overall device architecture while maintaining full tool functionality.
3Measurement precision
If full activation of the tool requires reciprocating movement of the bending section, then the tool can be activated, but stereoscopic vision is not available making precise control difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The tool's movement is segmented into two independent components: linear movement (advancing/retracting) and task movement (opening/closing, cutting, etc.). This segmentation allows the tool to be activated and controlled precisely without requiring complex reciprocating movement of the bending section, thereby improving both precision and ease of operation even without stereoscopic vision.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool operating member provides dynamic control over the tool's compound movement. The operator can control the linear and task movements independently through the same operating member, allowing flexible and precise tool activation without the need for stereoscopic vision or complex bending section manipulation.
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
Enables single-handed operation of the endoscope to perform complex tasks like gripping or removing implants with precision, reducing the need for multiple hands and improving control over the tool and bending section, even without stereoscopic vision.
Implementation Method 1
a first motion transfer member having a first end in articulated connection with a second end of said first lever, the second end of the first motion transfer member being connected to the tool
Implementation Method 2
a second motion transfer member having a first end in articulated connection with a second end of said second lever, a first arm in articulated connection with said second lever at one end and at a second end in articulated connection with a first end of a second motion transfer member
Data Source
AI summary
An endoscope (1) having an operating handle comprising a handle housing (2) and an insertion tube (3) extending from said handle towards a distal end of the endoscope (1) and terminating in a tip part (4) at the distal end of the endoscope (1). The endoscope (1) comprises a tool operating member (22) for operating a too (55) at the tip part (4). A control means connects the tool operating member (22) and the tool (55), so as to allow linear movement (55) of the tool in response to activation of said tool operating member (22). The control means is adapted to also perform a compound movement of said tool (55) in response to activation of said tool operating member (22), where the compound movement comprises a task movement in addition to said linear movement.