Endoscope Tool Control via Intermediate Segment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscopes require complex and difficult single-handed control of both the bending section and integrated tools, especially during reciprocating movements, which can be challenging due to the lack of stereoscopic vision and separate tool control channels.
Innovation Solution
An endoscope design featuring a handle with a motion transfer member within the working channel, allowing simultaneous control of the bending section and integrated tool using a single hand, with an intermediate segment protecting the tool and enabling proper release and retraction under all operating conditions, and a dual kinematic chain mechanism for compound tool movements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a built-in tool is integrated into the endoscope with separate control channel, then the tool can perform gripping actions, but the control complexity increases and requires two-handed operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the tool control mechanism with the existing bending section control mechanism by utilizing the same pull-wire system. The tool is controlled through the working channel that also controls the bending sections, allowing both functions to be operated through a single control interface at the handle, thereby enabling single-handed operation while maintaining full tool functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The working channel is designed to serve dual purposes: controlling the bending sections and controlling the integrated tool. This multi-functional design allows a single control system to manage both the navigation (bending) and the tool operation, eliminating the need for separate control channels and reducing operational complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If the tool is controlled through a separate channel from the bending section, then the tool can be activated independently, but the operator cannot efficiently control both the bending section and tool simultaneously with one hand
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control of the tool and bending section into a single integrated control system. The pull-wire mechanism that controls bending sections is extended to also control the tool, allowing both functions to be manipulated through controls located at the same position on the handle, thereby enabling efficient single-handed operation
3Length of moving object
If the tool extends through the working channel to the distal end, then the tool can reach the target location, but the tool may bend or get stuck when the bending section is articulated
Solution Approach 1:
The tool is nested within the working channel in a protected configuration. The tool can be advanced to the distal end through the working channel and positioned at the exit port, while the intermediate segment of the working channel provides a protected pathway that prevents the tool from bending when the articulated bending segments are moved, ensuring reliable tool positioning
Solution Approach 2:
The intermediate segment acts as an intermediary protective structure between the tool and the articulated bending segments. This segment provides a stable, non-articulated passage that shields the tool from the mechanical movements of the bending sections, preventing the tool from bending or getting stuck during articulation
Data Source
AI summary
An endoscope having a handle with a handle housing arranged at a proximal end of the endoscope and an insertion tube extending from said handle and terminating in a tip part of a bending section at the distal end of the endoscope, the bending section comprises a distal tubular end segment and a plurality of articulated bending segments, the bending section comprises an intermediate segment between the proximal distal end segment and the plurality of articulated bending segments, wherein the intermediate segment is longer than a bending segment and the distal end segment.