Integrated Endoscope Valve Assembly for Leak-Resistant Fluid Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscope valve systems are prone to failure due to unreliable and fragile valves, leading to leaks and operational challenges. Additionally, user interface mechanisms can be confusing and require a steep learning curve, resulting in inaccurate and inefficient fluid control.
Innovation Solution
The development of a medical device featuring an air/water (AW) valve set and a valve interface mechanism, which includes a primary control valve, air input valve, and atmospheric valve. This system provides intuitive control of fluid flow through the endoscope, with a user interface that offers tactile feedback and simplified operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional valve systems are used in endoscopes, then the device structure is simple, but the reliability is poor due to leaks and fragile valves
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple valve functions (air input valve, water input valve, atmospheric valve) into a single integrated valve assembly with a common valve body and shared seal mechanisms. This merging approach improves reliability by reducing the number of separate components that could fail independently, while the unified design actually reduces overall system complexity compared to multiple separate valve assemblies.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve assembly is designed as a multi-functional unit where a single valve body and seal system control multiple fluid pathways (air and water channels). The primary seal and secondary seal work together to manage different fluid flows through the same structural components, making the valve system universal rather than requiring separate specialized valves for each function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If complex user interface mechanisms are used, then more functions can be controlled, but the ease of operation decreases due to confusing interfaces and steep learning curves
Solution Approach 1:
The user interface is segmented into distinct control regions: a primary control mechanism for air/water flow and a secondary control mechanism for balloon inflation. Each control region handles specific functions independently, allowing operators to learn and use each control separately rather than dealing with a monolithic complex interface. This segmentation maintains versatility while improving ease of operation through modular control.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve assembly acts as an intermediary mechanism between the user interface and the fluid delivery system. The interface mechanism translates simple user inputs (pushing buttons, rotating dials) into complex valve operations through the mechanical linkage system. This intermediary role allows the interface to remain simple while still achieving versatile fluid control through the valve assembly's multiple functions.
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments are generally directed to devices, systems, and methods for controlling the flow of fluids in endoscopic systems, such as endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) enabled endoscopes. Some embodiments are particularly directed to valve sets and/or valve interface mechanisms for controlling air, water, and/or suction flow through a valve well for an endoscopic system. Several embodiments are directed to user interface mechanisms and techniques for enabling an operator to interact with and control endoscope valves. Many embodiments are directed to mechanisms and techniques for translating interface input motion into valve control motions. In one or more embodiments, the valve sets and/or valve interface mechanisms may be disposable.