Endoscope Valve Interface Mechanism for Reliable Fluid Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscopic systems face challenges with unreliable and fragile valves that are prone to failure, leading to leaks and complex user interfaces that require a steep learning curve, resulting in inefficient and inaccurate fluid control.
Innovation Solution
The development of a medical device featuring a suction valve set and a valve interface mechanism that includes a set of biasing members and a user interface mechanism, allowing for intuitive control of fluid flow through a valve well by switching between different states to connect suction channels with working, balloon, or atmospheric channels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional valves are used in endoscopic systems, then the device structure is simple, but the valves are unreliable and fragile leading to failure and leaks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple valve functions (suction valve, air valve, water valve) into a single integrated valve assembly. The valve assembly includes a common body with multiple channels and seals that work together to control different fluids through a unified structure, eliminating the need for separate fragile valve components while improving reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve assembly is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously controls suction, air, and water flow through its multiple channels and seals. This universal design allows a single valve mechanism to perform multiple functions that previously required separate valve systems, reducing complexity while maintaining reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If complex valve systems are used to control multiple channels, then fluid control capability is comprehensive, but the user interface becomes complex requiring a steep learning curve
Solution Approach 1:
The control system merges multiple individual valve controls into a single integrated user interface. The interface includes a common actuator or control mechanism that can selectively activate different valve functions (suction, air, water) through a unified interaction method, simplifying the user experience while maintaining comprehensive fluid control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The user interface is designed as a multi-functional control that can perform multiple valve operations through a single interaction point. This universal interface allows operators to control suction, air, and water flow using one standardized mechanism rather than learning multiple separate controls, reducing the learning curve while preserving versatile fluid management.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate valves are used for different channels, then each valve can be optimized for its specific function, but the overall system becomes fragile and prone to failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple channel-specific valve functions into a single robust valve assembly. The assembly includes a common body with dedicated channels for suction, air, and water, each controlled by seals and mechanisms within the unified structure. This merging approach maintains the ability to independently control each channel while eliminating the fragility associated with multiple separate valve components.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve assembly serves as a universal control unit that handles multiple fluid channels simultaneously. Each channel (suction, air, water) has its own optimized flow path and control mechanism within the assembly, but all are integrated into a single reliable structure that prevents the system-wide fragility caused by multiple separate valves.
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
The solution provides reliable and intuitive control of fluid flow, reducing the complexity of user interfaces and improving operator experience, while also ensuring accurate and efficient fluid management during endoscopic procedures.
Implementation Method 1
The set of one or more biasing members may comprise a tension or a compression spring to bias the lever into the first state
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) 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.