Endoscope Valve Assembly Nested Integration
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The integration of a valve and suction connector assembly in disposable endoscopes poses challenges in terms of cost, assembly complexity, and space constraints within the endoscope handle, while maintaining reliability and ease of manufacturing.
Innovation Solution
A valve and suction connector assembly is designed with a valve housing main body and plunger extending beyond the handle's external wall, featuring a push-button mechanism, elastic tabs for alignment, and adhesive securing, allowing for easy assembly and integration within the endoscope handle, utilizing a suction connector part with an oblong engagement flange for secure mounting and a sealing member for efficient suction functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the valve and suction connector are integrated into the disposable endoscope handle, then the assembly complexity is reduced and production costs are lowered, but the space available for accommodation within the handle becomes more constrained
Solution Approach 1:
The valve housing main body is nested within the handle housing, with the plunger extending through the handle wall. The suction connector part is integrated within the valve housing structure, creating a compact nested arrangement that fits within the constrained handle volume while maintaining all necessary functional components
Solution Approach 2:
The plunger is designed to extend from the interior of the handle through the external wall surface, utilizing the third dimension (protruding outward) to accommodate the valve actuation mechanism without increasing the internal volume requirements within the handle housing
2Ease of manufacture
If the plunger extends beyond the external wall surface, then assembly is simplified and push-button operation is enabled, but the sealing reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
A sealing member (such as an O-ring or gasket) is introduced as an intermediary element between the plunger and the valve seat, and between the valve housing and the handle housing. This sealing member ensures reliable sealing while allowing the plunger to extend beyond the wall surface for push-button operation
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing member is made from flexible elastomeric material that can deform to create effective seals around the plunger and at the interface between the valve housing and handle housing, maintaining sealing reliability despite the extended plunger configuration
3Reliability
If the suction connector is secured with screws, then the connection reliability is improved, but the assembly time and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The suction connector part includes an oblong engagement flange that automatically aligns with and engages the wall of the handle housing through a turning motion during assembly. This self-aligning mechanism eliminates the need for separate screw-fastening operations while ensuring reliable connection
Solution Approach 2:
The engagement flange design combines the alignment, positioning, and securing functions into a single integrated feature. The oblong shape of the flange and its engagement with the handle housing wall creates a reliable mechanical connection that is achieved through a simple insertion and rotation motion rather than multiple fastening steps
Data Source
AI summary
An endoscope including a handle and an insertion cord. The handle includes a first handle housing part and a valve and suction connector assembly. The valve and connector assembly including a suction connector part (11), a valve housing main body (100), a plunger (101) and a valve housing lid (102). The valve housing lid (102) includes an entry pipe (107) connected to a suction channel tube in fluid communication with a suction port at the distal end of the insertion cord. The valve housing main body (100) includes an exit pipe (104) connected to said suction connector part (11). The suction connector part (11) is accommodated in the wall of the handle housing part and includes an oblong engagement flange in frictional engagement with said wall.