Integrated Endoscope Valve Sets With Tactile 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 inefficiencies. 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 suction valve set, both integrated with a valve interface mechanism. This mechanism includes a set of biasing members and a user interface that allows for intuitive control of fluid flows through various channels, providing tactile feedback and simplifying manufacturing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional valve systems are used in endoscopes, then the device structure is simple, but the valves are unreliable and fragile leading to leaks and operational failures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple valve functions into a single integrated valve body that controls both air and water flows simultaneously. The valve assembly integrates the air valve, water valve, and balloon valve mechanisms into one unified structure, eliminating the need for separate fragile valves while improving reliability through consolidated design
Solution Approach 2:
The valve body is designed to perform multiple functions: controlling air flow to the balloon, controlling water flow for irrigation, and coordinating both flows simultaneously. This multi-functional design reduces the number of separate components needed while enhancing system reliability
2Manufacturing precision
If complex valve interface mechanisms are used, then fluid control precision is improved, but the user interface becomes confusing and requires a steep learning curve
Solution Approach 1:
The valve interface mechanism incorporates tactile feedback through distinct actuation positions and audible clicks that confirm valve state changes. The interface provides sensory feedback to the operator about the current fluid flow configuration, making operation more intuitive and reducing the learning curve while maintaining precise control
Solution Approach 2:
The control interface is segmented into distinct, independently controllable sections for air flow and water flow management. Each section has its own actuator and control mechanism, allowing operators to control each fluid type separately without confusion, thereby simplifying the user interface while maintaining precision
3Measurement precision
If multiple separate valves are used for air and water control, then flow control accuracy is improved, but the risk of leaks and operational failures increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges air and water valve controls into a single integrated valve body with coordinated flow paths. This consolidation reduces the number of separate sealing interfaces and potential leak points while maintaining accurate flow control through the integrated design, thereby improving reliability without sacrificing precision
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 flows, reducing the risk of leaks and operational inefficiencies. The user-friendly interface decreases the learning curve for operators, enhancing the dependability, ergonomics, and usability of endoscope procedures.
Implementation Method 1
The valve interface mechanism may include a set of one or more biasing members
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.