Endoscopic Steering Handle Manifold for In-Situ Channel Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current ureteroscopy procedures for kidney stone treatment are associated with increased discomfort due to prolonged procedural times, and existing endoscopic systems lack flexibility in reconfiguring laser fiber optic placement and fluid flow during laser lithotripsy, leading to imbalances in irrigation and aspiration flows.
Innovation Solution
A steering handle with a manifold that allows in-situ reconfiguration of laser fiber optic placement and fluid flow within a catheter assembly, enabling diversion of irrigation and aspiration between channels, and simultaneous use of multiple working devices, reducing procedural time and trauma to the patient.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional steering column with separate airbag systems is used, then each airbag requires separate deployment mechanisms and control systems, but this increases device complexity and reduces reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple airbag deployment mechanisms into a single integrated manifold structure. The manifold receives deployant from a single generator and distributes it to multiple airbags (driver airbag, passenger airbag, curtain airbags), eliminating the need for separate deployment mechanisms for each airbag. This merging approach reduces the number of moving parts and control systems while improving reliability through a unified deployment system.
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a structural support element of the steering column, a distribution system for deployant to multiple airbags, and a routing channel for electrical wiring. This multi-functionality reduces the overall complexity of the steering column by eliminating the need for separate structural supports and routing channels.
2Ease of manufacture
If wiring is routed through the steering column structure, then electrical connections are established, but this creates serviceability issues and increases manufacturing complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The manifold acts as an intermediary structure that provides dedicated routing channels for electrical wiring. Instead of routing wiring through the entire steering column structure, the manifold provides localized pathways that facilitate easier installation and removal. The wiring is routed through channels in the manifold, which can be accessed separately from the main steering column assembly, improving serviceability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the steering column is designed as a single integrated structure, then manufacturing is simplified, but this reduces adaptability for different airbag configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The steering column is segmented into modular components: the manifold, the steering hub, and the airbag modules. The manifold itself is segmented with separate channels for different wiring harnesses and deployant pathways. This segmentation allows the same basic manifold structure to be adapted for different airbag configurations (two-airbag, four-airbag, curtain airbag variations) without redesigning the entire steering column.
Data Source
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AI summary
Steering handles with manifolds that enable an operator to configure an endoscopic system in situ for a variety of tasks, including irrigation, aspiration, or both. In addition, the disclosed endoscopic systems facilitate rapid reconfiguration of the location of a laser fiber optic within a catheter assembly. The laser fiber optic, for example, can be removed from an irrigation channel of the endoscopic system and reinserted in the aspiration channel during a laser lithotripsy procedure. In some embodiments, the removal and reinsertion can be performed in situ¸ without removing the catheter from the patient or the treated organ. These aspects of the disclosed system reduce the time required to perform laser lithotripsy procedures, with less trauma to the patient.