Endoscopic Catheter Control Handle With Planetary Gear Rotation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current endoscopic devices require multiple operators, non-intuitive controls, and costly capital equipment, making navigation through complex anatomy difficult and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
An endoscopic device with a tube assembly and slider mechanism featuring a planetary gear system and tip deflecting mechanism, allowing single-handed rotational manipulation and intuitive control of the catheter tip without the need for capital equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple operators are used for endoscopic procedures, then operational capability is improved, but coordination problems and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device divides control functions into separate modular components: a control handle for proximal manipulation and a catheter with pull-wires for distal tip control. This segmentation allows a single operator to independently control each function without coordination overhead between multiple operators.
Solution Approach 2:
The control handle integrates multiple functions (rotation control, tip deflection control, advancement control) into a single universal interface that one operator can manipulate with one hand, eliminating the need for multiple specialized operators.
2Measurement precision
If capital equipment is used for endoscopic procedures, then operational precision is improved, but financial burden and accessibility issues increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates self-contained control mechanisms within the catheter itself (pull-wires, shape memory alloys, or self-expanding structures) that automatically achieve precise tip positioning and stabilization without requiring external capital equipment like robotic systems or complex imaging guidance.
Solution Approach 2:
The catheter is designed as a disposable single-use component with integrated control features, eliminating the need for expensive reusable capital equipment while maintaining operational precision. This reduces financial burden and improves accessibility.
3Adaptability or versatility
If non-intuitive controls are used, then device functionality is improved, but ease of manipulation by single operator deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The control mechanism inverts the traditional approach by placing the control interface at the proximal end (control handle) rather than requiring distal manipulation. Rotational control of the handle directly translates to intuitive rotational movement of the catheter tip, and pull-wire mechanisms provide direct mechanical coupling between operator input and tip deflection.
4Measurement precision
If precise rotational control of distal tip is implemented, then navigation capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control handle acts as an intermediary mechanism that translates simple rotational movements into precise distal tip rotation. The handle may incorporate gears, pulleys, or flexible coupling elements that amplify and precisely control the rotational transmission along the catheter length without requiring complex motors or actuators at the tip.
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
Enables precise, single-handed navigation and manipulation of the catheter tip, reducing operational complexity and cost, and improving accessibility in complex anatomical environments.
Implementation Method 1
The planetary gearing system can include one or more rotational stops. In some variations, the planetary gearing system increases or decreases rotation at a ratio from 4:1 to 1:4.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure provides for an endoscopic device and method for manipulating the endoscopic device. The endoscopic device includes a tube assembly and a slider mechanism connected to the cylindrical body for control of the endoscopic device. The tube assembly has a cylindrical body with a proximal end and a distal end and a plurality of openings extending from the proximal end to the distal end of the cylindrical body. The slider mechanism includes a tip deflecting mechanism and a rotation assembly having a planetary gear system.