Endoscopic Instrument Operation Input Device with Frictional Fixing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional endoscopic treatment instrument operation devices are fixed to the base end, limiting operator control and increasing the risk of buckling or kinking, especially when performing pushing/pulling and twisting operations, as they are far from the introduction opening of the endoscope channel.
Innovation Solution
An endoscopic treatment instrument operation input device with a grip section designed for palm and finger grip, an operation section accessible by the thumb, and a frictional fixing section that secures the trunk section midway along its length using the index finger, allowing for intuitive and stable operation of joints within the endoscope channel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the operation input device is fixed to the base end of the treatment instrument, then the device structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the operator must move the entire elongated instrument forward and backward or twist it around the longitudinal axis, increasing operational complexity and risk of buckling or kinking
Solution Approach 1:
The operation input device is separated from the base end and repositioned to an intermediate position along the longitudinal axis of the treatment instrument. This segmentation allows the operator to perform pushing/pulling and twisting operations at a more convenient location, reducing the complexity of the operation method while maintaining structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
A frictional fixing section is introduced as an intermediary mechanism between the operation input device and the treatment instrument trunk section. This intermediary allows the device to be securely positioned at an intermediate location without complex fastening mechanisms, enabling easier operation while preventing buckling or kinking of the treatment instrument.
2Reliability
If the operation input device is fixed to the base end, then the device structure is simple, but the operator experiences increased risk of buckling or kinking during pushing/pulling and twisting operations
Solution Approach 1:
The frictional fixing section acts as an intermediary that secures the operation input device at an intermediate position along the treatment instrument. This intermediary mechanism provides operational stability by preventing buckling or kinking during pushing/pulling and twisting operations, while maintaining a simple device structure without requiring complex fastening systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The position of the operation input device is changed from the base end to an intermediate position along the longitudinal axis. This parameter change (position relocation) improves reliability by reducing the risk of buckling or kinking, while the use of a simple frictional fixing mechanism keeps the device structure complexity low.
3Measurement precision
If the operation input device is positioned at the base end, then the device structure is simple, but the operator cannot perform precise force transfer to the distal end during lengthy operations
Solution Approach 1:
The operation input device is segmented from the base end and repositioned to an intermediate location. This segmentation enables more precise force transfer to the distal end during lengthy operations, as the operator can apply forces at a more ergonomic position. The simple frictional fixing structure maintains low device complexity.
4Ease of operation
If the operation input device is fixed to the base end, then the device structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the operator must use one hand to hold the motor unit while operating the joystick
Solution Approach 1:
The operation input device is segmented from the base end motor unit and repositioned to an intermediate location with a dedicated grip section. This segmentation allows the operator to grip the operation device separately from the motor unit, improving grip comfort and reducing operational complexity by enabling independent hand operations.
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
This configuration enhances operational efficiency and ensures precise force transfer to the distal end of the treatment instrument, reducing the likelihood of buckling and kinking, while allowing for reduced exertion and improved precision during lengthy operations.
Implementation Method 1
a frictional fixing section that presses, and fixes in place with friction, the trunk section at a position midway along the trunk section
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is an endoscopic-treatment-instrument operation input device that includes: a grip section that is shaped so as to be capable of being gripped by the palm and at least the little finger and the ring finger of one hand of an operator; an operation section that is arranged at a position so as to be operable by the thumb of the one hand in state where the grip section is being gripped and that allows an operation command for causing a joint of the treatment instrument to actuate to be input; and a frictional fixing section that presses, and fixes in place with friction, a position midway along elongated trunk section of the treatment instrument in the longitudinal direction through use of the index finger of the one hand.