Endoscopic Tool Elevator for Working-Channel Stabilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Accessory devices used in endoscopic procedures experience instability due to loose fits within the working channel of endoscopes, particularly during precise procedures like endoluminal surgery, leading to unpredictable device orientation and potential risks for the patient.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an elevator mechanism within the endoscope shaft, featuring extensions and actuators that stabilize the accessory device by selectively positioning it within the working channel, ensuring it moves in concert with the scope.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If an accessory device is designed with a smaller outer diameter to fit through the working channel of a diagnostic endoscope, then the device can be used in diagnostic procedures, but the device becomes undersized and loose-fitting when used with therapeutic endoscopes, resulting in device instability
Solution Approach 1:
The elevator mechanism provides dynamic adjustment capability, allowing the accessory device to be selectively positioned and stabilized within the working channel. The elevator can move between retracted and extended positions to engage with the accessory device and prevent unwanted movement, transforming a static loose-fit situation into a dynamically controllable configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The elevator acts as an intermediary component between the accessory device and the endoscope shaft. It mediates the interaction by providing a mechanical engagement surface that contacts the accessory device, transferring stabilization forces from the endoscope structure to the accessory device without requiring a permanent fixed connection.
2Ease of operation
If the accessory device is allowed to move freely within the working channel, then the device can be easily inserted and removed, but the device orientation becomes unpredictable during articulation, introducing risk during precise procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The elevator mechanism allows the operator to pre-position and stabilize the accessory device within the working channel before performing precise procedures. By engaging the elevator in advance, the device is secured against unwanted movement during articulation, eliminating unpredictability before critical actions are taken.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the positional parameters of the accessory device by using the elevator to constrain the device at specific locations within the working channel. This transforms the device from a freely movable state to a constrained state with controlled position and orientation, maintaining reliability during precise manipulation.
3Device complexity
If a cutting knife with no articulation capability is used, then the device structure remains simple, but cutting motions must rely on scope articulation which causes unexpected knife movement due to loose fit
Solution Approach 1:
The elevator serves as a mediating structure that provides stable support for the cutting knife within the working channel. It creates a reliable interface between the knife and the endoscope, allowing simple knife designs to achieve precise control through the stabilization provided by the elevator mechanism during articulation.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2D
Figure 3A~5B
AI summary
According to one aspect, a de vice may include a shaft having a distal end and a lumen, the lumen terminating in a distal ly -facing opening. An instrument may be inserted through the shaft and may extend through the lumen and out of opening. The device may further include an elevator for engaging the instrument. The elevator may include an actuator extending through at least a portion of the shaft; and a body may be coupled to the actuator. A portion of the body may be configured to extend within the lumen and to apply a force to the instrum ent and move the instrument into contact with a surface of the lumen when the actuator is moved.