Endoscopic Tool for Parallel Alignment in Narrow-Passage Retrieval
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Solution Overview
Problem
Elongated foreign objects are prone to getting stuck in narrow passages during retrieval due to their length exceeding the passage diameter, posing a challenge in both medical and non-medical applications.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising two object manipulation tools and an elongated housing, allowing the first tool to be positioned alongside the housing at a distance from its distal end, enabling the foreign object to be oriented parallel to the housing, thereby reducing the chances of getting stuck during retrieval.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an elongated foreign object is retrieved through a narrow passage using a conventional endoscopic tool, then the object can be grasped and removed, but the object is prone to getting stuck in the passage due to its length exceeding the passage diameter
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the distal end of the first manipulation tool alongside the housing at a distance from the distal end of the housing, creating a spatial configuration where the foreign object can be oriented parallel to the housing's elongation direction. This dimensional positioning allows the object to be aligned with the passage axis during retrieval, reducing the risk of getting stuck despite the object's length exceeding the passage diameter.
2Reliability
If the distal end of the first manipulation tool is positioned alongside the housing at a distance from the distal end of the housing, then the foreign object can be positioned parallel to the housing reducing the chance of getting stuck, but the device complexity increases due to the need for two manipulation tools and extended positioning mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two manipulation tools within a single integrated housing structure. The first manipulation tool is arranged to be partially moved out of the housing at the distal end, while the second manipulation tool is also accommodated within the housing. This merging approach allows both tools to work together for grasping and positioning the foreign object, achieving reliable retrieval while maintaining a unified device structure rather than separate independent tools.
3Device complexity
If a single manipulation tool is used to grasp the foreign object, then the device structure is simple, but the foreign object cannot be properly oriented parallel to the housing, increasing the risk of getting stuck
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the manipulation function into two separate manipulation tools: a first manipulation tool for grasping the foreign object and a second manipulation tool for positioning and orientation control. The first tool is arranged to be partially moved out of the housing at the distal end, while the second tool remains accommodated within the housing. This segmentation allows independent control of grasping and orientation functions, enabling the foreign object to be positioned parallel to the housing's elongation direction and reducing the risk of getting stuck during retrieval.
Data Source
AI summary
Devices and methods which allow a foreign object, in particular an elongated foreign object, to be removed through a narrow passage, in particular with reduced chance of getting stuck inside said narrow passage. It will be generally understood that devices and methods disclosed herein may be applied in a medical field, but also in a non-medical field.