Expandable Sheath for Endoscope Multi-Accessory Introduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional endoscopes are limited by the number and diameter of working channels, restricting the use of multiple diagnostic and treatment devices simultaneously, and existing disposable sheaths face challenges with flexibility and manufacturing limitations, leading to discomfort and incomplete sterilization.
Innovation Solution
A disposable sheath assembly with radially expandable side rails and a multi-channeled endoscope shaft sheath that securely fits over a flexible endoscope insertion tube, allowing for the introduction and placement of additional accessories through radially expandable channels, enabling multiple devices to be used simultaneously while maintaining a thin profile and ease of installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple working channels are added to the endoscope to enable simultaneous use of multiple accessories, then the functionality and versatility are improved, but the diameter of the endoscope increases, causing patient discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested structure where the expandable sheath is positioned inside the endoscope shaft, and multiple accessories are introduced through the expandable sheath's channels. When collapsed, the sheath maintains a compact profile within the endoscope; when expanded, it provides multiple working channels for simultaneous accessory use, effectively nesting multiple functions within a limited space
Solution Approach 2:
The sheath assembly incorporates radially expandable side rails that can transition between collapsed and expanded states. This dynamic structure allows the sheath to adapt its configuration: collapsed during insertion to minimize diameter, and expanded during the procedure to provide multiple working channels, thereby resolving the contradiction between versatility and diameter
2Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid sheath structure is used to provide stable working channels, then the structural stability is improved, but the flexibility and ease of insertion are reduced, causing patient discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The sheath assembly is constructed from flexible materials that allow it to bend and conform to the endoscope shaft and patient anatomy during insertion, yet provides sufficient structural stability when expanded to maintain working channels. The flexible construction enables easy insertion while maintaining channel integrity during the procedure
3Adaptability or versatility
If the sheath diameter is increased to accommodate multiple accessories, then the capacity for simultaneous device introduction is improved, but the patient comfort deteriorates due to increased insertion tube size
Solution Approach 1:
The radially expandable side rails enable the sheath to dynamically adjust its diameter: collapsed to a small profile during insertion to minimize patient discomfort, and expanded to a larger diameter during the procedure to accommodate multiple accessories. This dynamic size adjustment resolves the contradiction between accessory capacity and patient comfort
Solution Approach 2:
The expandable sheath with multiple channels is nested within the endoscope shaft during insertion, maintaining a compact overall diameter. Once positioned, the sheath can be expanded outward to provide multiple working channels without increasing the insertion diameter, thereby accommodating multiple accessories while preserving patient comfort
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
The solution enhances the ability to use multiple medical accessories during procedures without increasing the endoscope's diameter, reducing patient discomfort and improving sterilization efficiency by providing a flexible and secure fit, allowing for more advanced medical procedures to be performed with improved accessibility and safety.
Implementation Method 1
radially expandable side rails, to open a working channel
Implementation Method 2
flexible endoscope insertion tube
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
An accessory device introduction system works in conjunction with an endoscope and enables more than one accessory device to be used at the same time. The system has a plurality of channels which only expand to accommodate said accessory device(s) when introduced. The system further includes an attachment assembly which connects securely to the endoscope by means of a compression friction fit between the endoscope and itself. The attachment assembly also provides at least one accessory port to be presented to an end user to enable the end user to pass an accessory device within said accessory port and channel. The system further includes a multi-channeled endoscope shaft sheath which is connected to the attachment assembly at one end and the distal end of the endoscope shaft at the other end, thereby covering an entire outer shaft diameter length. The shaft sheath has a plurality of channels which correspond to those of the attachment assembly.