Finger-Mounted Endoscope Control Unit for Single-User Sheath Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current medical devices used during endoscopy require two users to operate, one for axial movement of the sheath and another for actuating the operating instrument, leading to coordination challenges and potential complications due to communication barriers and reduced sensory feedback.
Innovation Solution
A manual operation unit that can be fitted to a user's finger, allowing a single user to manage both the axial movement of the sheath and the operation of the medical device using a standard handle, thereby enabling independent operation of medical devices during endoscopy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a standard handle with actuator is used, then the operating instrument can be actuated, but a second user is required for axial movement of the sheath
Solution Approach 1:
The operation unit combines both the actuation function (for operating the operating instrument) and the axial movement control (for moving the sheath) into a single integrated device that can be operated with one hand. This merging of functions eliminates the need for a second user while maintaining full operational capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The operation unit is designed as a multi-functional device that performs multiple operations simultaneously: it controls both the actuation of the operating instrument and the axial movement of the sheath. This universal design allows one user to perform all necessary operations during endoscopy.
2Reliability
If two users operate the device, then both axial movement and instrument actuation can be performed, but coordination challenges and communication barriers arise
Solution Approach 1:
By combining the control of axial movement and instrument actuation into a single operation unit, the invention eliminates the need for coordination between two users. The single user directly controls both functions, ensuring perfect coordination without communication barriers or latency.
Solution Approach 2:
The operation unit provides direct mechanical feedback to the user's finger, allowing immediate perception of the device's operational state. This feedback mechanism enhances reliability by enabling the user to sense tissue resistance and device position in real-time, eliminating the delay inherent in verbal communication between two users.
3Ease of operation
If the operation unit is fitted to the user's finger, then single-user operation is enabled, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The operation unit is designed as a compact, nested structure where components are housed within each other to minimize overall size. The actuator, spring, and other elements are arranged in a space-efficient configuration that fits on the user's finger without excessive bulk or complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The operation unit incorporates a spring-loaded mechanism that automatically returns the actuator to its initial position after activation. This self-service feature eliminates the need for complex reset mechanisms or additional user actions, simplifying the overall device structure while enabling continuous operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A manual operation unit and a manual operation group of a medical device (D), which can be used on an endoscope (E); wherein the operation unit (2) has a supporting body (7; 121; 121′; 121b′), which is configured to adhere, in use, to an area of the user's hand, in particular a finger; and a retaining portion (8; 122a; 122a′; 122b′), which is connected to said supporting body (7; 121; 121′; 121b′) and configured to be hooked, in use, to the medical device (D).