Flexible-Tip Video Endoscope with Dual-Wheel Pull-Wire Tensioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscopes with articulated tips face challenges in precision and image quality, particularly in the context of airway examination and endotracheal device placement, with issues related to image clarity and the need for improved control mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A video-based endoscope with a flexible tip controlled by a control lever, featuring a mechanism for accurate positioning and articulation, integrated image capturing and lighting elements, and a working channel for suction and fluid delivery, along with a data cable and video monitor system that ensures efficient image data exchange and optimized camera settings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If an articulated tip design is used to examine particular internal structures, then the ability to view internal structures is improved, but precision and image quality deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The tip is designed to be flexible rather than rigid, allowing it to dynamically adapt to the curvature of the airway while maintaining stability for imaging. The flexibility enables the tip to conform to anatomical structures without compromising image quality or positioning precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The endoscope incorporates a flexible tip structure that can bend and adapt to the airway's natural curvature. This flexible design allows the endoscope to navigate complex anatomical paths while maintaining stable contact with tissue surfaces for high-quality imaging and precise positioning.
2Measurement precision
If a flexible tip with control lever is used for accurate positioning, then positioning precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control lever acts as an intermediary mechanism that translates operator input into precise tip positioning. This mechanical intermediary provides intuitive control over the flexible tip's orientation and position, achieving accurate placement without requiring complex electronic or robotic control systems.
3Measurement precision
If integrated image capturing and lighting elements are used, then image quality is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging and lighting elements are integrated into a single compact module at the tip of the endoscope. This merging of functions reduces the number of separate components, simplifies assembly, and lowers manufacturing complexity while maintaining high image quality through optimized proximity of light sources to the imaging sensor.
Data Source
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AI summary
An endoscope device includes a handle and a shaft projecting from the handle. The shaft includes a proximal portion and a distal portion relative to the handle, a tube engagement device adjacent a distal end of the handle for retaining a device tube over the shaft prior to use, and a flexible tip coupled to the distal portion of the shaft. A pair of pull wires extends from the handle portion through the shaft portion and is coupled to the flexible tip. The handle portion includes a control wheel assembly coupled to the pair of pull wires, wherein the control wheel assembly comprises at least two control wheels. Each of the at least two control wheels are capable of independent rotation to provide accurate tensioning of the pair of pull wires during assembly of the endoscope device.