Magnetic Coupling for One-Handed Endoscope Instrument Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medical endoscope devices require two-handed operation or hand changes to move and rotate stone-trapping instruments, which is complex and prone to excessive force damage.
Innovation Solution
A medical device with magnetically coupled elements allows for one-handed operation in both longitudinal and rotational directions, featuring a rotary slide and scale elements for precise movement and force protection, enabling easy handling and measurement of calculus size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If two-handed operation is used to move and rotate the stone trap, then precise control is achieved, but the device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of longitudinal movement and rotational control into a single integrated actuating mechanism. The actuating element is designed to simultaneously control the stone trap's extraction/insertion and rotation through magnetic coupling, eliminating the need for separate controls and enabling one-handed operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical coupling with magnetic coupling between the actuating element and the stone trap. This magnetic field-based interaction allows for smoother, more precise control with reduced mechanical complexity, enabling both longitudinal and rotational movements through a single actuating mechanism.
2Productivity
If excessive force is applied to pull the working element back, then the stone trap can be quickly retracted, but the working element is damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a magnetic cushioning effect that prevents excessive force application. The magnetic coupling between the actuating element and stone trap creates a controlled resistance that limits the maximum force transmitted, protecting the working element from damage while maintaining efficient retraction speed.
Solution Approach 2:
By replacing rigid mechanical coupling with magnetic coupling, the system gains inherent force limiting capabilities. The magnetic field provides a controlled interaction that prevents sudden force spikes and excessive loading, thereby protecting the working element while maintaining operational efficiency.
3Ease of operation
If separate controls are used for longitudinal movement and rotation, then precise individual control is achieved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control of longitudinal movement and rotation into a single actuating element with integrated feedback mechanisms. Scale elements provide measurement information for both movement dimensions, ensuring precision is maintained while simplifying the user interface to enable one-handed operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates scale elements that provide feedback on the extent of longitudinal movement and rotation. This feedback mechanism ensures precise control is maintained even though both functions are controlled through a single actuating element, allowing the user to accurately determine the position and orientation of the stone trap.
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
Facilitates simple, safe, and precise one-handed operation of medical instruments within the endoscope, preventing damage from excessive force and providing accurate measurement of calculus size during removal.
Implementation Method 1
at least one first magnetic element, which is coupled to the medical instrument, and at least one second magnetic element, which is movable in relation to the at least one first magnetic element... interact magnetically
Data Source
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AI summary
The aim of the invention is to move a medical instrument (2) by means of a medical device (1) in the longitudinal direction of the device and in the rotation direction transversely about the longitudinal direction by an actuating apparatus (3). This aim is achieved in that the medical instrument (2) is connected to at least one first magnetic element (18, 19) and the actuating apparatus (3) contains at least one second magnetic element (20, 21) or is connected thereto; the actuating apparatus (3) is movable together with the at least one second magnetic element (20, 21) in the longitudinal direction of the device and in the rotational direction about the longitudinal direction in question and is movable together with the at least one second magnetic element (20, 21) in the longitudinal direction of the device and in the rotational direction about the longitudinal direction in question and permits, by means of magnetic coupling between the at least one second magnetic element (20, 21) and the at least one first magnetic element (18, 19), moving same together with the medical instrument (2).