Modular Endoscopic Simulator with Snap Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current devices for simulating endoscopic operations via natural orifice lack versatility and realism, as they are not adaptable to different types of endoscopic techniques and do not accurately replicate the tools, access paths, and surgical fields associated with endoscopic procedures through natural orifices.
Innovation Solution
A modular device comprising detachable main and inlet modules, along with simulation modules, that can be easily assembled and disassembled using a snap coupling system, allowing for the simulation of various biological organs and pathologies. The device includes sensors and a haptic system to provide realistic feedback and data on the operator's performance, and can be customized using 3D printing based on medical images.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed non-modular simulation device is used, then the device structure is simple, but the adaptability to different endoscopic techniques and organs is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The simulation device is divided into multiple detachable modules including a base module, organ modules, and tool modules. Each module can be independently configured and recombined to simulate different endoscopic scenarios, allowing high adaptability without requiring a completely different device for each procedure.
Solution Approach 2:
The base module serves multiple functions by accommodating different organ modules and tool modules through standardized coupling mechanisms. This universal design allows a single base unit to support various endoscopic simulations across different organs and procedures, achieving multi-functionality without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If detachable modules with coupling system are used, then the adaptability and versatility improve, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into standardized modules that can be detached and reconfigured. This segmentation allows versatile simulation of different organs and pathologies by simply changing modules, while the modular architecture actually simplifies manufacturing and maintenance compared to fixed complex designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanisms use standardized parameters and interfaces that remain constant across different modules. This standardization allows modules to be interchangeable without increasing complexity, as the coupling protocol and interface specifications are fixed and reusable across the entire module family.
3Reliability
If simulation modules are added to simulate different pathologies, then the realism and training value improve, but the device complexity and number of components increase
Solution Approach 1:
Different pathologies and organ conditions are simulated through detachable simulation modules that can be attached to the base unit. This segmentation allows high realism by providing specific pathological conditions when needed, while maintaining simplicity by only attaching the required module for each training scenario rather than having all features permanently integrated.
Data Source
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AI summary
A device for simulating an endoscopic operation via natural orifice,comprising a physical model of a biological organ comprising main and inlet modules detachable from each other. The main module defines a main body of the organ with a cavity and the inlet module defines an inlet opening to the cavity of the main module corresponding to the inlet of the biological organ. The cavity of the main module is accessible through the inlet module by an endoscopic tool to actuate in the cavity of the main module. The main module is configured in such a way that, in use, one or more simulation modules are attachable with the main module to simulate one or more events representative of the actuation of the endoscopic tool in the cavity of the main module.