Multi-jet Endoscope Pump Controller
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current endoscopes lack the capability to concurrently and multi-directionally supply fluids to multiple fluid injectors or jet openings, which hinders efficient cleaning of body cavities or portions of the endoscope.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method for controlling the flow direction of fluid from an external source into multiple fluid channels within an endoscope, utilizing a dual-direction pump and a controller to direct fluid flow to either a front jet or to both the front and side jets, allowing for adjustable fluid distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single fluid channel is used in current endoscopes, then the structure is simple, but the capability to concurrently and multi-directionally supply fluids to multiple jet openings is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid channel system is segmented into multiple independent channels (first fluid channel, second fluid channel, third fluid channel) that can be selectively activated. Each channel connects to different jet openings (front jet, first side jet, second side jet), enabling multi-directional fluid supply while maintaining manageable structural complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The pump system is designed to perform multiple functions by directing fluid through different channels to different jets. The same pump can supply fluid to the front jet alone, side jets alone, or all jets simultaneously, providing universal fluid distribution capability across multiple injection points
2Productivity
If fluid is supplied to multiple jets simultaneously, then cleaning efficiency is improved, but control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates dynamic control through a pump with selectable operating modes. The controller can dynamically switch between different fluid distribution configurations (front jet only, side jets only, all jets) based on real-time cleaning requirements, optimizing both cleaning efficiency and operational ease
Solution Approach 2:
The control system provides feedback-based operation where the operator can select desired jet activation patterns and the system responds by configuring fluid flow accordingly. This feedback mechanism simplifies operation by automating the coordination of multiple jets while maintaining high cleaning efficiency
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
Enables efficient and multi-directional fluid distribution to multiple jets within the endoscope, enhancing the cleaning capabilities of body cavities and maintaining the endoscope's integrity.
Implementation Method 1
a pump connected to the tube, wherein the pump is adapted to direct fluid from the external source to at least one of a first combination of fluid channels and a second combination of fluid channels in the tube
Data Source
AI summary
The present specification describes a control mechanism to control fluid flow through one or more fluid channels that supply fluid to the distal tip of an endoscope. A pump is provided with an endoscope to control the flow of fluid from an external source to a combination of fluid channels within the endoscope, which supply fluid to front and side jets of a multi-jet endoscope assembly. The pump is preferably dual-direction pump that enables control of fluid to either the front jet or to the front and side jets of the endoscope.