Pivotable Video Endoscope Module for Instrument Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional endoscopes face challenges in accommodating larger surgical instruments and maintaining optimal optical performance due to the need for larger incisions, which increase infection risk and prolong healing, and compromise between instrument channels and imaging systems.
Innovation Solution
A video endoscope design featuring a compact module pivotably arranged at the distal end, allowing the module to be moved off the axis for instrument access while maintaining video and illumination capabilities, with a pivot tube for signal and illumination fiber transmission, enabling larger instrument insertion and improved optical performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the endoscope includes a large instrument channel for robust surgical instruments, then the instrument access is improved, but the cross section available for illumination fibers and imaging system is reduced, compromising optical performance
Solution Approach 1:
The video module is designed to be movable relative to the endoscope axis, capable of pivoting between a retracted position (along the axis for insertion) and a laterally offset position (for instrument access). This dynamic reconfiguration allows the system to switch between optimizing optical performance during insertion and maximizing instrument access during surgery, resolving the contradiction between these two requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of competing for the same radial space, the invention utilizes the longitudinal dimension by moving the video module along the endoscope axis and then laterally offsetting it. This dimensional transition creates a clear pathway for instruments through the distal end while the video module operates from a laterally positioned location, effectively adding a spatial dimension to resolve the space conflict.
2Area of stationary object
If the endoscope uses a compact video module design, then the cross section for electronic cables is minimized, but the module requires lateral offsetting which complicates the insertion pathway
Solution Approach 1:
The video module is designed with a compact form factor that fits within the endoscope axis during insertion, and the system is configured to perform the lateral offsetting action only after the distal end has successfully entered the body cavity. This preliminary positioning followed by lateral movement separates the insertion phase from the operation phase, minimizing pathway complexity during insertion while enabling full functionality during surgery.
3Adaptability or versatility
If additional incisions are made for instrument insertion, then the instrument access is improved, but the risk of infection increases and the healing process is extended
Solution Approach 1:
The endoscope distal end is designed with multi-functionality, where the same opening serves both for the passage of surgical instruments and for the lateral offsetting of the video module to provide imaging. This universal access point eliminates the need for separate incisions for instrumentation, thereby reducing infection risk and healing time while maintaining full instrument access capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A video endoscope for diagnostic and therapeutic usage including a rigid or flexible tube defining an axis and a compact video module arranged at a distal end of the tube along the axis, the video unit being configured to pivot off the axis for providing improved access of medical instruments through the distal end of the tube.