Scope Extension Tube With Pumped Fluid and Data Channels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medical devices, such as scopes, face restricted range of motion due to the umbilicus, which hinders effective and efficient procedure conduct.
Innovation Solution
A medical system with an extension or elongated feature between the medical device and supporting equipment, incorporating channels for fluid and data transmission, and pumps to maintain pressure, enhancing the connection's length and flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the umbilicus length is increased to improve range of motion, then the flexibility and manipulation capability improve, but the risk of tangling and restriction increases
Solution Approach 1:
The umbilicus is divided into multiple segments or sections, allowing each segment to be independently managed and positioned. This segmentation reduces tangling while maintaining overall length and flexibility, as each segment can be separately routed and secured.
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediary device or mechanism is introduced to manage the umbilicus, such as a guide channel, routing system, or intermediate connector that prevents tangling while allowing the umbilicus to extend sufficiently for improved range of motion.
2Reliability
If pumps are positioned closer to the scope to maintain fluid pressure, then fluid transmission reliability improves, but the device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The pump is integrated into the scope assembly by nesting it within or alongside existing scope components. This nested configuration maintains fluid pressure reliability while minimizing additional device complexity, as the pump shares space with other scope elements rather than requiring separate mounting.
Solution Approach 2:
The pump functionality is merged with existing scope components, combining fluid pressurization with other scope functions. This integration reduces the number of separate parts and simplifies the overall device structure while maintaining reliable fluid transmission to the scope.
3Reliability
If multiple channels and pumps are added to maintain consistent fluid and data transmission, then transmission reliability improves, but the device complexity and manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The extension tube is designed as a multi-functional universal component that integrates multiple channels (fluid and data) within a single standardized structure. This universal design maintains transmission reliability through proper channel separation while simplifying manufacturing by using a unified component rather than multiple separate parts requiring precise alignment.
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
The extension improves the range of motion and efficiency of medical procedures by maintaining consistent fluid and data transmission, allowing for more effective manipulation and repositioning of the medical device.
Implementation Method 1
the second channel includes a first pump configured to pressurize the fluid passing through the second channel
Implementation Method 2
a first channel configured to convey data from the processor to the scope, wherein the first channel extends between the first connector and the third connector
Data Source
AI summary
A medical system comprising a scope including a shaft, a handle, and a first tube extending from the handle; medical equipment including a processor and a first fluid source; and a second tube comprising: a first end including a first connector engaging the processor, and a second connector engaging the first fluid source, a second end including a third connector engaging the first tube, a first channel configured to convey data from the processor to the scope, wherein the first channel extends between the first connector and the third connector, and a second channel configured to convey fluid from the first fluid source to the scope, wherein the second channel extends between the second connector and a first fluid outlet of the second tube, wherein the second channel includes a first pump configured to pressurize the fluid passing through the second channel.