Sinus Endoscope with Segmented Shape Memory Alloy Shaft
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional endoscopes face difficulties in rotating and deflecting within the sinus cavity due to torsional loads, making it challenging to effectively treat sinus conditions without damaging the instrument.
Innovation Solution
The endoscope design includes a flexible second section made of shape memory alloy, allowing for passive and active deflection, along with a rotatable control section and grip portion, enabling precise manipulation within small body cavities like the nostril and sinus without excessive torsional stress.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a relatively short endoscope is used for insertion into a sinus, then the endoscope can reach the sinus cavity through the nostril opening, but twisting or contorting of the endoscope to rotate the distal end becomes problematic because the endoscope is not long enough to easily endure the contortion loads
Solution Approach 1:
The endoscope shaft is divided into multiple sections including a first section and a second section that can deflect relative to each other. This segmentation allows the distal end to be rotated and deflected by bending at the junction between sections rather than twisting the entire shaft, reducing torsional loads on the instrument.
Solution Approach 2:
The endoscope incorporates a flexible section that can dynamically bend and deflect in response to operational needs. The flexible section allows the distal end to change orientation through bending motion rather than rigid twisting, enabling rotation capability while maintaining structural integrity and reducing torsional stress.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the endoscope is made flexible to allow deflection, then rotation and manipulation within the sinus cavity becomes easier, but the structural integrity and stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The endoscope employs a hybrid construction where only specific sections are made flexible while other portions maintain rigidity. The flexible section is localized to allow controlled deflection, while the rigid sections preserve structural stability and support the overall instrument during manipulation and treatment procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The endoscope utilizes composite construction combining flexible and rigid materials or structures in different sections. This composite approach allows the flexible section to provide necessary deflection capability while the rigid sections maintain structural integrity, achieving both adaptability and stability simultaneously.
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
This design allows for safe and effective rotation and deflection of the endoscope within small body cavities, reducing the risk of damage and enhancing the ability to perform diagnostic and treatment procedures.
Implementation Method 1
The second section is formed of shape memory alloy, wherein the second section includes a passive deflection section and an active deflection section
Data Source
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AI summary
An endoscope is provided for insertion into a small body cavity like a nostril and a sinus. The endoscope includes a control section, an insertion tube, a working channel tube, and a grip portion. The control section has portions defining a working channel port. The insertion tube extends from the control section and has first and second sections. The proximal end of the second section is connected to a distal end of the first section. The second section is bendable with respect to the first section. The working channel tube is disposed within first and second lumens of the first and second sections, which defines a working lumen extending therethrough. The working lumen is in communication with the working channel port. The grip portion is connected to the control section, and the insertion tube and the control section are rotatable with respect to the grip portion.