Sliding Motion Transfer Member for Play-Free Endoscope Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscope kinematic chains, particularly in duodenoscopes, face challenges in achieving accurate and reliable motion transmission between the operating member at the proximal end and the tool at the distal end, with existing solutions being inefficient and costly.
Innovation Solution
A sliding motion transfer member with a proximal and distal end, capable of receiving motion activation input and converting it to linear motion, secured by an adhesive and optionally reinforced with screws, ensures precise and firm connection between the operating member and the elongate motion transmission member.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a wire coupling member is used to connect the operating member to the tool, then the motion transmission can be established, but the accuracy and reliability of motion transmission deteriorates due to play and wobble
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the problematic wire coupling member from the kinematic chain and replaces it with a direct rigid connection between the operating member and the push rod. This eliminates the intermediate coupling that causes play and wobble, thereby improving motion transmission accuracy while maintaining reliability through the direct connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new intermediary component - a rigid connection element (such as a splined connection or keyed connection) - that replaces the wire coupling member. This new intermediary provides a firm, play-free connection that accurately transmits motion from the operating member to the push rod, resolving the contradiction between reliability and precision.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a complex kinematic chain is used to operate the built-in tool, then the tool can be guided radially, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes unnecessary intermediate components from the kinematic chain. By eliminating the wire coupling member and other complex intermediaries, the patent simplifies the overall structure while retaining the essential capability to guide the tool radially through the straightening section.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a complex chain to transmit motion from the handle to the tool, the patent inverts the approach by creating a direct, simple connection that achieves the same radial guidance function with fewer components. The motion transmission path is simplified from multiple intermediate stages to a more direct route.
3Ease of manufacture
If existing motion transmission mechanisms are used, then the tool can be deployed, but the cost increases due to inefficient and costly components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adopts a disposable endoscope design where the entire kinematic chain, including the operating member and push rod connection, is designed as a single-use, cost-effective assembly. This eliminates the need for expensive, complex reusable components while ensuring reliable motion transmission during the single use period. The simplified structure reduces manufacturing costs without compromising reliability for the intended application lifecycle.
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 solution provides a cost-effective and reliable mechanism for converting rotary motion to linear motion without play or wobble, ensuring precise and firm connection, thus enhancing the accuracy and durability of the endoscope's tool deployment.
Implementation Method 1
an adhesive so as to secure the proximal section of said elongate motion transmission member with respect to said sliding motion transfer member
Data Source
AI summary
A sliding motion transfer member (22) for the kinematic chain of an actuator mechanism of an endoscope. The sliding motion transfer member (22) has a proximal end and a distal end (21). The sliding motion transfer member (22) is adapted to receive motion activation input and to move in a sliding manner in response to the motion activation input, thereby transferring motion to an elongate motion transmission member (27) extending from the distal end (21) of the sliding motion transfer member (20). The sliding motion transfer member (22) includes a first passage (36) adapted for receiving a proximal section of the elongate motion transmission member (20) and an adhesive.