Spring-Loaded Tube Management Device for Endoscope Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for coupling medical tubes to endoscope shafts, such as using tape, are inefficient and prone to errors, leading to increased procedural time, potential damage to medical devices, and patient discomfort.
Innovation Solution
A tube management device with a base that transitions between an extended and coiled configuration, allowing for removably coupling medical tubes to endoscope shafts through a channel, which can be a recess or a protruding channel, and featuring a multi-layer coating for improved grip and tissue protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If tape or adhesive mechanism is used to couple tubes to endoscope shaft, then tubes can be secured to prevent free floating, but the coupling process becomes time-consuming and prone to errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the adhesive/tape-based mechanical coupling system with a spring-loaded mechanical coupling system. The spring mechanism automatically engages with the endoscope shaft through a simple insertion motion, eliminating the time-consuming process of applying and securing adhesive tapes while ensuring reliable coupling through mechanical interlocking.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded coupling mechanism is designed to automatically engage and secure the tube to the endoscope shaft through a self-actuating process. When the tube is inserted, the spring automatically compresses and locks into place, eliminating the need for manual adjustment or additional securing steps that would increase procedural time.
2Reliability
If tape is used to couple tubes to endoscope shaft, then tubes are secured, but potential damage to medical devices may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces adhesive-based coupling with a mechanical spring-loaded system that distributes coupling forces evenly through the tube wall and shaft interface. This eliminates the concentrated stress points and potential damage associated with tape application, while the spring mechanism provides controlled, gradual engagement that prevents sudden impacts or excessive forces.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring mechanism allows for adjustable coupling force parameters, enabling the system to adapt to different tube and shaft combinations. The spring can be designed with specific force characteristics to ensure secure coupling while remaining below damage thresholds for delicate medical devices, providing a safer alternative to fixed-strength adhesive tapes.
3Reliability
If adhesive tape is used for tube coupling, then tubes are secured to shaft, but patient discomfort increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces adhesive tape with a spring-loaded mechanical coupling that requires no external adhesives or tapes that could contact the patient. The entirely internal mechanical engagement eliminates the risk of adhesive residue, skin irritation, or discomfort associated with tape application and removal, while maintaining secure tube positioning.
4Reliability
If conventional tape coupling is used, then tubes are attached to shaft, but device complexity increases due to improper application
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded coupling mechanism is designed to self-align and self-engage with the endoscope shaft. The operator simply needs to insert the tube, and the spring automatically guides itself into the correct position and secures the connection, eliminating the complexity of proper tape application techniques, positioning, and securing that would otherwise be required.
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 device enables efficient and secure coupling of medical tubes to endoscope shafts, reducing procedural time, minimizing risk of device damage, and enhancing patient comfort by eliminating the need for adhesive tapes.
Implementation Method 1
A spring-loaded device may be used to couple the exterior tube to the shaft of the medical device
Implementation Method 2
The coating may include a first coating and a second coating different from the first coating. The first coating may be applied to one or more surfaces of the base configured to be exposed to a body lumen... The second coating may be applied to one or more surfaces of the base configured to contact at least one of the medical device shaft or the tube
Data Source
AI summary
A device for tube management includes a base. The base includes a structure configured to transition the device between an extended configuration and a coiled configuration upon receiving an application of a force to the device. The device also includes a coating applied to the base. In the extended configuration, the device includes a channel configured to receive a tube. In the coiled configuration, the device is configured to circumferentially surround a medical device shaft to removably couple the tube to the medical device shaft.