Surgical Scope Imaging Sensor With Airflow Defogging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional endoscopes face challenges in maintaining clear visualization during minimally invasive surgeries due to lens fogging and debris accumulation, necessitating inconvenient lens cleaning that disrupts surgical procedures.
Innovation Solution
A single-use imaging device with a view optimizing assembly that includes a deflector assembly for intra-operative defogging and debris deflection, integrated with a laparoscope to maintain clear visualization without removing the scope from the abdominal cavity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional endoscopes are used during minimally invasive surgeries, then the surgical procedure can be performed, but lens fogging and debris accumulation occur which degrade visualization quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the harmful condensation and debris from the optical path by introducing a separate airflow system that directs gas flow across the lens surface. This external airflow removes the harmful factors without interfering with the primary imaging function of the endoscope.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces gas flow as an intermediary medium between the warm humid environment inside the abdominal cavity and the lens surface. This gas flow acts as a protective barrier that prevents moisture condensation on the lens while allowing the endoscope to maintain its imaging function.
2Ease of operation
If the endoscope is removed from the abdominal cavity to clean the lens, then debris can be removed, but the surgical procedure is disrupted and time is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the lens to clean itself by incorporating an airflow system that directs gas flow across the lens surface. This self-cleaning mechanism removes debris and prevents fogging without requiring manual intervention or removal of the endoscope from the surgical site.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent maintains continuous visualization during surgery by implementing an ongoing airflow system that continuously prevents lens fogging and debris accumulation. The gas flow operates throughout the surgical procedure, ensuring uninterrupted imaging without requiring periodic removal and cleaning of the endoscope.
3Reliability
If traditional sterilization procedures are used for endoscopes, then sterilization can be achieved, but the complexity of the sterilization process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a single-use endoscope system that is pre-sterilized and packaged. The endoscope is designed for one-time use only, eliminating the need for complex re-sterilization procedures between surgeries. The entire endoscope including the imaging sensor and airflow components is discarded after a single use, ensuring sterility without requiring complicated sterilization processes.
Data Source
AI summary
A system, apparatus and methods for providing a single use imaging device having improved viewing for sterile environments is disclosed and described. A single use high definition camera used for general purpose surgical procedures including, but not limited to, arthroscopic, laparoscopic, gynecologic, and urologic procedures, may comprise an imaging device that is a sterile and designed to ensure single use. The imaging device may further include a sensor located near the tip of a laparoscope and a view optimizing assembly.