Systems and Methods for Varying Stiffness of An Endoscopic Insertion Tube

摘要

The specification describes endoscopes that enable varying stiffness of an insertion portion in an endoscope assembly. In one example, an actuator operates either a spring or a flexible tube to vary stiffness of the insertion portion. In alternative examples, an elliptical wheel arrangement or screw mechanism provides a means to increase stiffness of the insertion portion of an endoscope assembly. In further examples, fluid and gas may be used inside the insertion potion to vary stiffness by varying pressure of the fluid/gas.

主权项

1. An endoscope assembly comprising an insertion portion that is connected to a handle at a proximal end of the insertion portion and a bending portion at a distal end of the insertion portion, comprising:
a screw configured to rotate around a longitudinal axis of the endoscope assembly; a housing in physical communication with the screw, wherein the housing is configured to move in a direction that is at least one of a distal direction and a proximal direction along the longitudinal axis of the endoscope assembly, with the rotation of the screw; a stopper placed within the housing; and a wire having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the proximal end of the wire is connected to the stopper, the wire stretches along a length of the insertion portion, and the distal end of the wire is connected to a proximal end of the bending portion and wherein the wire stiffens the insertion portion upon rotation of the screw towards distal end of the insertion portion.