Systems and methods for varying stiffness of an endoscopic insertion tube

US10542877B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• EndoChoice, Inc. · US

Inventors

• Golan Salman · Atlit, IL
• Igal Shteiman · Kfar Yona, IL
• Hadar Schwarcz · Netanya, IL
• Jeruham Avron · Haifa, IL
• Christopher Stephen · Sydney, AU

Key dates

• Filing date: Aug 28, 2015
• Grant date: Jan 28, 2020
• Expiry date: Nov 25, 2035

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A61B1/12
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

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.