Apparatuses and methods for endoscopic tool joints
US10561407B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 5, 2017 |
| Grant date | Feb 18, 2020 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 10, 2038 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B2017/00526
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to apparatuses, devices, and methods for secure connections between tubular structures. In one implementation, a first tube constructed of nitinol may have windows formed on an end thereof. A second tube constructed of stainless steel tube may be inserted within the first tube, and the windows may be filled with adhesive or solder. The adhesive or solder may bond with the first tube, forming connection pins which secure the tubes together. In some embodiments, the connected tubes may form an endoscopic needle. The nitinol portion of the needle may be sufficiently flexible for positioning within the bending section of an endoscope without deformation. The stainless steel portion of the needle may render the needle significantly less expensive than prior needles constructed solely of nitinol.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.