Systems and methods for varying stiffness of an endoscopic insertion tube
US12402783B2 · kind B2 · utility
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132References
21Claims
0Family size
Assignee
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Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 16, 2023 |
| Grant date | Sep 2, 2025 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 16, 2043 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B1/12
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
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.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.