Protective sheath for a fiberoptic image guide within an articulated endoscope
US5704899A · kind A · utility
76Cited by
6References
9Claims
0Family size
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 10, 1995 |
| Grant date | Jan 6, 1998 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 10, 2015 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB29C48/00
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An improved endoscope prevents abrasion of a fiberoptic image guide with a braid reinforced sheath. Abrasion of fiberoptic image guides within articulating endoscopes quickly wear through a conventional fiberoptic mantle, decreasing the useful life of the endoscope. Preferably, the sheath comprises a metal braid disposed within a polyimide, which effectively protects the image guide from abrasion against the endoscope components and substantially extends useful life.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.