Autoclavable endoscope
US5810713A · kind A · utility
Assignees
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 10, 1996 |
| Grant date | Sep 22, 1998 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 10, 2016 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B1/042
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
The flexible endoscopic probe of the present invention includes mechanically engaged components within the tip of the probe. That is, the probe includes a viewing system including a coherent optical fiber having a lens that is mechanically engaged to the tip thereof. Additionally, a metal sleeve may be utilized at the tip of the probe to mechanically bind all of the components within the probe at its tip. Potting materials or adhesives may also be utilized to seal the components within the probe tip. Owing to the usage of mechanical binding methods, the probe is more durable and may be heat sterilized in an autoclave, or the like, in order to permit repeated usage of the probe.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.