Articulation joint
US8608648B2 · kind B2 · utility
60Cited by
618References
17Claims
0Family size
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 22, 2011 |
| Grant date | Dec 17, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 22, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B1/31
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A video endoscope system includes a reusable control cabinet and an endoscope that is connectable thereto. The endoscope may be used with a single patient and then disposed. The endoscope includes an illumination mechanism, an image sensor, and an elongate shaft having one or more lumens located therein. An articulation joint at the distal end of the endoscope allows the distal end to be oriented by the actuators in the control cabinet or actuators in a control handle of the endoscope. Fluidics, electrical, navigation, image, display and data entry controls are integrated into the system along with other accessories.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.