Abstract: An endoscopic device for autonomous locomotion through a selected body cavity in a predetermined direction, the device comprising a hollowed, cylindrical body that extends between two, preferably, the front and rear, end portions, respectively. The body is made of a relatively elastic material and includes an anchor for temporarily and alternately attaching the end portions to a wall portion of the body cavity in synch with corresponding axial extensions and contractions of the body. The body incorporates a reinforcement structure distributed along its length that is substantially rigid in a radial direction and yields in an axial direction, the structure specifically comprising either a plurality of relatively rigid rings or at least one helical spring.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
November 30, 2006
Date of Patent:
April 1, 2014
Assignee:
ERA Endoscopy S.R.L.
Inventors:
Samuele Gorini, Alberto Arena, Giuseppe Pernorio, Arianna Menciassi, Paolo Dario
Abstract: An endoscopic device capable of autonomous locomotion through a body cavity in a pre-established direction of displacement is described. The endoscopic device comprises a tubular body that extends between a front end portion and a rear end portion and a reinforcement structure distributed along the length of the tubular body. Each end portion includes an anchoring means for temporarily and alternately attaching the end portions to a wall of the body cavity.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
December 10, 2008
Date of Patent:
March 4, 2014
Assignee:
Era Endoscopy S.R.L.
Inventors:
Samuele Gorini, Giuseppe Pernorio, Alberto Arena