Abstract: A flexible, steerable device for conducting exploratory procedures is disclosed. The device includes at least one spine, each having stiffening means for selectively rendering the spine rigid and flexible along its length. A flexible sheath surrounds the spine and is axially slidably moveable relative to the spine so that the sheath will follow and conform to the shape of a spine in the rigid state and resist further flexure when the spine is in a relaxed state. A steerable distal tip is provided on the distal end of the device. Controls for the distal tip are mounted on the proximal end of the device. Mechanisms are provided on the distal end of the device for selectively activating and deactivating the stiffening means of the spine. An instrument conduit may be mounted on the sheath.

Abstract: An articulation mechanism for an endoscope wherein the endoscope has a generally elongated shaft and cables extending between a control head located at the proximal end thereof and an objective assembly located at the distal end thereof wherein the objective assembly is capable of being deflected over an arcuate co-planar path by the articulation mechanism is shown. The articulation mechanism comprises a proximal ring having a first outer edge and a second outer edge and the proximal ring is operative coupled to the distal end of the endoscope at one of the first outer ring and second outer ring and having a coupling member defined on the other of the first outer ring and second outer ring. A central ring having a first outer edge and a second outer edge, each of which defines an actuation member, is operatively connected by one of the actuation members to the coupling member.