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Peristaltically Self-propelled endoscopic device

  • US 20030065250A1
  • Filed: 05/08/2002
  • Published: 04/03/2003
  • Est. Priority Date: 09/17/2001
  • Status: Active Grant
First Claim
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1. A self-propelled endoscopic device, comprising:

  • (a) a flexible conduit having a longitudinal dimension along its length, a lateral dimension at any point along the conduit length that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal dimension at that point, and an outer wall;

    (b) a first inflatable actuator, the first inflatable actuator;

    having a first end in a fixed longitudinal position on the conduit, having a second end opposing the first end, the second end being slidably attached to the conduit and longitudinally movable along the outer wall, and being configured to longitudinally contract while laterally expanding during propulsion of the device; and

    (c) a second actuator, the second actuator;

    having a first end slidably attached to the conduit and longitudinally movable along the outer wall, the first end having at least one point in a substantially fixed position relative to a point on the second end of the first actuator, having a second end opposing the first end of the second actuator, the second end being slidably attached to the conduit and longitudinally movable along the outer wall, and being configured to longitudinally contract while laterally expanding.

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