This project set out to redesign an endoscope holder used in neuro surgery. The issue with current holders is that they tend to drift and take a long time to reposition, this means surgeons tend not to use them and instead employ a assistant surgeon to hold the scope. This causes problems as the surgeon becomes fatigued and is unable to hold the scope still, and the area around the patient becomes crowded restricting access. 

 

The project was run in conjunction with John Raddcliffe hospital. The design team consisted of 3 product designer and 2 engineers. 

 

The final design uses a hydraulic system operated by a foot pedal , pressing down on the pedal unlocks the joints so the arm can be moved. Fine adjustment is achieved using a ball joint that  can be locked and unlocked using a quick connect clamp. 

 

 

Published: 17th May 2014 

Neuro endoscope: Holder redesign.