Patent ID: 8696363
Filing Date: 2014-04-15
Classification: G09B

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for use in training an operator in the use of an endoscope system comprising: a dummy endoscope having an insertion tube; a fixture defining a duct receiving in use the insertion tube, the dummy endoscope being manipulated by the operator; sensor means responsive to manipulation of the dummy endoscope for producing signals representative of longitudinal and rotational movement of the insertion tube relative to the fixture; and simulation means responsive to the signals for generating an operator viewable image simulating the image which would be viewable using an actual endoscope when the actual endoscope is used in an actual endoscopic procedure and is manipulated like the dummy endoscope, wherein the simulation means comprises tactile means operable between the fixture and the insertion tube so as to provide corresponding tactile feedback to the operator, and an operator interface producing input information in response to external physical manipulation of the operator interface applied by the operator while the insertion tube is received in the fixture, the external physical manipulation corresponding to a force required to deform a patient body, the simulation means being operable to receive the input information and relate it to deformation of a patient body caused by the external physical manipulation which is separate from any pressure exerted by the dummy endoscope on the patient body, the simulation means being further operable to simulate the deformation of an actual patient body that would be caused by the physical manipulation and modify the viewable image and the force feedback based on the simulated deformation of the patient body thereby simulating the changed viewable image that would be seen through an endoscope if an actual patient had received the physical manipulation.