[Study of the bending and torsion rigidity of the flexible elements of endoscopes]

The method and a special set for measuring the rigidity in bending and the torsion rigidity of flexible endoscopic elements under experimental and operating conditions are described. The set consists of the following components: a base, two racks, three removable holders, a height gauge, a set of weights, a set of inserts allowing flexible endoscopic pieces 4-16 mm in diameter to be fixed in the holder. Some experimental results are given.