Introduction devices for highly articulated robotic probes and methods of production and use of such probes

An introduction assembly, comprising:

• an articulated probe including:
• at least one channel for receiving an elongated member;
• an inner core;
• and
• an outer sleeve about at least a portion of the inner core, the inner core having a plurality of inner links, the outer sleeve having a plurality of outer links, wherein the plurality of outer links includes at least one distal link;
• a feeding mechanism having at least one actuator for controlling the articulated probe;
• and
• an introduction device having a proximal end fixed in a positional relationship to the feeding mechanism, wherein the introduction device comprises a support member configured to receive and provide a supporting force to the articulated probe, wherein the support member is curved along a longitudinal axis, and wherein the at least one distal link includes at least one probe side port that extends radially from the at least one distal link and is constructed and arranged to prevent the at least one distal link from entering the support member of the introduction device.