Endoscope system with multiple connection interfaces to interface with different video data signal sources

Abstract

To provide an endoscope system with a plurality of connection interfaces to interface with different video data signal sources.SOLUTION: Endoscopes each having a tip section with viewing elements coupled to a CMOS image sensor and / or a CCD image sensor for transforming light captured by the viewing element into digital and / or analog signals are described. A main connector is coupled with the tip section for transmitting signals to a main control unit of the endoscope. The main connector includes a pad for transmitting digital signals provided by the CMOS image sensor to a push pin probe in a receptacle of the main control unit. The main connector also includes another interface for transmitting analog signals to the main control unit.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7A

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This specification generally relates to endoscopes, and more particularly, to a main control unit that detects and responds to different types of image sensors positioned within an endoscope.

Background Art

[0002] Endoscopes are widely accepted in the medical community because they provide a means of performing procedures with minimal patient trauma while allowing physicians to observe a patient's internal anatomy. Over the years, numerous endoscopes have been developed and classified according to specific applications such as cystoscopy, colonoscopy, laparoscopy, upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, and others. Endoscopes can be inserted into the body's natural lumens or through incisions in the skin.

[0003] Some endoscopes have an observation element for observing internal organs such as the colon and an illuminator for illuminating the field of view of the observation element. The observation element and the illuminator are disposed within the tip of the endoscope and are used to capture an image of the inner wall of the body cavity being scanned by the endoscope. The captured image is transmitted to a control unit coupled to the endoscope via one of the channels present within the scope shaft so as to be displayed on a screen coupled to the control unit. In an endoscopic procedure, the operating physician guides the endoscope within the patient's body by using the captured image displayed on a screen coupled to the control unit as a guide.

[0004] The endoscope captures images of internal organs with one or more observation elements, such as a camera, disposed within the tip portion. Each observation element is coupled to an image sensor to convert the light captured by the observation element into at least one image. The image sensor may be a charge-coupled device (CCD) or a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) image sensor, or other suitable device having a light-sensing surface capable of capturing images. Signals such as analog or digital signals generated by the image sensor are transmitted to the main control unit via the main connector of the endoscope for display on a screen coupled to the main control unit. Endoscopes based on CCDs are equipped with a main connector having a push / pull electrical connector, such as a LEMO (registered trademark) connector, which is generally known in the art. The LOMO (registered trademark) connector is mounted within a corresponding LEMO (registered trademark) connector interface provided on the main control unit of the endoscope for transmission of analog image signals having a bandwidth of 1 / 3 GHz. However, CMOS image sensors generate digital image / video signals having a bandwidth level of 1.5 GHz or higher, which is very large in comparison to the signals generated by CCD image sensors, and as a result, cannot be transmitted via a standard LEMO (registered trademark) interface.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

PROBLEMS TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION

[0005] Accordingly, there is a need for a main control unit interface and / or adapter that can support both CCD-based and CMOS-based main connector couplers within the endoscope. There is also a need for a high-speed transmission interface that maintains signal integrity and does not result in signal distortion and can be used with CMOS-based endoscopes.

MEANS FOR SOLVING THE PROBLEMS

[0006] This specification discloses an endoscope system having a distal section with at least one observation element, and a main connector coupled to the distal section and configured to receive and transmit a first set of video data signals from the at least one observation element, the main connector having at least one pad, and a control unit having a receptacle positioned on an outer surface of the control unit and configured to receive the main connector, the receptacle having a first region, the first region having at least one probe, the at least one probe having a spring-biased pin, and upon attachment of the main connector to the receptacle, the at least one probe abuts against at least one pad such that the at least one probe is compressed.

[0007] Optionally, the at least one pad is flat and made of metal. Optionally, the first region has an optical guide, a gas channel, and a second probe.

[0008] Optionally, the main connector has a second pad, and upon attachment of the main connector to the receptacle, the second probe abuts against the second pad such that the second probe is compressed.

[0009] Optionally, the receptacle further has a second region, and the second region has a multi-pin interface configured to receive a second set of video data signals, and the second set of video data signals has a bandwidth lower than the bandwidth of the first set of video data signals.

[0010] Optionally, the first set of video data signals is generated by a CMOS sensor within at least one observation element and has a bandwidth greater than 1 GHz. Optionally, the first set of video data signals is generated by a CCD sensor within at least one observation element and has a bandwidth of less than 0.5 GHz.

[0011] Optionally, the first region has an optical guide, a gas channel, a second probe, and a third probe, and at least one of the probes, the second probe, and the third probe are positioned circumferentially around at least one of the optical guide and the gas channel, and each of the second probe and the third probe has a spring-biased pin.

[0012] Optionally, the main connector has a second pad and a third pad, and when the main connector is attached to the receptacle, the second probe abuts against the second pad such that the second probe is compressed, and the third probe abuts against the third pad such that the third probe is compressed.

[0013] The present specification also discloses an endoscope having a tip section having a first observation element and a second observation element, and a main connector coupled to the tip section and configured to receive and transmit a first set of video data signals from the first observation element and a second set of video data signals from the second observation element, the main connector having a first pad in data communication with the first observation element and a second pad in data communication with the second observation element, and a control unit having a receptacle positioned on an outer surface of the control unit and configured to receive the main connector, the receptacle having a first region, the first region having a first probe and a second probe, each of the first probe and the second probe having a spring-biased pin, and when the main connector is attached to the receptacle, the first probe abuts against the first pad such that the first probe is compressed, and the second probe abuts against the second pad such that the second probe is compressed.

[0014] Optionally, each of the first pad and the second pad is flat and made of metal. Optionally, the receptacle further has a second region, the second region having a multi-pin interface configured to receive a third set of video data signals, and the third set of video data signals having a bandwidth lower than the bandwidth of the first set of video signals or the bandwidth of the second set of video data signals.

[0015] Optionally, the first set of video data signals is generated by a CMOS sensor and has a bandwidth greater than 1 GHz. Optionally, the third set of video data signals is generated by a CCD sensor and has a bandwidth less than 0.5 GHz.

[0016] The present specification also discloses an endoscope control unit configured to be attached to an endoscope and to be in data communication therewith, the endoscope control unit including a receptacle positioned on an outer surface of the control unit and configured to receive a main connector of the endoscope, and a first region positioned within an outer face of the receptacle, the first region having a first probe, the first probe having a spring-biased pin configured to receive a first set of video data signals having a first bandwidth, and a second region positioned within the outer face of the receptacle, separated from the first region, the second region having an interface configured to receive a second set of video data signals having a second bandwidth.

[0017] Optionally, the interface of the second region has a multi-pin interface configured to be attached to a complementary multi-pin interface within a connector of the endoscope.

[0018] Optionally, the first probe is configured to be compressed upon attachment of the receptacle to the connector of the endoscope. Optionally, the first set of video data signals has digital data with a bandwidth greater than 1 GHz.

[0019] Optionally, the second set of video data signals has digital data with a bandwidth less than 0.5 GHz. Optionally, the first region further includes an optical guide, a gas channel, a second probe, and a third probe, wherein the first probe, the second probe, and the third probe are positioned circumferentially around at least one of the optical guide and the gas channel, and each of the second probe and the third probe has a spring-biased pin.

[0020] The present specification also discloses an endoscope having a distal section having a plurality of observation elements coupled to at least one CMOS image sensor for converting light captured by the at least one observation element into a digital signal representing at least one image, and a main connector coupled to the distal section for transmitting the digital signal to a main control unit of the endoscope, the main connector having a plurality of pads for transmitting the digital signal to a plurality of probes provided on a main connector housing of the main control unit, the probes having spring-biased tips that press the pads in a pressing contact state during transmission of the digital signal.

[0021] Optionally, the observation element is a camera. Optionally, the digital signal generated by the CMOS sensor is a high-speed signal having a bandwidth of 1.5 GHz.

[0022] Optionally, the number of pads provided on the main connector corresponds to the number of probes provided on the main connector housing. Optionally, each pad is positioned on the main connector in an aligned state with a corresponding probe on the main connector housing of the main control unit.

[0023] The present specification also discloses a main connector of an endoscope coupled with a distal section having a plurality of observation elements coupled with at least one CMOS image sensor to convert light captured by the observation elements into a digital signal representing at least one image. The main connector has a plurality of pads for transmitting the digital signal to a plurality of probes provided on a main connector housing of a main control unit, and the probes have spring-biased tips that press the pads in a pressed contact state during transmission of the digital signal.

[0024] The present specification also discloses a control unit coupled with a main connector of an endoscope having one or both of a CCD-based sensor and a CMOS-based sensor to convert light captured by one or more observation elements of the endoscope into a signal representing at least one image. The control unit has a plurality of probes for receiving a signal from the endoscope via a main connector having one or more pads for transmitting the signal, and the probes have spring-biased tips that press the pads in a pressed contact state during transmission of the signal.

[0025] The present specification also discloses an endoscope having a distal section having a plurality of observation elements coupled with at least one or both of a CMOS image sensor and a CCD image sensor to convert light captured by the observation elements into a digital and / or analog signal, and a main connector coupled with the distal section to transmit the signal to a main control unit of the endoscope. The main connector has a plurality of pads for transmitting a digital signal provided by the CMOS image sensor to a plurality of probes provided on a main connector housing of the main control unit, and a connector for transmitting an analog signal having a bandwidth of less than 0.5 GHz provided by at least one image sensor via the main connector housing of the main control unit.

[0026] Optionally, the observation element is a camera. Optionally, the digital signal generated by the CMOS sensor is a high-speed signal having a bandwidth of 1.5 GHz.

[0027] Optionally, the main connector has a plurality of pads for transmitting the digital signal to a plurality of probes provided on the main connector housing of the main control unit, and the probes have spring-biased tips that press the pads in a pressed contact state when transmitting the digital signal.

[0028] Optionally, the main connector has a plurality of pads for transmitting the digital signal to a plurality of twisted pair cables provided on the main connector housing of the main control unit.

[0029] Optionally, the number of pads provided on the main connector corresponds to the number of probes provided on the main connector housing. Optionally, each pad is positioned on the main connector in an aligned state with a corresponding probe on the main connector housing of the main control unit.

[0030] The present specification also discloses a distal section having a plurality of observation elements coupled to at least one image sensor for converting light captured by the observation elements into a signal, and a main connector coupled to the distal section for transmitting the signal to a main control unit of the endoscope, the main connector having a LEMO (registered trademark) connector for transmitting an analog signal provided by at least one image sensor via the main connector housing of the main control unit, and at least one pad for transmitting a digital signal provided by at least one image sensor to at least one probe provided on the main connector housing of the main control unit, and discloses an endoscope having the same.

[0031] Optionally, at least one image sensor is a CMOS sensor. Further optionally, at least one image sensor is a CCD sensor. Optionally, at least one probe is adapted to connect with at least one connection means for transmitting a digital signal provided by a CMOS image sensor. Further optionally, the connection means may be one of a spring-loaded pin probe, a coaxial probe, or a twisted pair.

[0032] This specification also discloses an endoscope having a tip section having at least one observation element coupled to an image sensor for converting light captured by the at least one observation element into a signal, and a main connector coupled to the tip section for transmitting the signal to a main control unit of the endoscope, the main connector including a LEMO (registered trademark) connector for transmitting an analog signal provided by the image sensor through a main connector housing of the main control unit, and at least one pad for transmitting a digital signal provided by the image sensor to at least one probe provided on the main connector housing of the main control unit.

[0033] Optionally, at least one image sensor is a CMOS sensor. Further optionally, at least one image sensor is a CCD sensor. Optionally, at least one probe is adapted to connect with at least one connection means for transmitting a digital signal provided by a CMOS image sensor. Further optionally, the connection means may be one of a spring-loaded pushpin probe, a coaxial probe, or a twisted pair.

[0034] The present specification also discloses a control unit for coupling to a main connector of an endoscope having one or both of a CCD-based sensor and a CMOS-based sensor to convert light captured by one or more observation elements of the endoscope into a digital and / or analog signal representing at least one image. The control unit has a plurality of probes for receiving digital and / or analog signals from the endoscope via a main connector having one or more pads for transmitting the digital and / or analog signals. The probe has a spring-biased tip that presses the pad in a pressed state during transmission of the digital and / or analog signal.

[0035] In the drawings and detailed description provided below, the above-described and other embodiments of the present specification will be described in more detail. These and other features and advantages of the present specification will be better understood and appreciated by referring to the following detailed description when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0036]

Figure 1A

Figure 1B

Figure 2A

Figure 2B

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5A

Figure 5B

Figure 5C

Figure 6A

Figure 6B

Figure 7A

Figure 7B

Figure 8

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0037] This specification provides an endoscope that uses a CMOS sensor in the context of a camera to capture images of internal organs and convert them into digital data. In one embodiment, this specification recognizes both CMOS sensor-based endoscopes and CCD-based endoscopes, and then provides a main control unit having an electrical interface for connecting to these. In one embodiment, this specification provides a main connector for a CMOS-based endoscope having a connector pad for connecting to a probe provided on the main control unit of the endoscope. In some embodiments, the probe is a spring-biased pushpin probe. In some embodiments, this specification describes a main connector that can be firmly connected to a high-speed transmission interface provided within the main control unit. It should be understood that the term "pad" or "pads" means one or more flat, preferably metallic, surfaces configured to interface with the probes described in this specification. It should be further understood that a flat pad surface, with or without any extensions or members around the perimeter of the pad, is configured to establish a data connection by compressing the probe.

[0038] It should be noted that the term "endoscope" referred to in this specification, specifically according to some embodiments, may mean a colonoscope, but is not limited to only colonoscopes. The term "endoscope" may mean any instrument used to examine the inside of a hollow organ or cavity of the body.

[0039] Also, it should be noted that the following multiple terms appearing in this specification are used interchangeably so as to apply to or mean similar components, and should never be construed as limiting.

[0040] · "Utility tube / cable" can also be referred to as "umbilical tube / cable". · The "main control unit" can also be referred to as the "controller unit", the "main controller", or the "fuse box".

[0041] · The "observation element" can also be referred to as an image capture device / component, an observation component, a camera, a TV camera, or a video camera. This specification is directed to a plurality of embodiments. The following disclosure is provided to enable those skilled in the art to practice this specification. The language used in this specification should not be construed as a general disclaimer of any one particular embodiment, nor should it be used to limit the claims beyond the meaning of the terms used therein. The general principles defined herein can be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from the spirit and scope of this specification. In addition, the terms and phrases are used for the purpose of describing exemplary embodiments and should not be regarded as limiting. Accordingly, this specification is to be accorded the broadest scope encompassing numerous alternatives, modifications, and equivalents consistent with the disclosed principles and features. For clarity purposes, details regarding technical material known in the technical field related to this specification are not described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure this specification.

[0042] In the description and claims of this application, each of the terms "comprise", "include", and "have", and their respective forms, are not necessarily limited to the components of the lists to which these terms may relate. It should be noted that any feature or component described in connection with a particular embodiment herein can be used or implemented with any other embodiment unless otherwise clearly indicated to the contrary.

[0043] First, referring to FIG. 1A, this figure shows a multi-observation element endoscopy system 100. The system 100 can include a multi-observation element endoscope 102. The multi-observation element endoscope 102 can include a handle 104, from which a long shaft 106 extends. The long shaft 106 is terminated by a tip section 108, and the tip section can be reoriented by a bending section 110. The handle 104 can be used to manipulate the long shaft 106 within the body cavity. The handle can include one or more buttons and / or knobs and / or switches 105, which control not only the bending section 110 but also functions such as fluid injection and aspiration. The handle 104 can further include at least one and, in some embodiments, one or more, actuation channel openings 112 through which tools can be inserted and one or more side service channel openings.

[0044] A utility cable 114, also referred to as an umbilical tube, can be connected between the handle 104 and the main control unit 199. In an embodiment, the utility cable 114 is connected to the main control unit 199 via a main connector (shown in FIG. 2A). The utility cable 114 can include one or more fluid channels and one or more electrical channels therein. The electrical channels can include at least one data cable for receiving video signals from the forward and side-facing observation elements and at least one power cable for providing power to the observation elements and to individual illuminators.

[0045] The main control unit 199 houses the control devices necessary to display the images and / or video streams of the internal organs captured by the endoscope 102. The main control unit 199 can control the transmission of power to the distal section 108 of the endoscope 102, such as for the observation elements and illuminators of the distal section. The main control unit 199 may further control one or more fluid, liquid, and / or suction pumps, which supply the corresponding functions to the endoscope 102. One or more input devices 118, such as keyboards, touchscreens, and the like, can be connected to the main control unit 199 for the purpose of human interaction therewith. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1A, the main control unit 199 has a screen / display 120 for displaying operation information related to the endoscopy procedure when the endoscope 102 is in use. The screen 120 can be configured to display the images and / or video streams received from the observation elements of the multi-observation element endoscope 102. The screen 120 may further be operable to display a user interface to enable a human operator to set the various functions of the endoscopy system.

[0046] Optionally, images and / or video streams received from different viewing elements of the multi-viewing element endoscope 102 can be separately displayed on at least one monitor (not shown), either in parallel or interchangeably, by uploading information from the main control unit 199 (i.e., the operator can manually switch between the fields of view from different viewing elements). Alternatively, instead of this, these images and / or video streams can also be processed by the main control unit 116 so as to combine them into a single panoramic video frame based on the overlap between the fields of view of the viewing elements. In one embodiment, two or more displays may be connected to the main control unit 199, each of which is for displaying a video stream from a different viewing element of the multi-viewing element endoscope 102. The main control unit 199 is described in U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 263,896, filed on Apr. 28, 2014 and entitled "Video Processing in A Compact Multi-Viewing Element Endoscope System", the content of which patent document is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0047] FIG. 1B shows a perspective view of one embodiment of a control panel of a main control unit of a multi-camera endoscopy system. As shown in FIG. 1B, the control panel 101 houses a main connector housing 103 having a front panel 107. The front panel 107 of the main connector housing has a first section 111 including a light guide opening 113 and a gas channel opening 115, and a second section 117 having a cable opening 119. The light guide opening 113 and the gas channel opening 115 are configured to receive and connect to a light guide and a gas channel, respectively, on the main connector, and the utility cable opening 119 is configured to receive and connect to an electrical connector of the endoscope. The switch 121 is used to switch the main control unit on and off.

[0048] Figure 2A shows the main connector near the main control unit according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown, the main connector 202 is a jet connector 204, which is usually a jet connector connected to a fluid supply to provide fluid to a jet opening within the endoscope tip, a water bottle connector 206, which is usually a water bottle connector that engages with a water supply such as a water bottle or hospital equipment to supply fluid to an air supply and / or irrigation system disposed within the endoscope tip, an electrical connector 208 that connects between electronic circuit components within the endoscope, such as a sensor, a illuminator, the handle of the endoscope, and the main control unit, without limitation, to provide electricity to various components, and a gas channel 210 that usually provides a gas flow to the tip of the endoscope and the light guide pin 212. The main connector 202 is connected to a utility cable 214. The main control unit 216 has a front panel 218 with a screen 220 for operation information related to the endoscope inspection procedure when the endoscope is in use. The main control unit 216 also has a main connector housing 222 for receiving the main connector 202. The main connector housing 222 has a first section 224 for connecting to the light guide pin 212 and the gas channel 210, and a second section 226 for receiving the electrical connector 208. The front panel 218 further has a button 228 for switching the main control unit 216 on or off.

[0049] Figure 2B shows a main connector firmly connected to the main control unit according to an embodiment of the present invention. Referring to both FIGS. 2A and 2B, in various embodiments, the main connector 202 is connected to the main control unit 216 when the optical guide pins 212 and the gas channels 210 are inserted into the optical guide openings and the gas channel openings, respectively, and both are disposed within the opening of the first section 224 of the main connector housing 222. Also, the electrical connector 208 is inserted into the opening of the second section 226 of the main connector housing 222.

[0050] Figure 3 shows the main connector housing / receptacle on the front panel of the main control unit of the endoscope. Figure 4 shows the main connector of the endoscope. Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4 simultaneously, the front panel 301 of the main control unit has a receptacle 302 having two sections: a first section having an optical guide opening 304 and a gas channel opening 306, and a second section having a utility cable opening 308. The gas channel opening 306 receives and connects to the gas channel (shown in FIG. 2A), and the utility cable opening 308 receives and connects to the main connector (shown in FIG. 2A). In an embodiment, the utility cable opening 308 has a push / pull electrical connector interface, such as a LEMO (registered trademark) connector interface, which is generally known in the art. An endoscope having an observation element coupled to a CCD sensor is equipped with a LEMO (registered trademark) connector to transmit an analog image signal captured by the observation element and the CCD sensor to the main control unit via the utility cable opening 308 having a LEMO (registered trademark) connector interface.

[0051] However, an endoscope having a CMOS sensor coupled with an observation element to capture images and videos of internal organs being scanned by an endoscopy requires a separate connection interface for transmission of the captured digital signals, because these signals cannot be transmitted via a LEMO (registered trademark) interface. Also, in one embodiment, optionally, an interface having a probe used to transmit such signals (described with reference to FIG. 5A) may be provided on the receptacle 302, which will be described with reference to FIG. 5A. Further, the receptacle 302 may also have a locking element, such as a mechanical lever adjusted to mechanically engage with and disengage this from the receptacle 302, without limitation.

[0052] As shown in FIG. 4, the main connector 410 has a jet connector 412, a water bottle connector 414, and an electrical connector 416. Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4 simultaneously, in one embodiment, the electrical connector 416 has a LEMO (registered trademark) connector 418 without limitation, which connects to a LEMO (registered trademark) connector interface within a utility cable opening 308 provided on the receptacle 302 of the front panel 301 of the main control unit of the endoscope. Also, in this specification, it should be noted that, as will be described in more detail later, the electrical connector 416 can also have a connector interface that enables connection of an endoscope device based on a CMOS image. The electrical connector 416 connects, without limitation, electronic circuit components within the endoscope, such as sensors, illuminators, and handles of the endoscope, to the main control unit via a utility cable 420. The utility cable 420 can include, within it, one or more fluid channels and one or more electrical channels. The electrical channels can include at least one data cable for receiving video signals from observation elements directed forward and at least one side, as well as at least one power cable for providing power to the observation elements and a separate illuminator. In an endoscope having a CCD sensor coupled to the observation element, the data cable transmits the analog image signal captured by the observation element to the main control unit via the LEMO (registered trademark) connector 418, and the LEMO (registered trademark) connector 418 is connected to the LEMO (registered trademark) connector interface 308 provided on the receptacle 302 of the main control unit. Also, in various embodiments, the data cable of the utility cable 420 transmits, via connection means such as those described in FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C provided on the main connector and receptacle of the main control unit, the digital signal provided by a CMOS sensor present within the tip of the endoscope to the main connector and then to the main control unit.

[0053] The main connector 410 further includes a gas channel 422 that connects to the gas channel opening 306 to connect the main connector 410 to the main control unit, and an optical guide pin 424 that enters the optical guide opening 304 of the receptacle 302. The main connector further has pins 426, and these pins enable a firm lock of the main connector 410 with the utility cable opening 308. Also, in an embodiment, a connector cover cup can be provided to cover the electrical connector 416 during the reprocessing cycle (washing / cleaning) of the endoscope to make the endoscope waterproof.

[0054] FIG. 5A shows the main connector housing of the main control unit that is compatible with both a CCD-based endoscope and a CMOS-based endoscope according to an embodiment of the present specification. The receptacle 500 is provided on the main control unit of the endoscope system as shown in FIGS. 1B, 2A, 2B, and 3. The receptacle 500 has a first section 502 and a second section 510. In various embodiments, the second section 510 has a multi-pin analog interface 512 (308 in FIG. 3), such as a LEMO (registered trademark) interface, which is used to transmit an analog signal captured by a CCD sensor coupled to the observation element of the endoscope to the main control unit. The first section 502 has openings 504 and 506 to connect to the optical guide pin and the gas channel of the main connector of the endoscope, respectively. Further, since the receptacle 500 is compatible with an endoscope having a CMOS sensor coupled to the observation element / camera, the first section 502 also has at least one probe 508, and this probe is used to transfer a high-frequency digital image and a video signal captured by the CMOS sensor and the observation element to the main control unit. In an embodiment, the at least one probe is preferably a spring-biased push-pin probe.

[0055] More generally, the main connector housing 500, configured to receive the proximal end portion of the endoscope, has two separate connection regions separated by a flat portion of the housing 500. The first connection region has receiving portions 504 and 506 for connecting to the light guide pins and gas channels, respectively, of the main connector of the endoscope. Positioned circumferentially around the light guide pins and gas channels are one or more interfaces 508 configured to receive digital data having a bandwidth of 1 GHz or greater from one or more complementary interfaces positioned within the main connector of the endoscope. In one embodiment, the exemplary interface has a coaxial probe interface with spring-biased signal pins that compress when coupled to complementary pads within the main connector of the endoscope and are adapted to receive digital transmissions having a bandwidth greater than 1 GHz. In one embodiment, the interface has a probe interface with spring-biased push pins. In another embodiment, the exemplary interface has a coaxial female receiver configured to receive a complementary male coaxial single-pin connector and optimized to receive digital signals having a bandwidth greater than that of the data transmissions in the second region. Compression of the probe and combination with the pads is preferred because this obviates the need for the user to precisely align multiple extending members with multiple holes to achieve an essential fit. Rather, by using compressible pins and pads, the digital data connection in the first region is automatically achieved when other components, such as the light guide, gas channel, and analog connections in the second region, are properly coupled.

[0056] The second connection area has a receiver interface adapted to connect to and receive data through one or more multi-pin analog connectors. The exemplary interface has a multi-pin interface that accepts single coaxial, push-pull, multi-pin connectors and is adapted to receive analog transmissions with a bandwidth of less than 0.5 GHz. In another embodiment, the exemplary interface has a multi-pin interface that accepts single coaxial, push-pull, multi-pin connectors and is optimized to receive analog signals with a bandwidth smaller than the data transmission in the first area.

[0057] The optical guide pins and the gas channels can be positioned within the second rather than the first area. It should be understood that the optical guide pins can be positioned within the second area while the gas channel is in the first area, or the optical guide pins can be positioned within the first area while the gas channel is in the second area. It should be further understood that by switching the position of the flat pad structure within the endoscope connector configured to couple with the spring-biased pin probe within the first area of the receptacle, the flat pad structure can be disposed within the receptacle and the spring-biased pin can be disposed within the endoscope connector.

[0058] In one embodiment, the first section 502 has at least two probes 508 (one for each observation element / camera of the endoscope) to transfer high-speed images and video data captured by using a CMOS sensor from the endoscope to the main control unit via the receptacle 500. In one embodiment, the first section 502 has at least three probes 508 (one for each observation element / camera of the endoscope) to transfer high-speed images and video data captured by using a CMOS sensor from the endoscope to the main control unit via the receptacle 500. In various embodiments, the probe 508 can be placed anywhere on the receptacle 500.

[0059] FIG. 5B shows another exemplary position of the probe 508 shown in FIG. 5A according to one embodiment of the present specification. As shown in FIG. 5B, the probe 508 is positioned within the second section 510, and the second section 510 also has an electrical push / pull multi-pin interface 512 to connect to the main connector of the CCD-based endoscope. The probe 508 transfers high-speed images and video data captured by using a CMOS sensor from the endoscope to the main control unit via the receptacle 500.

[0060] In one embodiment, the probe 508 has an impedance of 50 Ω, has the ability to transmit high-speed signals in the range of 0 to 2 GHz of capacitance without degrading the signal integrity, and has a spring-biased tip. In an embodiment, any generally available probe having the ability to transmit high-speed signals of about 2 GHz can be utilized within the main connector housing / receptacle 500. In one embodiment, a probe designed to effect a spring-biased connection to a Sub Miniature version A (SMA) socket may be utilized, as this obviates the need for sacrificial plugs and sockets. In one exemplary embodiment, a probe having the following specifications can be utilized. · Impedance 50 Ω · Actuation travel distance: 4.24 mm (0.167’’) · Spring force at actuation travel distance for outer shielding: 57 g (2.0 oz) · Spring force at actuation travel distance for inner contact: 113 g (4.0 oz) · Current rating (DC): 3 Amp · Maximum frequency (3db c / о): 2.5 GHz · YSWR: 1.15:1 at 1 GHz · Ins loss: 0.13 db at 1 GHz · Required tail connector: SBM plug Figure 5C shows a schematic diagram of a probe utilized within a main connector housing according to one embodiment of the present specification. Probe 508 has a spring-biased tip portion 514 and an insulator portion 516 surrounded by a metallic shield 518. Probe 508 transfers high-speed digital images and video signals captured by a CMOS sensor provided within the tip portion of the endoscope to the main connector of the endoscope via a utility cable and then, via an SMA connector provided within receptacle 500 into which tip portion 520 of probe 508 is mounted, to the main control unit of the endoscope. In various embodiments, the same utility cable used to transfer images captured by a CCD sensor of the endoscope to the control unit is used to transfer high-speed digital images and video signals captured by a CMOS sensor provided within the tip of the endoscope to the control unit.

[0061] Figures 6A and 6B show the main connector of an endoscope having a CMOS sensor according to one embodiment of the present specification. As shown in Figure 6A, main connector 600 has a first section 602 that further includes an optical guide pin 604 mounted within an optical guide pin opening on the main control unit (such as opening 504 shown in Figure 5A) and a gas channel 606 mounted within a gas channel opening on the main control unit (such as opening 506 shown in Figure 5A). Also, first section 602 is equipped with one or more pads 608 such that each pad is arranged in an alignment state with a probe (such as probe 508 shown in Figure 5A) provided on a receptacle of the main control unit of the endoscope. Additionally, main connector 600 may have a second section 612 that includes a LEMO (registered trademark) connector 610.

[0062] FIG. 6B shows a main connector 600 having a first section 602 further having at least an optical guide pin 604 mounted within an optical guide pin opening (such as the opening 504 shown in FIG. 5B) on the main control unit, and a gas channel 606 mounted within a gas channel opening (such as the opening 506 shown in FIG. 5B) on the main control unit. The second section 612 of the main connector 600 has a LEMO® connector 610, and one or more pads 608 are provided in this second section such that the respective pads are arranged in an alignment state with a probe (such as the probe 508 shown in FIG. 5B) provided on a receptacle of the main control unit of the endoscope. The pads 608 have resistance to aggressive substances. During each medical procedure, the endoscope must be reprocessed, and the reprocessing may include the use of chemical components for cleaning the endoscope and preparing it for the next patient. In various embodiments, the pads 608 have resistance to alteration or damage by any chemical substance used for reprocessing the endoscope. In various embodiments, the pads 608 are generally available and have a metal coating / cover to establish an electrical connection with the tip of a cable, such as a coaxial cable, without limitation. In one embodiment, the pads 608 are covered with gold to enable the connection.

[0063] When the connector 600 is connected to the receptacle of the main control unit shown in FIGS. 5A, 5B, etc., the pads 608 press the spring-biased tip of the probe in a press-contact state, thereby providing a robust connection through which high-speed signals from the CMS sensor utilized within the tip of the endoscope can be transmitted to the main control unit. The high-speed signals are transferred from the observation element, through the utility cable (shown in FIG. 1A), to the pads 608, and from the pads 608, through the probe provided on the receptacle, and through the cable to the main control unit.

[0064] In various embodiments, the number of pads 608 provided on the main connector 600 corresponds to the number of probes provided on the main control unit. In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 5A, 5B, 6A, and 6B, each pair of probe and pad is coupled to an observation element disposed within the distal portion of the endoscope to transmit the image / video captured by the observation element to the main control unit. For an endoscope that utilizes only a CCD-based image sensor, no pads 608 are provided. Image data from such an endoscope is transmitted to the main control unit via a LEMO® connector 610 provided on the second section 612 of the main connector 600. In one embodiment, the pads 608 can be replaced by any other suitable connection element to transfer high-speed signals from the CMOS sensor utilized within the distal end of the endoscope to the main control unit via the main connector.

[0065] In another embodiment, instead of a coaxial cable, a twisted pair cable wiring generally known in the art can be used to transfer high-frequency digital images and video signals captured by the CMOS sensor and the observation element to the main control unit. Twisted pair cable wiring is a type of wiring in which two conductors of a single circuit are twisted together for the purpose of canceling electromagnetic interference (EMI) from an external source. Referring to FIGS. 5A and 5B, in one embodiment, the first section 502 has at least one twisted pair to transfer high-speed video data from the endoscope to the main control unit via the receptacle 500.

[0066] As will be apparent to those skilled in the art, in various embodiments, other suitable means can be provided on the connectors and receptacles of the endoscope, along with the LEMO® connector, to make the endoscope and receptacle compatible with both CCD and CMOS sensors by transferring high-speed video data from the CMOS sensor of the endoscope to the main control unit.

[0067] Figures 7A and 7B illustrate in detail how the video controller or controller circuit board 720 of the main controller of the endoscope is operably connected to the endoscope 710 and the display unit 750. Referring to Figures 7A and 7B, the video controller / controller control board 720 controls the power supply to the LED 711, transmits control for the operation of the image sensor 712 (having one or more cameras) within the endoscope, and converts the pre-video signal from the image sensor into a standard video signal, and has a camera board 721. The image sensor 712 may be a charge-coupled device (CCD) or a complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) imager. The camera board 721 receives the pre-video signal 713 generated by the CCD imager and also receives other remote commands 714 from the endoscope 710.

[0068] The controller circuit board 720 further has not only elements for processing the video acquired from the image sensor 712 through the camera board 721, but also other elements for system monitoring and control.

[0069] These elements are connected to the base board module 752 which is a printed circuit board (PCB). In one embodiment, the elements that are integrated circuits (ICs) are connected by soldering, the element 726 (SOM, i.e., System On Module) is connected by mounting, while all other elements are connected by cables.

[0070] Hereinafter, various elements on the base board module 9052 will be described. FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) 723: The FPGA 723 is a logic device specifically programmed for system requirements and executes tasks that can be classified into two types: logical tasks preferably implemented by hardware (rather than software) and logical tasks related to video image processing. In one embodiment, the base board module 752 includes three synchronous dynamic random access memory modules (DDR3) 733 of the double data rate type that are in communication with the FPGA 723.

[0071] The logical tasks preferably implemented by hardware include, without limitation, the following. · Initialization of some ICs of the base board module 752 when the system is powered on · Monitoring of buttons 740 for white balance, LED on / off, air flow, and power on / off on the front panel 735 · Monitoring of the proper operation of the SOM 726 using a watchdog mechanism · Backup of some system parameters (e.g., air flow level), including when the system is switched off · Communication with the camera board 721 The logical tasks related to video image processing, implemented by either software or hardware, include, without limitation, the following. · Multiplexing of video inputs - Each of the multiple imaging elements has several video interfaces, and these video interfaces are multiplexed via the video input interface 751. Furthermore, some auxiliary interfaces are also multiplexed via the auxiliary video input interface 725. · Playback output and DSP record input of an optional digital signal processor (DSP) 722 · Internal test patterns for video output via the video output interface 724 for multiple displays · Conversion between the video standards of the camera for displaying video standards · OSD (On Screen Display) insertion, also referred to as graphic overlay · PIP (Picture-In-Picture) · Stitching of images from several cameras to one image displayed on a single screen · Adjustment of images such as brightness and contrast DSP (Digital Signal Processor) 722: DSP 722 is used for recording compressed (encoded) video and playing back decompressed (decoded) video. In one embodiment, the standard of the compressed video is H264 or an equivalent such as (MPEG).

[0072] Operationally, FPGA 723 selects the desired video to be recorded, i.e., any of the inputs, or perhaps a copy of one or more of the screens, for DSP 722. In the latter case, this includes OSD and format conversion. In the likely case that the format of the screen is different from that of the required video input format of DSP 722, FPGA 723 further converts the format of the screen to the desired DSP 722 while sending the video to DSP 722. Auxiliary video input interface 725: In one embodiment, the video input to the auxiliary video input interface 725 may have and may be displayed as analog video such as CVBS (Color, Video, Blanking, Sync), S-video, or YP B P R format, or digital video (DVI). SOM (System On Module) 726: SOM726 provides an interface to input devices, such as a keyboard, mouse, and touch screen, via a touch interface 727. Together with buttons 740 in the front panel 735, through these input devices, the user controls the functions and operating parameters of the system. In one embodiment, a Peripheral Component Interconnect express (PCIe) bus connects SOM726 to FPGA723. The most common types of data traffic on PCIe are as follows. a. From SOM726 to FPGA723: Commands (such as when the user changes operating parameters), and b. From FPGA723 to SOM726: Register values and captured images that provide notifications of internal states Other functions: The controller circuit board 720 may further control one or more fluid, liquid, and / or suction pumps, which supply corresponding functions to the endoscope through a gas pressure interface 728, a pump 729, and a check valve 730. The controller circuit board 720 further has an on-board power supply 745 and a front panel 735, and the front panel 735 provides operation buttons 740 for the user.

[0073] In one embodiment, the camera board 721 receives a video signal 713 having three video feeds corresponding to video pickups by three endoscope tip observation elements (one forward-facing and two side-facing observation elements) generated by an image sensor 712. In one embodiment, the three video feed pickups corresponding to the three observation elements (forward-facing, left-side-facing, and right-side-facing observation elements) at the endoscope tip are displayed on three individual monitors.

[0074] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a method of detecting a signal captured by using a CCD or CMOS sensor coupled to an observation element of an endoscope and transferring it from the endoscope to a main control unit. In various embodiments, the endoscope is provided with means for transferring not only an analog signal captured by using a CCD sensor but also a high-speed digital signal captured by using a CMOS sensor, and the main control unit is provided with means for receiving both types of signals. In an embodiment, the endoscope is connected to the main control unit by using not only a connector having a LEMO® connector (such as the LEMO® connector 610 shown in FIGS. 6A-6B) but also one or more pads (such as the pad 608 shown in FIGS. 6A-6B), and the main control unit has a receptacle having both a LEMO® interface (such as the LEMO® interface 512 shown in FIGS. 5A-5B) and at least one probe or twisted pair cable (such as the probe 508 shown in FIGS. 5A-5B).

[0075] In step 802, the main connector of the endoscope is inserted into the receptacle of the main control unit to transfer the signal captured by the observation element of the endoscope coupled with the CMOS or CCD sensor to the main control unit. In step 804, it is determined whether at least one pad of the connector is aligned with either a probe such as a spring-biased pushpin probe or a twisted pair cable that is present on the receptacle of the main controller. If at least one pad of the connector is aligned with a probe or a twisted pair cable that is present on the receptacle, then in step 806, it is determined that the endoscope has a CMOS sensor. Next, in step 808, the high-speed images and video digital signals captured by using the CMOS sensor coupled with the observation element of the endoscope are transferred to the main control unit via the connection between the pad on the connector and the probe or the twisted pair cable on the receptacle. If at least one pad of the connector is not aligned with a probe or a twisted pair cable that is present on the receptacle, then in step 810, it is determined that the endoscope has a CCD sensor. Next, in step 812, the analog signal captured by using the CCD sensor coupled with the observation element of the endoscope is transferred to the main control unit via the connection between the LEMO (registered trademark) connector provided on the connector of the endoscope and the LEMO (registered trademark) interface provided on the receptacle.

[0076] The above examples merely illustrate many uses of the systems of this specification. Although only some embodiments of this specification are described herein, it should be understood that this specification can be implemented in many other specific forms without departing from the spirit or scope of this specification. Therefore, these examples and embodiments are to be regarded as illustrative rather than limiting, and this specification can be modified within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

Claim 1 A receptacle configured to receive a connector of a medical device, a first region of the receptacle, the first region having a first probe configured to receive a first set of video data signals having a first bandwidth, the first region of the receptacle, a second region of the receptacle separated from the first region, the second region having an interface configured to receive a second set of video data signals having a second bandwidth, the second region of the receptacle, and a control unit comprising the same.

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