Braided Shape Sensor for Endoscope Bending Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing shape sensor systems for tubular insertion devices, such as endoscopes, face challenges in accurately detecting bending shapes due to limitations in sensor precision and stability, particularly in environments where electromagnetic noise is present and power supply is not feasible.
Innovation Solution
A shape sensor system comprising a probe portion with a braided structure of small diameter bending members spirally wound around a core member, including detection target portions to estimate the bending shape of the subject, which is resistant to rotation and movement, and utilizes a signal processor to interpret signals from the sensor drive circuit and signal detection circuit for accurate shape detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a shape sensor uses optical fiber with light modulation unit, then shape detection capability is achieved, but detection precision and stability deteriorate in environments with electromagnetic noise and without power supply
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the optical fiber-based light modulation system with a mechanical strain gauge system. Strain gauges measure shape changes through mechanical deformation and resistance change, which is inherently more resistant to electromagnetic noise and does not require power supply at the sensing location, thus improving reliability while maintaining measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses composite braid structures combining multiple materials with different properties. The braid includes strain-sensitive elements embedded within a flexible support structure, creating a composite material system that maintains both detection precision and environmental stability
2Measurement precision
If small diameter bending members are braided around core member, then shape detection accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the sensing function into multiple independent strain gauges distributed along the length of the insertion portion. Each strain gauge independently measures local deformation, and the combined data reconstructs the overall shape, improving accuracy without requiring a completely new structural design
Solution Approach 2:
The braid structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical flexibility for navigation, structural support for the insertion portion, and the sensing mechanism through embedded strain gauges. This multi-functionality reduces overall device complexity by combining what would otherwise be separate components
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The braided structure enhances the accuracy and reliability of shape detection, reduces the risk of detection errors, and maintains stability even in noisy environments, allowing for precise monitoring of bending shapes in tubular insertion devices.
Implementation Method 1
the optical fiber transmits light beams having different wavelength components
Data Source
AI summary
The shape sensor system of the present invention includes a braided structure in which small diameter bending members including two or more optical fibers, provided with detection target portions, are spirally wound around a core member as an axis in directions opposite to each other, or a braided structure in which three or more small diameter bending members including an optical fiber and a dummy optical fiber or a thin metal wire are braided, a plurality of detection target portions are distributed in the direction around the axis of the core member, the bending directions of the respective bending members are synthesized to detect a bending shape of the probe portion, a function of adjusting the fiber length in a braiding cycle is performed, and position deviation does not occur.