Cable-Free Endoscopic Imaging System With Segmented Power Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current endoscopic imaging systems are limited by the need for tethered cables, which restrict the surgeon's ability to freely move, rotate, and aim the endoscope during procedures, hindering versatility and ease of use.
Innovation Solution
A cable-free hand-held endoscopic imaging system is developed, comprising a detachable endoscope, a light source assembly, an imaging unit, and separate power modules, with optional wireless communication and adjustable optics for enhanced maneuverability and illumination control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If cables are used to connect power and data in the endoscopic imaging system, then reliable power supply and data transmission are ensured, but the surgeon's ability to move, rotate, and aim the endoscope is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into separate modular components: endoscope, light source assembly, imaging unit, and power modules that can be freely attached and detached. This segmentation eliminates the need for tethered cables while maintaining functional independence of each component.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical cable connections with wireless communication technology. The imaging unit and power modules use wireless data transmission and wireless power transfer to eliminate physical cable tethering, thereby freeing the endoscope for unrestricted movement during surgery.
2Device complexity
If a single power module is used for both light source and imaging unit, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability of power supply to both components may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply system is segmented into separate power modules for the light source assembly and imaging unit. Each module has its own power source, ensuring that failure of one does not affect the other, thereby maintaining system reliability while allowing independent operation and optimization of each component.
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 system allows for greater flexibility and ease of use by enabling detachable and rotatable components, wireless data transmission, and adjustable illumination, improving the surgeon's ability to navigate and visualize the region of interest effectively.
Implementation Method 1
a light source assembly coupled to the endoscope that transmits light to the endoscope for illuminating a region of interest
Implementation Method 2
an imaging unit coupled to the light source assembly that receives light through the endoscope reflected from the region of interest
Data Source
AI summary
An endoscopic imaging system includes an endoscope, a light source assembly coupled to the endoscope that transmits light to the endoscope for illuminating a region of interest, an imaging unit coupled to the light source assembly that receives light through the endoscope reflected from the region of interest, a first power module coupled to the light source assembly that provides electrical power to the light source assembly, and a second and different power module coupled to the imaging unit that provides electrical power to the imaging unit. Other imaging systems and a method are also disclosed.