Differentially Steered Capsule Endoscope With Flexible Mucosal Propellers
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing steerable endoscope technologies face challenges in developing a safe and reliable propulsion mechanism that does not damage the mucosa of the gastrointestinal tract, and existing capsule endoscopes lack control over camera orientation and are slow-moving or require full submersion in liquid.
Innovation Solution
A steerable endoscope with transverse axle channels and differential steering mechanism, featuring propellers with flexible blades that contact the mucosa for propulsion, reducing trauma risk and enabling precise control over direction and speed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If propellers with blades are driven into contact with the mucosa to achieve self-propelled travel, then propulsion efficiency and steerable control are improved, but risk of trauma to the mucosa increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by making the propeller blades flexible rather than rigid, and by controlling the contact pressure and rotation speed of the blades against the mucosa. This allows the blades to deform and conform to the tissue surface, distributing pressure and reducing trauma while maintaining effective propulsion. The flexible material property change enables the blade to absorb impact forces without causing damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite materials for the propeller blades, combining materials with different properties to achieve both structural integrity for propulsion and softness for tissue compatibility. The composite construction allows the blade to have a stiff root for torque transmission and a soft distal end for gentle tissue contact, resolving the contradiction between propulsion efficiency and mucosal safety.
2Measurement precision
If a differential steering mechanism is implemented to enable precise steering control, then navigation precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the steering control into independent sections along the endoscope. Multiple propellers are distributed at different locations, each capable of independent rotation and steering control. This segmented approach allows precise navigation through coordinated rotation of individual propellers while keeping each control unit relatively simple, avoiding the need for a single complex centralized steering mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by using a differential steering mechanism that allows asymmetric rotation speeds and directions of propellers based on real-time navigation requirements. The system dynamically adjusts the rotation parameters of each propeller to achieve precise steering control, enabling the endoscope to navigate complex gastrointestinal geometries with high precision while maintaining manageable system complexity through adaptive control.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple propellers are used to achieve both driving and steering functions, then functional versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing each propeller to perform multiple functions: propulsion, steering, and even stabilization. The same propeller structure that provides forward motion can also generate lateral forces for steering by adjusting its rotation speed or angle. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate driving and steering mechanisms, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high functional versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the driving and steering functions into a single integrated propulsion system. Multiple propellers are combined in such a way that their coordinated rotation provides both forward propulsion and directional control. The differential rotation of propellers on opposite sides or at different positions along the endoscope achieves steering without requiring separate steering mechanisms, thereby combining multiple functions into a unified system that reduces complexity.
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 endoscope achieves safe, controlled, and efficient navigation within the gastrointestinal tract with reduced mucosal trauma, offering precise steering and high maneuverability.
Implementation Method 1
each propeller comprising a plurality of blades rotatable about a hub; the drive mechanism being capable of driving said propellers to rotate said blades into contact with the mucosa
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~4
Figure 5~7
AI summary
A steerable endoscope comprising: a. a capsule body having a longitudinal axis and having at least one axle channel therein; b. at least two propellers, each located on an axle located in said at least one axle channel, each propeller comprising a plurality of blades rotatable about a hub; c. a camera and light source housed within said capsule body; a drive mechanism, including a differential steering mechanism, housed within said capsule body, the drive mechanism being capable of driving said propellers to rotate said blades into contact with the mucosa of an internal body cavity or tract such that the endoscope is capable of self-propelled steerable travel within the internal body cavity or tract.