Card Edge Connector for Imaging Sensor in Medical Scope
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies face challenges in mechanically and electrically connecting sensors to printed circuit boards (PCBs) in the distal end or tip of medical scopes, where space is limited.
Innovation Solution
The use of a card edge connector system that securely attaches the image sensor at one end and connects it electrically to a PCB at the opposite end, optimized for vertical and perpendicular orientation to minimize space usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional connector system is used to connect the sensor to the PCB, then the connection can be established, but the space required in the distal end of the scope increases and the connection complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the mechanical support function and electrical connection function into a single integrated card edge connector structure. The connector provides both structural support for the sensor and electrical pathways through its contact elements, eliminating the need for separate mechanical mounts and electrical connectors, thereby reducing the overall space required in the distal end of the scope.
Solution Approach 2:
The card edge connector serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical support for the sensor, establishes electrical connections between the sensor and PCB, and enables easy insertion and removal of the sensor. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed and simplifies the overall connection system.
2Manufacturing precision
If the sensor is located in the distal end of the scope, then imaging capabilities are improved, but the difficulty of mechanically and electrically connecting the sensor to the PCB increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the connection system into a modular card edge connector that can be easily attached and detached from the PCB. This segmentation allows the sensor to be positioned in the distal end for optimal imaging while the connector module handles all connection complexities, separating the imaging function from the connection function and reducing overall device complexity.
3Volume of moving object
If the card edge connector is oriented vertically and perpendicularly to the PCB, then space usage is minimized, but the manufacturing and assembly precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The card edge connector employs an asymmetric design with a specific orientation relative to the PCB, featuring a unique insertion direction and contact arrangement. This asymmetric configuration naturally guides the connector into the correct vertical and perpendicular orientation during assembly, reducing the precision requirements for manual alignment while minimizing space usage.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure extends to devices, systems and methods for connecting one or more sensors to one or more printed circuit boards (PCB) in the distal end or tip of a scope. The disclosure also extends to a connector assembly for an image sensor for protecting the sensor and conveying information from the sensor to the PCB.