Cradle Engagement Part Stabilizes Capsule Endoscope Data Transfer

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing receiving apparatus becomes unstable and disconnects from the cradle when attempting to transfer recorded measurement data to a workstation, causing instability in the connected state during the data transfer process in capsule endoscope systems.

Innovation Solution

The design incorporates an engagement part and a communication connector that ensure the antenna unit is securely detachably connected to the receiving unit, with specific geometric configurations such as protruding or convex parts to prevent electrical connection when the antenna unit is mounted, thereby maintaining a stable connected state.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the receiving apparatus is plugged into a cradle while receiving antennae are connected, then data transfer can be performed, but the cradle becomes unstable and the receiving apparatus is disengaged

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection stabilityVSAvoiddata transfer capability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The connection system is divided into two separate connectors: a power connector for electrical connection and a communication connector for data transfer. This segmentation allows the antenna unit to remain connected for power while enabling stable data transfer through the separate communication connector that engages with the cradle independently.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A communication connector acts as an intermediary component between the receiving apparatus and the cradle. This intermediate element enables data transfer functionality without compromising the stability of the primary power connection, as it provides a dedicated interface for communication purposes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the communication connector is always connected, then data transfer is always possible, but the structure becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transfer availabilityVSAvoidconnector structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The communication connector is integrated with the antenna unit structure, merging the data transfer interface with the existing power connection component. This combination allows both power and communication functions to be achieved through a unified structural design rather than requiring entirely separate connection mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS7843329B2Received information transferring apparatus, receiving apparatus and received information transferring system
Publication Date: 2010.11.30 OLYMPUS CORPORATION(JP)
  • US7843329B2 patent drawing
  • US7843329B2 patent drawing
  • US7843329B2 patent drawing

AI summary

In order to maintain stability when connected, a cradle 27 includes an engagement part 33 for engaging with regard to a unit connection part which allows an antenna unit having at least a receiving antenna to be detachably connected to a receiving unit constituting a receiving apparatus together with the antenna unit; and a connecting terminal 31 provided so as to be communicably connected to a connector provided to the receiving unit only when the unit connection part and the engagement part are in engaged state.