Detachable Control Circuit for Endoscopic Video Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional endoscopic devices are limited in their ability to interface with different monitors and image processing systems, requiring replacement of the entire device for changes in monitors or image processors, which is time-consuming and undesirable, especially during medical procedures. Additionally, the image processing circuitry is often damaged by sterilization processes.
Innovation Solution
A detachable image processing device with a digital imaging chip and LED, housed in a detachable enclosure, allows for compatibility with various monitors and signal formats, and can be easily swapped or sterilized separately from the endoscope, enabling quick changes and maintaining functionality across different surgical settings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the image processing circuitry is integrally formed with the endoscope, then the device structure is simple and reliable, but any change in the image processor requires replacement of the entire endoscope, causing procedural delays
Solution Approach 1:
The endoscope is divided into separate functional modules: the endoscope shaft containing the digital imaging chip and the detachable control circuit containing the image processing circuitry. This segmentation allows the image processor to be changed independently without replacing the entire endoscope, eliminating procedural delays while maintaining structural simplicity through modular design.
2Ease of operation
If the image processing circuitry is integrally formed with the endoscope, then the device is easy to operate, but the electronics cannot be separated for sterilization, risking damage from high temperatures
Solution Approach 1:
The control circuit containing the image processing circuitry is extracted from the endoscope shaft and made detachable. This allows the electronics to be separated from the sterile field during sterilization processes, protecting them from high-temperature damage while maintaining ease of operation through simple attachment and detachment mechanisms.
3Device complexity
If the endoscope is designed for a single monitor type, then the device complexity is low, but the adaptability to different monitors is limited, requiring device replacement when monitors change
Solution Approach 1:
The control circuit is designed with universal interface capabilities that can accommodate multiple monitor types through detachable connections. The control circuit incorporates various signal formats and connection protocols, allowing a single endoscope design to work with multiple monitor types without increasing overall device complexity, thereby eliminating the need for device replacement when monitors change.
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
Enables seamless integration with multiple monitors and signal formats, reduces procedural delays by allowing quick changes in image processors, and protects sensitive electronics from high-temperature sterilization, enhancing operational efficiency and device longevity.
Implementation Method 1
an illumination device, e.g. a Light Emitting Diode (LED) for illumination of an area to be viewed
Data Source
AI summary
An endoscopic device including a control circuit that is detachably connectable to a handle, where the control circuit functions and is compatible with a wide variety of displays. The handle of the endoscopic device is provided with a connector to transmit image data from a distal end to the detachable control circuit. The control circuit may be provided with a keyed outer surface to guide and maintain the control circuit in an engaged position relative to the handle and connector.