Dielectric Waveguide Data Link for High-Resolution Endoscopy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing interventional medical devices face challenges in efficiently transmitting high-resolution image data due to data rate limits of electrical conductors and the high cost of fiber optic systems.
Innovation Solution
The use of a dielectric waveguide extending between the proximal and distal ends of an insertion tube in an interventional medical device, coupled with a transmitter that sends radio frequency signals along this waveguide for data transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If electrical conductors are used to transmit image data, then device complexity is reduced, but data transmission capability deteriorates due to data rate limits
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electrical conductor-based data transmission with a dielectric waveguide system that uses radio frequency electromagnetic waves for signal transmission. This substitution enables high-bandwidth data communication while maintaining the mechanical structure of the endoscope, resolving the contradiction between device simplicity and transmission capability.
2Loss of information
If fiber optic systems are used to transmit image data, then data transmission capability is improved, but device cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dielectric waveguide constructed from cost-effective materials such as PTFE or polyethylene, replacing expensive fiber optic systems. The waveguide can be manufactured at lower cost while achieving comparable or superior data transmission performance, directly addressing the cost barrier.
3Measurement precision
If video quality is increased, then measurement precision is improved, but data transmission capability deteriorates due to conductor limitations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental transmission parameter from electrical signals in conductors to radio frequency electromagnetic waves in a dielectric waveguide. This parameter change enables the system to handle high-resolution video data with increased color depth and frame rates without being constrained by the data rate limits of traditional electrical conductors.
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
This solution enables efficient and cost-effective data communication, supporting high-resolution image transmission without the limitations of traditional electrical conductors or the expense of fiber optic systems.
Implementation Method 1
The insertion tube has a dielectric waveguide extending between the proximal end and the distal end
Implementation Method 2
The transmitter transmits a radio frequency signal along the dielectric waveguide from the distal end to the proximal end
Data Source
AI summary
An interventional medical device includes an insertion tube extending between a proximal end and a distal end. The distal end configured to be inserted into internal tissues of a patient during a medical procedure. The insertion tube has a dielectric waveguide extending between the proximal end and the distal end. The interventional medical device includes a transmitter coupled to the dielectric waveguide at the distal end. The transmitter transmits a radio frequency signal along the dielectric waveguide from the distal end to the proximal end.