Endoscope Actuator with Angled Axes for Manual Motor Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Endoscopic instruments lack intuitive operation and mechanical feedback, and may be difficult to operate manually if the electrical control system fails, particularly due to the need for significant mechanical forces and the presence of a spring-damper system that can cause start-up dead time or overtravel during deflection.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a motor-assisted operation system with a specific angle between the first and second axes of rotation, allowing for both motor-assisted and manual operation without an additional release mechanism, featuring a coupling between the actuating element, actuator, and operating element to transmit forces and provide mechanical feedback through a system of gears and a force-measuring device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If motor-assisted operation is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the mechanical operating element with the electrical actuator into a single integrated control unit. The operating element and actuator share a common housing and control circuitry, allowing the device to function in both manual and motor-assisted modes without requiring separate systems. This merging reduces overall device complexity while maintaining ease of operation through motor assistance.
2Reliability
If mechanical coupling between operating element and actuating element is maintained, then reliability is improved (manual operation possible), but ease of operation worsens (requires significant mechanical forces)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic coupling system where the mechanical connection between the operating element and actuating element can be selectively engaged or disengaged. During motor-assisted operation, the mechanical coupling is disengaged to reduce the force required by the user. In manual operation mode, the mechanical coupling is engaged to provide direct mechanical control. This dynamic switching maintains reliability while improving ease of operation.
3Stability of the object's composition
If spring-damper system is used for deflection, then stability is improved, but productivity worsens (start-up dead time or overtravel)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates feedback control through sensors that detect the position and movement of the deflectable section. This feedback is fed to the actuator control system, which adjusts the motor output in real-time to compensate for the spring-damper system's inertia and elastic deformation. The feedback mechanism eliminates start-up dead time and prevents overtravel, maintaining stability while improving the responsiveness and productivity of the deflection control.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4~7
AI summary
The endoscopic instrument (10) has actuator (32) that is provided with axis of rotation (70). The actuating element (30) is located by actuating operating element (14). The operating element is coupled mechanically with actuating element by transferring force applied on the operating element and actuating element. The rotation axes (31,70) are provided at an angle less than 90[deg] to each other.