Endoscope Optical Adaptor Identification via Impedance Measurement
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscope apparatuses face challenges in accurately determining the type of optical adaptors attached to the distal end portion, particularly when using two-terminal configurations, as they require both actuator driving and type identification functions, which complicates the reduction of the insertion portion diameter and can lead to incorrect attachment of optical adaptors with different specifications.
Innovation Solution
The endoscope apparatus incorporates an identification impedance element in the optical adaptors, connected in parallel with an electric element, and utilizes a drive circuit, oscillation circuit, measurement circuit, and identification circuit in the main body to apply alternating signals and measure input impedance, enabling accurate identification of the optical adaptor type through alternating current signals, allowing for both actuator driving and type identification using a pair of conductive wires.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If two-terminal configuration is used for optical adaptor connection, then insertion portion diameter is reduced, but type identification accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by using alternating current signals with different frequencies to excite the optical adaptor. By measuring the impedance characteristics at these different frequencies, the system can accurately identify the adaptor type even with only two terminals. The impedance measurement technique transforms the identification problem from a spatial constraint into an electrical parameter differentiation problem.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical identification methods (such as physical keys or multiple contact terminals) with an electrical field-based impedance measurement system. By using AC signals and measuring the resulting current flow and impedance characteristics, the system achieves accurate type identification without requiring additional mechanical structures or more contact terminals.
2Extent of automation
If resistance element is used for type determination, then automatic identification function is achieved, but reliability deteriorates due to incorrect attachment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses multiple AC signal frequencies for excitation, which provides redundant information for identification. This excessive action in terms of signal frequency usage enhances the reliability of type determination, making it more robust against incorrect attachments or ambiguous resistance values.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by measuring the impedance characteristics and using this information to verify the optical adaptor type. The measurement results are fed back to the control unit, which can then confirm correct attachment or prompt the user to reattach the adaptor, thereby improving reliability through verification.
3Adaptability or versatility
If electromagnetic actuator is used in optical adaptor, then optical characteristics switching function is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the identification function and the actuator driving function into a single two-terminal connection interface. The same pair of conductive wires that provides power to the electromagnetic actuator also serves as the path for impedance measurement, eliminating the need for separate identification terminals or circuits.
Solution Approach 2:
The two-terminal connection structure is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides power to the electromagnetic actuator, enables impedance-based type identification, and transmits control signals. This multi-functionality reduces the overall device complexity by eliminating the need for separate systems for each function.
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 precise identification of optical adaptor types, ensuring correct attachment and operation while maintaining a small insertion portion diameter, and enhances the accuracy of determining the type of optical adaptors, even when they have electric contacts of two terminals.
Implementation Method 1
an oscillation circuit configured to apply an alternating signal to the identification impedance element through the pair of conductive wires
Implementation Method 2
a measurement circuit configured to measure an input impedance of the pair of conductive wires at a frequency of the alternating current signal
Data Source
AI summary
An endoscope apparatus includes an identification unit provided in each of a plurality of optical adaptors, an MMA connected in parallel to the identification unit, an MMA drive circuit that is provided in a main body portion and applies a drive signal for driving the MMA through a pair of conductive wires, a sine-wave generation circuit that is provided in the main body portion and applies an alternating signal to the identification unit through a pair of conductive wires in a state where any one of the plurality of optical adaptors is mounted at a distal end portion, and CPU that is provided in the main body portion and measures an input impedance of the pair of conductive wires at a frequency of the alternating current signal to perform individual identification of the optical adaptor mounted at the distal end portion based on a measurement result.