Endoscope Angle Knob Locking Mechanism for Secure Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional endoscopes face difficulties with easy attachment and detachment of the angle knob due to their complex structure.
Innovation Solution
The endoscope design incorporates an angle knob locking member that is attachably and detachably provided at the distal end of the angle knob attaching shaft, featuring a non-circular flange and support groove configuration to securely attach and detach the angle knob, with additional features like protrusions and biasing members to enhance engagement and prevent falling off.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the angle knob structure is made complex to ensure secure attachment, then the reliability of attachment is improved, but the ease of attachment and detachment deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The angle knob attachment system is divided into separate components: the angle knob itself, the angle knob attaching shaft, and the angle knob locking member. This segmentation allows each component to have a specific function - the locking member can be independently operated to secure or release the angle knob, simplifying the attachment/detachment process while maintaining reliability through dedicated locking functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment system transitions from a static fixed structure to a dynamic system with movable parts. The angle knob locking member can move between locked and unlocked positions, and the flange can rotate to engage or disengage from the opening. This dynamic capability enables easy attachment and detachment while maintaining secure connection during use.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the angle knob is made detachable to allow selection of different types, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The angle knob attaching shaft with its standardized opening and the locking member design create a universal attachment interface that can accommodate different types of angle knobs. The same attaching shaft structure works with various angle knob types, allowing users to select different knobs while using a consistent attachment mechanism, thus improving versatility without proportionally increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking function is extracted as a separate operable component (the angle knob locking member) that can be independently controlled. This allows the attachment structure to remain relatively simple while the extracted locking mechanism provides the necessary security. The locking member can be engaged or disengaged without affecting other parts of the endoscope system.
3Reliability
If the angle knob is secured with a locking member to prevent falling off, then the reliability is improved, but the ease of detachment deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The angle knob locking member is designed to be self-operating through a simple rotational or linear motion that the user can perform with one hand. The locking and unlocking actions are self-contained within the locking member's movement, requiring no additional tools or complex procedures. This self-service capability maintains ease of detachment while ensuring reliable locking during normal use.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking member incorporates dynamic movement capability, allowing it to transition between locked and unlocked states through simple user action. This dynamic design enables the system to provide strong holding force during use while allowing quick release when needed, resolving the contradiction between security and ease of detachment.
Data Source
AI summary
An endoscope includes an insertion part to be inserted into a body, and first and second angle knobs that change a direction of a distal end of the insertion part. An angle knob attaching shaft is inserted into the first and second angle knobs. An angle knob locking member is engaged with a distal end of the angle knob attaching shaft via a pressing member. When the angle knob locking member is engaged with the angle knob attaching shaft, movement of the first and second angle knobs toward a distal end side of the angle knob attaching shaft is regulated.