Endoscope Connector Balloon Locking Against Plug Detachment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing endoscope systems face issues with the plug becoming detached from the receptacle or experiencing unstable electrical connections due to pulling forces during operations, leading to potential disconnection and operational instability.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of an inflatable balloon mechanism within the connector, which reversibly inflates and deflates to securely fix the plug to the receptacle, ensuring a stable mechanical and electrical connection by increasing coupling strength through controlled gas or liquid expansion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the plug is connected to the receptacle using a simple mechanical interface, then the device complexity is low, but the connection stability deteriorates due to pulling forces causing detachment
Solution Approach 1:
The connector employs a dynamic locking mechanism where the locking ball moves between engaged and disengaged positions based on insertion force and release force, allowing the connection state to adapt dynamically to operational conditions rather than being fixed
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: the locking ball, the locking groove with inclined surface, and the elastic element. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while working together to achieve stable connection
2Reliability
If the plug connection is made secure to prevent detachment, then the connection stability improves, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to difficulty in removing the plug when needed
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism transitions dynamically between locked and unlocked states. During normal operation, the elastic element maintains the locking ball in the engaged position for stable connection. During removal, applied force overcomes the elastic force, causing the locking ball to move to the disengaged position and release the plug
Solution Approach 2:
The inclined surface of the locking groove is designed to convert the removal force into a component that pushes the locking ball out of the groove before the plug fully disengages, facilitating easier removal by preemptively overcoming the locking force
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
The inflatable balloon mechanism effectively prevents plug detachment and maintains stable electrical connections, enhancing operational reliability and ease of plug removal when needed, thereby improving the overall functionality and usability of the endoscope system.
Implementation Method 1
The inflatable body is reversibly inflatable between a deflated state and an inflated state
Data Source
AI summary
A processor comprises a receiver including a recess. The recess includes a channel, and an inflatable body located in the channel. The inflatable body has an outer periphery surface and an inner periphery surface. The inner periphery surface defines a central opening in the inflatable body. The inflatable body is reversibly inflatable between a deflated state and an inflated state.