Endoscope Operation Device With Motion-Sensing Bending Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscope systems lack intuitive and precise control mechanisms for bending the insertion unit, particularly in distinguishing between coarse and fine movements, which can lead to inefficiencies in inspection processes.
Innovation Solution
An endoscope system with a user interface and motion sensor that generates signals for controlling the bending of the insertion unit, allowing for distinct control modes based on user input and device movement, enabling precise and intuitive bending adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a single control mode is used for bending the insertion unit, then the operation device is simple, but the precision and efficiency of inspection is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into multiple distinct control modes (normal mode and fine mode) with different bending characteristics. Each mode operates independently with its own control parameters, allowing precise control of the insertion unit bending according to the specific inspection requirements without overwhelming complexity in a single unified system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between different control modes based on the inspection requirements. The control characteristics of the insertion unit bending are adjusted in real-time by selecting appropriate modes, enabling the system to adapt between coarse and fine bending control as needed for different inspection scenarios.
2Productivity
If multiple control modes are implemented, then the precision and efficiency of inspection is improved, but the ease of operation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The operation device is designed to handle multiple control modes through a unified interface. The same basic operating mechanisms can trigger different control modes (normal mode for general bending, fine mode for precise bending), allowing users to access multiple functional levels without needing separate devices or complex interfaces for each mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides feedback to users about the current control mode and the resulting bending actions. This feedback mechanism helps users understand which mode is active and how their inputs translate into bending movements, making the multi-mode system more intuitive and easier to operate despite the increased functionality.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the insertion unit bends in fine mode without returning to initial position, then the inspection coverage is improved, but the reliability of position control is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The control system segments bending operations into distinct normal mode (with return to initial position) and fine mode (without return) operations. This segmentation allows the system to provide both reliable position control when needed and extended inspection coverage when required, by selecting the appropriate mode for each specific task rather than using a single conflicting control mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes control parameters between different modes to achieve different behaviors. In fine mode, the control parameters are adjusted to allow bending without automatic return to initial position, enabling extended inspection coverage. In normal mode, parameters are set to ensure return to initial position for reliable position control, thus adapting the system behavior to match the specific inspection requirements.
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
Enhances the precision and efficiency of endoscope inspections by allowing users to easily switch between coarse and fine bending modes, improving the ability to navigate and inspect internal structures.
Implementation Method 1
The motion sensor is configured to generate a second signal in accordance with physical movement of the operation device
Data Source
AI summary
An endoscope system includes an endoscope device including a bendable insertion unit, an operation device, and a processor. A user interface of the operation device generates a first signal in accordance with a state of the user interface. The state changes when the user interface touches an object. A motion sensor of the operation device generates a second signal in accordance with physical movement of the operation device. The processor is configured to calculate a first control value used in first control based on the first signal. The processor is configured to calculate a second control value used in second control based on the second signal. At least one of the first control and the second control is executed to bend the insertion unit.