Integrated Endoscope Bending Knob Ergonomics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Endoscope operators, particularly those with smaller hands, face difficulty in manipulating the two bending operation knobs simultaneously to direct the bendable portion in four directions due to the ergonomic challenges and frequent need to hold the insertion portion in place against peristaltic movements in body cavities.
Innovation Solution
The endoscope design incorporates a first and second bending operation knob with radially extending protrusions of different lengths and a depression on the second knob to facilitate easier rotation, allowing the operator to use any finger to manipulate both knobs independently, reducing obstruction and enhancing ergonomic control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If two bending operation knobs are provided to enable bending in four directions, then the endoscope can be directed accurately, but it becomes difficult for operators with smaller hands to manipulate both knobs simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate bending operation knobs into a single integrated knob structure. The first bending operation knob and second bending operation knob are merged such that one knob can control bending in multiple directions (up/down and right/left), allowing operators to manipulate both bending functions with a single component, thereby improving ease of operation while maintaining directional control precision
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated bending operation knob is designed to perform multiple functions: it can control upward/downward bending and rightward/leftward bending through different rotational movements or positions. This multi-functional design allows a single knob to replace two separate knobs, making the device more accessible to operators with smaller hands while preserving the ability to precisely control the endoscope's direction
2Stability of the object's composition
If the operator holds the insertion portion with one hand to counteract peristaltic movements, then the insertion portion remains stable, but the operator cannot manipulate the bending operation knobs with the same hand
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the two bending operation knobs into a single integrated knob, the patent reduces the number of manual operations required. The operator can now control both upward/downward and rightward/leftward bending with one hand, freeing the other hand to hold the insertion portion stable against peristaltic movements, thus resolving the conflict between stability and operability
3Volume of moving object
If protrusions on the bending operation knobs are short, then the knob structure is compact, but it becomes difficult for operators to grasp and rotate the knobs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing protrusions with different lengths on the integrated bending operation knob. Some protrusions extend further outward to provide better finger grasp points for rotation, while other portions remain compact. This differential protrusion design allows operators to easily grasp and rotate the knob without significantly increasing the overall knob volume
Data Source
AI summary
An endoscope includes an insertion portion having a bendable portion; an operation portion from which the insertion portion extends; a first bending operation knob arranged on a surface of the operation portion and including depressions and first protrusions, to bend the bendable portion in a first direction when rotated; and a second bending operation knob arranged over the first bending operation knob and including depressions and second protrusions, to bend the bendable portion in a second direction when rotated. A length of the second protrusion from a center of rotation to a tip portion is longer than a length of the first protrusion from the center of rotation to tip portions of the first protrusions, and the second protrusion has a depression near a projection of a circular orbit of rotation of each tip portion of the first protrusions onto a surface facing the first bending operation knob.