Endoscope Bending Section With Continuous Rib Stiffness
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Solution Overview
Problem
Endoscope bending sections have limited torsional and longitudinal stiffness, which affects maneuverability and can lead to plastic deformation under force, especially when using tools through the working channel, compromising performance.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates first and second hinges with the second hinge forming a continuous rib perpendicular to the bending plane, allowing for increased width and stability, enhancing torsional and longitudinal stiffness without increasing force requirements and maintaining space for the working channel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the second hinge is made narrow to allow bending, then the bending section can flex, but the torsional and longitudinal stiffness is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a continuous rib extending in the longitudinal direction (perpendicular to the bending plane) to form a three-dimensional structural element. This rib connects second hinges across multiple segments, creating stiffness in the longitudinal and torsional directions while preserving bending flexibility in the perpendicular plane. The rib adds a dimensional component that addresses the stiffness deficiency without constraining the primary bending function.
2Strength
If the second hinge width is increased to improve stiffness, then torsional and longitudinal stiffness improve, but the space for the working channel is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the structural reinforcement function from the bending function by introducing a separate continuous rib structure. The rib provides longitudinal and torsional stiffness without requiring the second hinge itself to be wider. This segmentation allows the hinge to remain narrow for bending while the rib provides the necessary structural support, preventing interference with the working channel space.
3Ease of operation
If the bending section is made more flexible to allow extreme positioning, then maneuverability improves, but the risk of plastic deformation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a composite structural system combining flexible hinge elements with a stiffer continuous rib structure. The hinge allows bending motion while the rib provides structural support against excessive deformation. This composite approach enables the bending section to achieve extreme positions through controlled flexing while the rib prevents plastic deformation by providing longitudinal and torsional stiffness.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
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Figure 6~10
AI summary
A bending section (5) for an endoscope (1) and the endoscope, where the bending section comprises a number of segments (12), where adjacent segments are connected by a first hinge (14) and a second hinge (24). Both the first and the second hinges are made integrally from the same material as the segments (12), and the first and second hinges are arranged for allowing the connected segments to bend in a bending plane. A second hinge at the distal end of a segment forms a continuous rib (44) with the second hinge (24) at the proximal end of the segment. This continuous rib is arranged perpendicular to the bending plane.