Endoscope Camera Power Regulation for Cable Voltage Drop
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The voltage drop in the power source cable of an endoscope system due to current flow and resistance results in a lower second power source voltage at the imager, requiring high first power source voltage output, which increases power consumption and heat generation.
Innovation Solution
A camera unit and control unit configuration with a power source line and video signal line, including a switch to disconnect during voltage monitoring and connect during video output, along with a voltage measurement and control circuit to adjust the first power source voltage based on measured values, ensuring optimal second power source voltage for the imager.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a high first power source voltage is output to compensate for voltage drop in the power source cable, then the second power source voltage at the imager is maintained at an appropriate level, but power consumption and heat generation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the control unit measures the actual second power source voltage at the imager and adjusts the first power source voltage accordingly. This closed-loop control ensures the second power source voltage remains within the appropriate range while minimizing unnecessary voltage elevation, thereby reducing power consumption and heat generation.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit dynamically changes the first power source voltage parameter based on measured conditions. By adjusting this parameter in response to actual voltage levels at the imager, the system optimizes power delivery efficiency and reduces energy waste while maintaining reliable operation.
2Reliability
If a high first power source voltage is output to compensate for voltage drop in the power source cable, then the second power source voltage at the imager is maintained at an appropriate level, but heat generation in the power source cable increases
Solution Approach 1:
The feedback mechanism continuously monitors the second power source voltage and adjusts the first power source voltage to the minimum necessary level. This prevents excessive voltage elevation that would cause unnecessary heat generation in the power source cable while ensuring the imager receives adequate power.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit dynamically adjusts the first power source voltage parameter based on actual conditions, changing it only to the extent necessary to maintain appropriate second power source voltage. This parameter optimization reduces I²R losses and minimizes heat generation in the cable.
3Use of energy by moving object
If the power source voltage is adjusted based on measured values, then optimal power consumption and heat generation are achieved, but device complexity increases due to additional circuits
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit is designed to perform multiple functions: it generates the first power source voltage, measures the second power source voltage at the imager, processes the measured values, and adjusts the output voltage accordingly. By integrating these functions into a single multi-functional unit, the patent reduces overall device complexity while maintaining power optimization capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the voltage generation, measurement, and adjustment functions into an integrated control system. The control unit merges the power source voltage generation circuit with the measurement and adjustment logic, eliminating the need for separate dedicated circuits and reducing overall system complexity.
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
This configuration maintains optimal power source voltage for the imager, reducing power consumption and heat generation while ensuring consistent video signal output.
Implementation Method 1
a voltage measurement circuit configured to measure a value of the second power source voltage transferred from the camera unit by the video signal line
Implementation Method 2
Due to an influence of a current flowing through the power source cable and the resistance value of the power source cable, a voltage drop is generated in the power source cable
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging device includes a camera unit and a control unit. A first power source voltage is transferred from the camera unit to the control unit by a power source line and is input to the camera unit as a second power source voltage. The camera unit consumes the second power source voltage as a load current in a voltage-monitoring period. The control unit measures a value of the second power source voltage transferred from the camera unit by the video signal line in the voltage-monitoring period. The control unit adjusts a value of the first power source voltage in the video output period based on the measured value.