Endoscope Connector With Inflatable Locking for Stable Plug Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing connectors for endoscopes often experience unstable electrical connections and risk of detachment between the plug and receptacle, particularly when the universal cord is pulled during operation, leading to potential disconnection and instability in the endoscope system.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of a reversibly inflatable balloon within the connector's recess and groove, which expands to increase mechanical coupling strength by pressing against the plug, ensuring a secure connection between the plug and receptacle, and can be easily released when the balloon contracts, allowing for safe removal of the plug.
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 maintains a stable and secure electrical connection between the plug and receptacle, preventing detachment and ensuring reliable operation of the endoscope system, while allowing for easy removal of the plug without damaging the connector.
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.