Endoscope Control Valve Cap Segmentation for Automated Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing control valve assemblies for endoscopes often experience cap unscrewing issues during use, complicating assembly and making them unsuitable for high-throughput and automated assembly processes.
Innovation Solution
A two-part cap configuration is introduced, where a first cap part snap-fits to the stem and a second cap part contacts the spring, allowing for stable connection and decoupling, facilitating manufacture and automated assembly without the need for threaded engagement or adhesive.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a threaded cap is used to secure the stem, then the connection stability is improved, but the assembly complexity increases and automated assembly becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The cap is divided into two distinct parts: a first cap part that snap-fits to the stem and a second cap part that contacts the spring. This segmentation eliminates the need for threaded engagement while maintaining connection stability, and enables automated assembly through simple snap-fit mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The threaded mechanical connection is replaced with a snap-fit mechanism. The first cap part includes a flange that snap-fits onto the stem, providing a stable connection without requiring threads, thereby simplifying the assembly process and enabling automated assembly.
2Reliability
If adhesive is applied to secure the cap to the stem, then the connection stability is improved, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The cap is segmented into two parts with distinct functions: the first cap part provides snap-fit attachment to the stem, while the second cap part contacts the spring. This eliminates the need for adhesive application, simplifying manufacturing and enabling high-throughput production.
Solution Approach 2:
The snap-fit mechanism is self-securing, requiring no additional adhesive or bonding steps. The first cap part automatically secures to the stem through its flange engagement, making the assembly process self-sufficient and suitable for automated manufacturing.
3Device complexity
If a single integrated cap is used, then the device structure is simpler, but the connection stability deteriorates due to cap unscrewing during use
Solution Approach 1:
The cap is divided into two functional parts: the first cap part with a flange that snap-fits to the stem provides stable connection, while the second cap part contacts the spring. This segmentation resolves the cap unscrewing issue while maintaining relatively simple structure suitable for automated assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The first cap part is designed with a resilient flange that can dynamically adjust during assembly and use. The flange can deform to engage the stem and maintain a stable connection, preventing the cap from unscrewing or detaching during endoscope operation.
4Strength
If threaded engagement is used for cap assembly, then the connection strength is improved, but the productivity decreases due to manual assembly requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The cap is segmented into two parts where the first cap part uses a snap-fit flange mechanism that provides strong connection while being easily automatable. This eliminates threaded engagement, enabling high-speed automated assembly without compromising connection strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The threaded mechanical system is replaced with a snap-fit mechanism that can be easily automated. The flange on the first cap part engages with the stem through elastic deformation, providing sufficient connection strength while allowing for rapid automated assembly at high throughput.
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 provides a more stable and reliable connection, enabling efficient automated assembly and reducing assembly complexity, making the control valve assembly more suitable for high-throughput production.
Implementation Method 1
a spring configured to contact the spring stanchion and the cap and bias the stem upwardly with respect to the spring stanchion
Implementation Method 2
The first cap part is configured for snap fit attachment to the top of the stem
Data Source
AI summary
A control valve assembly (1, 50) for an endoscope comprising a stem (2) having a longitudinal axis, a first opening (10) disposed transverse to the longitudinal axis, the first opening for allowing passage of air and/or fluid, a cap mountable to the top of the stem, a spring stanchion (3) comprising an opening configured to receive the stem and allow movement of the stem in an upward and downward position relative to the spring stanchion, and a spring (4) configured to contact the spring stanchion (3) and the cap and bias the stem upwardly with respect to the spring stanchion. The cap comprises first cap part (5, 51) having an opening to receive the stem and configured for coupling to the top of the stem (2) for movement with the stem, and a second cap part (6, 52) having an opening to receive the stem and configured to contact the spring and allow movement of the second cap part in an upward and downward position relative to the spring stanchion. The first cap part and second cap part are not coupled together and are configured to cooperate during upward and downward movement of the stem.