Endoscope Coupler Cover for Stable Imaging Parameter Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscope systems suffer from unintentional adjustment of imaging parameters due to the proximity of input devices to the grip region, leading to an ergonomic challenge during endoscopy procedures.
Innovation Solution
An endoscopic camera assembly with a coupler cover that extends around an input device, preventing accidental access to a first portion while allowing access to a second portion, thereby enabling ergonomic handling and intentional adjustment of imaging parameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If input devices are positioned close to the grip region for easy access, then ease of operation is improved, but unintentional triggering increases
Solution Approach 1:
The input device is segmented into multiple portions (first portion and second portion) with different access characteristics. The coupler cover selectively covers the first portion while leaving the second portion accessible, allowing intentional activation while preventing unintentional triggering during gripping.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupler cover acts as an intermediary element between the user's hand and the input device. It provides a protective barrier that can be intentionally moved or has intentional openings, mediating the interaction to allow controlled access while blocking accidental contact.
2Ease of operation
If input devices are positioned close to the grip region for intuitive control, then ease of operation is improved, but precision of parameter adjustment deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the input device into covered and accessible portions, the system maintains intuitive control accessibility while creating a protected zone that prevents imprecise or accidental adjustments, thereby improving the precision of intentional parameter changes.
3Ease of operation
If the input device is fully accessible for easy adjustment, then ease of operation is improved, but unintentional adjustment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler cover serves as a stable intermediary that protects the input device from unintentional manipulation while maintaining the ability to intentionally adjust parameters through controlled access to the second portion.
Solution Approach 2:
The segmented design allows the input device to remain stable during gripping (first portion covered) while maintaining adjustability when needed (second portion accessible), thus stabilizing imaging parameters against unintentional changes.
Data Source
AI summary
An example endoscopic camera assembly includes: a camera housing having a proximal end and a distal end; a ring coupled to the distal end of the camera housing; and a coupler cover extending around the ring, wherein the coupler cover is configured to prevent access to a first portion of the ring, wherein the coupler cover comprises one or more windows that provide access to a second portion of the ring, and wherein the ring is rotatable relative to the camera housing and the coupler cover, such that rotation of the ring adjusts an imaging parameter of the endoscopic camera assembly.