Steerable Endoscope Deflection Device with Waveform Bar
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional steerable endoscope deflection devices are complex, costly, and suffer from limited bending range and precision due to multiple components like ring metal, rivets, springs, and motors, leading to fatigue and reduced control over bending direction.
Innovation Solution
A deflection device using a simplified structure with a first and second base, elastic reposition members with waveform bars, and shape memory alloy tendon wires to control bending, allowing precise direction and angle adjustment without the need for complex components like motors or springs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional deflection device components (ring metal, rivets, springs, motors) are used, then the endoscope can achieve bidirectional deflection, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple conventional components (ring metal, rivets, springs, motors) into a single integrated elastic reposition member with waveform bar structure. This merging eliminates the need for separate components while maintaining the bidirectional deflection capability through the elastic deformation of the waveform bar when tendon wires are pulled.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic reposition member utilizes its own elasticity to provide the restoring force for deflection, eliminating the need for separate motors or spring mechanisms. The waveform bar's elastic deformation automatically returns the endoscope to its original position after bending, making the system self-regulating without additional actuating components.
2Ease of operation
If conventional spring and tendon wire structures are used, then deflection can be achieved, but the elasticity fatigues and fractures easily, reducing reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic reposition member is made from elastomeric material that combines flexibility with high fatigue resistance. This material choice replaces the conventional spring- tendon wire combination, providing durable elastic deformation capability without the fatigue and fracture issues associated with metal springs and wires.
3Strength
If ring metal structure is used for deflection, then structural strength is maintained, but the turning angle is limited and fixed, reducing adaptability
Solution Approach 1:
The waveform bar structure transitions from a fixed rigid ring metal structure to a dynamic elastic structure that can deform continuously. This allows the endoscope to achieve variable bending angles and multiple deflection directions by controlling the degree of elastic deformation, rather than being limited to fixed angular positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic reposition member uses a flexible waveform bar structure that can bend and deform elastically, replacing the rigid ring metal structure. This flexible design enables continuous adjustment of bending angles and directions while maintaining structural integrity through the elastomeric material properties.
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 solution enables precise control of lens steering, reduces manufacturing costs, and allows for a wider range of bending angles, enhancing the usability and effectiveness of steerable endoscopes.
Implementation Method 1
Each elastic reposition member includes a first plate, a second plate and a waveform bar. The waveform bar is connected between the first plate and the second plate, the wave-height direction of which is not parallel to the direction of the central axis of the endoscope.
Implementation Method 2
A deflection device using a simplified structure with a first and second base, elastic reposition members with waveform bars, and shape memory alloy tendon wires to control bending
Data Source
AI summary
A deflection device of steerable endoscope includes a first base, a second base, elastic reposition members and tendon wires. The second base is located above the first base along the endoscope center axis. The elastic reposition members are inlaid between the first and the second bases. Each elastic reposition member includes a first plate connecting to the first base, a second plate connecting to the second base, and a waveform bar connecting the first and the second plates. The wave-height of the waveform bar is not parallel to the endoscope center axis. The tendon wires are located on the two opposite sides of each elastic reposition member. The tendon wires are parallel to and distant from the endoscope center axis. Bending of the steerable endoscope is precisely controlled, and structure of the deflection device is simplified in the invention.