Endoscope Distal End Structure Composite Cable Fixing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscope technologies face challenges in downsizing the distal end structure and simplifying the connection of cables to a substrate, while maintaining reliability and ease of introduction into patients.
Innovation Solution
The endoscope system incorporates a composite cable with exposed core wires and electric insulating coated portions, connected to a substrate via a cable fixing portion that includes a distal end fixing portion, alignment portion, and body fixing portion, allowing for precise alignment and secure connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the distal end structure is downsized to facilitate easier introduction into patients, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability of cable connection to substrate may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The cable fixing portion is divided into three functional segments: a cable distal end fixing portion for securing exposed core wires, a cable alignment portion for positioning cables relative to substrate electrodes, and a cable body fixing portion for anchoring the composite cable. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while collectively ensuring reliable connections in a compact distal end structure.
2Ease of operation
If the distal end structure is downsized, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity may increase due to the need for precise alignment mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The cable fixing portion integrates multiple functions into a single unified component: cable securing, alignment, and body fixation are combined in one structure. The cable alignment portion specifically merges the alignment function with the fixing structure, eliminating the need for separate alignment mechanisms and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining precise cable-to-electrode alignment capability.
3Ease of manufacture
If cables are connected to substrate with exposed core wires, then the ease of manufacture is improved, but the reliability of electrical insulation may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The cable distal end fixing portion is designed to secure the exposed core wires and coated portions in a predetermined configuration before final connection to the substrate. This preliminary securing action ensures proper positioning and maintains electrical insulation integrity throughout the manufacturing process, preventing misalignment or insulation damage that could compromise connection reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
An endoscope includes: a composite cable in which a plurality of cables each including a core wire and an electric insulating coated portion coating the core wire are bundled with an electric insulating outer sheath; a substrate that includes electrodes to which the respective cables are connected; and a cable fixing portion that includes a cable distal end fixing portion holding the plurality of cables in which the core wire and the coated portion are exposed from a distal end surface side of the composite cable, a cable alignment portion aligning the plurality of cables, and a cable body fixing portion holding an end portion of the composite cable on a side where the plurality of cables is exposed, and provided with a through hole having a diameter same as a diameter of an outer periphery of the composite cable.