Endoscope Frame Enlarged Diameter Section Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Endoscopes face challenges in precisely aligning first and second optical systems in the radial direction, which is crucial for maintaining optical characteristics and preventing moisture ingress, especially during sterilization and high humidity environments.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a first frame with an enlarged diameter section that abuts a reduced diameter section on a distal end constituent member, along with radial clearances between frames, allowing precise alignment and preventing moisture entry by setting the enlarged diameter section's height greater than the combined clearances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a radial-direction clearance is provided between the first frame and second frame to allow precise alignment of optical systems, then alignment precision is improved, but moisture can enter through the clearance
Solution Approach 1:
A seal member is introduced as an intermediary element between the first frame and second frame. The seal member fills the radial clearance while allowing the optical systems to maintain their alignment precision. The seal member acts as a mediator that prevents moisture ingress through the clearance without compromising the alignment function.
Solution Approach 2:
The clearance space is segmented into multiple regions by providing stepped clearances with different radial dimensions at different axial positions. This segmentation allows different portions of the clearance to serve different functions: upper portions allow alignment adjustment while lower portions are sealed to prevent moisture ingress.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the second frame is closely fitted to the first frame to prevent moisture entry, then moisture protection is improved, but alignment precision of optical systems deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The fitting structure is segmented into multiple axial regions with different radial clearance characteristics. The upper portion provides larger clearance for alignment precision, while the lower portion provides smaller clearance or sealing for moisture protection. This segmentation allows both contradictory requirements to be satisfied in different spatial zones.
Solution Approach 2:
The problem is solved by transitioning from a two-dimensional clearance problem to a three-dimensional solution with axial variation. The radial clearance is made variable along the axial direction, creating a gradient from larger clearance at the top to smaller clearance or sealing at the bottom, thus satisfying both alignment and moisture protection requirements.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If an enlarged diameter section is provided to abut on the distal end constituent member to prevent moisture entry, then moisture protection is improved, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The enlarged diameter section of the first frame is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides a sealing surface that abuts on the distal end constituent member to prevent moisture ingress, and simultaneously serves as a structural support element. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate sealing components, thereby reducing overall structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing function is merged with the structural frame design itself. The enlarged diameter section of the first frame is integrated directly into the frame structure, eliminating the need for separate sealing rings or gaskets in many configurations. This merging of functions simplifies the overall structure while maintaining moisture protection.
Data Source
AI summary
An endoscope includes a first frame, a second frame, a first clearance, an enlarged diameter section, a distal end constituent member, and a second clearance, and a set height of the enlarged diameter section is set to be greater than a magnitude of the first clearance to which the second clearance is added.