Endoscope Grounding Structure for Distal-End Continuity Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Endoscopes with insulating distal end portions face challenges in effectively grounding the image pickup instrument to prevent static electricity and high-frequency current from causing defects, as existing methods struggle to ensure reliable electrical continuity.
Innovation Solution
The endoscope design includes a conductive external member connected to ground, an image pickup instrument fixed to an internal member, and a jumper wire electrically connecting them, with a configuration allowing for easy continuity testing to confirm proper grounding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the distal end portion is formed of an insulating member to reduce diameter and improve flexibility, then the image pickup instrument cannot be grounded effectively, but using a conductive member would compromise the insulating properties and increase diameter
Solution Approach 1:
The distal end portion is divided into two functional segments: an insulating inner member (distal end rigid portion) that maintains flexibility and reduces diameter, and a separate conductive outer member (conductive sheath) that provides grounding. This segmentation allows each component to fulfill its specific function without compromising the other, resolving the contradiction between maintaining insulating properties and achieving reliable grounding.
Solution Approach 2:
The distal end portion uses a composite structure combining insulating and conductive materials. The insulating inner member is covered with a conductive outer member, creating a composite structure that simultaneously provides both insulating and conductive properties. This composite approach enables the structure to maintain its flexibility and small diameter while achieving reliable electrical grounding.
2Reliability
If a conductor is added to connect the image pickup instrument to ground, then grounding is achieved, but the structure becomes more complex and the diameter increases
Solution Approach 1:
The conductive grounding path is implemented as a thin conductive sheath that closely follows the contour of the insulating inner member. This thin-film approach provides effective electrical continuity while minimizing the increase in diameter, as the conductive layer adds only a thin boundary rather than a substantial structural addition.
3Reliability
If the conductor wire is connected through the insulating member, then grounding is achieved, but ensuring reliable electrical connection becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The conductive outer member serves as an intermediary element between the insulating inner member and the conductor wire. It provides a dedicated conductive interface that simplifies the assembly process, as the conductor wire can be directly connected to the conductive outer member without penetrating or complexly integrating with the insulating material. This intermediary approach ensures reliable electrical connection while ease of manufacture.
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 design ensures reliable grounding of the image pickup instrument, preventing defects from static electricity and high-frequency currents by effectively dissipating charges to ground, and facilitates easy continuity testing for assurance.
Implementation Method 1
a conductor wire including a third end portion electrically connected to the first end portion, and a fourth end portion that passes through an opening formed in the external member
Data Source
AI summary
An endoscope can include an internal member provided at a distal end of an insertion portion a conductive external member fitted over the internal member and electrically connected to a ground. The endoscope can also include an image pickup instrument fixed to the internal member, and the image pickup instrument can include a lens. The endoscope can include an electrical connection part having a first end portion connected to the conductive member and a second end portion connected to the external member, the electrical connection part being configured to electrically connect the conductive member and the external member, a conductor wire including a third end portion electrically connected to the first end portion, and a fourth end portion that passes through an opening formed in the external member.