Endoscope Haptic Feedback via Spring-Loaded Transmission Wires
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current motorized bending endoscopes lack effective haptic feedback mechanisms to inform operators when the distal end of the insertion portion encounters external forces or obstacles during bending operations, potentially leading to unintended bending or damage.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of a haptic section with transmission wires and springs that provide tactile feedback to the operator by altering the tension and movement of the bending wires, allowing the operator to sense resistance and obstacles through the manipulation of the bending operation apparatus.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If motorized bending is implemented without haptic feedback, then automation and ease of operation are improved, but operator awareness of external forces deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a haptic feedback mechanism using springs and transmission wires that connect the distal end of the insertion portion to the bending operation apparatus. When the distal end encounters external force or resistance, the springs compress or extend, transmitting tactile feedback through the transmission wires to the operator's hand, enabling sensation of resistance while maintaining motorized bending operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces springs as intermediary elements between the bending wires and the bending operation apparatus. These springs act as mechanical mediators that transform external forces applied to the distal end into tactile sensations at the operator's hand, bridging the information gap created by motorized operation
2Reliability
If haptic feedback mechanism is added, then operator awareness and control are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the haptic feedback function into the existing bending operation mechanism by using the same transmission wires and bending operation apparatus structure. The springs serve dual purposes: maintaining tension in the bending wires and providing haptic feedback, thereby adding functionality without proportionally increasing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The haptic feedback components (springs and transmission wires) are nested within the existing endoscope structure, utilizing the internal space of the operation portion. The feedback mechanism is embedded within the bending wire routing path, avoiding additional external components
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
Enhances operator awareness of external forces and obstacles, improving control and reducing the risk of damage by providing a tactile indication of the distal end's interaction with body walls or other structures during bending operations.
Implementation Method 1
a haptic section with transmission wires and springs that provide tactile feedback to the operator by altering the tension and movement of the bending wires
Data Source
AI summary
An insertion apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention includes: an insertion portion to be inserted into a subject; a bending operation apparatus to be moved by an operator to input an operation instruction; a bending drive section that generates a drive force based on the movement of the bending operation apparatus; a pulling member to be pulled by the drive force from the bending drive section; a bending portion provided in the insertion portion, the bending portion being connected to the pulling member and being bent upon the pulling member being pulled; and a haptic section that connects the pulling member and the bending operation apparatus via an elastic portion.