Endoscope Hardness Adjustment Cam Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscopes with hardness adjustment mechanisms face difficulties in achieving smooth operation, particularly when the insertion portion is complicatedly curved, leading to insufficient hardness adjustment effects due to applied tension or compressive force on the hardness adjusting coil and wire.
Innovation Solution
The endoscope incorporates a hardness adjustment cable with a sheath and wire, a coupling tool, a retaining member, a cam mechanism, and a guide frame that allows independent movement, reducing tension and compressive force through a sliding mechanism, enabling smooth operation of the hardness adjustment mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the hardness adjusting coil and wire are fixed to the distal tip side of the insertion portion, then the hardness adjustment mechanism can be implemented, but tension or compressive force is applied when the insertion portion is complicatedly curved, making it difficult to obtain sufficient hardness adjustment effect
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a cam mechanism that converts rotational motion into linear motion, allowing the hardness adjustment wire to be pulled dynamically when needed while maintaining flexibility during complex curving. The cam mechanism enables the system to transition between different operational states smoothly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a cam mechanism as an intermediary between the operator's input and the hardness adjustment wire. This intermediary component translates rotational motion into linear pulling force, enabling smooth operation without directly transmitting tension or compressive forces that would hinder adjustment effectiveness.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the hardness adjusting coil is compressed to harden it, then the hardness of the insertion portion can be adjusted, but the mechanism becomes complex requiring multiple components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into integrated components. The cam mechanism serves both as a motion converter and as a force transmission element, while the guide frame integrates support and positioning functions. This merging reduces the number of separate components needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide frame serves multiple functions: it supports the cam mechanism, guides the movement of the hardness adjustment wire, and provides structural support for the entire hardness adjustment assembly. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional dedicated 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
This configuration ensures the endoscope's hardness adjustment mechanism operates smoothly, maintaining consistent hardness of the insertion portion even during complex curvatures, enhancing user experience and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a cam mechanism that is coupled to the retaining member when tension is applied to the hardness adjustment wire
Data Source
AI summary
An endoscope includes: a hardness adjustment cable that is arranged in an insertion portion and includes a hardness adjustment sheath, a hardness adjustment wire inserted in the hardness adjustment sheath, and a coupling tool coupling the hardness adjustment sheath and the hardness adjustment wire; a retaining member fixed to the hardness adjustment wire on an operation unit side of the hardness adjustment cable; a cam mechanism that is coupled to the retaining member when tension is applied to the hardness adjustment wire; a sheath fixing unit coupled to the hardness adjustment sheath on the operation unit side of the hardness adjustment cable; and a guide frame that is arranged between the insertion portion and an operation unit and that holds the cam mechanism and the sheath fixing unit so as to be independently movable in a longitudinal direction of the insertion portion.