Endoscope Imaging Unit PCB Layout for Flexible Cable Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscope imaging units face limitations in terms of flexibility and space efficiency within the insertion part, which restricts the degree of freedom in their disposition.
Innovation Solution
The imaging unit design includes a circuit board with a first region extending in a first direction and a second region intersecting at an angle of less than 90 degrees with the first direction, allowing the cable to be connected to the second region, and utilizing a flexible circuit board configuration to optimize space and alignment within the endoscope.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the circuit board is designed with a conventional layout extending in a single direction, then the imaging element can be properly positioned, but the degree of freedom in disposition inside the insertion part is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The circuit board is divided into multiple regions (first region for imaging element, second region for cable connection) that extend in different directions. This segmentation allows each region to be optimized for its specific function while collectively providing flexibility in the overall disposition of the imaging unit within the endoscope insertion part.
Solution Approach 2:
The circuit board transitions from a conventional single-direction extension to a multi-dimensional layout where the first region extends in a first direction and the second region extends in a second direction intersecting the first direction at an angle of less than 90 degrees. This dimensional change enables greater freedom of disposition while maintaining functional integrity.
2Area of stationary object
If the circuit board extends in a single direction, then manufacturing is simpler, but space efficiency inside the insertion part is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the circuit board into distinct first and second regions with different extending directions, the design optimizes space utilization within the insertion part. The first region accommodates the imaging element while the second region connects to the cable, allowing compact arrangement that improves space efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The circuit board employs an asymmetric layout where the first and second regions extend at an angle of less than 90 degrees to each other rather than perpendicular or parallel arrangements. This asymmetric design efficiently packs components within the limited space of the insertion part while maintaining manufacturability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the cable is connected to the first region, then alignment with the imaging element is direct, but the degree of freedom in disposition is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The circuit board is segmented into a first region for imaging element mounting and a second region for cable connection, separated by a boundary portion. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each region's position and orientation, enabling flexible disposition of the imaging unit while maintaining precise alignment through the defined geometric relationship between regions.
Solution Approach 2:
By connecting the cable to the second region rather than the first region, and by having the second region extend at an angle of less than 90 degrees relative to the first region, the design utilizes angular dimensionality to achieve both disposition flexibility and alignment precision. The intersecting directions create a compact, flexible arrangement that maintains manufacturing precision.
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging unit of an endoscope includes: an imaging element; a circuit board to which the imaging element is connected; and a cable connected to the circuit board. The circuit board includes a first region in which the imaging element is disposed and that extends in a first direction, and a second region that extends in a second direction intersecting the first direction at an angle of less than 90 degrees, as viewed in a direction perpendicular to a light-receiving surface of the imaging element, and the cable is connected to the second region.