Endoscope Control Knob Brake for Stable Tip Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscope braking systems are complicated and lack efficient mechanisms for easily fixing the endoscope insertion tube tip in a desired position and allowing smooth directional readjustment.
Innovation Solution
A control unit with a braking system that includes a first shaft, a second shaft, a brake knob, and a spring mechanism, allowing the pin to move between positions to lock or unlock the articulation unit in desired directions, facilitating easy movement and fixation of the endoscope tip.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a braking mechanism is added to fix the endoscope tip position, then the positioning stability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The brake knob is integrated within the control wheel structure, with the braking mechanism nested inside the control wheel. The pin that engages with the cable drum is housed within the control wheel, creating a compact nested arrangement that provides locking functionality without adding external complexity to the endoscope structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The control wheel serves dual functions: it acts as both the steering control mechanism for moving the endoscope tip and as the housing for the braking mechanism. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate locking devices, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining positioning stability.
2Reliability
If a locking device is used to fix the cable drum rotation, then the articulation unit positioning is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The braking mechanism transitions dynamically between two states: engaged (locked) and disengaged (free). The spring-loaded pin automatically engages with the cable drum when the control wheel is stationary, providing stable positioning. When the operator rotates the control wheel, the pin disengages to allow smooth movement, then re-engages when the wheel stops, enabling easy directional readjustment without manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The braking mechanism is self-actuating through the spring-loaded pin that automatically engages and disengages based on the motion state of the control wheel. No additional actuators, motors, or manual locking operations are required - the system self-regulates between locked and free states based on operator input, maintaining both positioning stability and operational ease.
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
Enables easy and precise control over the endoscope tip's direction, providing a watertight braking system that separates free movement from locking operations, enhancing operational efficiency and ease of use.
Implementation Method 1
a spring (4100) supported by the first shaft (4020)
Implementation Method 2
said at least one brake body (4090a) becomes pressed against said stationary sleeve (4080a) when said pin (4110a) is in said second position, thereby locking said first shaft (4020a)
Data Source
AI summary
A control unit that includes a braking system for fixing the position of an endoscope tip is provided. The control system includes an up-down control knob and a right-left control knob. The brakes are engaged by rotating the control knob itself counter-clockwise from a free wheeling position. After the brakes have been engaged, a sufficient amount of force applied to the control knobs will move the endoscope tip slightly in the corresponding direction, allowing for fine tuning of tip position after braking.