Endoscope Light Source Control via Adapter Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Endoscope apparatuses face challenges in providing adequate lighting for inspections, particularly when a large amount of light is required, and in offering a portable solution that can function independently or with a connected body portion.
Innovation Solution
An endoscope apparatus with a body portion having a first light source and an insertion portion with a light guide, an operation portion that can connect to the body portion and detect adapter types, and a control section to manage light sources based on connection status, allowing for either internal or external light sources to be used depending on the adapter attached.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a portable endoscope apparatus is used without connecting to the body portion, then portability and ease of operation are improved, but the amount of available illuminating light is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The endoscope apparatus is designed to function in multiple modes: it can operate as a portable standalone unit with the second light source, or connect to the body portion to utilize the first light source for applications requiring higher illumination intensity. This multi-functionality allows the same apparatus to adapt to different operational requirements without needing separate devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between different light sources based on operational needs. When connected to the body portion, the first light source is used; when operating portably, the second light source is activated. This dynamic configuration allows the apparatus to optimize performance for each specific use case.
2Illumination intensity
If the operation portion is connected to the body portion, then the amount of illuminating light is improved, but device complexity and loss of portability increase
Solution Approach 1:
The operation portion includes an adapter detection section that automatically detects whether an adapter is attached and autonomously determines which light source to use. This self-service capability eliminates the need for manual configuration or complex control systems, simplifying the overall device architecture while maintaining the ability to provide high illumination intensity when needed.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a second light source is added to the operation portion, then illumination flexibility is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs dynamic light source selection based on operational mode. The control section automatically switches between the first light source (when connected to body portion) and the second light source (when operating portably), ensuring that only the necessary light source is active at any given time. This dynamic approach provides lighting flexibility while avoiding the continuous operation of multiple light sources.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter detection section automatically identifies the operational configuration and controls which light source should be used, eliminating the need for manual intervention or complex control logic. This self-service mechanism simplifies the control system despite having multiple light sources available.
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 flexible lighting options for endoscopic inspections, providing sufficient illumination whether the operation portion is used standalone or connected to the body portion, ensuring effective imaging in various inspection scenarios.
Implementation Method 1
a light guide that guides the first light originating in the first light source is inserted through the insertion portion
Data Source
AI summary
An endoscope apparatus includes a body portion having a light source portion which emits illuminating light for illuminating an object, an insertion portion through which a light guide that guides light originating in the light source portion is inserted, having a distal end portion to which a plurality of adapters are attachable, and which can emit light originating in an LED from the distal end portion, an operation portion which is connectable to the body portion and has an adapter detection section that detects a type of an adapter attached to the distal end portion, and a CPU which controls the light source portion and the LED according to the type of the detected adapter.