Endoscope Self-Locking Control Element With Low Switching Resistance
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing self-locking devices for endoscopes, such as those using a leaf spring, exhibit excessive resistance during switching control between locked and unlocked states, leading to operational inconvenience for medical personnel.
Innovation Solution
A redesigned control element for endoscopes featuring a mounting base with an avoidance area and an elastic member with increased deformation space and reduced resistance, incorporating a first and second inclined surface to facilitate smooth state switching, and a self-locking device with a driven gear and flap mechanism to enhance operational convenience.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a leaf spring is used to determine completion of switching control between locked and unlocked states, then the self-locking function is achieved, but excessive resistance is encountered during switching control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the elastic member by introducing an avoidance area (hole or groove) that increases the deformation space. This structural modification allows the elastic member to deform more easily, reducing the resistance force during switching control while maintaining the self-locking function through the protrusion mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic member is segmented into functional zones: a fixed end connected to the mounting base, a deformation region passing through the avoidance area, and a free end with a protrusion. This segmentation allows different parts to perform specific functions - the avoidance area provides deformation space while the protrusion engages with the limiting member for locking, achieving both low resistance and reliable locking.
2Ease of operation
If the elastic member deformation space is increased to reduce resistance, then operational convenience is improved, but the structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting base and elastic member are integrated into a single component, with the avoidance area directly formed in the mounting base. This merging eliminates the need for separate deformation chambers or additional mounting structures, reducing overall structural complexity while still providing the necessary deformation space for reduced operating resistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The avoidance area acts as an intermediary structure that mediates between the elastic member and the mounting base. It provides the necessary deformation space without requiring complex external mechanisms, allowing the elastic member to deform smoothly while maintaining a simple integrated structure.
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
The redesigned control element reduces resistance during state switching, allowing medical personnel to easily and quickly change states, improving operational convenience and extending the device's service life.
Implementation Method 1
the elastic member is provided with a first protrusion... the elastic member is disposed corresponding to the avoidance area... one end of the elastic member is connected to the mounting base, and the other end of the elastic member is a free end
Data Source
AI summary
A control element for an endoscope includes a mounting base and an elastic member. The mounting base is provided with an avoidance area; the avoidance area is a hole or groove penetrating through the mounting base; the elastic member is disposed corresponding to the avoidance area; one end of the elastic member is connected to the mounting base, and the other end of the elastic member is a free end; a projection of the elastic member on a plane where the mounting base is located covers a part of the avoidance area; and the elastic member is provided with a first protrusion. The control element improves the control element corresponding to a leaf spring by redesigning the deformable portion of the elastic member. The control element increases the upper limit for the deformation amount of the elastic member while reducing resistance corresponding to unit deformation amount of the elastic member.