Endoscope Adapter Type Detection via Optical Diaphragm
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscopes face challenges in efficiently determining the type of adapter attached to the distal end due to increased diameter caused by limited space for identification resistors and terminals, affecting the adapter's functionality and observation capabilities.
Innovation Solution
The endoscope design incorporates a diaphragm for type determination, positioned separately from the brightness adjustment diaphragm, which forms an image on the image pickup device, allowing the CPU to determine the adapter type by analyzing the position and number of image formation regions, thereby enhancing adapter identification without increasing the adapter's diameter.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If identification resistors and terminals are provided in limited space within the adapter and distal end portion, then adapter type detection is enabled, but the adapter and distal end portion diameter increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/electrical identification system (resistors and terminals) with an optical identification system. A diaphragm with pattern openings is positioned in the optical path, and its image is formed on the image pickup device. The CPU determines adapter type by analyzing the position and number of image formation regions, eliminating the need for physical contact between resistors and terminals.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates an optical copy (image) of the diaphragm pattern on the image pickup device. Instead of directly measuring physical resistor values or terminal positions, the system captures and analyzes the visual pattern formed by light passing through the diaphragm openings, transforming physical adapter characteristics into optical information for detection.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple adapters with different viewing angles and outside diameters are provided, then adaptability to different observation objects is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal identification system where a single diaphragm structure with variable opening patterns serves multiple functions: it acts as both the optical element for type determination and the identification marker. The same diaphragm mechanism identifies all adapter types (front-view, side-view, different diameters, different viewing angles) through its unique opening pattern, eliminating the need for separate identification systems for each adapter variant.
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 solution enables accurate and efficient detection of adapter types, improving observation capabilities while maintaining a compact adapter size, allowing for 24 types of adapters to be distinguished and preventing erroneous type recognition.
Implementation Method 1
a diaphragm for type determination that is opened on the optical axis in each of the respective adapters, at a position separated from the diaphragm for brightness adjustment to sandwich at least one of the optical members between the diaphragm for type determination and the diaphragm for the brightness adjustment along the optical axis
Data Source
AI summary
An endoscope includes a lens unit, a diaphragm for brightness adjustment, a diaphragm for type determination and an image pickup device. The diaphragm for type determination has an image formation portion an image of which is formed in a light receiving section, a position and a number of the image formation portion provided for the diaphragm for type determination differing according to a plurality of adapters. The endoscope further includes a CPU that determines a type of an adapter by determining a position and a number of the image formation portion an image of which is formed in the light receiving section.