Endoscope Probe Diameter Reduction via Axial Sensor Placement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional endoscopes face challenges in obtaining clear and accurate images due to light loss and increased diameter, leading to patient discomfort and complex image processing requirements, especially during 360° observation in narrow spaces.
Innovation Solution
An endoscope design with an image sensor attached to the outer circumference of the transducer probe and multiple light sources, such as LEDs, positioned on the housing to reduce diameter and enable simultaneous 360° observation, minimizing irritation and image loss, and allowing for controlled lighting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If an image sensor and light source are provided inside the leading end of the cable perpendicular to the axis, then the endoscope can capture images and provide illumination, but the diameter of the endoscope increases causing patient discomfort and irritation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional arrangement (components perpendicular to the cable axis) to a three-dimensional arrangement by positioning the image sensor at the leading end facing forward and the light source at the rear end, both aligned with the cable axis. This dimensional reconfiguration allows components to be distributed along the length of the cable rather than concentrated at the leading end, reducing the diameter without compromising functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the endoscope into distinct functional zones: the image sensor is positioned at the leading end for image capture, while the light source is positioned at the rear end for illumination. This segmentation allows each component to be optimally placed along the cable axis, reducing the need for lateral expansion and minimizing the diameter at the leading end portion.
2Illumination intensity
If the thickness of the optical fiber light guide is increased to secure sufficient illumination, then adequate lighting is achieved, but the diameter of the endoscope increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the light source from the leading end portion and relocates it to the rear end of the cable. This extraction eliminates the need for thick optical fiber light guides that would otherwise be required to deliver sufficient light to the leading end, thereby reducing the overall diameter and minimizing patient discomfort while maintaining adequate illumination.
3Device complexity
If the image sensor is positioned inside the leading end, then the endoscope structure is compact, but the diameter increases causing irritation during insertion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent repositions the image sensor from a lateral arrangement (perpendicular to the axis) to an axial arrangement at the leading end, facing forward. This dimensional change allows the sensor to be integrated into the tip structure without increasing the diameter, maintaining structural compactness while reducing insertion irritation.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the endoscope is rotated or moved to check all inside portions, then complete observation is achieved, but complex image processing and position estimation are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent equips the endoscope with a light source positioned at the rear end that illuminates the entire examination space ahead of the probe. This preliminary illumination action allows the image sensor to capture a complete 360-degree view of the internal space in a single position, eliminating the need for rotation or complex image processing to assemble views from multiple positions.
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 solution allows for comfortable insertion, reduced patient discomfort, accurate 360° observation, and clear images without the need for complex image editing or position estimation, while also reducing manufacturing costs and enabling disposable endoscope production.
Implementation Method 1
an image sensor which is provided to the outer circumferential surface of a housing, formed in close contact with the outer circumferential surface of the housing
Implementation Method 2
one or more light sources, which are provided to the rear side of the lens in the housing
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is an endoscope, in which an image sensor is attached to a transducer probe such that the diameter of the transducer probe is reduced so as to decrease the feeling of irritation and prevent injuries of internal organs, and one or more light sources are attached to a leading end of the transducer probe so as to obtain images, which are clear and appropriate for purposes.