Endoscope Insertion Length Measurement via Pulse Reflection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Determining the insertion length of an endoscope apparatus within a body cavity can be challenging, especially for inexperienced operators, as it relies on visual observation and experience, and existing technologies may not provide a simple or accurate method for calculating this length.
Innovation Solution
An endoscope system that includes a pulse oscillator, a pulse receiver, and a transmission line along the insertion unit, which calculates the insertion length based on the time difference between the oscillation pulse signal and the reflected pulse signal, allowing for precise determination of the insertion depth.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If magnetic coils and position detectors are used to measure insertion length, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/magnetic measurement system (magnetic coils and position detectors) with an electrical signal-based system. A pulse signal is transmitted through the insertion unit, and the reflection timing is detected to calculate insertion length, eliminating the need for complex magnetic measurement components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a pulse signal as an intermediary to measure insertion length. The signal travels through the insertion unit and reflects off the distal end, allowing indirect measurement of length through signal timing rather than direct physical measurement, thereby simplifying the system.
2Measurement precision
If multiple magnetic coils are incorporated in the insertion unit, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the complex magnetic measurement system with a simple electrical pulse transmission system. The operator only needs to initiate a measurement, and the system automatically calculates insertion length based on signal reflection timing, making operation as simple as pressing a button while maintaining high measurement precision.
3Device complexity
If a simple configuration is used for the endoscope system, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves high measurement precision with a simple configuration by substituting mechanical measurement components with an electrical pulse transmission and reflection detection system. This approach maintains accuracy while significantly reducing system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The insertion unit itself serves as the transmission medium for the pulse signal. The system utilizes the existing structure of the insertion unit to transmit and reflect the signal, eliminating the need for separate measurement devices and achieving self-measurement capability.
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 straightforward calculation of the insertion length, enhancing the ability of operators to determine the insertion depth, even for those without extensive experience, and simplifies the configuration of the endoscope system.
Implementation Method 1
a time calculating unit that obtains a time difference between the oscillation pulse signal and the reflected pulse signal on the basis of the oscillation pulse signal output by the pulse oscillator and the reflected pulse signal received by the pulse receiver
Data Source
AI summary
In an endoscope system that obtains a captured image inside of a body cavity by use of an insertion unit of an endoscope apparatus which is inserted into the body cavity of a subject, an oscillator outputs an oscillation pulse signal, and receives a reflected pulse signal. A transmission line is provided along the insertion unit near an envelope of the insertion unit, and transmits a pulse signal output from the oscillator. A time calculating unit and an insertion length calculating unit obtain a time difference between the oscillation pulse signal and the reflected pulse signal on the basis of the oscillation pulse signal output by the oscillator and the reflected pulse signal received by the oscillator, and calculate an insertion length of the insertion unit on the basis of the obtained time difference.