Endoscope System Tube Axial Fixation via Resilient Latching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscope designs face challenges in simplified assembly and repair due to complex fixation methods, such as screwing or welding, which complicate the axial positioning of the system tube and restrict space for the image transmitter, especially in thin endoscopes.
Innovation Solution
The endoscope employs a resilient latching element, such as a spring-elastic latching sleeve or clamping ring, to axially fix the system tube, allowing for easy assembly and potential removal for repair, without the need for screws or welding, by creating a latching connection between the system tube and the shaft, and utilizing a compression spring to limit insertion depth and ensure a predetermined axial position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the system tube is fixed using screws or welding, then the axial positioning is secure, but the assembly process becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic resilient latching element that can deform elastically during assembly and then lock into a fixed position. The latching element transitions from a flexible state during insertion to a rigid locked state, providing secure axial positioning without permanent fixation methods. This dynamic behavior allows simple assembly while maintaining reliable positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient latching element performs multiple functions automatically: it guides the system tube during insertion, absorbs positioning tolerances through elastic deformation, and locks the axial position without requiring additional fastening operations. The element serves itself by using its own elasticity to both facilitate assembly and ensure secure positioning.
2Ease of repair
If a conical spring-elastic sleeve with dismantling tube is used, then the lens mount can be released, but space for the image transmitter is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates the fixation function from the image transmitter housing by using a dedicated resilient latching element that operates independently. The latching element is positioned in the annular space between the system tube and outer tube, utilizing otherwise wasted space. This segmentation allows the image transmitter to occupy the central lumen fully while the latching mechanism operates in the peripheral annular region.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using axial space that would reduce image transmitter volume, the patent utilizes the radial annular space between the system tube and outer tube. The resilient latching element operates in this radial dimension, engaging with features on the system tube while occupying minimal axial space, thereby preserving the axial length available for the image transmitter.
3Reliability
If grub screws or welding are used to fix the system tube, then the fixation is secure, but the assembly time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical fastening systems (grub screws requiring threading and tightening, or welding requiring heat and cooling cycles) with an elastic deformation-based locking mechanism. The resilient latching element uses simple elastic deformation to engage and lock, eliminating the need for complex mechanical assemblies or thermal processes, thereby dramatically reducing assembly time while maintaining secure fixation.
4Manufacturing precision
If the system tube is fixed with multiple work steps, then the positioning is precise, but the assembly process is complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient latching element is pre-configured with specific elastic properties and geometric features that automatically guide the system tube to the correct axial position during a single insertion motion. The element's deformation characteristics are designed to engage at the precise target position, eliminating the need for multiple adjustment steps or complex positioning procedures while maintaining manufacturing precision.
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 simplifies the assembly process, allows for a play-free fixation of the image transmitter, and facilitates easy removal for maintenance or replacement, while maintaining the structural integrity and imaging quality of the endoscope.
Implementation Method 1
The resilient latching element forms an abutment for a spring element that loads the system pipe against a stop in a distal, axial direction
Implementation Method 2
The resilient latching element can have one or more spring-elastic latching sections or itself can be designed to be spring-elastic overall
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 4~5
AI summary
In an endoscope (1, 1') according to the invention, which has an elongated shaft (2) and a system tube (11) extending within the shaft (2) in which an image transmitter is arranged, the system tube (11) is held in an axial direction of the shaft (2) by means of at least one spring-loaded locking element. The invention also relates to a method for manufacturing such an endoscope and to a locking element for such an endoscope.