Endoscope Rigidity Control via Thermal Conduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscope systems with variable-rigidity apparatuses, such as those using shape-memory alloys (SMAs), face challenges in accurately controlling the rigidity of the endoscope insertion portion due to temperature estimation inaccuracies, leading to inefficiencies in heating and rigidity adjustments.
Innovation Solution
A rigidity control apparatus that includes a processor to calculate and estimate the temperature of a variable-rigidity member based on the heater's temperature, utilizing a thermally conductive member to enhance heat transfer and a heat conduction model for precise temperature estimation, thereby controlling the rigidity of the endoscope insertion portion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If heater coil temperature is used to estimate SMA member temperature, then rigidity control can be implemented, but temperature estimation accuracy deteriorates due to temperature differences between heater and SMA member
Solution Approach 1:
A thermally conductive member is introduced as an intermediary between the heater coil and the SMA member. This mediator efficiently transfers heat from the heater to the SMA while minimizing temperature differences, enabling accurate temperature estimation through the heater temperature sensor without requiring direct contact between the sensor and SMA member.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces direct mechanical contact temperature measurement with thermal conduction-based temperature transfer. Instead of placing a temperature sensor directly on the SMA member, the system uses the thermally conductive member to transfer thermal energy, allowing indirect but accurate temperature measurement through the heater coil's temperature sensor.
2Measurement precision
If a thermally conductive member is added to improve heat transfer, then temperature estimation accuracy improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The thermally conductive member serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a heat transfer medium between the heater and SMA member, provides structural support for the heater coil assembly, and facilitates thermal coupling while electrically isolating components. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite material construction where the thermally conductive member is integrated with the heater coil assembly and SMA member structure. This composite approach creates a unified thermal pathway while maintaining structural integrity, avoiding the need for separate complex assembly mechanisms.
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 improves the accuracy of rigidity control in endoscope systems by reducing temperature differences between the SMA member and the heater coil, allowing for more precise adjustments in flexural rigidity, enhancing the overall performance of the endoscope system.
Implementation Method 1
a system that increases rigidity by heating a shape-memory alloy (SMA) member with a heater coil
Implementation Method 2
utilizing a thermally conductive member to enhance heat transfer
Implementation Method 3
flexural rigidity of which increases when the variable-rigidity member is heated
Data Source
AI summary
A rigidity control apparatus includes a processor and controls a variable-rigidity apparatus. The variable-rigidity apparatus includes a variable-rigidity member, flexural rigidity of which increases when the variable-rigidity member is heated, and a heater configured to be able to heat the variable-rigidity member. The processor calculates information about temperature of the heater, and estimates information about temperature of the variable-rigidity member based on the information about the temperature of the heater.