Endoscope Rotation and Sharpness Sensing for Training Simulators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laparoscopy training simulators lack sensors to measure endoscope camera rotation angle and sharpness parameters, which are critical for proper endoscopy surgery training.
Innovation Solution
An endoscope assembly with a rotation measurement system, including a toothed wheel and encoder, and an endoscopic camera assembly with a sharpness adjustment knob measurement mechanism, utilizing sensors and interfaces to track and prevent unwanted rotations and adjust image sharpness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If sensors are added to measure endoscope rotation and sharpness parameters, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The encoder is nested within the endoscope housing, with the toothed wheel mounted on the endoscope that engages with the movable toothed wheel. The rotation sensor (encoder) measures shaft rotation internally, and data is transferred through the endoscope connector. This nested arrangement enables measurement functionality while integrating components within the existing endoscope structure.
2Measurement precision
If a toothed wheel mechanism is implemented for rotation measurement, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The toothed wheel acts as an intermediary mechanical element that converts endoscope rotation into measurable shaft rotation. The movable toothed wheel on the shaft engages with the fixed toothed wheel on the endoscope, providing a mechanical linkage that enables precise rotation measurement through the encoder while maintaining a relatively simple mechanical structure.
3Measurement precision
If an encoder and rotation sensor are integrated into the endoscope housing, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of manufacture decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement system is segmented into distinct functional components: the toothed wheel mounted on the endoscope, the movable toothed wheel on the shaft, the encoder, and the rotation sensor. This segmentation allows for modular manufacturing and assembly, where each component can be produced separately and then integrated into the endoscope housing with the endoscope connector for data transfer.
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
Enables precise measurement and control of endoscope rotation and image sharpness, enhancing the training effectiveness in virtual and augmented reality environments.
Implementation Method 1
The rotation sensor comprises an encoder and a magnet arranged on the other end of the shaft
Implementation Method 2
The play elimination mechanism comprises a spring, more preferably a spiral spring capable to apply torque to the shaft and the housing
Data Source
AI summary
The aspects of the disclosed embodiments provide training simulators intended for training endoscope operation skills. Training may be carried out with the use of training inserts or using virtual reality technology. An endoscopy device comprises an endoscope assembly and an endoscopic camera assembly. The endoscope of the endoscope assembly is configured to be connected to an optical adapter of the endoscopic camera assembly via an eyepiece protection window so that the endoscope may rotate freely about its own axis. The training simulator may measure parameters of the camera sharpness and parameters of the endoscope rotation relative to the camera.