Endoscope Visualization Module Shadow Illumination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing visualization modules for endoscopes require complex assembly steps and high production costs, with a need for reduced manufacturing outlay and minimized external dimensions perpendicular to the recording direction.
Innovation Solution
A visualization module with the illumination unit arranged in the shadow of the image sensor, both components encapsulated in transparent material, and a compact design where the image sensor defines the maximum external dimension, allowing for direct assembly and reduced size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the illumination unit is arranged separately from the image sensor with adequate spacing, then the illumination unit can function properly without being affected by incident light, but the external dimensions of the visualization module increase
Solution Approach 1:
The illumination unit is nested within the shadow region of the image sensor, placing one component inside the spatial envelope defined by another component. This allows the illumination unit to be positioned behind the image sensor in the longitudinal direction while remaining within the same transverse cross-section, thereby minimizing external dimensions without compromising illumination function
Solution Approach 2:
The solution transitions from arranging components side-by-side in the transverse direction to stacking them in the longitudinal direction, utilizing the shadow region created by the image sensor's position. This dimensional reorganization allows compact packaging while maintaining functional separation between the illumination unit and image sensor
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple assembly steps are used to produce the visualization module, then component positioning precision can be improved, but production costs and manufacturing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The illumination unit and image sensor are combined into a single integrated assembly where the illumination unit is positioned within the shadow region of the image sensor. This merged design allows both components to be mounted together in one assembly operation, eliminating the need for separate positioning steps and reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining precise relative positioning
Solution Approach 2:
The shadow region of the image sensor serves multiple functions: it provides structural mounting support for the illumination unit, defines the precise positioning of the illumination unit relative to the image sensor, and prevents incident light from reaching the illumination unit. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components and assembly steps required
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 approach reduces production costs and external dimensions, enabling cost-effective production of endoscopes with improved recording quality by encapsulating the image sensor and illumination unit in transparent material, ensuring efficient light guidance and minimizing stray light interference.
Implementation Method 1
both components encapsulated in transparent material, ensuring efficient light guidance
Implementation Method 2
the illumination unit is arranged in the shadow of the image sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A visualization module (1, 50, 100, 200), in particular for an endoscope (2), having an image sensor (3) and an illumination unit (4) for lighting a field of view of the image sensor (3), wherein the illumination unit (4) is arranged in the shadow of the image sensor (3) in the case of light that is incident perpendicularly on an end face (32) of the visualization module (1, 50, 100, 200), and the image sensor (3) and the illumination unit (4) are encapsulated at least partially in a transparent encapsulation material (5). A method for producing a visualization module (1, 50, 100, 200) is also provided.