Integrally Connected Endoscope Shaft Segment Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscopic devices with deflectable shaft segments require complex and time-consuming assembly processes due to the need for individual connection of elements, which can be inefficient and prone to errors.
Innovation Solution
Designing the first and second intermediate elements to be integrally connected and different from each other, allowing for the production of a single-piece deflectable shaft segment through methods like injection molding or 3D printing, which simplifies assembly by eliminating the need for form-fitting and force-fitting connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If individual elements are connected form-fitting and/or force-fitting, then assembly can be performed step-by-step, but assembly becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate intermediate elements into a single integrally formed element that includes all necessary connection features. This merging eliminates the need for step-by-step assembly of multiple components, directly resolving the contradiction by transforming a complex multi-step assembly process into a single manufacturing operation, thereby improving productivity while maintaining ease of manufacture through integrated design
2Ease of operation
If multiple separate elements are used in the shaft segment, then deflectability can be achieved, but assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a single integrated element that incorporates multiple functional segments (first intermediate element, second intermediate element, connection elements) within one continuous structure. This segmentation approach maintains the deflectability needed for endoscopic operation while eliminating assembly complexity by removing the need to connect separate elements, as all segments are pre-assembled into one piece during manufacturing
3Reliability
If elements are connected individually, then connection stability can be ensured, but assembly time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs the connection action during the manufacturing process itself, creating pre-assembled integrated elements that include all connection features already formed. This preliminary action eliminates the need for post-manufacturing assembly operations, ensuring connection stability through integrated design while reducing assembly time to essentially zero, as the element is ready for installation in its complete, pre-connected state
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to an endoscopic device for a particularly flexible endoscope and/or an endoscopic instrument having at least one deflectable shaft segment that has a least one distal end element and at least one proximal end element, and between the two at least one first intermediate element and at least one second intermediate element that are directly adjacent and can be deflected with respect to each other. Accordingly to the disclosure, the first intermediate element and the second intermediate element are different from each other and are integrally interconnected.