Endoscope Single-Button Mode Activation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing variable direction of view endoscopes are complex, costly, and prone to user error due to multiple buttons, leading to frustration and incorrect function invocations during surgical procedures.
Innovation Solution
A single button is used to adjust the viewing angle of the endoscope, allowing sequential traversal through a range of positions with a wrap-around to the starting point, and also functions for image capture, reducing the risk of user error and simplifying the control interface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple buttons are used to control viewing angle and image capture, then functionality is comprehensive, but user error increases and ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
A single button on the endoscope handle performs multiple functions: adjusting viewing angle and capturing images. The button cycles through different functions with repeated presses, eliminating the need for separate buttons for each function and thereby reducing user error while maintaining comprehensive functionality.
2Measurement precision
If multiple buttons are used for controlling endoscope features, then control precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The single button integrates multiple control functions (viewing angle adjustment and image capture) into one component. This reduces device complexity by eliminating unnecessary buttons while maintaining control precision through a simplified, more reliable interface that reduces the likelihood of incorrect button presses.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple buttons are provided for endoscope control, then adaptability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By designing a single multi-functional button instead of multiple separate buttons, the invention reduces manufacturing cost through fewer components, simpler assembly, and reduced material usage while maintaining adaptability through the button's ability to perform multiple functions.
Data Source
AI summary
A variable direction of view endoscope system including an endoscope having an image receiver with a variable direction of view adjustable over a viewing range bound by a first limit and a second limit and a single button for adjusting the variable direction of view of the image receiver, wherein actuation of the single button advances the variable direction of view sequentially through the viewing range. When the image receiver is at the second limit of the viewing range, actuation of the single button adjusts the image receiver back to the first limit of the viewing range.