Endoscope Communication Speed Control for Setup Time Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current endoscope apparatuses have fixed communication speeds between the electronic endoscope and signal processing units, which can limit data transfer efficiency and require longer setup times for white balance settings and other configurations.
Innovation Solution
The endoscope apparatus includes a communication speed setting unit that dynamically adjusts the communication speed based on the capabilities of the endoscope's CPU, allowing for higher speeds if supported, and a switching unit to change the speed accordingly, using a single communication line for data transmission and reception.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a fixed communication speed is used between the endoscope and signal processing unit, then system stability is maintained, but communication time and setup time are increased
Solution Approach 1:
The communication speed is changed from a fixed value to a dynamically adjustable parameter. The system now includes a communication speed setting unit that can set the speed to different values based on the endoscope's CPU capabilities, and a switching unit that actually switches the speed. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to optimize communication time while maintaining stability through controlled transitions.
Solution Approach 2:
The communication speed parameter is made variable rather than fixed. By introducing a setting unit that can configure the speed parameter according to the endoscope's capabilities and a switching unit that implements the change, the system transforms the static parameter into a configurable one, enabling optimization of communication time without compromising system stability.
2Device complexity
If a fixed communication speed is used, then system complexity is reduced, but productivity and operational efficiency are decreased
Solution Approach 1:
The communication speed is transformed from a static fixed value to a dynamic adjustable parameter. The system incorporates a communication speed setting unit capable of configuring different speed values based on endoscope CPU capabilities, and a switching unit that implements the speed changes. This dynamic approach optimizes operational efficiency while maintaining manageable system complexity through structured control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The communication system is designed to support multiple communication speeds within a single framework. Rather than requiring separate hardware for different speeds, the system uses a universal communication interface that can operate at various speeds, selected and switched by the control units. This multi-functionality improves productivity without proportionally increasing device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
An endoscope apparatus includes an endoscope, a signal processing unit, and a communication unit. The endoscope includes an information storage section including an endoscope information memory and a first controller controlling readout of the information in the endoscope information memory. The endoscope is detachably connected to the signal processing unit, which includes a second controller issuing at least an instruction for a readout operation of the information to the information storage section. Data is transmitted and received between the first controller and the second controller through the communication unit. The endoscope apparatus includes a communication speed setting unit setting the communication speed of the communication unit to a higher communication speed allowable in the first controller and a switching unit switching the communication speed.