Endoscope Wire Insulation and One-Touch Attachment Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscopes face difficulties in easily attaching and detaching the proximal end of the wire to the erecting operation mechanism and suffer from current leakage when using high-frequency treatment tools due to the complex configuration of the connecting tool and cable cord, which increases the size of the operation section and complicates the attachment/detachment process.
Innovation Solution
An endoscope design featuring an operation section with an operating member, a movable member, an erecting operation wire channel, and an attachment member that allows for easy attachment and detachment of the wire to the treatment tool erecting base, with the wire exposure region coated with an insulating material to prevent current leakage, and a mechanism that converts rotational motion into linear motion to control the erecting base's posture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the connecting tool and cable cord are used to attach the wire to the erecting operation mechanism, then the wire can be coupled to the movable member, but the attachment and detachment process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the wire into distinct functional segments: a proximal end portion with an attachment member for easy coupling to the movable member, a distal end portion coupled to the erecting base, and an intermediate portion extending through the insertion section. This segmentation allows the proximal end to be independently attached/detached without affecting other components, simplifying the operation while maintaining functional integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the attachment member from the complex connecting tool assembly and integrates it directly onto the proximal end of the wire. This extraction eliminates the need for separate connecting tools and cable cords, allowing direct attachment to the movable member and significantly simplifying the attachment/detachment process.
2Reliability
If the connecting tool is housed in the operation section, then the erecting operation mechanism is complete, but the operation section increases in size
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the attachment member from the internal connecting tool assembly and positions it on the proximal end of the wire that extends outside the operation section. This extraction removes the need for housing the connecting tool within the operation section, maintaining the erecting operation mechanism's functionality while reducing the operation section's size.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent moves the attachment operation from the internal three-dimensional space of the operation section to the external linear space where the wire extends outward. This dimensional transition allows attachment/detachment to occur in a more accessible area without increasing the operation section's volume.
3Use of energy by moving object
If the wire is made conductive for high-frequency treatment, then it can transmit electrical energy, but current leakage occurs to the outside
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different electrical properties to different portions of the wire: the distal end portion and intermediate portion maintain conductivity for high-frequency treatment transmission, while the proximal end portion is configured with insulating properties to prevent current leakage to the movable member and operation section. This local differentiation of electrical quality allows both functions to coexist.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the wire's electrical characteristics by creating distinct conductive and insulating regions. The proximal end portion is separated as an insulating zone, while the distal and intermediate portions remain conductive, allowing high-frequency energy transmission while preventing harmful current leakage to external components.
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
The design simplifies the attachment and detachment of the wire to the erecting operation mechanism, reduces the risk of current leakage, and minimizes the size of the operation section, enhancing usability and safety during medical procedures.
Implementation Method 1
At least a surface of the wire exposure region is configured of a first insulator
Implementation Method 2
a movable member arranged to be exposed to outside of the operation section and that moves in association with an operation of the operating member
Data Source
AI summary
An endoscope is provided in which an attachment/detachment operation of the proximal end of a wire is easily performed to/from an erecting operation mechanism and leakage of current to the outside can be prevented. An endoscope has an operation section 22 provided with an erecting lever, and a movable member 96 that moves in association with an operation of the erecting lever. The movable member 96 is arranged to be exposed to the outside of the operation section 22. A wire 60 is, at a distal end side thereof, coupled to an erecting base, and, at a proximal end side thereof, coupled to an attachment member 98 that is attachable to or detachable from the movable member 96 by a one-touch operation. The wire 60 includes a wire body 60A, and an insulating coat 60B coating a wire exposure region L.