Endoscopic Camera With Field-Upgradeable Data Processing Instructions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current video imaging systems require multiple cameras for different medical procedures due to fixed operating instructions, leading to high inventory and maintenance costs, and outdated software updates that necessitate cameras to be sent to the factory for updates, causing inconvenience and inefficiency.
Innovation Solution
A camera assembly with interchangeable data processing instructions stored on both the camera and control unit, allowing for easy updates and configuration changes based on the procedure, enabling a single camera to be optimized for various procedures and reducing the need for multiple cameras.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple cameras are stocked for different procedures, then the appropriate camera can be selected for each procedure, but inventory and maintenance costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The camera system is designed with interchangeable data processing instruction sets that can be loaded onto a single camera to provide different operating characteristics. This allows one camera to perform multiple functions appropriate for different medical procedures, eliminating the need to stock multiple specialized cameras while maintaining the ability to select the appropriate operating mode for each procedure
2Reliability
If cameras are sent to the factory for software updates, then outdated software is replaced, but operational efficiency decreases and multiple cameras are required
Solution Approach 1:
The camera system includes an update module that enables field-upgradeable software. The camera can be updated in the field by a user or technician without requiring factory service. The update module receives updated data processing instructions and loads them into the camera's memory, allowing the camera to service itself with software updates while remaining in operational use
3Quantity of substance
If a single camera is used for multiple procedures, then inventory costs decrease, but the camera must be adaptable to different operating characteristics
Solution Approach 1:
The camera system employs dynamically loadable data processing instruction sets that can be changed based on the procedure requirements. Instead of hardware configurations, the system uses software-based adaptability where different instruction sets are loaded into the camera's memory to change its operating characteristics. This dynamic reconfiguration allows a single camera to adapt to different procedures while maintaining cost efficiency
Data Source
AI summary
A control unit is detachably coupled to a camera and receptive of the imaging data with a plurality of data processing instructions being stored on the camera and/or the control unit such that when the camera is coupled to the control unit, the plurality of data processing instructions transfer the imaging data from the camera to the control unit. The data processing instructions being field upgradeable with a portable upgrading module which may couple directly to either the camera and/or the control unit.