Endoscopic Probe Arms with Gearbox for Dynamic Convergence
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current endoscopic systems lack the capability for 3-dimensional human vision simulated imaging with real dynamic convergence, limiting their effectiveness in therapeutic and diagnostic applications, especially in confined spaces and non-medical uses like search/rescue and scientific research.
Innovation Solution
An endoscopic system with a main tubular shaft and movable probe arms, utilizing a gearbox and cylindrical sheath to adjust the convergence of diagnostic/sensor probes, allowing for semi-automated or fully automated control of probe convergence through a computer and size-adjustable gear, enabling real dynamic convergence and depth perception equivalent to human vision.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple optic systems are used for 3-dimensional imaging, then depth perception is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple optic systems (first and second cameras) with multiple diagnostic/therapeutic probes into a single integrated endoscopic device. The cameras are mounted on separate probe arms that can be independently positioned, allowing 3-dimensional imaging while maintaining a unified device structure that reduces overall complexity compared to separate systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The endoscopic device is designed with multi-functionality by incorporating both diagnostic imaging capabilities (cameras) and therapeutic capabilities (probes) within the same device. The probe arms can hold various diagnostic or therapeutic probes, making the device universal and adaptable to different medical procedures while achieving 3-dimensional imaging.
2Manufacturing precision
If probe convergence is adjusted dynamically, then imaging precision is improved, but mechanical complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic convergence adjustment by making the probe arms movable relative to each other. The probe arms can be independently positioned and converged toward a common focal point through mechanical actuation. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the system to adapt to different imaging scenarios and maintain high imaging precision while using straightforward mechanical mechanisms.
3Ease of operation
If automated convergence control is implemented, then operation ease is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where sensors detect the positions of the probe arms and cameras, and this information is fed to a control system. The control system automatically adjusts the convergence of the probe arms based on the detected positions, enabling automated operation. This feedback loop simplifies operation while the control system manages the complexity of coordinating multiple moving parts.
Data Source
AI summary
An endoscopic system and method that is adaptable for therapeutic applications as well as sensor operation and is capable of producing 3-dimensional human vision simulated imaging with real dynamic convergence, not virtual convergence. Applications may include use in any space, including but not limited to, intra-abdominal cavities, intra-thoracic cavities, and intra-cranial cavities. Further, two or more diagnostic/sensor probes may be used, with at least two being the same kind to create the 3-dimensional effect, such as but not limited to, camera, ultrasound, and magnetic-resonance imaging. Diagnostic/sensor probes are each mounted to the end of a different arm, with the other ends of the two arms both being attached to the same hinge that allows them to turn freely on the same axis from side-to-side within a 180 degree angle range of movement on the distal end of a main tubular shaft system. Medical, as well as other applications, are contemplated.