Foldable Circuit Board for Laparoscope Camera Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current laparoscope and endoscope designs face challenges in providing a wider field of view while efficiently packing necessary components within a narrow elongated tubular member, complicating the assembly of circuitry and optical gear, and requiring complex mechanisms to maintain functionality and prevent damage.
Innovation Solution
A medical imaging device with a distal tip featuring a foldable circuit board and supporting cage, allowing for the integration of multiple cameras and illumination modules, which can be configured to fit within a narrow distal tip and securely hold internal components, enabling efficient packing and easy maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multiple cameras and optical components are condensed into one elongated and narrow tubular member, then the field of view is improved, but the assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The circuit board is divided into multiple foldable arms that can be independently positioned and assembled. Each arm can carry specific cameras or components, allowing for modular assembly within the constrained tubular space while maintaining multiple viewing angles
Solution Approach 2:
The circuit board transitions from a rigid structure to a foldable/dynamic structure that can change its configuration. The foldable arms can be positioned at different angles and folded into compact arrangements for insertion, then deployed to provide wide field of view during operation
2Ease of operation
If the tubular member is made narrow to enable easy maneuvering through small incisions, then the ease of operation is improved, but the space for components is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The foldable circuit board arms are designed to nest within each other when folded, allowing the entire camera assembly to be compactly stored within the narrow tubular member during insertion, then deployed to provide sufficient component space for multiple cameras and optical elements during operation
3Stability of the object's composition
If the circuit board is made rigid to maintain structural stability, then the stability is improved, but the ability to fit into narrow distal tip is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The circuit board is designed with foldable arms that can dynamically change their configuration - folded into a compact form for insertion into the narrow distal tip, then deployed to a stable extended configuration during operation to maintain structural stability for camera mounting and optical alignment
Data Source
AI summary
The subject matter discloses a medical imaging device, comprising a rigid elongated member, a rigid distal member connected to the rigid elongated member, wherein said distal member comprises a front camera and a first side camera and a foldable circuit board located within the distal member, said front camera and said first side camera are connected to foldable arms of the foldable circuit board, wherein said foldable circuit board is designed to be put in a foldable position and inserted into said distal member.