Full-flex PCB for In-Vivo Capsule Endoscope Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
The assembly of in-vivo imaging devices with multiple printed circuit boards connected by wires is complex and hinders large-scale production, especially when multiple imaging assemblies are required to capture images from various directions, leading to increased electronic components and spatial challenges within the limited capsule space.
Innovation Solution
The use of a full-flex printed circuit board (PCB) with flexible installation units connected through flexible units, allowing for a one-side assembly configuration, reduced bending radius limitations, and tight tolerances, facilitating easier assembly, alignment, and integration of optical components, enabling the creation of dual imaging assemblies with improved optical and electrical connectivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple printed circuit boards are used to accommodate different electronic components, then the functional requirements of the in-vivo sensing device are met, but the assembly complexity increases and large-scale production is hindered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate printed circuit boards into a single integrated PCB structure. The image sensor, transmitter, and other electronic components are all mounted on one board rather than being distributed across multiple boards connected by wires. This merging eliminates the complexity of inter-board connections while maintaining all required functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The single printed circuit board serves multiple functions simultaneously - it supports the image sensor, houses the transmitter, provides electrical connections, and enables mechanical mounting. This multi-functional design replaces the need for separate specialized boards for each function.
2Loss of information
If multiple imaging assemblies are included to capture images from various directions, then more information on GI tract condition is obtained, but the number of electronic components increases and spatial arrangement becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions multiple imaging assemblies at different angular orientations around the capsule body, utilizing the three-dimensional space available. Rather than stacking components linearly, the imaging assemblies are arranged radially to capture images from multiple directions simultaneously, optimizing the use of available spatial dimensions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If rigid-flex PCB with two-sided assembly is used, then component mounting flexibility is improved, but handling difficulty increases and assembly becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the PCB into distinct functional zones or sections, each dedicated to specific components or functions. This segmentation allows for organized layout and simplified assembly procedures, as each zone can be prepared and tested independently before final integration.
Data Source
AI summary
A flexible circuit board for being inserted into an in-vivo imaging device is provided. The flexible circuit board may include a plurality of flexible installation units connected to one another through flexible connection units. The flexible installation units may be capable of having electrical components disposed thereon at a size suitable for being included in an in-vivo imaging device which may be inserted into a body lumen, e.g., a capsule endoscope. An in-vivo imaging device which may enclose such a full-flexible circuit board is also provided.