Imaging Unit Signal Branching for Endoscope Reliability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current endoscope systems face challenges in transmitting high-definition image signals efficiently, particularly due to the limitations of optical fiber cables which are prone to disconnection from bending and twisting, and require separate signal processing for control and inspection units.
Innovation Solution
The imaging unit incorporates a branching unit to split image signals into optical and electric signals, with converters and output units that adapt the signal output mode based on the connected unit, allowing for reliable transmission and easy identification of signal abnormalities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If optical fiber cables are used to transmit high-definition image signals, then image quality is improved, but connection reliability deteriorates due to bending and twisting
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging unit is divided into functionally independent modules: a first converter for optical signal conversion, a second converter for electric signal conversion, and a branching unit that splits signals to either converter. This segmentation allows independent optimization of signal transmission paths and enables selective output based on connection status, resolving the contradiction between maintaining high image quality through optical transmission and ensuring reliable connections through electric signal pathways.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between optical and electric signal output modes based on real-time detection of connected units. The controller adjusts the output mode of the first and second converters according to whether the control unit or inspection unit is connected, enabling adaptive response to varying connection conditions and maintaining both image quality and connection reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate signal processing is implemented for control and inspection units, then system functionality is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging unit is designed with multi-functional capability to serve both control units and inspection units through a unified architecture. The branching unit and dual converters work together to provide universal signal processing that can accommodate different connected units, eliminating the need for completely separate processing systems while maintaining full functionality for both control and inspection operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The detector provides real-time feedback about the connected unit to the controller, which then adjusts the output mode of the converters accordingly. This feedback mechanism enables the system to automatically adapt to different connected units without requiring manual configuration or complex separate processing systems, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining versatility.
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
This solution enables efficient transmission of high-definition image signals and reduces power consumption by dynamically adjusting output routes and modes, facilitating the detection of abnormalities within the imaging unit and improving system reliability.
Implementation Method 1
an imager that has an imaging element configured to receive and photoelectrically convert light from the target to be captured
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging unit includes: an imager that receives and photoelectrically converts light from a target to be captured; a branching unit that branches a signal from the imager into two signals; a first converter into which one of the two signals is input to convert the input signal into an optical signal; a second converter into which the other of the two signals is input to convert the input signal into an electric signal; a first output unit that outputs the optical signal; a second output unit that outputs the electric signal; a detector that detects a unit connected to the imaging unit; and a controller that causes the first output unit to output the optical signal if the unit detected by the detector is the control unit, and causes the second output unit to output the electric signal if the unit detected by the detector is the inspection unit.