Inflatable Tracked Capsule Endoscopy for GI Tract Navigation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscopic apparatuses face challenges in navigating the varying morphology of the gastrointestinal tract, including potential obstruction or damage due to size mismatch, difficulty in controlling movement, and inability to effectively image hidden polyps.
Innovation Solution
A capsule endoscopy apparatus with inflatable bladders forming a toroidal shape, equipped with continuous tracks that maintain contact with the tract's internal wall, allowing controlled movement and expansion to adapt to changing tract conditions, and featuring a propulsion system to navigate and image the tract efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the endoscopic apparatus is made larger to improve control and imaging capability, then control and imaging quality improve, but the risk of getting stuck or causing damage to the tract increases
Solution Approach 1:
The endoscopic apparatus employs an expandable structure that can dynamically change its size. The apparatus is introduced in a collapsed state to navigate through the GI tract, then expanded at the target site to provide stable support for high-quality imaging and control operations without the risks associated with a permanently large structure
Solution Approach 2:
The endoscopic apparatus uses a nested configuration where imaging components, control mechanisms, and other functional elements are housed within a collapsible framework. This allows the apparatus to be compact during transit and expand to full functionality at the destination
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the endoscopic apparatus is made smaller to reduce risk and improve passage through the tract, then safety and maneuverability improve, but control and imaging capability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus transitions from a small, flexible state during insertion to a larger, more rigid state during operation. This dynamic size change allows it to pass through narrow passages safely while providing sufficient structural support for control and imaging functions at the target site
3Ease of manufacture
If the endoscopic apparatus uses a fixed size structure, then manufacturing and design are simplified, but adaptability to varying tract morphology is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The endoscopic apparatus uses a dynamically adjustable structure that can expand and contract to adapt to different diameters and morphologies of the GI tract. This eliminates the need for multiple fixed-size devices while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through standardized expandable components
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus changes its physical parameters (size, shape, stiffness) in response to the tract environment. The expandable structure allows continuous adjustment of diameter and configuration to match varying tract conditions without requiring complex custom manufacturing
4Device complexity
If the endoscopic apparatus is passive and relies on peristaltic movements, then the structure is simpler, but control on data collection is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The endoscopic apparatus uses the body's natural peristaltic movements to propel itself through the GI tract, eliminating the need for complex external propulsion systems. Meanwhile, integrated sensors and controllers enable the apparatus to autonomously control data collection timing and parameters based on its movement and environmental conditions
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
The apparatus effectively navigates the GI tract's varying morphology, enhances polyp detection by opening folds, and provides controlled imaging and drug delivery, while being adaptable and maneuverable without complex manufacturing processes.
Implementation Method 1
at least one inflatable bladder (11) configured to form a toroid when inflated
Implementation Method 2
The continuous tracks 14 have a frictional engagement with the internal wall 3
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
An apparatus for capsule endoscopy, the apparatus comprising a capsule that comprises: at least one inflatable bladder configured to form a toroid having a hole and an outer periphery when inflated; a plurality of continuous tracks, each extending through the hole and around the outer periphery of the at least one inflatable bladder; and a propulsion system configured to drive the continuous tracks; wherein the capsule is configured such that the continuous tracks slip over the at least one inflatable bladder when driven by the propulsion system.