Light Source System With Detachable Modules For Endoscope Illumination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing light source systems for endoscopes often require multiple dedicated systems for different light sources, which increases complexity and cost, and struggle to efficiently combine different light sources with varying optical characteristics for versatile applications.
Innovation Solution
A light source system with multiple light source modules and a shared irradiation module, featuring distinct light guide members and conversion units that adjust optical characteristics, allowing for the combination of blue laser, Xe lamp, and LED light sources to produce versatile illumination suitable for various purposes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple dedicated light source systems are used for different light sources, then each light source can be optimized for its specific function, but the system complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The irradiation module is designed to accommodate multiple types of light sources (laser, LED, Xe lamp) through a universal structure with detachable light source modules. The light guide member is configured to receive different light source types, allowing a single irradiation module to perform multiple functions that previously required separate dedicated systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple light source modules into a single irradiation module structure. The light guide member integrates multiple light guiding functions for different light sources, and the irradiation module unifies the control and delivery mechanisms for various light types, reducing the number of separate systems needed.
2Reliability
If multiple dedicated light source systems are used for different light sources, then each system can be specialized, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By designing a universal irradiation module that can accommodate multiple light source types, the patent reduces manufacturing costs through economies of scale. Components such as the light guide member, irradiation module housing, and control mechanisms can be mass-produced once and reused across different light source configurations, eliminating the need to manufacture multiple dedicated systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The light source system is segmented into detachable modules (light source modules and irradiation module) that can be independently manufactured and then assembled. This modular approach allows for standardized production of common components while maintaining the ability to specialize in specific light source types through module combinations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If light guide members with different optical characteristics are used for different light sources, then each light source can be optimized, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The light guide member is designed with different sections or regions that have optimized optical characteristics for different light sources. Each section can have tailored properties (such as numerical aperture, core diameter, or cladding structure) matched to the specific light source it serves, while the overall structure remains integrated and manageable.
4Ease of manufacture
If a shared irradiation module is used for multiple light sources, then cost performance improves, but the challenge arises in efficiently combining different light sources with varying optical characteristics
Solution Approach 1:
The irradiation module incorporates dynamic or adjustable elements that can adapt to different light source configurations. This may include adjustable light guide positioning, variable optical coupling mechanisms, or reconfigurable light delivery paths that can be optimized for each light source type through simple adjustments rather than complex fixed structures.
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
Enables cost-effective, versatile illumination by sharing a single irradiation module across different light sources, improving cost performance and reducing the need for multiple dedicated systems while maintaining consistent and efficient light delivery.
Implementation Method 1
a first light guide member (73) configured to guide a light source light
Implementation Method 2
a first light conversion unit (103) configured to convert the optical characteristic of the blue laser beam guided by the first light guide member and to emit this blue laser beam as first converted light
Data Source
AI summary
The light source system includes a plurality of light source modules configured to respectively emit light source lights having optical characteristics different from each other, and an irradiation module to which the light source modules are mechanically and detachably attached. The irradiation module includes a first light guide member, a second light guide member, and a first light conversion unit. The first light guide member has a central axis set in parallel with a central axis of the second light guide member. The first light conversion unit is optically connected to the first light guide member and is optically separated from the second light guide member.