Modular Endoscope Imaging Unit with Transverse Connector
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current endoscopes, such as colonoscopes, have limited fields of view and restricted access for surgical tools, hindering efficient medical procedures and the packing of necessary elements within the tip section while maintaining functionality.
Innovation Solution
A modular camera unit system with multiple optical elements and fluid channels integrated into the endoscope tip, featuring a manifold for fluid distribution and a printed circuit board assembly for data processing, allowing for broader views and enhanced tool access, along with a heat sink for illuminators to manage heat generation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single front camera is used in the endoscope tip, then the structure is simple, but the field of view is limited and detection rate of pathological objects is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging unit is divided into multiple independent camera modules (front camera and side cameras) that can be separately positioned and oriented. Each camera has its own optical axis pointing in different directions, allowing simultaneous capture of multiple fields of view without requiring a complex single-camera system
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-axis (front-only) viewing system to a multi-axis three-dimensional viewing system by adding side cameras positioned at angles to the front camera. This dimensional expansion allows visualization of anatomical structures in multiple spatial directions simultaneously
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple imaging components and surgical tools are packed in the tip section, then functionality is extended, but access for surgical tools is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is designed with nested sections where the first section couples to the sensor and the second section extends transverse to the first section, allowing cables and components to be arranged in a compact nested configuration that maintains access pathways
Solution Approach 2:
The connector utilizes three-dimensional spatial arrangement with transverse sections to route cables and position components in multiple dimensions, creating pathways that allow surgical tools to access the working channel while maintaining compact packaging of imaging components
3Manufacturing precision
If a rigid connector structure is used, then manufacturing precision is maintained, but flexibility and adaptability in the confined tip space is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is segmented into multiple planar sections (first section coupled to sensor, second section extending transverse to first section) that can be precisely manufactured individually and then assembled, allowing each segment to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall precision
Solution Approach 2:
The connector transitions from a single-planar rigid structure to a multi-planar three-dimensional structure with L-shaped configuration. The first section and second section are arranged in different planes, enabling the connector to navigate the complex spatial constraints of the endoscope tip while maintaining precise geometric relationships between components
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C~1F
AI summary
An imaging unit for use in an endoscope, the imaging unit comprising an optical element comprising one or more lenses, a sensor configured to receive light from the optical element, a connector coupled to the sensor, wherein the connector comprises a first section coupled to the sensor, and a second section extending from the first section, wherein the second section is transverse to the first section; and a circuit board coupled to the second section, wherein the sensor communicates electronically with the circuit board through the connector, wherein the circuit board is transverse to the second section and the first section.