Modular Endoscope Coupling for Smaller Shafts and Shared Power
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current surgical endoscopes face challenges in miniaturization without compromising image resolution, are costly, and require multiple device consoles that increase operational complexity and cost, especially in resource-limited settings, limiting their use in in-office procedures.
Innovation Solution
A modular, detachable endoscope system with interchangeable components and a centralized control box that enables power and data transmission across various instruments, reducing the need for multiple device consoles and allowing for a streamlined surgical setup.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If the endoscope shaft diameter is decreased to achieve miniaturization, then the endoscope can access smaller anatomical spaces, but image resolution deteriorates due to fewer optical fibers or smaller CMOS sensor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (illumination, imaging, articulation control) into a single integrated endoscope shaft. By merging the LED light source with the CMOS sensor in a compact distal assembly, and integrating articulation wires within the same shaft structure, the design achieves miniaturization without sacrificing resolution. This consolidation allows adequate light delivery to the smaller sensor while maintaining image quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a dynamically articulating distal endoscope shaft that can bend and articulate manually. This dynamic capability allows the shaft to navigate complex anatomical pathways while maintaining a small overall diameter. The articulation wires enable the distal portion to be positioned precisely without requiring a larger rigid shaft, thus preserving both access capability and image resolution.
2Illumination intensity
If an LED is placed adjacent to a CMOS sensor at the tip of the endoscope to improve light output, then image quality improves, but the shaft/tip diameter increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent nests the LED light source within or adjacent to the CMOS sensor assembly in a compact distal configuration. The illumination optics are integrated into the same housing structure as the sensor, with light delivered through small-diameter optical pathways. This nested arrangement provides adequate illumination for the CMOS sensor while maintaining a small overall tip diameter that fits within standard endoscope shaft constraints.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple device consoles are used to operate different surgical instruments, then each instrument can be controlled independently, but operational complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the endoscope with universal connectivity features including standardized attachment mechanisms for various surgical instruments (graspers, scissors, energy devices). The endoscope housing includes multiple attachment sites and compatible coupling mechanisms that allow a single endoscope system to support multiple different instrument types. This multi-functional capability eliminates the need for separate dedicated consoles for each instrument, reducing overall system 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
The system allows for smaller endoscope shafts with improved light output, reduces equipment costs and clutter, and simplifies setup by enabling universal connectivity and power sharing among multiple devices, enhancing usability in resource-constrained environments.
Implementation Method 1
an internal LED that transmits light through optical light fibers to the endoscope tip
Implementation Method 2
circuitry that receives image data from a distal CMOS chip
Data Source
AI summary
The technology described herein is directed toward a detachable, powered, modular endoscope system with interconnected components and coupling mechanisms that enable power or data signal connectivity between many different detachable instruments, devices, and endoscope shaft variations. In some implementations, an endoscope assembly includes: an endoscope housing comprising first circuitry configured to receive one or more data signals, and second circuitry configured to supply power; and a rigid attachment segment distally extending from the endoscope housing, the rigid attachment segment including: third circuitry configured to electrically couple the rigid attachment segment to the first and second circuitry of the endoscope housing, and one or more surfaces configured to be removably, mechanically, and electrically coupled to an instrument, adapter, or cable, the instrument, adapter, or cable configured to receive power from the endoscope housing or transmit data signals to the endoscope housing when electrically coupled to the one or more surfaces.