Modular Illuminator Circuit Board Assembly for Endoscope Tip
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current endoscope systems face challenges in efficiently replacing failed illuminators, as the process is cumbersome and time-consuming, requiring opening and re-sealing of the distal tip, which complicates access and replacement.
Innovation Solution
A modular circuit board assembly and tip cover design for endoscopes, featuring separate illuminator boards connected via leaf or spring connectors to a common power source, allowing easy access and replacement of illuminators without the need for wires, and a removable window component for optical lens and illuminator access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the distal tip is opened to replace failed illuminators, then access to illuminators is achieved, but the replacement process becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The circuit board is segmented into modular components, with each illuminator having its own dedicated circuit board section. This allows individual illuminators to be accessed and replaced independently without disturbing other components, enabling quick replacement by simply detaching the specific illuminator module from the circuit board assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The illuminators are extracted from the sealed distal tip environment and mounted on accessible circuit boards. The circuit board design allows illuminators to be taken out and replaced without opening the distal tip, as the circuit board itself provides access pathways for tool insertion and component manipulation
2Ease of repair
If the distal tip is opened to replace illuminators, then illuminator replacement is enabled, but sealing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The circuit board is divided into modular sections, each handling specific illuminators. This segmentation allows repairs to be localized to specific board sections without requiring complete disassembly or re-sealing of the entire distal tip, reducing sealing complexity while maintaining ease of repair
Solution Approach 2:
Illuminators are extracted to accessible positions on the circuit board where they can be replaced without opening the distal tip. The circuit board design incorporates access channels that allow replacement tools to reach the illuminators through existing openings, eliminating the need for additional sealing operations
3Ease of operation
If a modular circuit board design is used, then ease of illuminator replacement is improved, but assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The circuit board is segmented into standardized modular sections with consistent connection interfaces. This segmentation, while creating multiple components, uses uniform design patterns that simplify manufacturing through repetition and reduce assembly complexity through standardized procedures for attaching each modular section
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple circuit board functions are merged into integrated modular sections that combine illuminator mounting, electrical connections, and structural support in single units. This merging reduces the total number of separate components that need to be assembled, offsetting the complexity benefits of modularization while maintaining ease of replacement
Data Source
AI summary
The present specification describes a circuit board design that uses circuit boards for illuminator sets associated with the various optical assemblies. In one configuration, front and side illuminators are assembled on front and side illuminator circuit boards. Leaf connectors associated with each illuminator are provided to interface with a common base board.