Modular Inspection Device Detachable Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a lack of a simplified, inexpensive, and versatile inspection device suitable for the general public that can be used for various inspection applications, as existing borescopes and video scopes are often tailored for specific uses and are costly.
Innovation Solution
A detachable coupling system for remote inspection devices that includes ferrule components and casings to securely connect cables, providing electrical isolation and fluid sealing, along with a modular design allowing for interchangeable components such as imager and display housings, enabling flexible configuration for different tasks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If borescopes are tailored for particular applications with special features, then application-specific performance is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The inspection device is divided into separate modular components including a camera module, cable assembly, and display device that can be independently selected and combined. Each module can be optimized for specific applications while maintaining overall system simplicity through standardized connection interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal base platform with standardized connectors and interfaces that can accommodate multiple camera modules and cable assemblies. This allows a single core system to serve multiple inspection applications by simply changing the attached modules, avoiding the need for entirely different devices for each application.
2Adaptability or versatility
If borescopes are tailored for particular applications with special features, then application-specific performance is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the device into separate modules, each component can be manufactured independently using optimized processes for that specific function. This reduces tooling costs and allows for economies of scale in producing individual modules that can be sold separately or in combinations.
Solution Approach 2:
A universal connector design and standardized interface specifications enable multiple manufacturers to produce compatible modules, increasing market competition and reducing costs. The core system can be manufactured once and paired with various third-party modules, spreading development costs across a broader product line.
3Ease of manufacture
If a simplified inspection device is created for the general public, then cost and accessibility are improved, but adaptability for specialized applications may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a fixed, single-function device to a dynamic, reconfigurable platform where users can change modules based on their needs. The standardized interfaces enable quick swapping of camera modules and cable assemblies, allowing the same base unit to adapt from simple household inspections to more specialized applications as needed.
Solution Approach 2:
Standardized connectors and interface specifications act as intermediaries between the simple base system and more complex specialized modules. This allows the core device to remain simple and affordable while still providing access to advanced capabilities through interchangeable modules when required.
Data Source
AI summary
A remote inspection device is provided for inspecting visually obscured locations. The device is generally comprised of a imager housing and a display housing disposed on opposite ends of a modular, flexible cable. An imaging device and one or more light sources are embedded in the end of the cylindrical imager housing. A display housing is coupled to the other end of the flexible cable and configured to be grasped by a user of the device. A display device supported by the display housing receives a video signal from the imaging device and converts the video signal to a video image. The flexible cable can be removably attached to other components with a detachable coupling.