Multi-viewing Element Endoscope Tip Design for Expanded Field of View
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current endoscopes, such as colonoscopes, have limited fields of view and restricted access for surgical tools, and face challenges in efficiently packing necessary elements within the tip section while maintaining functionality.
Innovation Solution
The development of a multi-viewing element endoscope system with a modular tip section design, featuring a manifold with multiple fluidically isolated channels and integrated image sensors, illuminators, and working channels, which allows for a broader field of view and enhanced tool access, and includes a heat sink for illuminators to manage heat generation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a single viewing element is used in the endoscope tip, then the device complexity is reduced, but the field of view is limited and surgical tool access is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The endoscope tip is divided into multiple viewing elements (cameras) positioned at different locations and orientations. Each camera captures images from a specific direction, and together they provide a comprehensive multi-angle view of the surgical site, expanding the effective field of view beyond what a single camera could achieve.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-point viewing approach to a multi-dimensional viewing system by positioning cameras at different spatial locations and angles within the tip section. This dimensional expansion allows simultaneous capture of anterior, posterior, and lateral views, creating a three-dimensional understanding of the surgical field.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple viewing elements are integrated into the tip section, then the field of view and tool access are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The endoscope tip is designed as a multi-functional integrated unit that simultaneously performs multiple functions: multiple cameras capture images from different angles, illuminators provide lighting, and working channels accommodate various surgical tools. This universal design allows a single device to handle diverse surgical requirements without needing separate instruments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple previously separate components (multiple cameras, illuminators, working channels) into a single integrated tip section. By merging these elements into one unified structure, the system achieves enhanced operational capabilities while managing complexity through integration rather than separate components.
3Adaptability or versatility
If essential elements are packed into the tip section, then the field of view and functionality are enhanced, but heat management becomes challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a heat sink as an intermediary thermal management component within the tip section. This heat sink acts as a mediator between the heat-generating illuminators and the surrounding environment, absorbing and dissipating heat to prevent overheating of the integrated components while maintaining their functionality.
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
This design provides a more comprehensive view and extended access for surgical tools, enabling efficient packing of essential elements within the endoscope tip section, improving operational capabilities and maintaining functionality.
Implementation Method 1
includes a heat sink for illuminators to manage heat generation
Data Source
AI summary
The present specification is directed towards endoscopes, such as colonoscopes, that provide a broader field of view and allow extended access of surgical tools and also enable efficient packing of all necessary elements in the tip section, while maintaining their functionality. Also described are methods and systems for capturing and displaying still and video images using an endoscope corresponding to a left-side looking, a front-looking and a right-side looking viewing element of an endoscopic tip generated in a native aspect ratio.