Multi-Function Cable for Modular Endoscopic Camera Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current endoscopic camera systems require frequent updates and replacements due to compatibility issues with varying camera technologies, leading to increased costs and inefficiencies, as each Camera Control Unit (CCU) must be updated or replaced to support new camera technologies, and is not designed for forward and backward compatibility with different imaging devices and signal formats.
Innovation Solution
A modular imaging system utilizing a multi-function cable that connects input modules to control modules, allowing for automatic software reprogramming and compatibility checking, enabling forward and backward compatibility, and allowing control of power states and feature configuration between modules, thereby streamlining the integration of new and existing technologies without requiring extensive reconfiguration or replacement of hardware.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a CCU is designed to support multiple camera technologies with updated software, then compatibility with various camera technologies is improved, but the complexity of hardware and software updates increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into separate functional modules: camera heads with specific imaging technologies and a central CCU with universal processing capability. This segmentation allows each module to be independently developed, tested, and updated without affecting the entire system, resolving the contradiction between versatility and update complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The CCU is designed with universal processing capability to support multiple camera technologies through a standardized interface. This multi-functionality allows a single CCU to work with various camera heads (analog, digital, different resolutions) without requiring hardware changes, thereby improving compatibility while maintaining manageable complexity through software configuration rather than hardware reconfiguration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If an older model CCU is reconfigured to work with new camera technology, then compatibility is improved, but the time and labor required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The CCU is pre-configured with multiple camera technology profiles and drivers stored in its memory. Before connecting a new camera head, the system automatically detects the camera type and loads the appropriate configuration profile, eliminating the need for manual reconfiguration and reducing setup time to minutes rather than hours of manual programming.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements automatic camera detection and self-configuration capability. When a new camera head is connected, the CCU automatically identifies the camera type through handshake protocols, retrieves the appropriate driver from its database, and configures itself without requiring technician intervention, thereby dramatically reducing the time and labor required for compatibility updates.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a CCU is replaced with a new model to support new camera technology, then compatibility is improved, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The CCU employs dynamic software loading and configuration capabilities, allowing it to adapt to new camera technologies through software updates rather than hardware replacement. The system can dynamically load new drivers and adjust processing parameters to support emerging camera formats, extending the operational life of existing hardware and avoiding replacement costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The CCU changes its operational parameters through software configuration rather than hardware modification. By adjusting processing parameters, data formats, and communication protocols through software updates, the system can support new camera technologies without requiring physical hardware replacement, thereby maintaining compatibility while controlling costs.
4Ease of operation
If the cable design is simplified for ease of connection, then ease of operation is improved, but the functionality for data and control transfer may be limited
Solution Approach 1:
The cable design merges multiple functions into a single integrated connector: video data transmission, control signals, power delivery, and automatic software update capability all occur through one connection. This consolidation maintains ease of operation with a simple plug-and-play interface while providing comprehensive functionality through the unified cable system.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable implements a universal multi-functional interface that can handle various data types (video, control, power) and communication protocols simultaneously. The standardized connector design allows the same cable to work with different camera and CCU models while maintaining full functionality, thereby achieving both ease of operation and adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-function cable, and more particularly, a multi-function cable having components permitting its interchangeable use with a variety of modules, the modules including endoscopes, cameras input units and display units. The multi-function cable is capable of receiving inputs from multiple different types of modules having diverse data and signal formats and may generate diverse output signals compatible with differing modules. The multi-function cable is used in a medical operating room.