Piezoelectric Endoscope Imaging Control for Adjustable Viewing Angles

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Solution Overview

Problem

Endoscopic systems often have limited ability to provide both a side-view and an end-view of a target site, necessitating multiple devices and increasing procedure duration and risk of complications.

Innovation Solution

A medical device with a piezoelectric member that moves an imaging device relative to a longitudinal axis, allowing for adjustable viewing angles and simultaneous use of multiple imaging devices to enhance field of view.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a single imaging device is used in conventional endoscopes, then the device structure remains simple, but the field of view is limited to either side-view or end-view

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefield of viewVSAvoiddevice structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The imaging device is made dynamically adjustable through piezoelectric actuators that enable real-time rotation and articulation, allowing the imaging device to switch between side-view, end-view, and intermediate angles without changing the physical structure of the endoscope

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

A single imaging device is designed to perform multiple functions by adjusting its viewing angle, replacing the need for multiple dedicated imaging devices while maintaining structural simplicity through controlled articulation mechanisms

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple imaging devices are used to provide multiple fields of view, then the field of view coverage is improved, but the size of the endoscope system increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefield of view coverageVSAvoidendoscope system size

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The imaging function is segmented into multiple adjustable viewing angles controlled by individual piezoelectric actuators, allowing a single imaging device to cover the functional territory of multiple fixed imaging devices without increasing overall system volume

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The articulation joint and piezoelectric actuators are nested within the existing endoscope structure, with the imaging device positioned to rotate around the longitudinal axis, maximizing space utilization without increasing external dimensions

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple imaging devices are used to provide comprehensive viewing, then the field of view is improved, but the procedure duration increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveviewing capabilityVSAvoidprocedure duration

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The dynamically adjustable imaging device allows real-time switching between viewing angles during the procedure, eliminating the need to reposition or更换 multiple imaging devices and thereby reducing procedure time while maintaining comprehensive viewing capability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

4Adaptability or versatility

If multiple imaging devices are used to enhance viewing, then the field of view is improved, but the risk of accidents and infections increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveimaging capabilityVSAvoidrisk of accidents and infections

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple imaging functions are merged into a single imaging device through articulation and rotation capabilities, reducing the number of separate devices that need to be inserted and manipulated, thereby minimizing the risk of accidents and infections while maintaining comprehensive viewing capability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

Enables improved viewing and access to target sites with reduced procedure time and risk of complications by providing flexible and adjustable imaging capabilities.

Implementation Method 1

a piezoelectric member connected to the imaging device, wherein movement of the piezoelectric member moves the imaging device in a first direction relative to the longitudinal axis

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPiezoelectric effect: Piezoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS20250366704A1Medical device control mechanism and methods of use

Publication Date: 2025.12.04 BOSTON SCIENTIFIC SCIMED INC

AI summary

A medical device including a handle including an actuation device, a sheath extending from the handle and having a longitudinal axis, the sheath defining an imaging lumen extending from the handle to a distal end of the sheath, an imaging device at a distal end of the sheath, and a piezoelectric member connected to the imaging device, where movement of the piezoelectric member moves the imaging device in a first direction relative to the longitudinal axis.