Scanning Beam Counterbalance for Drive Assembly Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current scanning fiber systems face challenges in counterbalancing the transverse forces and torques generated by the drive assembly, which can affect image formation and acquisition, especially in small devices like flexible endoscopes where a large mass to stabilize the drive assembly is not feasible.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a 'virtual mass' counterbalance system that generates forces and torques equal and opposite to those produced by the drive assembly, allowing for effective counterbalancing without the need for a large physical mass, using a coaxially disposed counterbalance and an open or closed-loop control system to manage these forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a large mass is attached to the proximal end of the drive assembly to stabilize it, then the drive assembly stability is improved, but the device size and housing dimensions increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies counterbalancing by attaching a counterweight to the distal end of the drive assembly that generates forces and torques equal and opposite to those produced by the drive assembly's operation. This counteracts the transverse forces and stabilizes the proximal end without requiring a large mass at that location, thus maintaining small device dimensions while achieving drive assembly stability.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of adding mass in the same spatial dimension (at the proximal end), the solution moves the counterbalancing mass to another dimension (distal end of the drive assembly). This dimensional relocation allows the counterbalance to function effectively while preserving the compact housing dimensions.
2Productivity
If the drive assembly is actuated to scan the optical fiber, then the scanning function is achieved, but transverse forces and torques are generated that affect image formation and acquisition
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful transverse forces and torques generated by drive assembly actuation into a beneficial effect by using a counterweight to generate equal and opposite forces. The counterbalance mechanism transforms the problematic mechanical disturbances into a stabilized scanning operation, allowing the drive assembly to function while eliminating image formation degradation.
3Volume of moving object
If the dimensions of the housing are reduced for small scanning fiber devices, then the device portability is improved, but the ability to place a stabilizing mass within the housing is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent places the counterbalancing mass at the distal end of the drive assembly rather than requiring it at the proximal end. This repositioning allows the counterweight to effectively stabilize the drive assembly through torque counteraction while fitting within the reduced housing dimensions of small scanning fiber devices.
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 solution maintains the low-profile size of scanning beam devices while stabilizing the drive assembly and reducing free end motion, ensuring accurate image formation and acquisition by canceling out transverse forces and torques, thereby improving scan quality.
Implementation Method 1
The counterbalance is coupled to the actuation element and generates a force and/or torque that is substantially equal and substantially opposite to the transverse force and/or torque generated by the actuation element
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and system for counterbalancing accelerations and/or torques caused by actuation of an actuation element and a scanning element. A scanning beam device may comprise a counterbalance to generate forces and/or torques that are substantially equal and substantially opposite to the forces and/or torque generated by the scanning of the actuation element.