Separable Endoscope Probe Connector Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional endoscopes are inefficient in separating and reattaching the probe unit from the handle unit, leading to difficulties in operation and hygiene management, as they require separate operations for wire connection and are not easily reusable or replaceable.
Innovation Solution
An endoscope design featuring a handle unit with a reciprocally movable first connector and a probe unit with a deformable wire system, utilizing a rotatable sprocket, chain, and elastic return spring for easy detachment and attachment, allowing the components to be separated and reattached without separate wire operations, and enabling operation in any position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the endoscope is provided as a single body, then the structure is simple, but the probe cannot be easily separated for cleaning or replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The endoscope is divided into separate modules: a handle unit and a probe unit that can be detachably connected. This allows the probe to be separated for cleaning or replacement while keeping the handle unit intact, resolving the contradiction between ease of separation and device complexity.
2Ease of operation
If the wire connection is made separable, then the probe can be replaced, but the wire separation and reattachment becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The wire connection mechanism is merged with the connector structure. The connectors on both the handle unit and probe unit are designed to automatically engage and secure the wires during the attachment process, eliminating the need for separate wire connection operations and reducing overall complexity.
3Reliability
If the entire endoscope is replaced, then hygiene requirements are met, but the cost and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the endoscope into replaceable probe units and a reusable handle unit, the system allows only the contaminated probe portion to be replaced or sterilized, while the handle unit can be reused. This reduces both the time and cost compared to replacing the entire endoscope while maintaining hygiene compliance.
4Ease of operation
If the connectors are fixed, then the structure is stable, but the detachment and attachment operations become complex
Solution Approach 1:
The connectors are designed with dynamic characteristics, allowing them to be easily engaged and disengaged through simple movements. The connector structure includes features that provide stable connection during use but enable quick release when needed, balancing operational ease with connection stability.
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
Facilitates easy detachment and attachment of the handle and probe units, improving operational efficiency, allowing for more economical reuse or replacement, and simplifying cleaning and sterilization processes while maintaining accurate bending capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
a return spring mounted on an outer circumferential portion of the first connector. When force of pulling the first connector through the wire is removed, the return spring provides elastic force to restore the first connector to an original position.
Implementation Method 2
a rotatable sprocket connected to the adjustment knob; and a chain engaged with the sprocket to reciprocally move in response to the rotation of the sprocket. The first connector is reciprocally movable in concert with the chain.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is an endoscope including a separable probe. The endoscope includes a handle unit and a probe unit detachably mounted on the handle unit. The handle unit includes a first connector reciprocally movable by an adjustment knob. The probe unit includes a probe deformable in response to movement of a wire and a second connector coupled to an end of the wires and detachably coupled to the first connector.