Star Quad Cable for Endoscopic Data Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Endoscopic instruments face challenges in miniaturizing data transmission elements while maintaining high image quality and resolution, as traditional coaxial conductors and twisted pair cables result in increased diameter and signal attenuation, making it difficult to implement high-bandwidth data transmission within the limited space and power constraints of endoscopic applications.
Innovation Solution
The use of a star quad cable as a data transmission element allows for high-resolution image data transmission with a small diameter, utilizing differential signaling to minimize noise and attenuation, enabling frame rates of up to 30 images per second with data rates over 400 Mbit/sec, thus resolving the conflict between small dimensions and high transmission quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If twisted pair cables are used for high-bandwidth data transmission, then data transmission quality is improved, but cable diameter increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the structural parameters of the cable by transitioning from traditional twisted pair configuration to a star quad configuration with four insulated conductors arranged in a star pattern. This geometric parameter change allows for better signal isolation and reduced crosstalk while maintaining a compact diameter suitable for endoscopic applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The star quad cable employs an asymmetric arrangement where four conductors are positioned with one central conductor and three surrounding conductors, creating unequal spacing patterns that optimize signal differential pairs. This asymmetric geometry provides improved signal integrity compared to symmetric twisted pairs while controlling cable diameter.
2Loss of energy
If coaxial conductors are used for high-frequency signal transmission, then signal attenuation is reduced, but device complexity and diameter increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the signal transmission into multiple independent differential pairs within the star quad cable structure. Each pair is independently insulated and arranged, allowing high-frequency signals to be transmitted with reduced interference and attenuation without requiring complex single coaxial structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from the traditional two-conductor twisted pair to a four-conductor star quad arrangement, adding dimensional complexity in the spatial arrangement of conductors. This dimensional change enables multiple differential signal paths within a compact cable cross-section, improving signal transmission characteristics without proportionally increasing cable diameter.
3Productivity
If parallel interfaces are used for image data transmission, then bandwidth is increased, but power consumption and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional parallel mechanical connector interfaces with a serialized differential signal transmission system using the star quad cable. This substitution reduces the physical complexity of connectors and reduces power consumption while maintaining high data transmission bandwidth through efficient differential signaling protocols.
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
The star quad cable provides a compact structure with low attenuation, enabling effective transmission of high-resolution images at 1920×1080 pixels and 30/60 Hz frame rates, even at small diameters, while reducing the need for shielding and allowing for longer cable lengths without increasing the instrument's diameter, thus enhancing image quality and economic efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing differential signaling to minimize noise and attenuation
Data Source
AI summary
There is disclosed an endoscopic instrument comprising a shaft having a distal end at which at least one optical sensor is arranged and a proximal end configured for a connection to a supply unit, further comprising a data transmission element which is provided between the at least one optical sensor and the proximal end and which is configured to differentially transmit at least two signals. The data transmission element is embodied as a star quad cable.