Ultrasonic Probe Cable Shielding via Integrated Ground Electrode

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional cable connection structures for ultrasonic probes and endoscopes face challenges in effectively shielding electromagnetic noise and preventing signal interference between cables and electrodes, particularly in configurations where separate shielding members are not used.

Innovation Solution

A cable connection structure featuring an extended portion integral with the cables that covers the connection points between cables and electrodes, utilizing a bendable insulation film and a ground electrode for shielding and insulation, thereby preventing damage and interference.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Object-affected harmful factors

If separate shielding members are used to shield electromagnetic noise, then shielding effectiveness is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectromagnetic noise shieldingVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the shielding function with the cable insulation film itself, making the insulation film serve dual purposes: electrical insulation and electromagnetic noise shielding. This is achieved by forming a ground electrode pattern on the insulation film, integrating the shielding function into the existing structural component rather than adding separate shielding members.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The insulation film is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: providing electrical insulation between cables and the substrate, and providing electromagnetic noise shielding through the integrated ground electrode pattern. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate shielding components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Device complexity

If cables are directly connected to electrodes without additional shielding, then device complexity is reduced, but signal interference increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructure complexityVSAvoidsignal interference
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a ground electrode pattern formed on the insulation film as an intermediary between the cables and the substrate. This ground pattern acts as a mediator that provides electromagnetic shielding without requiring direct contact between cables and the substrate, thereby reducing signal interference while maintaining structural simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Reliability

If the insulation film is made thick to prevent damage, then reliability is improved, but flexibility and ease of connection deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedamage preventionVSAvoidflexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses a composite structure consisting of the insulation film with an integrated ground electrode pattern. This composite design provides enhanced protection and shielding functionality without significantly increasing the overall thickness, maintaining the flexibility needed for easy connection and positioning.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

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 configuration provides effective shielding against external and internal noise while maintaining signal integrity, even in damaged conditions, through a simple and efficient design that suppresses signal interference and ensures required insulation.

Implementation Method 1

an extended portion that is provided integrally with the plurality of cables, extends from the plurality of cables, and covers at least a connection part between the plurality of cables and the electrode

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic shielding: Faraday Cage

Data Source

PatentUS10158188B2Cable connection structure, ultrasonic probe, and ultrasonic endoscope system
Publication Date: 2018.12.18 OLYMPUS CORPORATION(JP)
  • US10158188B2 patent drawing
  • US10158188B2 patent drawing
  • US10158188B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A cable connection structure for connecting a plurality of cables to an electrode provided on a substrate includes an extended portion that is provided integrally with the plurality of cables, extends from the plurality of cables, and covers at least a connection part between the plurality of cables and the electrode.