Universal Camera Control Unit for Endoscopic Video
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing camera control units (CCUs) are limited in compatibility with diverse camera and display types, particularly failing to handle fundamentally different signal formats and displays, leading to the need for frequent upgrades and discarding of units.
Innovation Solution
A CCU system that automatically detects and configures itself to be compatible with various camera and display types, supporting both standard and high-definition signals, and can update software to maintain compatibility with evolving devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a CCU is configured to be compatible with a limited number of devices, then the hardware configuration is simplified, but the adaptability to different camera and display types is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal CCU design with multiple input receptacles that can accept different camera types (analog and digital) and multiple output receptacles that can connect to different display types. The system uses a single configurable hardware platform that can adapt to various device combinations, eliminating the need for multiple dedicated CCU units for different device pairs.
Solution Approach 2:
The CCU employs dynamic configuration capability where the system can automatically detect the connected camera and display types and reconfigure its internal processing pathways in real-time. This dynamic adaptation allows the same hardware to optimize its operation for different device combinations without requiring manual reconfiguration or hardware changes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a CCU is designed to handle multiple signal formats, then the compatibility with diverse devices is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the signal processing functionality into distinct modular components within the CCU, with separate processing pathways for different signal formats (analog, digital, standard definition, high definition). Each signal type has its dedicated processing chain that can be independently activated based on the connected devices, reducing the complexity of handling all formats simultaneously while maintaining full compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs an intermediary configuration layer that automatically detects the signal formats of connected devices and routes signals through appropriate processing pathways. This intermediary intelligence manages the complexity of multiple signal formats by dynamically selecting and configuring the appropriate processing chain, shielding the user from the underlying complexity while maintaining full format compatibility.
3Adaptability or versatility
If older CCUs are discarded for newer device-compatible models, then the compatibility with new devices is improved, but the loss of functional resources increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements upgradeable software and configuration parameters that allow older CCU hardware to adapt to new camera and display technologies. By changing the software configuration and processing parameters rather than the physical hardware, the system maintains compatibility with evolving devices while preserving the functional resources embedded in existing CCU units, extending their operational lifecycle.
Data Source
AI summary
An endoscopic video system that provides for multiple differing inputs from a plurality of different attached devices types including, for example, High-Definition and Standard-Definition signals, the camera control automatically sensing and configuring itself based upon the connected devices (e.g. camera and display). The system further provides for scaling of input and output signals depending as necessary.