Universal Endoscope Camera Assembly for Lower-Cost Tip Manufacturing
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Solution Overview
Problem
The manufacturing costs of single-use endoscopes are high due to the need for specialized components and complex assembly processes, which increases inventory and supply-chain complexity, especially when producing endoscopes of different sizes.
Innovation Solution
A universal camera module design for endoscope tips with a transition piece that allows for a standardized camera module across various endoscope sizes, reducing the need for multiple molds and tooling, and separate lighting modules that can be adapted for different endoscope types, simplifying assembly and reducing design time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If specialized components and complex assembly processes are used for single-use endoscopes, then the endoscopes can be optimized for workflow and patient care, but manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal camera module design with standardized dimensions and mounting features that can be used across multiple endoscope models. The camera module housing includes standardized alignment features and interface configurations that allow the same camera module to be installed in different endoscope sizes and types, eliminating the need for model-specific camera assemblies and reducing manufacturing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the endoscope into modular components, specifically separating the camera module as an independent, replaceable unit with its own housing. This segmentation allows the camera module to be manufactured separately using standardized processes and then assembled into different endoscope models, simplifying the overall manufacturing process and reducing costs
2Adaptability or versatility
If various sizes of endoscopes are produced to meet different procedural needs, then procedure-specialized endoscopes can be provided, but supply-chain complexity and inventory investment grow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal camera module that can serve multiple endoscope models and sizes through standardized dimensions and interface features. The camera module housing includes alignment features and mounting interfaces that are consistent across different endoscope types, allowing a single camera module design to be used in various procedural applications without requiring separate supply chains for each model
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple camera module designs are created for different endoscope sizes, then each endoscope can be optimized, but design time and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent establishes a universal camera module design with standardized dimensions, mounting interfaces, and alignment features that can be applied across different endoscope sizes. This universal design eliminates the need to create separate camera module designs for each endoscope model, significantly reducing design time while maintaining manufacturing precision through consistent standardized features
Data Source
AI summary
A method of making endoscope tip assemblies including a lighting module including a body having a longitudinal bed and a transverse wall, a light emitting diode supported at a distal end of the longitudinal bed, and lighting wires electrically connected to the light emitting diode and extending through the insertion tube to the positioning interface or handle; a universal camera module comprising an image sensor, a circuit board electrically connected to the image sensor, a sensor holder, and a sensor housing affixed to the sensor holder, the image sensor housed in the sensor housing, and the sensor holder extending proximally from the image sensor. The same universal camera module can be used to make different tip assemblies for different endoscopes. A transition piece facilitates formation of a longitudinal offset in the working channel.