Wireless Endoscope Assembly with Dynamic Switch Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing endoscope systems are limited by the need for external light source and video processing units, which restrict the movable range and operability of the endoscope assembly due to the use of cables for illumination and signal transmission.
Innovation Solution
An endoscope assembly that communicates with a data processing unit via radio waves, featuring operation switches that function for both wireless communication setup and inherent operations like image acquisition once a connection is established, eliminating the need for dedicated communication switches and reducing complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If operation switches are dedicated to wireless communication setup, then communication establishment is facilitated, but device complexity increases and operability during inherent operations becomes cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The operation switches are designed to serve dual purposes: they function as communication setup switches during the connection phase and as operation switches during inherent operations. The control unit automatically switches between these two modes based on connection status, eliminating the need for separate dedicated switches for each function and reducing overall device complexity.
2Reliability
If multiple dedicated switches are provided for communication and operations, then function allocation is clear, but the risk of setting changes during operations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The function of the operation switches dynamically changes based on the connection status. When no connection is established, the switches operate as communication setup switches. Once connection is established, they automatically switch to operation mode. This dynamic reconfiguration reduces the total number of switches needed while maintaining clear function separation and preventing accidental setting changes during operations.
3Ease of operation
If cable connections are used for light guide and signal transmission, then connection stability is ensured, but movable range is limited and operability is disturbed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical cable connection system with a wireless communication system. The endoscope assembly transmits images and data wirelessly to the external device, eliminating the need for physical signal cables and light guide cables. This substitution removes the mechanical constraints that limited movable range while maintaining connection stability through established wireless communication protocols.
Data Source
AI summary
An endoscope assembly communicates with a data processing unit by radio waves. The endoscope assembly includes operation switches, which is configured to be operated by an operator, and a control unit. The control unit is configured to enable the operation switches to function as switches for setting wireless communication when connection for wireless communication with the data processing unit is not established. Further, the control unit is configured to enable the operation switches to function as switches for inherent operations including at least an image acquisition operation when connection for wireless communication with the data processing unit is established.