Device for detecting shape of endoscope
US7706859B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 22, 2003 |
| Grant date | Apr 27, 2010 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 11, 2026 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B5/064
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Position detecting elements are disposed in an endoscope insertion portion at predetermined intervals. Even when the endoscope insertion portion is bent, position data representing the detected positions of the elements is used to infer or detect the shape of the insertion portion. A virtual element is disposed between adjoining elements so that a predetermined condition will be met. Position data of the virtual element is used together with the actually detected position data in order to interpolate data for the purpose of detecting the shape of the insertion portion. Consequently, as if a larger number of elements were disposed, the shape of the insertion portion can be detected highly precisely.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.