3D Observation Controller Misalignment Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
3D endoscope systems face misalignment issues in their optical axes when sterilized in an autoclave, leading to improper construction of 3D images, and existing correction methods are unnecessary and troublesome.
Innovation Solution
A controller for 3D observation apparatuses that calculates non-active time to determine if misalignment correction is necessary, performing correction only when required by adjusting the positional relationships of images obtained from multiple optical systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If misalignment correction is performed after autoclave sterilization, then 3D image construction accuracy is improved, but device complexity and operation burden increase due to unnecessary corrections
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary alignment correction before autoclave sterilization to ensure optical axes are properly aligned. The controller stores correction data obtained before sterilization and applies it after sterilization, eliminating the need for post-sterilization realignment in most cases. This preliminary action prevents the need for complex post-sterilization correction procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates a feedback mechanism where the controller determines whether post-sterilization alignment correction is actually necessary by comparing pre-stored correction data with current system state. Only when deviation exceeds a threshold does the system initiate correction, avoiding unnecessary complex operations while ensuring 3D image accuracy when needed.
2Manufacturing precision
If misalignment correction is performed after autoclave sterilization, then 3D image construction accuracy is improved, but loss of time occurs due to unnecessary correction operations
Solution Approach 1:
Alignment correction data is obtained and stored before autoclave sterilization. After sterilization, the controller retrieves this pre-stored data and applies it without requiring time-consuming realignment operations. This preliminary preparation eliminates most post-sterilization correction time while maintaining 3D image accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically determines whether correction is needed and executes correction without requiring operator intervention or time-consuming manual alignment procedures. The controller autonomously applies pre-stored correction data or initiates correction only when necessary, reducing both correction operation time and operational complexity.
3Manufacturing precision
If alignment correction is performed unnecessarily, then 3D image accuracy is maintained, but ease of operation deteriorates due to troublesome correction procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The controller incorporates a determination step that assesses whether post-sterilization alignment correction is actually necessary before executing correction. This feedback mechanism prevents unnecessary correction operations, maintaining 3D image accuracy only when needed while significantly simplifying the operation for users by eliminating routine correction steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically determines and executes correction without requiring operator judgment or intervention. The controller autonomously decides whether correction is needed based on pre-stored data and current system state, eliminating troublesome manual correction procedures while ensuring accuracy when required.
Data Source
AI summary
A controller for a 3D observation apparatus performing 3D observation based on parallax using a plurality of optical systems includes the following sections. A start time acquisition section obtains a start time when energization of the 3D observation apparatus is started. An interrupted time acquisition section obtains an interrupted time when previous energization of the 3D observation apparatus is interrupted. A non-active time calculation section calculates a non-active time which is a period of time between the interrupted time and the start time. A determination section determines whether or not misalignment correction to correct misalignment of optical axes of the optical systems is necessary based on the non-active time.