Adapter for 2D Endoscope to 3D Camera Optical Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional endoscopes are not stereoscopic, limiting their ability to provide 3D visualization, and existing solutions require specialized stereoscopic endoscopes or complex systems, which are not widely compatible with commercially available 2D endoscopes.
Innovation Solution
An adapter system that optically couples a conventional 2D endoscope to a stereoscopic 3D camera, using a mechanical mount and adjustable optical pathway to accommodate various 2D endoscopes, allowing for stereoscopic 3D visualization without the need for specialized endoscopes or complex systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional 2D endoscopes are used, then compatibility and cost are improved, but stereoscopic 3D visualization capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
An adapter assembly is introduced as an intermediary component between the conventional 2D endoscope and the 3D camera system. The adapter includes optical elements (lenses, mirrors) that capture the 2D image from the endoscope and redirect it to create stereoscopic 3D visualization, enabling compatibility without modifying the original endoscope
Solution Approach 2:
The system transforms a 2D image output from the conventional endoscope into a stereoscopic 3D visualization by adding depth perception through optical manipulation. The adapter creates multiple image paths that simulate left and right eye views, converting planar imagery into three-dimensional spatial representation
2Loss of information
If specialized stereoscopic endoscopes are used, then stereoscopic 3D visualization capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the stereoscopic 3D functionality from the endoscope itself, placing it in a standalone adapter assembly. This segmentation allows the conventional endoscope to remain simple while the adapter handles all 3D processing, reducing overall system complexity compared to integrated stereoscopic endoscopes
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter assembly is designed to be universally compatible with multiple conventional endoscope models through standardized mounting mechanisms. A single adapter can work with various 2D endoscopes, eliminating the need for specialized stereoscopic endoscopes for each application
3Manufacturing precision
If fixed optical pathway adapters are used, then manufacturing precision is improved, but adaptability to different endoscopes worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter incorporates adjustable optical elements that can be dynamically repositioned to accommodate different endoscope types. The optical pathway includes movable lenses and mirrors that can be fine-tuned during setup, maintaining precise optical alignment while adapting to various endoscope configurations
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows adjustment of optical parameters such as focal length, magnification, and image positioning to match different endoscope characteristics. By changing these parameters rather than redesigning the entire optical pathway, the adapter maintains precision across multiple endoscope models
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables stereoscopic 3D visualization using commercially available 2D endoscopes, maintaining the modular structure of conventional endoscope systems and allowing a single 3D camera head to be used with multiple 2D endoscopes, thereby reducing costs and increasing compatibility.
Implementation Method 1
an optical pathway disposed within the body for receiving an image from the exit pupil of the conventional 2D endoscope and projecting the received image on an appropriate portion of the stereoscopic 3D camera
Data Source
AI summary
An adapter for optically coupling a conventional 2D endoscope to a stereoscopic 3D camera so as to provide stereoscopic 3D visualization of an object imaged by the conventional 2D endoscope, the adapter comprising:a body;a mechanical mount disposed on the body for mechanically mounting the adapter to a conventional 2D endoscope;means for mounting the body to a stereoscopic 3D camera; andan optical pathway disposed within the body for receiving an image from the exit pupil of the conventional 2D endoscope and projecting the received image on an appropriate portion of the stereoscopic 3D camera, wherein the optical pathway is adjustable so as to accommodate a range of different conventional 2D endoscopes.