Angled Electronic Otoscope Imaging for Safe Ear Canal Inspection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current otoscopic methods require significant manual skill and training to examine the ear canal and eardrum, posing risks of injury, especially for laypersons, and are not suitable for domestic use due to complexity and high cost of video otoscopes with limited accessibility.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an electronic imaging unit and light source into the otoscope, allowing the optical axis to be angled relative to the longitudinal axis, enabling wider field vision and reducing the need for ear deformation, with image capture and comparison techniques to identify objects in the ear canal, including the eardrum, using multiple images and illumination positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If conventional otoscope with empty funnel is used, then the device structure is simple, but significant manual skill and training are required to avoid injury and achieve proper examination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical visual inspection method with an electronic imaging system. The electronic imaging unit captures images of the ear canal and eardrum, eliminating the need for manual skill in positioning and viewing through the funnel. The system substitutes mechanical manipulation with automated image capture and processing, making the examination safer and easier to perform correctly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a visual copy of the ear canal and eardrum through electronic imaging. Instead of directly viewing through the funnel, the system captures images that can be displayed and analyzed, allowing proper examination without requiring manual skill in positioning. The copied visual information enables accurate diagnosis while reducing operational complexity and safety risks.
2Device complexity
If conventional otoscope is used, then the device is simple, but the optical axis must align with the longitudinal axis requiring ear deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent angles the optical axis of the electronic imaging unit relative to the longitudinal axis of the otoscope handle, creating a new dimensional relationship. This angular arrangement allows the imaging unit to capture images of the eardrum without requiring the ear canal to be deformed into alignment, eliminating the need for uncomfortable ear manipulation while maintaining effective examination capability.
3Measurement precision
If video otoscope with CCD chip is used, then image capture capability is improved, but the device cost and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent places the electronic imaging unit specifically at the distal end of the head portion, where it is needed for capturing images of the eardrum. This localized placement provides high-quality imaging capability exactly where required, while keeping the rest of the device structure relatively simple. The imaging unit is integrated only at the necessary location rather than throughout the entire device.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic imaging unit serves multiple functions: capturing images of the ear canal, visualizing the eardrum, identifying objects or obstructions, and providing diagnostic information. This single component performs what would otherwise require multiple separate systems, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining comprehensive examination capability and high image quality.
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
This approach allows laypersons to safely and reliably identify objects in the ear canal, reducing the risk of injury and misinterpretation, making otoscopy more accessible and user-friendly, while providing clear images for determining the need for medical attention.
Implementation Method 1
using the at least one electronic imaging unit to capture at least two images from different positions within the ear canal and/or with illumination from different positions within the ear canal
Implementation Method 2
introducing at least one electronic imaging unit and at least one light source into an ear canal of a subject's outer ear
Data Source
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Figure 3
AI summary
The present invention refers to a method of identifying objects in a subject's ear, comprising the following steps: introducing at least one electronic imaging unit and at least one light source into an ear canal of a subject's outer ear; using the at least one electronic imaging unit to capture at least one image; and determining brightness and/or color information to identify objects shown in the at least one image.