Articulated Arm 3D Visualization Device for Stereoscopic Imaging

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing 3D output devices for stereoscopic image reproduction, such as 3D monitors and headsets, hinder the user's ability to view both the imaging system and the 3D image without significant head movement and require additional glasses, which can reduce light intensity and cause distraction, especially in applications like 3D endoscopes or microscopes.

Innovation Solution

A 3D output device featuring an articulated arm with a base joint and a head joint, allowing the visualization device with separate monitors for each eye to be positioned and adjusted for comfortable viewing without the need for additional glasses, enabling the user to see the imaging system and instruments without changing their viewing direction.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If 3D monitors are used for stereoscopic image reproduction, then 3D image quality is improved, but the user must physically separate the monitor from the imaging system location, requiring head turning and changing viewing direction

Engineering Contradiction:
Improve3D image qualityVSAvoidviewing convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from a single large 3D monitor requiring physical separation to a compact headset form factor that brings the display to the user's eyes. This dimensional change in display delivery allows simultaneous viewing of the imaging system and 3D images without head turning, resolving the contradiction between image quality and viewing convenience.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The headset integrates multiple functions: it provides stereoscopic 3D display while simultaneously allowing the user to view the imaging system and operate instruments. This multi-functionality eliminates the need to choose between viewing the 3D image or the imaging system, resolving the ease of operation issue.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Measurement precision

If special glasses (polarizing filter glasses, color filter glasses, interference filter glasses, or LCD shutter glasses) are worn for 3D viewing, then stereoscopic image reproduction is improved, but light intensity is reduced and user distraction increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestereoscopic image reproduction qualityVSAvoidlight intensity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSIllumination intensity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the left and right image channels into separate displays positioned at the user's eyes, eliminating the need for filtering glasses. By directly presenting stereoscopic images to each eye through dedicated displays, the system maintains 3D image quality while avoiding light intensity reduction and user distraction associated with special glasses.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Measurement precision

If 3D headsets or video glasses are attached to the person's head, then 3D image viewing is improved, but the person cannot see the imaging system's operating area, the imaging system itself, or ancillary instruments

Engineering Contradiction:
Improve3D image viewing qualityVSAvoidvisibility of imaging system
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the visual information by providing separate displays for left and right eyes while keeping the displays compact and positioned close to the eyes. This segmentation allows the user to view 3D images without blocking the view of the imaging system and instruments, resolving the contradiction between 3D viewing quality and visibility of the imaging system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS20240000538A13D output device for stereoscopic image reproduction
Publication Date: 2024.01.04 BLAZEJEWSKI MEDI TECH GMBH
  • US20240000538A1 patent drawing
  • US20240000538A1 patent drawing
  • US20240000538A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A 3D output device for stereoscopic image reproduction has an articulated arm with a base joint, via which the articulated arm is movably received on an articulated arm base, and a head joint. A visualization device is arranged movably on the articulated arm by the head joint. A left monitor and a right monitor are arranged in a monitor housing of the visualization device having a left viewing window, which is assigned to the left monitor and through which the left monitor can be viewed from the outside, and a right viewing window, assigned to the right monitor, through which the right monitor can be viewed from the outside, wherein the distance between the left viewing window and the right viewing window corresponds to a typical interocular distance of a person.