Articulated Laparoscope Structured Light 3D Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional laparoscopic surgery relies on 2D images, which limit the surgeon's ability to obtain a comprehensive view of the abdominal cavity, leading to potential surgical blind spots and increased risk of tissue damage during procedures.
Innovation Solution
A structured-light based endoscope system that provides a 3D image by using an endoscope with a lens, camera, light source, and sensor, along with a computer program to generate a 3D image from structured light patterns, allowing for real-time illumination and image processing to construct a 3D view of the surgical field.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a 2D endoscope camera is used, then the device complexity is low, but the measurement precision and surgical visibility are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from 2D to 3D imaging by introducing a structured light system with multiple light sources and a camera that captures depth information. The structured light patterns project onto the surgical field, and the camera records the reflected patterns from multiple angles, enabling three-dimensional reconstruction of the surgical site, thereby significantly improving surgical visibility and measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces structured light patterns as an intermediary between the light source and the camera. These patterns serve as a mediator that carries depth and spatial information from the surgical field to the camera, enabling 3D reconstruction without requiring direct contact or complex mechanical structures at the surgical site.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the endoscope is made articulated to improve navigation, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the endoscope articulated by introducing multiple degrees of freedom in the endoscope's mechanical structure. The endoscope can bend and rotate at multiple segments, allowing it to navigate through the abdominal cavity and reach difficult-to-access surgical sites. This dynamic configuration enables the endoscope to adapt to various surgical positions and angles while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
3Measurement precision
If structured light patterns are used to generate 3D images, then the measurement precision is improved, but the use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses periodic structured light patterns that are projected in sequences rather than continuous illumination. The light sources emit patterns at specific time intervals, and the camera captures images during these periodic emissions. This periodic action reduces overall energy consumption compared to continuous illumination while still providing sufficient light for accurate 3D image reconstruction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs multiple light sources that are activated selectively rather than all simultaneously. Only the necessary number of light sources are turned on at any given time to provide sufficient illumination for the structured light patterns, avoiding excessive energy consumption while maintaining the precision required for 3D imaging.
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
The system enhances surgical precision and safety by providing a clear, three-dimensional representation of the surgical site, reducing the risk of tissue damage and improving navigation within the abdominal cavity.
Implementation Method 1
at least one light source configured to illuminate at least a portion of the surgical field with structured light patterns; and at least one camera configured to detect light reflected from the surgical field
Data Source
AI summary
In a method of using a structured-light based system, real-time 2D images of a portion of a field of view are captured using an endoscope. A portion of an object in the field of view is illuminated with a structured light pattern, and light reflected from the field of view is detected. From the reflected light, a 3D image of the field of view is constructed, and 3D locations of points on a surface of the object are determined. The real time 3D spatial position of the endoscope and/or a surgical tool is determined. If a distance between the surface the endoscope and/or surgical tool, as determined using the 3D spatial position, falls below a predetermined distance, an alert is generated to notify a user.