Bend Information Estimation Using Multi-Wavelength Light Absorption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscope systems lack a method to accurately calculate the bending orientation and magnitude of the bending state of flexible insertion portions, which is crucial for precise manipulation and imaging during medical procedures.
Innovation Solution
A bend information estimation system comprising a light guide with first and second light absorbers at the same position along its axis, a light detector to measure light intensities of different wavelengths, and a processor to calculate the bending state based on these intensities, allowing for the estimation of bending orientation and magnitude.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a device is mounted in a flexible insertion portion to detect bending state, then bend detection capability is provided, but the system cannot accurately calculate bending orientation and magnitude
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by utilizing multiple wavelengths of light and measuring their respective absorption characteristics. Different wavelengths provide different absorption ratios when passing through the flexible insertion portion in bent states, enabling the calculation of both bending orientation and magnitude through mathematical processing of these spectral parameters
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces light as an intermediary substance that passes through the flexible insertion portion. By measuring the absorption characteristics of light at multiple wavelengths, the system indirectly obtains bending information without direct mechanical contact, thereby accurately calculating bending orientation and magnitude
2Measurement precision
If multiple wavelengths of light are used for bend detection, then bending orientation and magnitude can be calculated, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by using a single light guide that serves multiple functions: it transmits multiple wavelengths of light simultaneously and acts as both the illumination medium and the detection target. This multi-functional design enables accurate bending measurement without requiring separate components for each wavelength
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the light transmission function and the bending detection function into a single integrated system. The light guide both transmits light and serves as the object being measured, combining multiple functions into one component to reduce overall system complexity
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 accurate estimation of bending orientation and magnitude, enhancing the precision of endoscope manipulation and imaging by providing real-time bend information, thereby improving procedural efficiency and effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
first and second light absorbers disposed at a substantially same position along an axis of the light guide and enabled to absorb first and second respective amounts of a plurality of wavelengths of light transmitted along the light guide
Implementation Method 2
light detector enabled to detect respective intensities of the plurality of wavelengths of light not absorbed by the first and second light absorbers
Data Source
AI summary
Example embodiments of the present invention relate to systems methods and computer program products for bend estimation. The system comprises a first and second light absorbers disposed at a substantially same position along an axis of a light guide and enabled to absorb first and second respective amounts of a plurality of wavelengths of a light transmitted along the light guide, a light detector enabled to detect respective intensities of the plurality of wavelengths of the light not absorbed by the first and second light absorbers, and a processor enabled to calculate a bend state of the light guide according to the detected intensities of the plurality of wavelengths of the light.