Camera-Array 3D Imaging for Dynamic Biomechanical Interfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current imaging methods for obtaining external segment shapes and internal tissue geometries of biological body segments are bulky, expensive, and limited to static measurements, failing to capture dynamic interface behavior during the application of prosthetic devices, and existing measurement techniques are cumbersome and limited in scope.
Innovation Solution
A device and method for three-dimensional imaging of biological body segments using arrays of imaging devices and controllers for cross-referencing captured images, optionally incorporating ultrasound sensors and mechanical perturbators, to generate a 3D reconstruction of the body segment, including internal features, and a system with inertial measurement units and elastomeric sheaths for conformable data collection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If current imaging methods (CT, MRI, ultrasound) are used to obtain external segment shapes and internal tissue geometries, then comprehensive data can be acquired, but the equipment is bulky, expensive, and limited to static measurements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a digital 3D copy of the biological body segment using arrays of inexpensive cameras instead of bulky medical imaging equipment. The system captures multiple 2D images from different angles and reconstructs a comprehensive 3D model including external shapes and internal tissue geometries, replacing expensive CT/MRI machines with affordable camera arrays while maintaining measurement comprehensiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical imaging systems (CT scanners, MRI machines, ultrasound devices) with an optical system using camera arrays. By using light-based capture and computational reconstruction, the system eliminates the need for bulky mechanical imaging equipment while achieving comparable comprehensive data acquisition capabilities
2Ease of manufacture
If static measurements are taken for initial predictive models of fit, then device design can be initiated, but dynamic interface behavior during application cannot be captured
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from static to dynamic measurement by using high-speed camera arrays that can capture images at multiple frames per second. The system records the biological body segment in various dynamic states (different positions, movements, and deformations) and uses computational methods to analyze temporal changes, enabling both initial modeling and dynamic behavior assessment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic measurement cycles where the camera arrays capture images at regular time intervals during device application and movement. This periodic capture allows the system to build comprehensive models that account for dynamic interface behavior across different phases of motion, providing both static baseline data and dynamic variation information
3Measurement precision
If handheld biological indenters are used to measure tissue parameters, then pressure and displacement data can be obtained, but additional imaging is needed to localize anatomical positions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of handheld indenters and imaging systems into a single integrated camera array system. By using multiple cameras positioned at different angles, the system simultaneously captures both the deformation data (equivalent to indenter measurements) and the anatomical location information (equivalent to imaging localization) in one unified measurement process, eliminating the need for separate tools
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal measurement system where the camera arrays perform multiple functions: capturing external shapes, tracking tissue deformation, localizing anatomical positions, and measuring displacement. This multi-functional system replaces the need for specialized handheld indenters and separate imaging devices, providing comprehensive tissue parameter measurement with built-in localization capability
4Measurement precision
If the number of measurement sites is increased for comprehensive prosthetic design, then better fit can be achieved, but measurement time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from point-by-point measurement to full-field measurement by using camera arrays that capture the entire biological body segment surface simultaneously. Instead of measuring one location at a time with handheld devices, the system captures thousands of measurement points across the entire surface in parallel, dramatically increasing measurement efficiency while maintaining comprehensive data quality for accurate prosthetic fitting
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
Provides an inexpensive, lightweight, and portable system for collecting dynamic biomechanical data across biological segments, enabling the design of custom-fit interfacing devices such as prostheses, orthoses, and exoskeletons with improved comfort and safety by accounting for tissue behaviors and mechanical properties.
Implementation Method 1
The imaging devices can be cameras, and cross-referencing can be performed by cross-correlation, including for example, three-dimensional digital image correlation (DIC), to generate a model of the biological body segment
Implementation Method 2
A mechanical perturbator is also included within the structure, said perturbator being configured to use a fluid to deform soft tissue, such as a nozzle configured to eject a fluid
Implementation Method 3
A device for three-dimensional imaging of a biological body segment according to the present invention is defined in appended claim 1, and includes a structure configured to receive the biological body segment
Data Source
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AI summary
Devices and methods for obtaining external shapes and internal tissue geometries, as well as tissue behaviors, of a biological body segment are provided. A device for three- dimensional imaging of a biological body segment includes a structure configured to receive the biological body segment, the structure including a first array of imaging devices disposed about a perimeter of the device to capture side images of the biological body segment and a second array of imaging devices disposed at an end of the device to capture images of a distal portion of the biological body segment. The second array has a generally axial viewing angle relative to the perimeter. A controller is configured to generate a three-dimensional reconstruction of the biological body segment based on cross-correlation of captured images from the first and second arrays.