Camera Unit with Adaptable Imaging Optics for Multi-Organ Visualization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing imaging devices are limited in their ability to produce high-quality images of organs for which they are not specifically intended, making it difficult to achieve successful imaging and image quality.

Innovation Solution

A camera unit with adaptable imaging optics and optical components that can be automatically adjusted and controlled to optimize image production and processing, allowing for versatile imaging of different organs by using data structures that include identification data and control mechanisms for illumination and image processing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a fixed imaging device is designed for a specific organ, then the device can achieve good image quality for that organ, but the device cannot successfully image other organs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimaging capability for different organsVSAvoidimage quality
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The imaging device is designed with interchangeable optical components (objective lenses, illumination sources, and optical pathways) that can be configured for different imaging modalities. The same camera body and controller can image eyes, skin, ears, and other organs by swapping optical components, achieving multi-functionality without sacrificing image quality for any specific organ.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The device incorporates dynamic configuration capabilities where optical components can be selected and adjusted based on the imaging target. The controller automatically adjusts imaging parameters (exposure, focus, illumination intensity) according to the detected organ type, enabling the fixed device to adapt to different imaging requirements while maintaining optimal image quality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of operation

If manual operation is used for imaging, then the device structure can be simple, but successful imaging is difficult and requires operator skill

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimaging operation simplicityVSAvoidsuccessful imaging rate
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The imaging device incorporates automatic detection and configuration functions. The controller automatically identifies the imaging target organ, selects the appropriate optical component configuration, and adjusts imaging parameters without requiring manual intervention. This self-service capability makes the device easy to operate while ensuring reliable, successful imaging through automated optimization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The device uses feedback mechanisms where the controller receives information about the imaging target and automatically adjusts imaging parameters based on real-time conditions. The system monitors image quality metrics and makes automatic adjustments to ensure successful imaging, reducing dependence on operator skill while maintaining high reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Manufacturing precision

If automatic control is implemented for image production, then imaging conditions can be optimized, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage qualityVSAvoidsystem structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The device merges multiple functions into integrated modules. The controller combines automatic organ detection, optical component selection, illumination control, and imaging parameter optimization into a single coordinated system. This integration achieves automated optimization of image quality while managing complexity through unified control architecture rather than separate independent systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentEP2197334B1Producing an image
Publication Date: 2017.07.05 OPTOMED OY
  • EP2197334B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2A
  • EP2197334B1 patent drawingFigure 2B~3
  • EP2197334B1 patent drawingFigure 4~5A

AI summary

An optical component (110 to 114) is connectable to a camera unit (100) and comprises a data structure (116 to 120) including data associated with the optical component (110 to 114). When the optical component (110 to 114) is connected to the camera unit (100), data associated with the optical component (110 to 114) is transferred to the camera unit (100). Image production of an organ by the camera unit (100) is controlled based on the data associated with the optical component (110 to 114).