Chip-in-Tip Endoscope Optics for Higher-Resolution 3D Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing CIT endoscopes suffer from limited image resolution due to the large stereo base between optical axes, which results in underutilization of the image sensor surface and a suboptimal three-dimensional impression.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an optical correction element that shifts the optical axes axially parallel, reducing the image center distance to be less than the stereo base, allowing for improved image resolution by utilizing more pixels on the sensor surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a large stereo base is used to achieve a strong three-dimensional impression, then the three-dimensional perception is improved, but the image resolution deteriorates due to underutilization of the image sensor surface
Solution Approach 1:
An optical correction element is introduced as an intermediary component between the optical channels and the image sensor. This element shifts the optical axes to reduce the image center distance, allowing better utilization of the sensor surface while maintaining the stereo base for 3D perception. The correction element acts as a mediator that reconciles the conflicting requirements of large stereo base and high image resolution.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the parameter of image center distance by using an optical correction element to shift the optical axes. By adjusting the position of the optical axes relative to the sensor surface, the system optimizes the utilization of the sensor surface area, thereby improving image resolution without compromising the stereo base that provides three-dimensional perception.
2Ease of operation
If the optical axes are kept at a large distance to maintain stereo base, then three-dimensional vision is improved, but the active sensor surface area for imaging is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The optical correction element serves as a mediator that decouples the relationship between stereo base and sensor surface utilization. It allows the optical axes to be positioned at an appropriate distance for stereoscopic vision while simultaneously shifting the image centers to maximize the active sensor surface area, thus resolving the contradiction between maintaining stereo base and maximizing sensor utilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention addresses the spatial conflict by introducing an optical correction element that operates in the optical path dimension. This element shifts the image centers along the optical axis direction, effectively utilizing the sensor surface area that would otherwise be wasted due to the large stereo base, thereby converting the spatial constraint into an opportunity for improved sensor utilization.
3Measurement precision
If the image center distance is reduced to improve image resolution, then more pixels are available for imaging, but the stereo base effect is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The optical correction element is positioned as an intermediary in the optical path, allowing it to shift the image centers formed by the optical channels. This shifting reduces the image center distance to improve image resolution while the optical channels themselves maintain their original stereo base configuration, preserving the stereoscopic impression. The correction element mediates between these two requirements by operating at the image plane rather than at the optical channel level.
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 solution enhances image resolution by increasing the active sensor surface area for imaging, enabling higher-quality stereoscopic images with improved three-dimensional perception.
Implementation Method 1
an optical correction element, which (with respect to the respective imaging beam path) is arranged between the two optical channels and the at least one image sensor. The optical correction element is designed here so that at least one, but preferably both, of the above-mentioned two optical axes shifts, preferably axially parallel
Data Source
AI summary
To improve the image quality of stereoscopic images which are recorded using a CIT endoscope (1), it is provided that an optical correction element (11), which shifts respective main beams (20a, 20b) of the respective optical channel (4a, 4b) axially parallel so that imaging beam paths (5a, 5b), which are generated by the two optical channels (4a, 4b) approach one another, is arranged between two optical channels (4a, 4b), which are used for imaging, extend parallel and are formed identically, and the image sensor (2) used for imaging. As a result, an image center distance D between image areas (6a, 6b) on a sensor surface (7) of the image sensor (2) that is used for both individual images can thus be reduced in comparison to an entry-side stereo base B defined by the two optical channels (4a, 4b), so that a higher image resolution can be achieved.