Class 1 VCSEL Imaging for Near-Surface Vein Visualization
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for visualizing near-surface vascular structures, such as veins, are inadequate due to the difficulty in penetrating turbid media like human skin, especially in individuals with higher melanin content or deeper fat layers.
Innovation Solution
A sub-dermal structure visualization system utilizing Class 1 vertical cavity surface emitting lasers that emit light in the spectral range of 700 nm to 950 nm, combined with an imaging device and control unit that manage spectral and polarization properties of the light to enhance vein visualization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If red light is used for vein visualization, then the vein absorption contrast is improved, but the penetration depth into skin with melanin is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the wavelength parameter of the illumination light from visible red light (600-700 nm) to near-infrared light (700-950 nm). This parameter change allows the light to penetrate deeper into skin with melanin while still maintaining vein visualization capability, as the NIR wavelength falls within the optical window where tissue absorption is minimized
2Device complexity
If visible light is used to illuminate skin, then the imaging system complexity is reduced, but the sub-dermal structure visibility is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs near-infrared wavelengths (700-950 nm) which fall within the optical window of tissue, allowing deeper penetration and better sub-dermal visualization while using relatively simple imaging components
3Illumination intensity
If higher power light sources are used to penetrate deeper tissue, then the imaging depth is improved, but the safety of the imaging system deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses near-infrared wavelengths (700-950 nm) which experience minimal absorption and scattering in tissue, the so-called optical window. This allows adequate penetration depth to be achieved with lower power light sources, maintaining safety while improving imaging capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs Class 1 laser diodes which are inherently safe and require no special safety precautions. These low-cost, safe light sources provide sufficient penetration for near-surface vein imaging without the safety concerns of higher power lasers
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 effectively enhances the visualization of near-surface vascular structures by improving the contrast and visibility of veins, even in challenging conditions, allowing for more accurate location and identification.
Implementation Method 1
Class 1 vertical cavity surface emitting lasers that emit light in the spectral range of 700 nm to 950 nm
Implementation Method 2
control unit controls at least one of the spectral and polarization properties of the light source
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure solves many problems. The main problem solved by the present disclosure is the problem of showing veins for patients whose veins may be hard to find. The present disclosure will greatly improve the venipuncture experiences for millions of people every day. The present invention discloses a system and method imaging objects in or behind a turbid medium comprising a light source adapted to illuminate an imaged area, an imaging device arranged to optically capture and relay an image, an electronic display to receive and display the image, and a control unit to control at least one spectral and polarization properties of the light source. Also disclosed is a camera module within an embodiment of the imaging device that provides for an alternative operation of the imaging device, without a control unit, and relaying of the image to the electronic display, which may be a tablet.