Co-directional Multi-FOV Imaging in Tethered Capsule
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional optical imaging systems face challenges in obtaining co-oriented and co-directional images of object spaces, particularly in confined bodily cavities like the esophagus and intestines, due to the need for repositioning and reorientation of the imaging probe, which can cause trauma and is inconvenient and expensive.
Innovation Solution
An optoelectronic system with a housing shell containing a front and lateral optical imaging system, each with a distinct optical axis and field of view, is integrated into a tethered capsule that allows for simultaneous imaging of both views without physical repositioning, using a programmable processor to transform images for co-orientation and co-directionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a forward-viewing optical imaging system is used to navigate through bodily cavities, then navigation capability is improved, but the ability to view lateral or backward regions of interest is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The optical imaging system is divided into multiple independent optical channels: a forward-viewing channel for navigation and lateral/backward viewing channels for observing regions of interest. Each channel has its own optical axis and field of view, allowing simultaneous navigation and observation of lateral structures without requiring probe repositioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a single forward-viewing dimension to multi-dimensional imaging by adding lateral and backward viewing capabilities. This is achieved by incorporating optical detectors and lenses oriented at different angles, enabling the system to capture images in multiple spatial dimensions simultaneously.
2Measurement precision
If the imaging probe is repositioned and reoriented to view different regions, then complete inspection of the object space is improved, but the time required for inspection and risk of tissue trauma are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The probe is equipped with multiple optical imaging systems oriented in different directions (forward, lateral, backward), each capable of independently capturing images of different regions. This segmentation allows simultaneous viewing of multiple regions without requiring physical repositioning of the entire probe, thereby reducing inspection time and minimizing tissue trauma risk.
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-directional optical channels enable continuous imaging of different regions without interruption or probe withdrawal. The system can continuously capture images from multiple perspectives simultaneously, maintaining uninterrupted observation and eliminating the need for repeated probe insertion and repositioning.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional endoscopes are used to view behind folds and obscurations, then ability to access confined spaces is improved, but physical impact and trauma to tissue are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system is segmented into multiple directional channels that can independently view different regions including areas behind folds and obscurations. The lateral and backward viewing channels provide alternative pathways to observe confined spaces without requiring the probe to physically maneuver into difficult-to-reach positions, thereby reducing mechanical stress and trauma to the tissue.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple optical imaging systems with different optical axes are integrated, then ability to view multiple fields of view simultaneously is improved, but device complexity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
A single imaging probe integrates multiple optical imaging systems with different optical axes and fields of view, making the device multi-functional. The probe can simultaneously perform forward navigation, lateral observation, and backward viewing, eliminating the need for multiple separate devices and simplifying the overall system architecture despite the increased capability.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple optical channels with distinct optical axes are merged into a single integrated probe housing. The optical detectors, lenses, and associated components are combined in a compact arrangement that allows simultaneous operation of all channels, reducing the need for multiple separate devices and simplifying the overall system.
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
This approach enables non-destructive, trauma-free imaging of internal body structures with co-oriented and co-directional views, reducing the need for repositioning and enhancing the accuracy of imaging without sedation, while maintaining the structural and molecular condition assessment of target tissues.
Implementation Method 1
a first lens contained in the volume of the shell and facing the first portion of the housing shell such that a combination of the first lens and the first portion of the housing shell defines and completely describes a front optical imaging system... a second lens contained in the volume and facing the second portion of the housing shell such that a combination of the second lens and the second portion of the housing shell defines and completely describes a lateral optical imaging system
Data Source
AI summary
A tethered opto-electronic imaging system encapsulated in an optically-transmissible housing capsule/shell and configured to image object space in multiple fields-of-view (FOVs) to form a visually-perceivable representation of the object space in which sub-images representing different FOVs remain co-directional regardless of mutual repositioning of the object and the imaging system. The capsule/shell of the system is a functionally-required portion of the train of optical components that aggregately define and form a lens of the optical imaging system. The tether is devoid of any functional optical channel or element. When different FOVs are supported by the same optical detector, co-directionality of formed sub-images images is achieved due via judicious spatial re-distribution of irradiance of an acquired sub-image to form a transformed sub-image while maintaining aspect ratios of dimensions of corresponding pixels of the acquired and transformed sub-images. Methodology of transformation of images utilizing radial redistribution of image irradiance.