Confocal Endoscope Scale Superimposition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Confocal endoscope systems with high resolution and scaling factors lack the capability to superimpose scale information effectively, limiting their practical application in medical diagnostics, particularly in generating precise three-dimensional representations and cross-sectional images of tissue.
Innovation Solution
A confocal endoscope system equipped with a processor that includes an image processing unit for generating image data, a measuring information superimposing unit to match display conditions with the imaging area, and a three-dimensional image generation unit, allowing for the display of measuring information in sync with high-quality object images, including digital zooming and scale indication settings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If confocal optical system is used to generate high resolution observation images, then image resolution and scaling factor are improved, but the capability to superimpose scale information is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the image processing function into separate modules: an image processing unit that generates high-resolution confocal images and a measuring information superimposing unit that adds scale information. This segmentation allows each unit to specialize in its function while working together to resolve the contradiction between maintaining image quality and enabling measurement capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The measuring information superimposing unit acts as an intermediary between the image processing unit and the display device. It receives high-resolution image data, calculates appropriate scale information based on imaging parameters, and superimposes the scale on the image before display, thus preserving both image quality and measurement capability.
2Measurement precision
If scale information is superimposed on observation image, then measurement capability is improved, but display condition matching with imaging area becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback by having the measuring information superimposing unit calculate scale information based on imaging parameters (magnification, image height) from the confocal optical unit. This feedback mechanism ensures that the displayed scale automatically matches the actual imaging area, simplifying the complexity of display condition matching.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes parameters by calculating scale information dynamically based on imaging conditions such as magnification and image height. This parameter-based approach allows the scale display to automatically adapt to different imaging scenarios without requiring complex manual configuration.
3Adaptability or versatility
If focal point is shifted to achieve depth observation, then three-dimensional representation capability is improved, but the need for precise scale matching increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies dynamics by making the scale information dynamic rather than static. When the focal point is shifted to observe different tissue depths, the measuring information superimposing unit recalculation the scale based on the new imaging parameters, ensuring that the scale always accurately reflects the current imaging conditions regardless of depth.
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
Enables precise measurement and visualization of tissue with high-quality, scale-matched images, facilitating quick and accurate location of affected regions through enhanced two-dimensional and three-dimensional imaging and cross-sectional views.
Implementation Method 1
a confocal optical unit configured to emit illumination light toward an object and to obtain only light from a certain point of the object
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a confocal endoscope system which is provided with an electronic endoscope having a confocal optical unit configured to emit illumination light toward an object and to obtain only light from a certain point of the object, and a processor to which the light obtained by the confocal optical unit is inputted. The processor is provided with an image processing unit that generates image data representing an image of the object based on the light transmitted from the confocal optical unit, and a measuring information superimposing unit that generates composite image data representing a composite image generated by superimposing measuring information for measuring the object on the image generated by the image processing unit. The measuring information superimposing unit determines a display condition of the measuring information on the composite image in accordance with an imaging area of the confocal optical unit.