Diffusion Element for Endoscope Illumination Uniformity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current illumination optical systems in endoscopes face challenges in achieving uniform wide-area illumination while minimizing backscattering and light loss, particularly in systems with a wide angle of view like 180° or more.
Innovation Solution
The illumination optical system incorporates a diffusion element formed by dispersing fine particles in a homogeneous medium, where the scattering coefficient and anisotropy parameter satisfy specific conditional expressions, along with a reflecting surface and emission surface design to scatter and direct illumination light efficiently, reducing backscattering and enhancing light utilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If a diffusion element is used to uniformly illuminate a wide region, then illumination uniformity is improved, but backscattering increases causing light loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by precisely controlling the scattering coefficient (μs) and anisotropy parameter (g) of the diffusion element to satisfy specific conditional expressions. This optimization allows the diffusion element to achieve uniform wide-area illumination while minimizing backscattering and light loss, resolving the contradiction between illumination uniformity and light loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The diffusion element is constructed as a composite material containing fine particles dispersed in a transparent resin matrix. This composite structure enables tailored optical properties by selecting appropriate particle types, sizes, and concentrations, allowing the system to achieve both uniform illumination and reduced backscattering simultaneously.
2Illumination intensity
If the scattering coefficient is increased to improve diffusion, then illumination uniformity is improved, but light loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by establishing an optimal range for the scattering coefficient (0.06 ≤ μs ≤ 20) and combining it with specific anisotropy parameter values (0.5 ≤ g < 1.0). This parameter optimization ensures sufficient diffusion for uniform illumination while preventing excessive scattering that would cause light loss.
3Illumination intensity
If fine particles are dispersed to create diffusion, then light scattering is improved, but manufacturing precision becomes difficult to control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent specifies concrete parameter ranges including particle diameter (0.1-50 μm), concentration (1-50 wt%), scattering coefficient (0.06 ≤ μs ≤ 20), and anisotropy parameter (0.5 ≤ g < 1.0). These quantified parameters provide clear manufacturing targets, transforming the abstract concept of 'good diffusion' into controllable engineering specifications.
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 configuration allows for uniform illumination over a wide region with improved light utilization efficiency by limiting backscattering and optimizing the scattering of illumination light, thereby enhancing the overall performance of the endoscope's illumination system.
Implementation Method 1
a diffusion element that diffuses illumination light entering from a light source
Data Source
AI summary
An illumination optical system includes a diffusion element that diffuses illumination light entering from a light source, the diffusion element emitting the illumination light. The diffusion element is formed by dispersing fine particles of at least one kind in a homogeneous medium that is made of a material different from the fine particles, and the diffusion element satisfies a specific conditional expressions.