Digital Surgical Loupe With Integrated Imaging and Illumination
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current optical loupes face challenges with larger size and weight due to higher magnification requirements, lack of integrated illumination and recording capabilities, and separate setup of viewing, magnification, and lighting systems, which are inconvenient and inefficient for specialized fields like medicine and dentistry.
Innovation Solution
An electronic loupe incorporating a video camera, LED light source, and display system for real-time documentation, adjustable illumination, and synchronized magnification and lighting, allowing for high magnification, ergonomic design, and integrated recording and sharing capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If higher magnification is achieved using optical lens system, then magnification power is improved, but device size and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional optical lens system with a digital imaging system consisting of a camera, processor, and display. The camera captures images of the object, the processor digitally magnifies and processes the images, and the display presents the magnified view to the user. This substitution of mechanical/optical components with electronic/digital components achieves high magnification power while significantly reducing device weight and size.
2Measurement precision
If optical lens system is used for magnification, then magnification is achieved, but device complexity and number of components increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (magnification, illumination, image capture, image processing, and display) into a single integrated electronic device. The camera, light source, processor, and display are merged into one unified system, eliminating the need for separate optical instruments and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic device performs multiple functions simultaneously: capturing images, digitally magnifying them, providing illumination, processing the images, and displaying the results. This multi-functionality replaces what previously required multiple separate devices, simplifying the overall system architecture.
3Measurement precision
If separate microscope setup is used for higher magnification, then magnification power is improved, but space occupation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the camera, processor, display, and illumination system into a compact, nested configuration where smaller components are housed within a single portable device. This nested arrangement achieves high magnification power in a space-efficient manner, eliminating the need for large, separate microscope setups.
4Illumination intensity
If illumination system is added to align with observed object, then lighting quality is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The illumination system is merged with the camera and display components into a single integrated unit. The light source is positioned to automatically align with the camera's optical axis and the display's viewing angle, ensuring proper lighting without requiring separate, complex alignment mechanisms.
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 electronic loupe provides lightweight, convenient, and ergonomic use with superior magnification, integrated illumination, and recording functions, enhancing user experience and efficiency in specialized fields.
Implementation Method 1
An optical loupe using a magnifying lens or lens system is a common device worn by user in front of their eyes to magnify the observed objects
Implementation Method 2
illumination or lighting for an observed object is also important to see objects under magnification
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic loupe (400) features a view piece (401) mounted to a headpiece (405) by a linkage (406). A camera (402) and LED light (403) are mounted (404) in front of the view piece (401) to provide an image in the view piece (401) on displays (not shown) for the user. A control box (410) may be wired to the electronic loupe, or wirelessly connected, or the controls for the electronic loupe may reside on the view piece (401) and the headpiece (405). Other controls, such as a remote control or a foot pedal, are also disclosed. Illumination controls and location are designed for ideal illumination along various spectra. Automatic recording and documentation is also provided.