Dual-Mode Endoscopic Capsule Polyp Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current screening methods for colorectal cancer, such as immunochemical fecal occult blood tests and conventional optical colonoscopies, face challenges in sensitivity, specificity, patient acceptance, availability, and cost-effectiveness, necessitating an improved device and method for early detection.

Innovation Solution

A dual-mode endoscopic capsule with a first imaging system for a broader spectral range and a second imaging system with adjustable frame rates, utilizing a processor for image processing and deep learning to detect polyps, switching between modes to conserve energy and enhance detection accuracy.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If the second imaging system operates at a high frame rate continuously, then polyp detection accuracy is improved, but energy consumption increases and battery life is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepolyp detection accuracyVSAvoidenergy consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by making the frame rate of the second imaging system adjustable rather than fixed. The system dynamically switches between a first frame rate (lower) and a second frame rate (higher) based on real-time polyp detection results from the first imaging system, allowing optimal energy consumption while maintaining detection accuracy when needed

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary detection using the first imaging system before activating the higher frame rate second imaging system. This preliminary action allows the system to prepare for high-energy operation only when polyps are detected, avoiding unnecessary energy consumption during normal surveillance

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Duration of action of moving object

If the second imaging system operates at a low frame rate to conserve energy, then battery life is extended, but polyp detection capability is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebattery lifeVSAvoidpolyp detection capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of moving objectVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adjusts the operating frame rate of the second imaging system based on detection needs. When no polyps are detected, it operates at a lower frame rate to extend battery life; when polyps are detected by the first imaging system, it switches to a higher frame rate to ensure accurate capture and analysis

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Loss of information

If both imaging systems operate simultaneously at high frame rates, then comprehensive image data is obtained, but energy consumption exceeds available power supply

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage data completenessVSAvoidpower consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic coordination between the two imaging systems. The first imaging system operates continuously at a baseline frame rate for surveillance, while the second imaging system's frame rate is dynamically adjusted based on detection events, ensuring comprehensive data collection without exceeding power supply limits

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses periodic detection cycles where the first imaging system continuously monitors and triggers the second imaging system only when polyps are detected. This periodic activation pattern ensures complete image data is obtained when needed while maintaining average power consumption within available supply limits

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Data Source

PatentEP3727124B1Dual-mode endoscopic capsule with image processing capabilities
Publication Date: 2023.11.01 SYDDANSK UNIV
  • EP3727124B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3727124B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3727124B1 patent drawing

AI summary

There is presented an endoscopic capsule (100) comprising a first imaging system (101, 110, 112) and a second imaging system (102, 110, 112), wherein the first imaging system is arranged for obtaining images at a broader spectral range than the second imaging system, the endoscopic capsule further comprising a processor (114), wherein the endoscopic capsule is arranged for operating in any one of a first mode wherein a frame rate of the first imaging system is higher than a frame rate of the second imaging system, and a second mode wherein the frame rate of the second imaging system is higher than the frame rate of the second imaging system in the first mode, wherein the processor (114) in the first mode is arranged for accessing one or more images from the first imaging system, detecting if there is a polyp (104) in the one or more images from the first imaging system, and switching from the first mode to the second mode if a (polyp 104) is detected in the one or more images from the first imaging system.