Dynamic Light Control for Endoscopic Image Luminance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Medical procedures such as endoscopy and urology face challenges in obtaining accurate images due to variable lighting conditions, leading to overexposed and underexposed regions, and image artifacts like hotspots, shadows, and blackouts, which complicate analysis and affect patient treatment.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for dynamically modifying luminance values of images by adjusting camera and light source settings based on a weighted frame luminance determined using an imbalance factor, applying algorithms to correct luminance imbalances and reduce image artifacts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual or global intensity adjustment of light source is used, then device complexity is reduced, but image quality deteriorates due to inability to account for variable lighting conditions and depth changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the image into multiple regions (e.g., 4x4 grid of 12x12 pixel grids) and adjusts light intensity independently for each region based on locally measured luminance values. This segmentation allows precise control of lighting in specific areas without affecting the entire image, resolving the contradiction between simple global control and precise local adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts light source intensity in real-time based on feedback from image analysis. The processor continuously monitors luminance values, compares them against thresholds, and modifies light intensity accordingly. This dynamic adaptation enables the system to handle variable lighting conditions and depth changes automatically, improving image quality without requiring complex manual intervention.
2Illumination intensity
If light intensity is increased to illuminate dark regions, then visibility of deep anatomy improves, but overexposure of superficial structures occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different light intensity levels to different regions of the image based on their specific luminance characteristics. Regions with low luminance (dark areas) receive increased intensity, while regions with high luminance (bright areas) maintain or reduce intensity. This local quality adjustment ensures that deep anatomical structures are properly illuminated without causing overexposure of superficial structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the light intensity parameter dynamically based on measured luminance values. When a region's luminance falls below a threshold, the light intensity is increased; when above the threshold, it is maintained or decreased. This parameter adjustment allows the system to optimize illumination for each region independently, preventing both underexposure and overexposure.
3Measurement precision
If exposure time is extended to capture detailed images, then image quality improves, but motion artifacts and blackout regions increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the image into multiple regions and processes them independently, allowing optimized exposure time for each region based on its specific characteristics. This enables detailed imaging in stable regions while minimizing exposure time in regions prone to motion artifacts, balancing image quality with artifact reduction.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from luminance measurement to adjust exposure time dynamically. By continuously monitoring image quality and comparing it against criteria, the system can extend exposure time when needed for detail capture while reducing it when motion artifacts are detected, maintaining optimal image quality without excessive exposure.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for modifying the luminance value of at least one image are discussed, e.g., including receiving a request to modify the luminance value of at least one image, determining a weighted frame luminance of the at least one image based on an imbalance factor, modifying the luminance value of the at least one image by changing at least one setting of the camera and/or the light source automatically or manually based on the determined weighted frame luminance, and causing to output to a graphical user interface a visualization of the at least one image with the modified luminance value.