Endoscope Calibration Chart With Arc-Connected Markers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional endoscopes, particularly 3D binocular endoscopes, face challenges in calibrating image pickup optical axes due to deviations caused by sterilization and disinfection processes like thermal expansion and pressure, which affect the accuracy of observation images.
Innovation Solution
An image calibration inspection tool with a calibration chart featuring substantially rectangular markers connected by an arc-shaped curve, allowing for precise correction of image pickup optical axes using a control unit to align image regions detected by the endoscope's image sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If sterilization and disinfection processes (thermal expansion, pressure) are applied to the endoscope, then the endoscope can be reused and maintained, but the image pickup optical axes of the two left and right observation optical systems deviate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary calibration action by providing a calibration chart with specific marker patterns (arc-shaped curves connecting rectangular markers) that can be photographed by the endoscope before actual use. This preliminary calibration establishes reference data that compensates for future deviations caused by sterilization processes, allowing the system to maintain measurement precision despite repeated sterilization cycles.
2Measurement precision
If a conventional checkered pattern calibration matrix is used, then intrinsic and external parameters can be corrected, but the calibration chart cannot withstand sterilization and disinfection processes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical and chemical parameters of the calibration chart by using materials and structures that can withstand sterilization processes. The calibration chart is designed with specific marker geometries (rectangular markers with arc-shaped connections) and material properties that maintain structural integrity during autoclave sterilization and hydrogen peroxide treatment, while still providing sufficient contrast and geometric precision for accurate calibration.
3Reliability
If the endoscope insertion portion is detached and reattached, then the endoscope can be sterilized and maintained, but the position of the insertion portion changes causing calibration errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms through the calibration chart that provides reference information after each reattachment. The specific marker pattern (arc-shaped curves connecting rectangular markers) enables the control unit to detect positional deviations and automatically correct them, creating a feedback loop that compensates for positioning errors introduced during detachment and reattachment cycles.
Data Source
AI summary
An image calibration inspection tool includes: a plurality of substantially rectangular markers, two orthogonal sides of which are connected by an arc-shaped curve; and a calibration chart in which the plurality of markers are formed on a metal plate through machining, laser marking, or the like, wherein two of the markers in a diagonal direction are separated by a predetermined distance.