Endoscope Coupler Orientation Sensing for Stable Imaging
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscopic systems lack efficient mechanisms for image stabilization and fluid management during medical procedures, particularly when the orientation of the endoscope changes, leading to misalignment and inefficient fluid control.
Innovation Solution
A rotatable C-mount optical coupler assembly with integrated accelerometers and gyroscopes for image stabilization, combined with a fluid management system controlled by a controller and actuators, allowing for precise image orientation correction and adjustable fluid parameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the endoscope orientation changes during medical procedures, then the field of view adapts to different anatomical positions, but the displayed image becomes misaligned and unstable
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses accelerometers and gyroscopes to continuously detect the endoscope's orientation and provides feedback signals to the image processor, which automatically rotates and stabilizes the displayed image to maintain proper alignment regardless of endoscope position
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical image stabilization mechanisms with electronic sensors (accelerometers and gyroscopes) and digital image processing algorithms, allowing for precise orientation detection and correction without moving mechanical parts
2Reliability
If a rotatable C-mount optical coupler assembly with sensors is integrated, then image stabilization is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into the handle assembly: the C-mount optical coupler for image capture, accelerometers for motion detection, gyroscopes for orientation sensing, and fluid management components, all integrated into a single handheld unit to reduce overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The handle assembly serves multiple purposes: it houses the image sensor and stabilization sensors, provides fluid management controls, and acts as the interface for operating the entire endoscopic system, making it a universal control center
3Manufacturing precision
If fluid management parameters are made adjustable during procedures, then fluid control precision is improved, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from fixed fluid management parameters to dynamically adjustable parameters, allowing the operator to modify fluid flow rates, pressures, and other parameters in real-time based on procedural needs through electronic controls in the handle
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
Ensures stable image display and effective fluid management regardless of endoscope orientation, enhancing the usability and precision of endoscopic procedures.
Implementation Method 1
at least one of an accelerometer and a gyroscope carried by the rotatable C-mount optical coupler assembly
Implementation Method 2
at least one of an accelerometer and a gyroscope carried by the rotatable C-mount optical coupler assembly
Data Source
AI summary
Endoscopic viewing systems for use in diagnostic and therapeutic medical procedures. More specifically, an imaging and control system and coupler that allows for control of imaging and fluid management from a hand-held unit coupled to a conventional multiple-use, sterilizable endoscope.