Endoscope Depth Estimation via Multi-Wavelength Image Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current endoscopic systems lack the capability to accurately estimate the depth of target portions within a living body during medical procedures, relying on skilled surgeons for depth estimation which can be inaccurate.
Innovation Solution
A control device and method that acquire surface and inside images of an observation target, calculate three-dimensional coordinates for both the surface and target portions, and estimate depth information based on these coordinates, providing precise depth data for improved diagnostic and treatment accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If depth estimation is performed by skilled surgeons based on visual observation, then diagnostic and treatment decisions can be made, but the depth estimation accuracy is insufficient and varies between operators
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual depth estimation method (mechanical/visual observation by surgeons) with an automated image processing system that calculates depth information based on light absorption characteristics. The system uses multiple wavelength lights and image sensors to objectively measure depth, eliminating operator dependency and improving both accuracy and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables the endoscope itself to perform depth measurement functions through integrated light sources and image sensors. The endoscope autonomously captures images at multiple wavelengths, processes the light absorption data, and generates depth information without requiring external measurement tools or expert interpretation.
2Loss of information
If multiple types of illumination light are used for special light observation, then depth information of target portions can be obtained, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The endoscope is designed with multi-functional capabilities, integrating both white light illumination and special light illumination systems within a single device. The light source unit can switch between different wavelength lights, and the image processing unit handles multiple types of images, making the device versatile without requiring separate equipment for different observation modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple illumination functions (white light, fluorescence, narrow band imaging) and image processing capabilities into a single integrated endoscope system. The control device unifies the processing of images captured under different lighting conditions, merging previously separate functions into one cohesive system that reduces overall complexity.
3Measurement precision
If automated image processing is implemented to calculate three-dimensional coordinates, then depth estimation accuracy is improved, but the processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex manual depth measurement procedures with automated image processing algorithms. The control device automatically calculates three-dimensional coordinates by analyzing light absorption characteristics from multiple wavelength images, substituting manual measurement complexity with standardized computational processing that improves accuracy while managing complexity through automation.
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 solution enables accurate estimation of depth information, enhancing diagnostic accuracy and improving the precision of medical treatments by providing real-time, three-dimensional shape information of target portions within the body.
Implementation Method 1
calculate three-dimensional coordinates of the surface based on the surface image; calculate three-dimensional coordinates of the target portion based on the inside image
Data Source
AI summary
A control device includes a processor including hardware. The processor acquires a surface image of a surface of an observation target and an inside image of a target portion existing inside the observation target, calculates three-dimensional coordinates of the surface from the surface image, calculates three-dimensional coordinates of the target portion from the inside image, and estimates depth information indicating a depth from the surface to the target portion based on the three-dimensional coordinates of the surface and the three-dimensional coordinates of the target portion.