Stereo Endoscope Dual Optical Path Physiological Parameter Analysis

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing medical imaging apparatuses, such as endoscopes and exoscopes, cannot determine physiological parameters in parallel with real-time image display without compromising temporal, spatial, or spectral resolution.

Innovation Solution

A medical imaging apparatus with dual optical paths and image sensors, each equipped with filters that can be introduced by positioning devices, allowing for simultaneous evaluation of physiological parameters and real-time image information by filtering different spectral regions of the images.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If a single optical path and image sensor are used to record images, then the device structure is simple, but physiological parameters cannot be determined in parallel with real-time image display

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparallel determination of physiological parameters and real-time image displayVSAvoiddual optical paths with filter positioning devices
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system divides the imaging function into two separate optical paths: one for capturing real-time images and another for measuring physiological parameters. Each path has its own image sensor and can be independently configured with filters, allowing simultaneous operation without interference. This segmentation enables parallel processing of different types of information from the same observation region.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The dual optical path system serves multiple functions simultaneously: it captures real-time images for visual guidance and measures physiological parameters (such as oxygen saturation, hemoglobin content, water content) through spectral analysis. The same illumination light source and observation region are utilized for both purposes, making the system multi-functional and efficient.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple filters are used to determine different physiological parameters, then comprehensive parameter analysis is achieved, but temporal and spatial resolution are compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemultiple modes of operation for different physiological parametersVSAvoidtemporal and spatial resolution
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The filter positioning devices enable dynamic switching between different filter configurations in real-time. Each optical path can independently adjust its filter settings based on the desired measurement mode, allowing the system to adapt to different physiological parameter measurements without mechanical delays or loss of temporal resolution. The filters can be rapidly repositioned while maintaining continuous imaging capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system maintains continuous imaging and parameter measurement operations through parallel optical paths. While one path measures a specific physiological parameter with a particular filter configuration, the other path continues to capture real-time images or measure different parameters simultaneously. This continuity ensures no loss of temporal or spatial resolution while providing comprehensive multi-parameter analysis.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

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

Enables the simultaneous display of real-time physiological parameters and images, improving temporal and spatial resolution while allowing for continuous imaging and multiple modes of operation for determining parameters like oxygen saturation, hemoglobin content, and water content.

Implementation Method 1

the first optical path is assigned a first filter with a first filter spectrum and/or the second optical path is assigned a second filter with a second filter spectrum

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOptical filtering: Filter (optical)

Implementation Method 2

a light source with a light spectrum... configured to illuminate the observation region with a light spectrum

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight emission: Light

Data Source

PatentUS20240366073A1Medical imaging device, in particular an endoscope or exoscope
Publication Date: 2024.11.07 KARL STORZ SE & CO KG
  • US20240366073A1 patent drawing
  • US20240366073A1 patent drawing
  • US20240366073A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention relates to a medical imaging device, in particular a stereo endoscope or stereo exoscope, comprising: a light source having a light spectrum; an optical system, which has a first optical path, a first image sensor having a first sensor filter, a second optical path, and a second image sensor having a second sensor filter; wherein the relevant optical path extends between a viewing region and the relevant image sensor such that the first image sensor records a first image of the viewing region by means of the first optical path, and the second image sensor records a second image of the viewing region by means of the second optical path; wherein a first filter is or can be introduced into the first optical path by means of a first filter positioning device and/or a second filter is or can be introduced into the second optical path by means of a second filter positioning device, such that, from filtered image information of the first image and/or filtered image information of the second image, different spectral ranges of the relevant image can be evaluated, on the basis of the relevant filter introduced into the relevant optical path, in order to obtain additional image information or several pieces of additional image information relating to the physiological parameters in the viewing region.