Endoscope Filter Identification via Inverted Spectral Test Target
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for testing endoscopes, particularly those used in fluorescence diagnosis, face challenges in reliably distinguishing between different optical filters due to their similar spectral properties, which can lead to confusion and compromised diagnostic value, especially in tightly packed endoscope designs where filters are not easily accessible for identification.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a target with test fields and a holder for the endoscope, where the test fields contain a test filter arrangement with reversed spectral characteristics to the observation filter, allowing for the determination of filter presence and deviations through brightness changes observed with the endoscope, enabling simple and reliable filter identification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If filters are arranged in the distal end area of the endoscope shaft to enable fluorescence diagnosis, then the diagnostic capability is improved, but the filters become difficult to identify and distinguish due to tight space constraints and lack of accessibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a test filter arrangement that replicates the spectral characteristics of the observation filters in reverse. By creating a test target with filters having inverted transmission properties (blocking wavelengths that the observation filter transmits and vice versa), the system enables clear distinction between different observation filters through brightness variations in test fields, solving the identification problem without modifying the actual observation filters in the constrained endoscope space
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs spectral characteristics and brightness variations to differentiate between filters. By observing how different test fields appear with varying brightness levels when viewed through the endoscope, operators can identify which observation filter is installed based on the transmitted light intensity patterns, effectively using optical property changes for filter identification
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple observation filters with similar spectral properties are used for different fluorescence modes, then the versatility of the endoscope is improved, but the ability to distinguish between filters is reduced leading to confusion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the spectral characteristics of the test filters relative to the observation filters. Instead of trying to distinguish observation filters directly, the system uses test filters with reversed transmission properties that create contrasting brightness patterns when combined with each observation filter type, making it easier to identify the correct filter configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates different local optical conditions in separate test fields, each designed to interact with specific observation filter characteristics. By having multiple test fields with different filter arrangements, the system generates unique brightness signatures for each observation filter type, enabling precise identification while maintaining multiple fluorescence observation capabilities
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the endoscope shaft is designed to be tightly packed to meet hygienic requirements, then the hygiene and compactness are improved, but the filters become inaccessible for identification and testing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the filter identification and testing function from the constrained endoscope shaft environment by placing test filters in a separate, accessible test target. This allows the observation filters to remain tightly packed in the endoscope for hygiene compliance while enabling external testing and identification through the test target that can be easily accessed and manipulated
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a test target as an intermediary element between the operator and the observation filters. This mediator contains test filters with known spectral characteristics that interact with the observation filters through the endoscope optical path, enabling indirect identification and testing of the observation filters without requiring direct access to them in the tightly packed endoscope shaft
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 device allows for precise identification of observation filters used in endoscopes, ensuring correct operation and maintaining diagnostic integrity by distinguishing between filters with similar spectral properties, even in tightly packed designs, thereby preventing misuse and ensuring quality assurance.
Implementation Method 1
The test field (36, 36') each contains a test filter arrangement (37) whose spectral characteristics correspond to the spectral characteristics of the illumination filter arrangement (57)
Implementation Method 2
which can be illuminated from a second direction, in particular from a direction opposite to the first direction
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2~3
Figure 4
AI summary
The device (1) has a holder for accommodating an endoscope for observation of a test field from a direction. The test field has a test filter arrangement illuminatable by a light source i.e. LED, from another direction so that light intensity in light transmitted through the filter arranged is assigned to the test field, where the light intensity is observed by the endoscope. The filter arrangement is provided with filters, where spectral characteristics of the filter arrangement are reciprocal to target characteristics of an observation filter arrangement. An independent claim is also included for a method for testing an endoscope for fluorescence observations.