Endoscope Imaging Device Single Two Pupil Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional stereoscopic imaging methods for three-dimensional shape measurement, such as those used in endoscope applications, face challenges in achieving high-resolution images without color misregistration and are prone to inaccurate triangulation due to relative movement between the imaging system and the object, especially when using time-division switching and color-phase difference methods.
Innovation Solution
An imaging device and method that switches between a single pupil and two pupils optical states, generating a simulative phase difference image and comparing it with a captured image to detect phase differences, allowing for stereoscopic measurement without time-division illumination and color-phase difference methods, enabling high-resolution image capture with white light and real-time observation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If time-division switching is used to capture left and right images separately, then stereoscopic measurement can be achieved, but measurement accuracy deteriorates due to relative movement between imaging system and object
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses color-phase difference method to capture left and right images simultaneously in a continuous manner, eliminating the time delay inherent in time-division switching. By separating the optical paths using beam splitters and color filters, both images are captured at the same moment, ensuring measurement accuracy even when there is relative movement between the imaging system and the object.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the optical path into multiple channels using beam splitters and color filters. The imaging system is divided into first and second optical paths that capture light of different color phases simultaneously, allowing both left and right images to be captured at the same time without temporal separation.
2Measurement precision
If color-phase difference method is used for stereoscopic imaging, then simultaneous capture of left and right images is achieved, but color misregistration occurs in the captured images
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an image processing unit that acts as an intermediary to correct color misregistration. This unit receives the captured images and performs color alignment processing to eliminate the color shifts caused by the color-phase difference method, thereby restoring proper color registration while maintaining simultaneous capture capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the image processing unit analyzes the captured images for color misregistration and applies corrective transformations. The processed images are then output with proper color alignment, creating a closed-loop system that compensates for the color-phase difference method's side effects.
3Measurement precision
If separate image sensors are used for left and right images, then stereoscopic measurement function is achieved, but device complexity and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of multiple image sensors into a single image sensor. By using beam splitters and color filters to direct light from different optical paths to the same sensor, the system achieves stereoscopic measurement capability while using only one image sensor, thereby reducing device complexity and size.
Solution Approach 2:
The single image sensor performs multiple functions by capturing both left and right images through different optical paths. The sensor is used universally for both stereoscopic measurement and normal observation, eliminating the need for separate dedicated sensors for each function.
4Manufacturing precision
If high-resolution observation is required, then image quality is improved, but stereoscopic measurement capability is compromised when using a common image sensor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic switching mechanism that allows the system to adapt between observation mode and measurement mode. The optical paths can be dynamically configured to prioritize either high-resolution observation or stereoscopic measurement based on the current operational requirements, providing flexibility without sacrificing either capability.
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
This approach enables accurate stereoscopic measurement and high-resolution image capture in real-time, unaffected by object or system movement, without the need for separate image sensors or complex illumination mechanisms, suitable for applications like endoscopes and industrial cameras.
Implementation Method 1
detecting a phase difference between a first captured image and a second captured image
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging device includes an image sensor, an optical system forming an image of an object on the image sensor, and a processor. The optical system switches between a first state of capturing an image of the object with a single pupil and a second state of capturing an image of the object with two pupils. The processor generates a simulative phase difference image from a first captured image captured with the image sensor in the first state, and executes matching processing of comparing the simulative phase difference image with a second capture image captured with the image sensor in the second state to detect a phase difference between an image formed with one of the two pupils and an image formed with another one of the two pupils.