Endoscope Light Source Segmentation for Uniform Visualization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Endoscopes face challenges in providing uniform illumination across the field of view due to variations in proximity and light reflecting characteristics of different body locations, which can lead to oversaturation or insufficient illumination, complicating visualization, and this issue is particularly costly for disposable endoscopes.
Innovation Solution
The endoscope incorporates multiple light sources at the distal end, each with independent control over light characteristics such as intensity, wavelength, polarization, or phase, enabled by an illumination control system that can manually or automatically adjust these parameters based on captured images to optimize illumination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If a diffusing lens is used to project light evenly over the visualization field, then illumination uniformity is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The illumination system is segmented into multiple independent light sources positioned at different locations within the endoscope. Each light source can be controlled independently to illuminate different regions of the field of view, replacing the need for a single complex diffusing lens system. This segmentation allows for simplified individual components while achieving overall illumination uniformity through coordinated control of multiple sources.
2Illumination intensity
If a diffusing lens is used to distribute light evenly, then illumination uniformity is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The illumination system is divided into multiple independent light sources that can be manufactured and assembled separately. This segmentation allows for standardized, cost-effective production of individual light source modules that can be mass-produced and then assembled into the endoscope, reducing overall manufacturing complexity and cost compared to producing a single complex diffusing lens assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables independent control of illumination parameters (intensity, wavelength, timing) for each light source. This parameter control allows for optimization of illumination uniformity through software or control circuitry rather than requiring precision optical components, thereby reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining illumination quality.
3Illumination intensity
If multiple light sources with independent control are used, then illumination uniformity and visualization quality are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The illumination system is segmented into multiple independently controllable light sources, each capable of being adjusted to provide optimal illumination for different regions of the field of view. This segmentation replaces the need for complex optical elements like diffusing lenses, achieving illumination uniformity through controlled distribution of light from multiple simpler sources.
Solution Approach 2:
Each light source can have its illumination parameters (intensity, wavelength, timing) independently adjusted and controlled. This parameter control capability allows the system to achieve uniform illumination and optimized visualization by dynamically adjusting the contribution of each light source, replacing complex static optical designs with flexible dynamic control of multiple simpler sources.
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 system ensures clear and uniform illumination across the field of view, improving visualization quality and reducing costs by allowing reusable components for disposable endoscopes.
Implementation Method 1
The plurality of light sources may include at least one LED
Data Source
AI summary
A medical device, configured for insertion into a body, may include an elongate member extending from a proximal end to a distal end, where the distal end may be configured to be positioned inside the body. The medical device may also include an imaging device positioned at the distal end. The medical device may further include a plurality of light sources positioned at the distal end, wherein a characteristic of light delivered through a first light source may be controlled independent of the characteristic of light delivered through a second light source.