Endoscope Light Source Apparatus with Rotating Filter Disk
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional light source apparatuses for endoscopes struggle to simultaneously perform normal observation and special light observation, such as narrow band imaging, due to limitations in mode switching and light source configurations, particularly with the increasing demand for narrow band observation using LEDs.
Innovation Solution
A light source apparatus featuring a first light source emitting a first and second wavelength band, a second light source emitting a third wavelength band, an optical filter section with a transmission section, and an optical path joining section that allows for mode selection between normal, narrow band, and twin observation modes by controlling the insertion and retraction of the transmission section in the optical path, enabling simultaneous display of normal and narrow band images.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single light source with fixed optical filters is used, then the structure is simple, but normal observation and narrow band observation cannot be performed simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The light source apparatus is segmented into multiple independent light sources (white LED and violet LED) rather than using a single light source. Each light source is dedicated to specific observation modes, allowing simultaneous operation of normal and narrow band observation without requiring complex mechanical filter switching mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The white LED serves multiple functions by providing both normal observation light (through direct emission) and narrow band observation light (when combined with violet LED and filtered). This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated light sources for each observation mode.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple light sources are used for different observation modes, then simultaneous normal and narrow band observation is enabled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The optical paths of the white LED and violet LED are merged into a single common optical path using a dichroic mirror. The dichroic mirror reflects violet light while transmitting white light, allowing both light sources to contribute to the same output without requiring separate complex optical systems.
Solution Approach 2:
An optical filter acts as an intermediary element that selectively transmits or blocks specific wavelength bands. By controlling the insertion and retraction of the optical filter, the system can selectively combine or separate the light from different sources without requiring complex mechanical switching for each observation mode.
3Speed
If mechanical filter switching is used for mode changes, then mode switching is achieved, but the switching speed and response time are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The optical filter is designed to be dynamically controllable, moving between inserted and retracted positions based on the selected observation mode. This dynamic control allows rapid switching between different observation modes by simply adjusting the filter position rather than requiring complex mechanical filter wheel rotations or multiple fixed filter configurations.
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 apparatus allows for seamless switching between normal and narrow band observation modes, as well as a twin mode for simultaneous display of both, enhancing observational capabilities in endoscopic applications by alternately emitting light for normal and narrow band observations at a cycle of one field (60 Hz).
Implementation Method 1
an optical path joining section that reflects the light in the third wavelength band emitted from the second light source to join an optical path of the light in the third wavelength band to an optical path of the light emitted from the first light source
Implementation Method 2
an optical filter section including a transmission section that transmits light in the first wavelength band
Data Source
AI summary
A light source apparatus includes: a white LED that emits light including a first wavelength band and a second wavelength band; a violet LED that emits light in a third wavelength band, and a rotating disk including a filter that transmits light in the first wavelength band. The light source apparatus also includes a rotating disk drive section that changes a position of the rotating disk so that if a normal observation mode is selected, the filter is retracted from an optical path of the light emitted from the white LED, if a narrow band observation mode is selected, a filter is continuously inserted in the optical path of the light emitted from the white LED, and if a twin mode is selected, the filter is intermittently inserted in the optical path of the light emitted from the white LED.