Endoscope NIR Spectral Normalization for Comparable Transmission Assessment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for evaluating endoscope performance in the near-infrared (NIR) spectrum are inconsistent due to variations in endoscope design and manufacturing tolerances, making it difficult to accurately compare the NIR performance of different models.
Innovation Solution
A method is introduced that normalizes both incoming and outgoing light spectra to a point of maximum transparency for each endoscope, using a normalization factor derived from the ratio of the maximum value in the outgoing to incoming spectra, allowing for consistent comparison across various endoscope models.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional absolute measurement methods are used to assess endoscope transmission, then the measurement process is straightforward, but the measurement precision deteriorates due to variations in endoscope design and manufacturing tolerances
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from absolute radiant flux values to relative spectral ratios. By measuring the ratio of output to input spectra at each wavelength and identifying the maximum ratio point, the method eliminates the need for precise absolute flux measurements while maintaining measurement precision across different endoscope designs
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces spectral normalization as an intermediary process between raw measurement and final evaluation. The normalization factor, derived from the maximum spectral ratio, serves as a mediator that standardizes measurements across different endoscope models, allowing consistent performance assessment without requiring identical absolute measurement conditions
2Reliability
If absolute radiant flux measurements are used to evaluate endoscope performance, then the evaluation method is simple, but the reliability deteriorates due to alignment variations and manufacturing tolerances
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary spectral characterization by measuring both input and output spectra and calculating their ratio before final evaluation. This preliminary action of establishing the spectral ratio and identifying the maximum point creates a normalized reference that improves reliability for subsequent performance assessments
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the measured spectral ratio and its maximum point as feedback to determine the normalization factor. This feedback mechanism allows the system to self-correct for variations in endoscope design and alignment, improving evaluation reliability without requiring external calibration standards
3Measurement precision
If precise absolute input radiant flux measurement is attempted, then accurate transmission calculation is possible, but the difficulty of detection and measurement increases due to alignment sensitivity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the relative spectral information needed for transmission assessment, discarding the need for precise absolute flux measurement. By taking the ratio of output to input spectra, the method extracts the transmission characteristic while eliminating sensitivity to absolute measurement difficulties
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of measuring absolute input flux and calculating transmission, the patent inverts the approach by measuring both input and output spectra and using their ratio. This inverted methodology makes the measurement process more robust to alignment variations while achieving the same transmission assessment goal
Data Source
AI summary
Examples relate to methods and systems for evaluating near-infrared (NIR) performance of endoscopes. A method includes illuminating an endoscope's entrance pupil with a first radiant flux diffused through a first integrating sphere, the first radiant flux having a first spectrum, measuring a second radiant flux collected by a second integrating sphere at the exit pupil having a second spectrum, and determining transmission by comparing the spectra. The method includes determining a normalization factor for the second spectrum by finding the maximum value of a ratio of output scaled spectrum and input normalized spectrum. The method includes determining transmission through the endoscope as the ratio of the output normalized spectrum sum in an NIR region to the input normalized spectrum sum in the same NIR region.