Endoscopic 3D Data Acquisition with Adjustable Optics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscopic 3D data acquisition methods are limited by the need for precise triangulation and few data points, and cannot effectively utilize image sensors of different sizes and formats, leading to inefficient use of active sensor areas.
Innovation Solution
A device with adjustable optics to align fields of view for image sensors of varying sizes and formats, combined with phase-sensitive solid-state sensors for accurate depth measurement and additional image sensors for spectral or intensity information, allowing for optimal use of all sensor areas and enhanced 3D data acquisition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If image sensors of different sizes and formats are used to capture diverse imaging data, then the quantity and variety of imaging information is improved, but the active area of sensors cannot be fully utilized leading to waste
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs adjustable optical systems including movable lenses and adjustable apertures that can dynamically change the field of view and focal length to match the active area of different image sensors. This dynamic adjustment ensures that each sensor's active area is fully utilized regardless of its size or format, eliminating waste while capturing diverse imaging data from multiple sensors simultaneously.
2Device complexity
If triangulation baseline is narrowed to fit endoscopic constraints, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a beam splitter as an intermediary optical element that enables the creation of a virtual triangulation baseline without requiring physically separated sensors. The beam splitter divides and directs light from a single optical path to multiple image sensors, effectively creating a virtual baseline that maintains measurement precision while avoiding the complexity of multiple separate optical paths and maintaining a compact endoscopic structure.
3Loss of time
If few data points are used for 3D reconstruction, then the processing time is reduced, but the reliability of 3D data acquisition deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by capturing multiple imaging data points simultaneously from different sensors and wavelengths before processing. The multi-sensor array and spectral imaging capabilities allow the system to gather comprehensive depth and intensity information in a single measurement cycle, ensuring sufficient data points for reliable 3D reconstruction without requiring sequential measurements that would increase processing time.
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
Enables reliable and efficient 3D data acquisition with improved spatial resolution and orientation, allowing for the use of different sensor formats without wasting active area, and provides additional diagnostic information like spectral or fluorescence imaging.
Implementation Method 1
the modulation parameters of the received light signal are used to calculate the depth data
Implementation Method 2
a modulated light signal is emitted and the modulation parameters of the received light signal are used
Implementation Method 3
Two image sensors can receive radiation via a planar semi-transparent mirror used as a beam splitter
Implementation Method 4
at least one adaptive optic is provided to adjust the fields of view of the image sensors
Data Source
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AI summary
An apparatus according to the invention comprises light-generating means for generating at least one modulated measuring radiation, light-transmitting means for transmitting the measuring radiation to an area to be observed, wherein the light-transmitting means comprise an endoscopically deployable illumination optic, furthermore light-imaging means for imaging a signal radiation from the area to be observed at least onto a phase-sensitive image sensor having a plurality of pixels, wherein the light-imaging means comprise an endoscopically deployable imaging optic, wherein the illumination optic and the imaging optic are arranged in an endoscopically deployable shaft, and control and evaluation means for controlling the light-generating means, for controlling the phase-sensitive image sensor and for evaluating the data supplied by the phase-sensitive image sensor to generate 3D data.wherein at least one further image sensor is provided and the light imaging means comprise a beam splitter and/or an optical switch, wherein at least one matching optic is provided for adjusting the fields of view of the image sensors. This creates a device for endoscopic 3D data acquisition that is suitable for various types of image sensors. The invention also includes a corresponding method.