Endoscopic Stereo Visualization Optical Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge of integrating dual optical assemblies within the highly space-constrained environment of an endoscope tube for stereoscopic visualization, particularly in robotic surgical systems, is exacerbated by the need for high-resolution, wide-field visualization and fluorescence/multispectral imaging capabilities, which existing technologies do not adequately address.
Innovation Solution
The development of objective lens assemblies within the endoscope tube that accommodate two or more image sensors, filters, and lens assemblies, enabling three-dimensional visualization, fluorescence, and multispectral imaging, with a controller synchronizing emitter and image sensor operations to optimize data frames for various visualization types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If dual optical assemblies are disposed within the endoscope tube for stereoscopic visualization, then three-dimensional visualization capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate optical assemblies into a single integrated endoscope tube structure, merging the stereoscopic imaging functions while maintaining spatial separation of the image sensors. This merging approach enables stereoscopic visualization without proportionally increasing overall device complexity through shared structural components and coordinated optical paths.
Solution Approach 2:
Each optical assembly is designed with multi-functionality, incorporating lenses, filters, and image sensors that can handle multiple imaging modes (stereoscopic, fluorescence, multispectral). This universality reduces the need for separate specialized components, thereby improving adaptability while controlling complexity.
2Measurement precision
If high-resolution imaging components are added for fluorescence and multispectral imaging, then imaging precision is improved, but the space required within the endoscope tube increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested arrangement where filters and optical components are positioned within the optical path in a compact, layered configuration. The lenses, filters, and image sensors are nested along the optical axis, allowing high-resolution imaging components to be integrated without proportionally increasing the radial or longitudinal space requirements of the endoscope tube.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the longitudinal dimension of the endoscope tube efficiently by arranging optical components along the optical path in sequence. Instead of requiring increased radial space, the design transitions to optimizing the axial arrangement of lenses, filters, and sensors, thereby achieving high imaging precision within constrained volumetric space.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple image sensors with different lenses and filters are equipped for optimizing different visualization types, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs each image sensor assembly with universal optical components that can serve multiple visualization functions. The lenses and filters are configured to work across different imaging modes (stereoscopic, fluorescence, multispectral), allowing a single sensor assembly to perform multiple functions rather than requiring separate specialized assemblies for each visualization type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates dynamic control through the controller that coordinates the operation of multiple image sensors and optical components. The system can dynamically switch between different imaging modes by adjusting sensor activation, filter positioning, or optical path configuration, providing adaptability through software-controlled dynamics rather than requiring permanent hardware complexity for each mode.
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 high-resolution, three-dimensional visualization with fluorescence and multispectral imaging capabilities, facilitating precise tissue identification, topographical mapping, and real-time data processing for enhanced surgical precision.
Implementation Method 1
an objective lens assembly for focusing light from a scene onto a distal end of an endoscope tube
Implementation Method 2
objective lens assembly for focusing light from a scene onto a distal end of an endoscope tube
Implementation Method 3
These optical components may include lenses, filters, prisms, mirrors
Data Source
AI summary
Stereo visualization systems with objective lens assemblies for endoscopic visualization. A system include an endoscope tube and an optical assembly disposed within an interior cavity defined by the endoscope tube. The optical assembly includes a negative lens comprising a negative focal length, a positive lens group comprising at least one convex lens, and a beam folding prism that directs a beam of electromagnetic radiation on to a pixel array of an image sensor.