Endoscopy Capsule 3D Structure Detection via Light Reflection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current endoscopy capsules with monocular optics struggle to provide accurate three-dimensional structure information of body cavies due to limited spatial perception, relying on manual interpretation of brightness and color tones, and existing stereoscopic solutions with non-overlapping camera fields are ineffective.
Innovation Solution
A method using an endoscopy capsule with multiple light sources and cameras, where one region is illuminated and another region with known structure is imaged, allowing derivation of three-dimensional structure information through intensity values, enabling 3D reconstruction and improved navigation and diagnosis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If two video cameras are arranged at opposite facing ends of the endoscopy capsule, then the capsule can capture images from different directions, but binocular viewing is not possible since their fields of view do not overlap
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from direct optical imaging to indirect imaging through light reflection. Instead of using multiple cameras with overlapping fields of view, the system illuminates the target surface and captures the reflected light distribution pattern, converting spatial information into intensity distribution data that can be computationally reconstructed into 3D structure.
2Ease of operation
If the endoscopy capsule is made small for free maneuverability, then it can be freely maneuvered in the body cavity, but stereoscopic image generation is limited due to small structural dimensions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical stereoscopic system (multiple cameras with specific spacing) with a computational approach using light reflection principles. By analyzing the intensity distribution of diffusely reflected light, the system can reconstruct 3D structure without requiring large physical dimensions or multiple spaced-apart cameras.
3Device complexity
If monocular optics are used in the endoscopy capsule, then the device structure is simplified, but spatial perception is severely limited and relies on manual interpretation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter being measured from direct optical intensity to reflected light intensity distribution. By illuminating the target and analyzing how light reflects off surfaces at different angles, the system extracts spatial and structural information that monocular optics alone cannot provide, while maintaining a simple single-camera configuration.
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
Facilitates accurate 3D reconstruction and navigation of endoscopy capsules within body cavities, allowing optimal image capture and diagnostic assessment by leveraging intensity distribution and spectral reflection analysis.
Implementation Method 1
due to the diffuse reflection of the light striking the first partial region, the inner surface opposite this is illuminated with maximum intensity
Data Source
AI summary
In a method and a device to detect information about the three-dimensional structure of the inner surface of a body cavity of a patient with an endoscopy capsule introduced into said body cavity, a first partial region of the inner surface of the body cavity is illuminated with at least one light source arranged in the endoscopy capsule and an image of a second partial region that is illuminated by the first partial region and differs from the first partial region. The three-dimensional structure of the second partial region is known, and the second partial region is acquired with at least one camera arranged in the endoscopy capsule. Information about the three-dimensional structure of the first partial region is derived using the intensity values in this image.