Multi-Module Fundus Camera with Simultaneous Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fundus image capturing methods are limited by a small viewing angle, requiring multiple images to be taken while causing discomfort and fatigue to the patient, with uneven illumination leading to difficulties in image synthesis and delayed diagnosis due to differences in exposure value and white balance.
Innovation Solution
An image capturing apparatus with multiple image sensing modules and light sources that capture images from different directions, overlapping image ranges, and a processing unit that synthesizes images using comparison modules to correct for pincushion distortion and achieve uniform brightness and contrast.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multiple images of the fundus are captured sequentially to obtain a complete view, then the viewing angle coverage is improved, but the patient experiences discomfort and fatigue due to repeated illumination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the fundus imaging task into multiple simultaneous captures from different angles using multiple image sensing modules, each capturing a specific zone of the fundus. This segmentation allows complete coverage without sequential repetition, reducing patient discomfort while maintaining comprehensive viewing angle coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple image sensing modules to capture different zones of the fundus simultaneously in a single operation. By combining the capabilities of multiple modules, the system achieves complete fundus coverage in one capture event rather than requiring multiple sequential shots, thereby reducing illumination exposure to the patient's eye.
2Area of stationary object
If multiple images are captured sequentially with different exposure values and white balance, then the viewing angle coverage is improved, but the image synthesis complexity and correction difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary calibration and parameter unification before the imaging process. By pre-establishing consistent exposure values and white balance settings across all image sensing modules, the system eliminates the need for complex post-capture correction while maintaining comprehensive fundus coverage through multiple simultaneous captures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent standardizes imaging parameters (exposure value, white balance) across all image sensing modules before capture. This parameter unification ensures that all captured images have consistent characteristics, simplifying the subsequent synthesis process while achieving complete viewing angle coverage through the multi-module system.
3Device complexity
If a single image sensing module is used to capture the fundus, then the device complexity is reduced, but the viewing angle coverage is limited to 30-40 degrees
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the fundus imaging function across multiple image sensing modules, with each module responsible for capturing a specific zone. This segmentation enables comprehensive fundus coverage beyond the 30-40 degree limitation of a single module while keeping each individual module relatively simple in design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-point imaging approach to a multi-point simultaneous imaging approach by adding spatial dimensionality. Multiple image sensing modules are positioned at different angles to capture different zones of the fundus simultaneously, expanding the viewing angle coverage from 30-40 degrees to a comprehensive 360-degree view without significantly increasing the complexity of each individual module.
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
This approach allows for rapid capture of wide-angle fundus images with improved image quality and reduced patient discomfort, enhancing diagnostic accuracy by synthesizing images with consistent brightness and contrast.
Implementation Method 1
The eye reflects the illumination light into an image light
Data Source
AI summary
An image capturing apparatus including a plurality of image sensing modules and at least a light source is provided for capturing an image of an eye. Each of the image sensing modules includes an image sensor and a lens. The light source emits an illumination light, and the illumination light irradiates the eye. The eye reflects the illumination light into an image light. The image light includes a plurality of sub-image beams, and the sub-image beams are transmitted to the image sensors of the image sensing modules through the lenses of the image sensing modules, respectively. A capturing method is also provided.