In-Line Dual-Camera 3D Endoscopy Cannula for Small-Diameter Stereopsis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current ocular endoscopy systems using small diameter cannulas are limited to mono-scopic imaging due to the lack of sufficient base distance for stereoscopic 3D capture, and existing 3D OCT scans face issues with color, lag, registration, and field-of-view.
Innovation Solution
An endoscopy cannula assembly with an in-line dual camera 3D imaging system, featuring a pair of imaging modules oriented in a mirrored relationship, utilizing a folding prism and aspheric lenses to achieve 3D imaging within a small diameter cannula, allowing adjustable interpupillary distance and variable focus.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If small diameter cannulas (23-27 gauge) are used for ocular endoscopy, then tissue trauma is reduced and stitches are not required, but 3D imaging is not possible due to insufficient base distance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from traditional side-by-side camera arrangement to an in-line dual camera configuration where cameras are positioned along the longitudinal axis rather than perpendicular to it. This dimensional change allows sufficient base distance for stereopsis while maintaining small cannula diameter. The optical engines are oriented at angles (e.g., 45 degrees) relative to the cannula axis, creating the necessary spatial separation for 3D imaging without increasing the cannula diameter.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent nests the dual camera imaging system within the small diameter cannula by positioning optical engines and camera sensors in a compact in-line arrangement. The folded optical paths using prisms and mirrors allow the imaging components to be contained within the limited radial space of small gauge cannulas while maintaining the functional equivalence of larger diameter systems.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional side by side dual apertures are used for 3D imaging, then stereopsis is achieved, but the base distance is insufficient for good stereopsis at small diameters
Solution Approach 1:
The patent repositions the camera arrangement from a planar side-by-side configuration to a three-dimensional in-line configuration along the longitudinal axis. This allows the base distance to be optimized for stereopsis by utilizing the longitudinal dimension rather than relying solely on lateral separation, thereby achieving good stereoscopic quality at small diameters.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates adjustable interpupillary distance (IPD) mechanisms that allow dynamic adjustment of the effective base distance between camera centers. This enables optimization of stereopsis quality for different eye sizes and anatomical variations, making the system adaptable to various ocular endoscopy scenarios.
3Measurement precision
If OCT scans are used for depth information, then depth data is provided, but color, lag, registration, and FOV issues occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses dual camera sensors to capture simultaneous color and depth information through stereoscopic imaging, creating virtual copies of the retinal surface from two different viewpoints. This approach provides depth information through geometric processing while preserving natural color and eliminating the lag and registration artifacts inherent in sequential OCT scanning methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs simultaneous dual-camera capture to acquire both color and depth information in a single continuous action, rather than sequential scanning as in OCT. This continuous capture method eliminates temporal artifacts, lag, and registration misalignment by ensuring that both eyes capture images at the exact same moment, providing accurate spatial and chromatic correspondence.
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 3D imaging with good stereopsis and a wide field-of-view within the eye, overcoming the limitations of small diameter cannulas and improving imaging quality in ocular endoscopy.
Implementation Method 1
an optical engine configured to receive light rays through an opening defined along a sidewall of the cannula along a second optical axis and direct the received light rays along the first optical axis towards the camera sensor
Implementation Method 2
utilizing a folding prism and aspheric lenses to achieve 3D imaging
Data Source
AI summary
An endoscopy cannula assembly is described herein. The endoscopy cannula assembly includes a cannula extending along a longitudinal axis and a 3D imaging system positioned within the cannula. The 3D imaging system includes a pair of imaging modules orientated in an opposing mirrored relationship along the longitudinal axis. Each imaging module includes a camera sensor orientated along a first optical axis and an optical engine configured to receive light rays through an opening defined along a sidewall of the cannula along a second optical axis and direct the received light rays along the first optical axis towards the camera sensor.