AI-Based Medical 3D Scanner With Infrared Depth Mapping for Surgical Guidance
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current laparoscopic and colonoscopy procedures are limited by the lack of accurate three-dimensional data, mapping, and modeling of the procedural space, leading to inefficiencies and missed detections of polyps and adenomas, as well as challenges in precise measurements and tool guidance, which are crucial for successful surgical outcomes.
Innovation Solution
A medical scanning and mapping system that integrates optical hardware systems with high-resolution cameras and image reconstruction algorithms to provide real-time three-dimensional imaging, modeling, and measurement capabilities, enabling precise surgical tool guidance and autonomous or semi-autonomous operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If visible light systems are used for imaging during surgical procedures, then real-time visualization is achieved, but three-dimensional data and accurate measurements cannot be obtained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional visible light imaging to three-dimensional infrared imaging. The infrared scanner captures depth information and spatial coordinates, converting flat images into volumetric data that includes height, width, and depth measurements of surgical sites and anatomical structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical measurement tools (such as physical rulers and calipers) with optical-based infrared scanning systems. The infrared scanner uses light reflection and triangulation algorithms to automatically calculate three-dimensional measurements, eliminating the need for manual mechanical measurement devices.
2Device complexity
If visible light systems provide forward-looking images only, then simple imaging is achieved, but details along the sides of tools and hidden structures are missed
Solution Approach 1:
The infrared scanner captures 360-degree panoramic views by rotating around the surgical site, gathering data from all directions simultaneously. This creates a complete volumetric representation that includes side views, hidden structures, and spatial relationships that forward-looking cameras cannot capture.
Solution Approach 2:
The infrared scanning system serves multiple functions: it provides real-time three-dimensional imaging, automatic measurements, surgical site mapping, and guidance for instrument placement. A single system performs what would otherwise require multiple separate devices including side-viewing cameras, measurement tools, and navigation systems.
3Ease of operation
If manual measurement methods are used during surgery, then simplicity is maintained, but measurement accuracy and consistency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The infrared scanning system automatically performs measurements without requiring manual intervention. The system self-calibrates, automatically calculates three-dimensional coordinates and distances, and generates measurement reports. This eliminates the need for surgeons to manually measure with rulers or calipers while maintaining surgical workflow simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides real-time feedback by continuously scanning and updating measurements as the surgical site changes. The infrared scanner monitors positional changes, automatically recalculates measurements, and displays updated data to the surgical team, ensuring accurate and current measurement information throughout the procedure.
4Productivity
If more personnel are trained to perform colonoscopy procedures, then procedure coverage increases, but training time and resource requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The infrared scanning system acts as an intermediary assistant that guides less experienced operators. The system provides automated measurements, highlights key anatomical landmarks, and offers real-time navigation feedback, enabling operators with limited training to perform procedures with accuracy comparable to highly trained specialists.
Solution Approach 2:
The scanning system performs complex tasks automatically, including three-dimensional mapping, measurement calculations, and procedural guidance. This reduces the skill level required for manual operation, allowing personnel with minimal training to conduct procedures by relying on the system's automated capabilities.
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
Enhances surgical precision by providing real-time three-dimensional data for accurate measurements and tool guidance, improving the success rate of minimally invasive procedures and enabling semi-autonomous operation, particularly in colonoscopy and hernia repair surgeries.
Implementation Method 1
The camera is a time-of-flight camera that records a set of images of the optical illumination reflected from the tissue under investigation. The image data is used to determine a phase shift between the recorded images and the modulated optical illumination.
Implementation Method 2
An optical hardware system includes a modulated infrared optical source and a time-of-flight camera
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for three-dimensional imaging, modeling, mapping, and/or control capabilities in compact size suitable for integration with and/or augmentation of robotic, laparoscopic, and endoscopic surgical systems. The systems including at least one optical source configured to project onto a surgical or endoscopic environment, and at least two cameras positioned to capture at least one image of the surgical or endoscopic environment.