Surgical Microscope Camera Code Recognition
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Solution Overview
Problem
The manual input of codes, passwords, and serial numbers via a user interface in surgical microscopes is time-consuming and prone to errors, especially when dealing with individual devices that require unique codes and frequent recalibration.
Innovation Solution
A method that uses a camera integrated into the surgical microscope to capture and identify codes within a set frequency range, comparing them to activation codes required to activate specific functions, thereby authorizing the activation of these functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual input of codes and passwords via user interface is used, then device functionality can be activated, but the process becomes time-consuming and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical input process (typing codes via keyboard or button interface) with an optical scanning system. The camera captures images of codes, and image processing algorithms automatically recognize and interpret them, substituting the manual input mechanism with an automated optical recognition system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service by automatically capturing, recognizing, and processing codes without requiring manual intervention. The camera continuously monitors the field of view, and the evaluation device autonomously compares captured codes against stored reference codes, activating functions without user interaction.
2Extent of automation
If RFID readers are installed for code recognition, then code input is automated, but device complexity and production costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the existing camera serve multiple functions: it performs both its original imaging function for surgical visualization and the additional function of code recognition. By reusing the existing camera hardware for dual purposes, the system achieves automation without adding specialized RFID readers or other dedicated code recognition hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using specialized hardware like RFID readers, the system creates an optical copy (image) of the code using the camera. This digital copy is then processed through image recognition algorithms, replacing the need for specialized reading hardware with a software-based solution that uses existing imaging capabilities.
3Ease of operation
If conventional barcode scanners are used, then code reading is simplified, but they cannot handle time-varying codes or temporary codes
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static code recognition to dynamic code recognition. The camera continuously captures images in real-time, and the evaluation device processes time-varying codes by comparing sequential images or analyzing temporal changes in the code display, enabling recognition of temporary or changing codes that static scanners cannot handle.
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 method simplifies and streamlines the input of codes, reducing errors and increasing efficiency by allowing direct code input through the microscope's camera, eliminating the need for RFID hardware and reducing production costs.
Implementation Method 1
capturing at least one image which includes the code via the camera; wherein the code is detectable in a set frequency range
Data Source
AI summary
A method for operating a surgical microscope having a camera is described. The method includes the following steps: a code that is able to be captured in a set frequency range is introduced into the field of view of the camera, at least one image which includes the code is captured via the camera, an evaluation device is used to identify the code and compare the latter to set features of a code required to activate at least one function, and if the identified code has the set features, the activation of the function is authorized.