Microscope Controller Automatic Line of Sight Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical microscopes require manual adjustment by surgeons to align the optical axis with the line of sight in deep wounds, which is slow and less reliable, especially when the cavity walls deform during surgery.
Innovation Solution
A controller for a microscope that determines the line of sight based on criteria such as cavity centroid axis or maximum visible area, using image data from a time-of-flight camera or stereo camera, to automatically align the optical axis with the line of sight, enabling continuous re-adjustment during surgery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual adjustment of the microscope is used to align the optical axis with the line of sight, then the surgeon can adjust the microscope position, but the surgery time increases and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The microscope system performs self-alignment by automatically determining the line of sight based on cavity geometry and autonomously adjusting its optical axis without requiring surgeon intervention. The system uses image data processing and automated control mechanisms to service its own alignment needs, eliminating the time-consuming manual adjustment process while maintaining high alignment reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical adjustment system with an automated optical-mechanical system. Instead of relying on the surgeon's manual manipulation of mechanical controls, the system uses automated image processing, computational geometry, and motorized positioning mechanisms to achieve and maintain precise alignment, thereby reducing surgery time and improving reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual adjustment is required during surgery, then the surgeon can adapt the microscope to cavity deformation, but the surgeon cannot focus solely on the surgery
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements continuous feedback by repeatedly determining the line of sight based on updated image data acquired during surgery. When cavity deformation occurs, the imaging device captures new data, the controller recalculates the optimal line of sight, and the microscope automatically re-aligns. This closed-loop feedback mechanism enables real-time adaptation to cavity deformation while freeing the surgeon to focus entirely on the surgical procedure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary alignment actions automatically before and during surgery. By pre-determining the line of sight based on initial cavity geometry and continuously updating it during the procedure, the system proactively maintains optimal alignment without requiring reactive manual adjustments, allowing the surgeon to maintain uninterrupted focus on the surgery.
3Productivity
If automated alignment is implemented, then alignment speed increases, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is designed as a multi-functional device that integrates image data acquisition, three-dimensional model generation, line of sight determination, and microscope alignment control into a single unified system. By consolidating these functions into one versatile controller, the patent achieves rapid automated alignment while managing system complexity through functional integration rather than proliferation of separate components.
Data Source
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Figure 3
AI summary
A controller for a microscope is configured to receive image data representing a wound and to determine a line of sight to a bottom of the wound using the image data. The controller is further configured to output a control signal for the microscope, the control signal instructing the microscope to align its optical axis with the line of sight.