Multi-Axis Input Module for Medical Observation Device Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medical observation devices, such as endoscopes and exoscopes, face challenges in providing easy and error-free operation with compact design, intuitive control of image recording and playback functions, and the ability to vary image enlargement while maintaining constant lighting and contrast, especially when used in medical procedures where complex optical zoom is not feasible.
Innovation Solution
A medical observation device equipped with a multi-axis input module that allows for direct control of image capture and playback parameters, positioning of the image recording unit, and integration of image processing capabilities, enabling one-handed operation and reducing the need for separate operating modules for image recording, playback, and processing units.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a compact image acquisition unit is used, then the device size is reduced, but the ability to vary focal length (optical zoom) is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/optical zoom system with a digital zoom implementation. The image processing unit performs digital enlargement of the captured image, eliminating the need for complex optical zoom mechanisms while maintaining compact device dimensions. This substitution of mechanical/optical systems with digital processing resolves the contradiction between compact size and focal length variability.
2Ease of operation
If multiple separate operating modules are used for image recording, playback, and processing, then each function can be controlled independently, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple operating functions into a single integrated operating unit. The operating unit includes a control element that can adjust both image acquisition parameters (for the image recording unit) and playback parameters (for the playback unit) through a unified interface. This merging of separate control modules into one integrated system reduces device complexity while maintaining independent control capability for all functions.
3Volume of moving object
If digital zoom is used instead of optical zoom, then device compactness is maintained, but lighting and contrast may vary during magnification
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback control through the image processing unit, which adjusts image parameters during digital zoom operations. The system monitors and compensates for changes in lighting and contrast that occur during digital magnification, maintaining consistent image quality across different zoom levels. This feedback mechanism resolves the contradiction by preserving illumination consistency while using compact digital zoom.
Data Source
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AI summary
The disclosure relates to an observation device (10) comprising an image acquisition unit (18) with at least one image sensor (26), a playback unit (16), an image processing unit (20) for image processing processes, an operating unit (22) with a multi-axis input module (50), and a positioning drive (190, 192) for the image acquisition unit (18), wherein image acquisition parameters and playback parameters are controllable via the input module (50), wherein the input module (50) is operable in at least a first operating mode and a second operating mode, wherein in the first operating mode direct control of image acquisition parameters and playback parameters is enabled, wherein in the second operating mode the input module (50) can be actuated to control the positioning drive (190, 192) for positioning the image acquisition unit (18).wherein the input module (50) is designed as a one-handed input module and has an actuating element (52, 90, 104) that can be manipulated by an operator and provides several degrees of freedom (80, 82, 84, 86; 80, 82, 98, 100) for inputs, and wherein different axes of the positioning drive (190, 192) can be controlled simultaneously by the input module (50). The disclosure further relates to a use of a multi-axis input module (50).