Multi-Camera Surgical Navigation Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical navigation systems using a two-camera principle face challenges such as obscured views, reduced measurement volume, and inaccuracies due to camera movement, which can compromise patient safety.
Innovation Solution
A camera system comprising at least three cameras, operated in two modes: marker mode for detecting reflective markers and image mode for determining object positions using point cloud calculations, with time multiplexing and infrared light sources to enhance accuracy and coverage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a two-camera principle is used to capture surgical instruments, then the system structure is simple, but the measurement volume is reduced and accuracy is compromised due to obscured views and camera movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the camera system into multiple independent camera units (at least three cameras) with different viewing angles, allowing each camera to capture specific regions independently. This segmentation enables comprehensive coverage of the surgical field while maintaining simple individual camera structures, resolving the contradiction between system simplicity and measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a two-camera configuration to a multi-camera spatial arrangement, adding dimensional coverage by positioning cameras at different locations and angles around the surgical site. This dimensional expansion increases the measurement volume and eliminates obscured views without significantly increasing system complexity.
2Stability of the object's composition
If two cameras are used in a fixed housing, then the relative position is stable, but shocks and material fatigue cause camera movement that negatively impacts accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates shock-absorbing elements and flexible mounting mechanisms in the camera housing that cushion against shocks and vibrations before they can cause camera displacement. This beforehand cushioning protects the camera relative positions from shocks and material fatigue, maintaining both stability and measurement precision.
3Measurement precision
If cameras operate in marker mode with strong contrast settings, then marker detection is improved, but environmental detection and background information are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic switching between marker mode and image mode, where cameras alternate between capturing high-contrast marker data and environmental background information. This periodic action ensures both marker detection accuracy and environmental information are collected at appropriate intervals, preventing information loss while maintaining precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically adjusts camera operating modes based on real-time surgical needs, transitioning between marker mode and image mode as required. This dynamic operation allows the system to optimize for marker detection when needed while also capturing environmental information, resolving the contradiction between precision and information completeness.
4Ease of operation
If a fixed two-camera system is used, then the system is easy to operate, but the measurement volume is limited to the view of the two cameras
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the measurement space into multiple zones covered by different cameras positioned at various angles, allowing each camera to contribute to a specific portion of the overall measurement volume. This segmentation maintains ease of operation while expanding the total measurable volume beyond what two cameras could achieve.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a multi-functional camera system where each camera serves multiple purposes: detecting markers, capturing environmental information, and contributing to the overall three-dimensional reconstruction. This universality allows the system to maintain simple operation while achieving comprehensive measurement volume coverage.
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
The system provides improved accuracy and larger measurement volume, reduces the risk of camera displacement errors, and enables comprehensive detection of patient and instrument positions, enhancing patient safety and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The reflection occurs in the infrared (IR) region, which is why the cameras can capture the IR light reflected by the markers
Implementation Method 2
The reflection occurs in the infrared (IR) region, which is why the cameras can capture the IR light reflected by the markers
Data Source
AI summary
A camera system for surgical navigation systems including a plurality of cameras mounted in a room. At least three cameras are mounted in the room which are operated in at least two different modes. In the first mode at least a subset of the cameras is operated to determine the position of markers and in a second mode at least a subset of the cameras is operated to determine the position of surfaces of the room.