Multidirectional Endoscopy Imaging Cap for Wider Field of View

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Current endoscopic systems are limited to a single field of view, which decreases diagnostic accuracy and often require multiple endoscopes for multidirectional imaging, increasing procedure complexity and cost.

Innovation Solution

A multidirectional endoscopic imaging system that provides continuous and simultaneous forward and multidirectional views using an imaging cap attached to the endoscope, incorporating multiple sensors, light sources, and wireless transmission, allowing for enhanced field of view and functionality without affecting the accessory port.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Area of stationary object

If a separate backwards viewing endoscope is inserted through the accessory port, then backwards field of view is provided, but the accessory port functionality is blocked and procedure complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefield of viewVSAvoidprocedure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple imaging functions (forward viewing, backward viewing, side viewing) into a single endoscope device. The endoscope includes multiple image sensors positioned at different orientations, all integrated within one device that connects to a single imaging console, eliminating the need for separate endoscopes and accessory ports

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The endoscope is designed as a multi-functional device that can simultaneously provide forward viewing, backward viewing, and side viewing capabilities. This universal design allows one device to perform multiple imaging functions that previously required separate specialized endoscopes

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Area of stationary object

If multiple endoscopes are used for multidirectional imaging, then comprehensive field of view is achieved, but cost and sterilization complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefield of viewVSAvoidsterilization complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple endoscope functions into a single integrated device with multiple image sensors. This consolidation means only one endoscope needs to be sterilized and managed, rather than multiple separate endoscopes, reducing sterilization complexity and cost

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Area of stationary object

If a separate backwards viewing endoscope is used, then multidirectional imaging is possible, but accessory port functionality is lost during procedure

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefield of viewVSAvoidaccessory port functionality
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates backward viewing and side viewing capabilities directly into the main endoscope body through additional image sensors. This eliminates the need to use the accessory port for inserting separate endoscopes, allowing accessory port functionality to remain available for other procedures like biopsy and suction

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS12611089B2Imaging apparatus and method which utilizes multidirectional field of view endoscopy
Publication Date: 2026.04.28 THE GENERAL HOSPITAL CORP
  • US12611089B2 patent drawing
  • US12611089B2 patent drawing
  • US12611089B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Exemplary apparatus for coupling to a probe and providing information regarding at least one structure can be provided. For example, the apparatus can include an electronics arrangement which is configured to obtain the information and transmit the information wirelessly, and a structural connection configuration which is structured and configured to be attached to the probe. The electronics arrangement can include a detector arrangement which is configured to detect at least one return radiation from at least one portion of at least one sample based on the predetermined patterns, and provide the data for the portion(s) based on the return radiation(s). In addition, a computer arrangement can be provided which is configured to generate the information with includes image data for the portion(s) as a function of the data and prior knowledge of the predetermined patterns.