Multispectral Filter Arrays for Stereoscopic Endoscopy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscopic visualization systems struggle to capture advanced visualization data such as multispectral, fluorescence, and dimensional information within the space-constrained environment of an endoscope, due to limitations in frame rate and inefficiencies in detecting different wavebands of electromagnetic radiation.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a stereoscopic camera system equipped with multispectral filter arrays (MSFAs) for each image sensor, which allows for the simultaneous capture of color imaging data, spectral imaging data, and dimensional information by transmitting specific wavebands of electromagnetic radiation to the pixel array.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a stereoscopic camera system uses traditional color filter arrays to capture color imaging data, then color visualization is achieved, but spectral imaging data and dimensional information cannot be captured simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The filter array is segmented into distinct filter types arranged in a repeating pattern, with each filter type dedicated to capturing specific spectral bands. This segmentation allows the single image sensor to capture color imaging data, spectral imaging data, and dimensional information simultaneously by directing different wavelength ranges to different filter regions.
Solution Approach 2:
The stereoscopic camera system uses a universal filter array design that enables a single image sensor to perform multiple visualization functions. The filter array is configured to capture both color imaging data and spectral imaging data simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate sensors or filter wheel mechanisms.
2Speed
If the image sensor operates at high frame rate to capture color imaging data, then temporal resolution is improved, but detection efficiency for different wavebands of electromagnetic radiation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The filter array introduces a spectral dimension to the imaging process by arranging filters with different spectral transmission characteristics in a spatial pattern. This allows the image sensor to simultaneously capture multiple spectral bands across the electromagnetic spectrum at high frame rates, transforming a temporal limitation into a spatial-spectral solution.
3Adaptability or versatility
If specialized components are added to capture spectral data and dimensional information, then advanced visualization capabilities are improved, but the space-constrained environment of the endoscope becomes more difficult to navigate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of multiple specialized components into a single integrated filter array structure. Instead of adding separate sensors or mechanical filter wheels that would increase volume, the solution combines color filtering and spectral filtering into one static filter array, dramatically reducing the space required while maintaining advanced visualization capabilities.
4Productivity
If traditional color filter arrays are used, then color imaging data capture is efficient, but spectral imaging data capture is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The filter array implements local quality by assigning different spectral transmission characteristics to different spatial locations within the array. Specific regions of the filter array are optimized for color imaging while other regions are optimized for spectral imaging, allowing both functions to operate efficiently simultaneously on a single image sensor.
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 solution enables the generation of advanced visualization video streams that provide detailed tissue structures, dimensions, and topographical maps, enhancing diagnostic capabilities and surgical precision in endoscopic procedures.
Implementation Method 1
multispectral filter arrays (MSFAs) for each image sensor, which allows for the simultaneous capture of color imaging data, spectral imaging data, and dimensional information by transmitting specific wavebands of electromagnetic radiation to the pixel array
Data Source
AI summary
Systems for stereoscopic visualization with multispectral filter arrays configured for capturing color imaging data and spectral imaging data. A system includes an emitter comprising a plurality of sources of electromagnetic radiation, including a visible source, a first spectral source that emits electromagnetic radiation within a first spectral waveband, and a second spectral source that emits electromagnetic radiation within a second spectral waveband. The system includes a first image sensor comprising a first multispectral filter array, wherein at least a portion of the first multispectral filter array transmits reflected electromagnetic radiation within the first spectral waveband. The system includes a second image sensor comprising a second multispectral filter array, wherein at least a portion of the second multispectral filter array transmits reflected electromagnetic radiation within the second spectral waveband. The system is such that the first spectral waveband is different from the second spectral waveband.