Multi-Spectral Imaging System Dichroic Beam Splitter
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current surgical imaging systems often struggle to visualize concealed structures and dimensions within the surgical field, and may not effectively convey this information to clinicians during surgery, leading to a need for improved tissue visualization techniques.
Innovation Solution
A multi-spectral imaging system utilizing a dichroic beam splitter and multiple sensors to capture images in different wavelength bands, allowing for the independent adjustment of image planes and the use of off-the-shelf sensors, which reduces cost and complexity, and enables efficient placement within surgical instruments with limited space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single sensor is used to capture images in multiple wavelength bands, then device complexity is reduced, but image quality and spectral resolution deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system divides the spectral detection function into multiple specialized sensors, each optimized for specific wavelength bands. The beam is split into multiple wavelength components that are directed to different sensors, allowing each sensor to capture high-quality images in its optimal spectral range rather than forcing a single sensor to handle all wavelengths.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs multiple sensors that can be configured to detect different wavelength bands (visible, near-infrared, short-wave infrared), making the imaging system capable of multi-spectral imaging. This multi-functional approach allows the same hardware configuration to serve multiple imaging purposes across different spectral ranges.
2Measurement precision
If customized cameras are used to capture multi-spectral images, then image quality improves, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses multiple copies of standard sensor modules rather than a single customized multi-spectral camera. Each sensor is a conventional imaging sensor that can be independently optimized for specific wavelength ranges, allowing the system to achieve multi-spectral capability through parallel use of multiple identical or similar sensor types rather than requiring expensive custom sensors.
Solution Approach 2:
The system combines multiple standard sensor outputs to create a comprehensive multi-spectral image dataset. By merging the imaging capabilities of several conventional sensors, each tuned to different wavelength bands, the system achieves the functionality of a expensive customized multi-spectral camera while using off-the-shelf components.
3Loss of information
If multiple sensors are used to capture images in different wavelength bands, then image quality and spectral information improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses beam splitting optics and dichroic mirrors as intermediary components to separate the incoming light into different wavelength bands and direct them to appropriate sensors. These intermediary optical elements manage the complexity of routing multiple wavelength components to multiple sensors while maintaining a relatively simple overall system architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The system separates wavelength bands spatially by directing different spectral components along different optical paths to different sensors. This spatial separation in the optical domain allows simultaneous capture of multiple wavelength bands without requiring temporal sequencing or complex computational processing, effectively adding a spectral dimension to the imaging capability.
4Ease of operation
If a compact imaging system is used for surgical instruments, then ease of operation improves, but image plane adjustment flexibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates adjustable optical elements that allow dynamic modification of the optical path length and image plane position. This enables the compact imaging system to adapt its focus and image plane location to match different sensor positions and requirements, providing flexibility despite the constrained physical space within the surgical instrument.
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 enhances the quality and quantity of images captured, allowing for the simultaneous visualization of multiple tissue types and improved image synthesis, thereby aiding clinicians in visualizing structures not visible under visible light alone, while reducing the need for customized and expensive cameras.
Implementation Method 1
The first optical system includes a dichroic beam splitter, and the first optical system is configured to direct a first optical beam associated with the first wavelength band along a first direction and direct a second optical beam associated with the second wavelength band along a second direction
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging system includes a first optical system configured to receive an imaging beam from a surgical region. The imaging beam including a first wavelength band and a second wavelength band. The imaging beam is directed along a first optical axis. The first optical system includes a dichroic beam splitter, and the first optical system is configured to direct a first optical beam associated with the first wavelength band along a first direction and direct a second optical beam associated with the second wavelength band along a second direction. The imaging system also includes a first sensor located along the first direction and configured to capture a first image associated with the first optical beam. The image system further includes a first relay lens system located along the second direction downstream from the first optical system and configured to receive the second optical beam.