Multispectral Image Recording With Waiting-Interval Sensor Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image recording systems, particularly those using CMOS sensors, are limited in spectral capability due to spatial separation methods like beam splitters, which increase technical complexity and restrict the number of spectrally different images that can be recorded, especially in compact devices like chip-in-tip endoscopes.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that uses a single image sensor to record multiple spectrally different images by alternating illumination, incorporating waiting intervals between recording segments to allow for chronological separation and modulation of light sources, enabling efficient multispectral imaging without the need for multiple sensors or complex beam splitters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If beam splitters and wavelength-selective mirror surfaces are used to spatially separate different spectra, then spectral imaging capability is improved, but device complexity and technical expenditure enormously increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple spectral imaging functions into a single CMOS image sensor by using temporal separation instead of spatial separation. Multiple spectrally different single images are recorded alternately in chronological succession during different recording segments, merging what would traditionally require multiple sensors and complex optical splitting components into one sensor with time-multiplexed operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic action by alternating between different recording segments for different spectral ranges. The image sensor is switched between recording segments for different spectral imaging tasks in a periodic manner, with waiting intervals between segments to allow for spectral separation without requiring physical beam splitters.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple CMOS image sensors are used to record different spectral ranges, then spectral imaging capability is improved, but installation space requirements increase, limiting the number of sensors in compact devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the function of multiple spectral imaging sensors into a single CMOS image sensor. By recording different spectral ranges in different chronological recording segments and using waiting intervals between segments, the system achieves multi-spectral imaging capability without requiring multiple physical sensors, thus saving installation space in compact devices like chip-in-tip endoscopes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from spatial separation of spectral imaging (using multiple sensors side-by-side) to temporal separation (using a single sensor at different times). This dimensional change from space to time allows the same physical sensor to capture multiple spectral ranges sequentially, effectively adding spectral dimensionality without increasing physical footprint.
3Measurement precision
If precisely defined spectral ranges are used, then measurement precision is improved, but adaptability to different spectral ranges requires exchange of mirror layers or beam splitters
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamics by making the spectral range adaptable through chronological switching between different recording segments. Instead of static spectral separation requiring physical component exchange, the system dynamically switches between spectral ranges by activating different recording segments in temporal succession, allowing precise spectral measurement for each segment while maintaining adaptability to different spectral ranges.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the image sensor between different recording segments. By adjusting which recording segments are active at different times, the system can precisely define spectral ranges for each segment while maintaining the ability to adapt to different spectral requirements without physical component exchange.
4Device complexity
If alternating illumination is used to record different spectral ranges chronologically, then device complexity is reduced, but waiting intervals between recording segments reduce productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses periodic action by implementing alternating illumination and chronological recording segments with regular waiting intervals. This periodic structure allows the system to maintain lower device complexity while managing the productivity trade-off through optimized timing and efficient use of the single image sensor across different spectral ranges.
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
Enables high-performance 'advanced imaging' applications with improved image quality and reduced thermal stress, allowing for cost-effective and compact designs suitable for medical imaging devices like endoscopes.
Implementation Method 1
a sequence of single images (＝sequence of so‑called 'frames') of a scene (for example a specific OP situation) is recorded as an image stream using an image sensor (7)
Data Source
AI summary
A method for multispectral recording of an image stream, in which a sequence of single images of a scene, in particular a continuous video image data stream, is recorded as an image stream using an image sensor of an image recording system. At least two different types of single images are recorded in different associated wavelength ranges using the image sensor. At least one type A single image of the sequence is recorded during a chronological type A recording segment and at least one type B single image of the sequence is recorded during a chronological type B recording segment. The type A recording segment and the type B recording segment are chronologically separated from one another by a respective waiting interval, in which no image data are sensorially acquired using the image sensor. An image recording system is also provided that to carry out the method.