Multispectrum Endoscope Fiber Layout for Multi-Wavelength Fluorescence
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional endoscopes using a single wavelength laser light source face challenges in simultaneously observing multiple fluorescent images, suffer from speckle noise and multi-modal noise, and are limited in adjusting the field of view, leading to degraded image quality and increased costs and time for additional photographing.
Innovation Solution
A multi-spectrum endoscope system with a first light source emitting infrared rays of multiple wavelengths, multi-mode optical fibers, a second light source for visible light, and a light detection device with a wavelength separator to distinguish and detect fluorescent signals of different wavelengths, while reducing speckle and multi-modal noise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single wavelength laser light source is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to simultaneously observe multiple fluorescent images with different wavelengths is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple laser light sources with different wavelengths into a single integrated endoscope system. The light source unit includes multiple laser sources (e.g., 405nm, 488nm, 561nm, 640nm) that can be selectively activated to excite different fluorescent markers, enabling multi-spectrum observation without requiring separate endoscope devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The endoscope system is designed with universal functionality to support multiple wavelengths of laser excitation and detect corresponding fluorescent signals. The light source unit can selectively emit different wavelengths, and the detection unit can capture fluorescent signals across multiple spectra, making the system adaptable to various fluorescent imaging applications.
2Illumination intensity
If a laser light source is used, then the brightness and intensity of exciting light is improved, but speckle noise and multi-modal noise occur degrading image quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent acknowledges the presence of speckle noise and multi-modal noise as inherent characteristics of laser light but converts this potential harm into a benefit by using the high intensity and coherence of laser light for effective fluorescence excitation. The system manages the noise through careful optical design and signal processing while maintaining the advantageous high brightness of laser illumination.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple light sources are used to enable multi-wavelength excitation, then the fluorescent imaging capability is improved, but the total thickness of the endoscope increases causing patient discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested structure where multiple optical components are arranged concentrically within the endoscope shaft. The light source unit, optical fibers, and detection components are integrated in a compact, layered configuration that minimizes the overall diameter while accommodating multiple wavelengths of laser excitation and corresponding detection pathways.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a planar arrangement of components to a three-dimensional integrated structure. Multiple optical fibers and light sources are arranged in different spatial dimensions and orientations, allowing efficient use of the endoscope cross-sectional area and reducing the overall thickness while maintaining multi-wavelength capability.
4Device complexity
If a single light source is used, then the device structure is simplified, but the ability to adjust the field of view area is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates dynamic control capabilities that allow the system to adjust operational parameters in real-time. The light source unit can selectively activate different wavelengths, and the detection system can dynamically adjust sensitivity and integration time, enabling flexible field of view adjustment and optimization for different imaging conditions without physical reconfiguration.
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 simultaneous output and detection of visible light and fluorescent signals with different wavelengths, reducing noise and enhancing image quality, allowing for precise identification and treatment of specific cells.
Implementation Method 1
a first light source for emitting an infrared ray having a plurality of wavelengths
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of multi-mode optical fibers for providing the infrared ray which is emitted from the first light source with guidance toward a sample or a cell
Implementation Method 3
a lens part for receiving a fluorescent signal which is emitted from the sample
Implementation Method 4
a multi-spectrum light detection device... with a wavelength separator to distinguish and detect fluorescent signals of different wavelengths
Implementation Method 5
detect fluorescent signals that emit different wavelengths by radiating pieces of laser light having a plurality of wavelengths
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a multispectrum endoscope and an endoscope system comprising same. The multispectrum endoscope of the present invention comprises: a first light source emitting infrared rays having a plurality of wavelengths; a plurality of multimode optical fibers for guiding the infrared rays emitted from the first light source toward a sample; a second light source emitting a visible ray; an optical fiber for guiding the visible ray emitted from the second light source toward the sample; a lens part for receiving a fluorescent signal emitted from the sample and a visible light signal reflected off the sample; and an optical fiber bundle for guiding the fluorescent signal and/or the visible light signal received by the lens part toward a multispectrum photodetector, wherein the optical fiber bundle is disposed so as to be surrounded by the plurality of multimode optical fibers, and the end portion of the multispectrum endoscope emitting the visible ray surrounds at least a portion of the plurality of multimode optical fibers.