Optical Fingertip Encoder for Repeatable Prostate Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for detecting and measuring prostate issues, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia and prostate cancer, are inaccurate and lack repeatability, with ultrasound systems being expensive and difficult to use, and digital rectal examinations being subjective and inexact.
Innovation Solution
A finger clip with a rotatable roller ring and optical fibers is used to measure prostate attributes by sliding it across an inflated membrane pressed against the rectal wall, calculating prostate dimensions based on reflected light patterns.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional digital rectal examination is used to measure prostate, then the examination can be performed with simple equipment, but the measurement is subjective and inexact
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the subjective mechanical palpation method with an optical measurement system. Optical fibers transmit light through the rectal wall to illuminate the prostate, and cameras capture images of the illuminated prostate surface. This substitution of mechanical sensing with optical sensing eliminates subjectivity and improves measurement precision while maintaining ease of use.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an optical intermediary system consisting of light sources, optical fibers, and cameras. These intermediaries translate the invisible or difficult-to-measure prostate characteristics into visible light patterns and images that can be objectively captured and analyzed, thereby improving measurement accuracy without complicating the overall examination process.
2Measurement precision
If ultrasound systems are used to diagnose prostate problems, then measurement accuracy can be improved, but the systems become expensive and difficult to use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs disposable optical components such as single-use optical fibers, light sources, and cameras that can be discarded after a single examination. This approach provides accurate optical-based prostate measurements comparable to ultrasound but at a fraction of the cost and with significantly reduced complexity, as each disposable unit is pre-calibrated and requires no maintenance or training.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical ultrasound imaging systems with a simpler optical imaging system. Instead of using sound waves and complex transducers, the system uses light transmission and capture, which can be achieved with less complex, more affordable components while maintaining or improving measurement accuracy.
3Ease of operation
If conventional digital rectal examination is used, then no special equipment is needed, but repeatability of results is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where cameras capture images of the prostate illuminated by optical fibers, and these images are processed to provide objective measurement data. The system can provide real-time feedback on prostate characteristics, allowing for consistent, repeatable measurements across multiple examinations while maintaining the simplicity of the examination procedure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces optical intermediaries (light sources, optical fibers, cameras) that serve as objective mediators between the examiner and the prostate. These intermediaries capture and transmit information consistently, eliminating the variability inherent in subjective human palpation while keeping the examination process simple and easy to perform.
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
Provides accurate and repeatable measurements of prostate volume and shape, overcoming the limitations of subjective digital exams and costly ultrasound systems.
Implementation Method 1
light reflected from the reference pattern is measured or interpreted to estimate various attributes of the object
Implementation Method 2
at least one optical fiber extending into the closed volume and in optical communication with the reference pattern
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are provided herein that generally involve measuring a prostate or other object. In some embodiments, a finger clip having a roller ring or wheel rotatably mounted thereto is disposed within an inflatable membrane. The roller ring can include a measurement pattern positioned opposite to optical fibers configured to receive light reflected from the measurement pattern. A user can put on the finger clip, position the membrane in proximity to a rectal wall overlying a prostate, and inflate the membrane. As the user slides their finger across the inside of the membrane, which is pressed against the rectal wall, the roller ring can rotate with respect to the fibers such that the fibers move relative to the measurement pattern. A controller can sense light reflected through the fibers from the reference pattern and calculate or estimate various attributes of the prostate based on the reflected light.