Optical Speculum With Movable Elements For Cervical Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current gynecological exams using standard speculums lack optimal illumination and proper optical magnification, leading to potential missed detection of abnormal cells, particularly in cervical cancer screening, which is a significant health concern given the prevalence of cervical cancer worldwide.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising an image acquisition unit with independently movable optical elements for bright field and dark field illumination, integrated with a sliding mechanism and high-resolution imaging sensors, capable of capturing multiple data sets and applying algorithms for diagnosing abnormal cells, and optionally includes a laser ablation module for precise removal of abnormal tissue.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a standard speculum is used for visual examination, then the examination procedure is simple and low cost, but the illumination is not optimal and optical magnification is insufficient, leading to potential missed detection of abnormal cells
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the speculum with an integrated optical system including illumination sources, magnification lenses, and imaging sensors into a single unified device. This merging allows the simple speculum structure to gain advanced diagnostic capabilities while maintaining ease of use and low cost, directly resolving the contradiction between detection accuracy and device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The optical speculum serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical dilation of the vaginal canal, delivers optimized illumination to the cervix, provides optical magnification for detailed viewing, and captures images for documentation. This multi-functionality allows a single device to achieve high detection accuracy without requiring multiple separate complex instruments
2Adaptability or versatility
If optical elements are fixed in position, then the device structure is simple, but the illumination and magnification cannot be optimized for different examination needs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a sliding mechanism that allows optical elements to move dynamically along guided tracks rather than being fixed in position. This dynamic adjustment capability enables optimization of illumination angles and magnification levels for different examination scenarios while maintaining a relatively simple mechanical structure through the use of linear guides and spring-loaded mounting
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 system enhances the detection and removal of abnormal cells by providing high-resolution imaging and precise ablation capabilities, improving diagnostic accuracy and reducing the risk of missing cervical cancer precursors, thus improving women's healthcare outcomes and reducing examination costs.
Implementation Method 1
using at least one of bright field or dark field source divided into independently operated segments
Implementation Method 2
image acquisition system comprising a plurality of optical elements arranged to capture at least one of a single image or multiple images or video of cells
Implementation Method 3
optionally includes a laser ablation module for precise removal of abnormal tissue
Data Source
AI summary
A system for direct imaging and diagnosing of abnormal cells in a target tissue includes an image acquisition system comprising a plurality of independently movable optical elements. The image acquisition system is arranged to capture at least one of a single image or multiple images or video of cells within the target tissue using at least one of bright field or dark field source divided into independently operated segments to obtain a plurality of data sets. An image analysis and control unit in communication with the image acquisition system analyzes the data sets and applies algorithms to the data sets for diagnosing abnormal cells.