Optical Test Reference Surface for Endoscope Filter Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for testing optical investigation systems, such as endoscopy systems, fail to reliably distinguish between different filter sets used for photodynamic diagnostics (PDD) and autofluorescence diagnostics (AF diagnostics), leading to potential incorrect results and quality assurance issues.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a reference surface with an indicator area that varies in wavelength-dependent optical properties between the overlap areas of PDD and AF diagnostics filter sets, allowing for the identification of the correct illumination and observation filters by recording an image and comparing it with reference images, using either a video camera or visual inspection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional testing methods are used for optical investigation systems, then the testing process is simple, but the ability to reliably distinguish between different filter sets (PDD and AF diagnostics) is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
A reference body with wavelength-dependent optical properties is introduced as an intermediary test object. This reference body reflects or transmits light differently at various wavelengths, enabling the imaging device to distinguish between different filter combinations by capturing characteristic spectral patterns, thereby improving measurement precision without significantly increasing system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The reference body is designed to exhibit wavelength-dependent optical properties that manifest as distinct color or brightness patterns in captured images. Different filter sets (PDD vs. AF diagnostics) produce different spectral transmission characteristics, which are visualized as distinguishable color variations in the test images, enabling reliable filter set identification
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple filter sets are used for different diagnostic purposes, then the versatility of the optical investigation system is improved, but the risk of incorrect filter combination and mistaken diagnostic results increases
Solution Approach 1:
A test is performed before actual diagnostic use to verify the correct combination of illumination and observation filters. The reference body is imaged through the configured filter set, and the captured image is compared against reference images with known correct combinations. This preliminary verification prevents mistaken results in subsequent diagnostic applications
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides feedback by comparing the test image obtained with the current filter combination against stored reference images. This comparison indicates whether the filter combination is correct or incorrect, allowing operators to verify settings before use and ensuring reliable operation across different diagnostic applications
3Productivity
If filter combinations are manually configured without verification, then the operation process is fast, but the likelihood of quality assurance issues and incorrect results increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-verification by automatically capturing a test image of the reference body and comparing it against stored reference images with known correct filter combinations. This automated self-check process quickly confirms whether the manually configured filter combination is correct, maintaining high productivity while ensuring configuration accuracy without requiring manual inspection
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 a simple and reliable verification of the correct filter combination, preventing mistaken results and ensuring quality assurance in medical diagnostics by identifying the correct filter sets for PDD and AF diagnostics.
Implementation Method 1
The light source is configured to generate illuminating light with a first predetermined illumination spectrum or with a second predetermined illumination spectrum
Implementation Method 2
The observation filter is a long pass filter that transmits only wavelengths of fluorescence and reflects or absorbs short-wave illuminating light remitted by the object
Implementation Method 3
a reference surface with an indicator area with a wavelength-dependent optical property that essentially varies between the overlap area of the filter set for PDD and the overlap area of the filter set for AF diagnostics
Implementation Method 4
Light emitted by the object can also be observed, in particular fluorescent light
Implementation Method 5
Light remitted by the object is captured by a lens on the distal end of the endoscope and conducted onto a light-sensitive image sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A method for testing system with a light source and an imaging device for the optic investigation of an object in remitted light and fluorescent light, the imaging device positioned with respect to a reference surface within a hollow space of a test apparatus, the reference surface having an indicator area with a wavelength-dependent optical property, where the optical property essentially varies between a first focal point of a first product of a first predetermined illumination spectrum and a first predetermined transmission spectrum and a second focal point of a second product of a second predetermined illumination spectrum and a second predetermined transmission spectrum. The method includes illuminating the reference surface with illuminating light from the light source and determining which illumination spectrum and which transmission spectrum are present in an observation beam path on recording the image.