Otoscope Illumination Uniformity via Processor-Controlled LED Array
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Endoscopic equipment, such as otoscopes, face challenges in maintaining uniform illumination across the field of view, leading to variations in brightness and color imbalances, which can affect image quality and require manual adjustments by operators.
Innovation Solution
An automated system with a processor-controlled array of illuminators around the objective lens, which adjusts light intensities and colors based on real-time image signals from the imaging array to maintain uniform illumination and correct for brightness and color variations, using calibration data to optimize the illumination settings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multiple illuminators are used to illuminate the object, then illumination coverage is improved, but uniformity of illumination deteriorates due to variations in light intensity and color across the field of view
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by dividing the illumination field into multiple regions, each served by a dedicated illuminator. Each illuminator is positioned and oriented to illuminate a specific zone of the object, allowing localized optimization of light distribution. This segmentation enables independent control of illumination characteristics for different areas, addressing the uniformity problem while maintaining comprehensive coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics through real-time adjustment of illuminator characteristics based on feedback from the imaging array. The processor dynamically modifies light intensity and color temperature of individual illuminators during operation, allowing the system to adapt to varying illumination conditions and maintain uniformity across the field of view despite changes in object properties or environmental conditions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual adjustment of illumination is allowed, then adaptability to different objects is improved, but operation complexity increases due to required manual interventions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by using the imaging array to capture images of the illuminated object and analyzing the light distribution characteristics. This feedback loop provides real-time information about illumination uniformity and color balance, which the processor uses to automatically adjust illuminator settings. The system continuously monitors and self-corrects, achieving high adaptability without requiring manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service through automated illumination control where the system adjusts its own illumination parameters without operator intervention. The processor autonomously analyzes images from the imaging array and modifies illuminator output to achieve optimal illumination conditions, allowing the system to serve itself rather than requiring manual adjustment for different objects or conditions.
3Manufacturing precision
If calibration data is collected and processed, then illumination precision is improved, but processing time and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by collecting and processing calibration data before actual operation begins. The system performs calibration measurements under controlled conditions to establish baseline illumination characteristics and correction factors. This preliminary processing enables the system to achieve high illumination precision during operation without requiring complex real-time calculations, as the calibration data is pre-computed and stored for rapid application.
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
The system ensures consistent and uniform illumination, improving image quality by dynamically adjusting light intensities and colors to compensate for variations in the object being viewed, enhancing the operator's ability to capture clear and balanced images.
Implementation Method 1
an objective lens configured to focus light from an object
Implementation Method 2
an imaging array configured to receive the focused light and in response thereto, to output a signal representative of an image of the object
Implementation Method 3
a multiplicity of illuminators arrayed around the objective lens and configured to illuminate the object
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus, including a camera which has an objective lens configured to focus light from an object, and an imaging array configured to receive the focused light and in response thereto, to output a signal representative of an image of the object. The apparatus further includes a multiplicity of illuminators arrayed around the objective lens and configured to illuminate the object, and a processor which is coupled to differentially adjust respective light intensities emitted by the illuminators responsively to the signal.