Per-Frame Image Sensor Control for Consistent Endoscopic Exposure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Endoscopic visualization systems fail to adjust image sensor specifications on a per-frame basis to account for energy disparities between different light sources, leading to inconsistent exposure levels in capturing color, multispectral, and fluorescence imaging data in light deficient environments.
Innovation Solution
The system adjusts image sensor specifications and frame durations on a per-frame basis, synchronizing emitter and image sensor operations to compensate for variations in electromagnetic radiation sources, allowing for consistent exposure levels across different visualization types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the image sensor uses fixed specifications for all frame types, then the system structure remains simple, but the exposure levels become inconsistent across different light sources
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adjustment of image sensor specifications (gain, exposure duration, readout rate) based on the type of electromagnetic radiation being captured. The controller dynamically modifies sensor parameters for each frame type (color, multispectral, fluorescence, mapping) to compensate for varying light source intensities, ensuring consistent exposure levels across all visualization types.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes key sensor parameters including applied gain, frame duration, and readout rate depending on the frame type. For example, fluorescence frames use higher gain and longer exposure durations compared to color frames, while mapping frames use different settings altogether. These parameter changes are automatically managed by the controller based on the emitter's current mode.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the image sensor accumulates light for longer durations, then the accumulated energy increases, but the frame rate decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts frame duration and readout rate based on the specific imaging modality. Color frames may use shorter durations with higher readout rates to maintain high frame rates, while fluorescence frames use longer durations with adjusted readout rates to maximize light accumulation. The controller optimizes these parameters in real-time to balance energy accumulation and productivity requirements.
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 high-definition color and advanced imaging with consistent exposure levels, facilitating precise tissue identification, three-dimensional mapping, and enhanced diagnostic capabilities in light deficient environments.
Implementation Method 1
image sensors, which are electronic devices that convert photons into electrical signals
Implementation Method 2
instruct a fluorescence light source to emit a fluorescence excitation light
Data Source
AI summary
Video visualization systems with customizable image sensor specifications on a per-frame basis. A system includes an image sensor comprising a pixel array that reads out a plurality of data frames over a plurality of frame periods, wherein each of the plurality of frame periods comprises a blanking period and a readout period. The system includes a controller that synchronizes operations of the image sensor with a variable pulse cycle of an emitter. The controller calculates register values for an applied gain for the image sensor on a per-frame basis. The controller calculates a duration of each of the plurality of frame periods on a per-frame basis.