Polarization Observation Device Using Wavelength Selective Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing polarization observation devices require multiple image pickup devices to capture images with different polarization directions, and existing configurations are complex and inefficient for obtaining polarization information from living tissues.
Innovation Solution
A polarization observation device that includes a light source generating illumination lights in multiple wavelength bands, wavelength selective polarization elements to polarize light in specific directions, and an image processing section to compare image pickup signals and determine polarization directions, allowing for efficient polarization imaging with a single image pickup device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple image pickup devices are used to capture images with different polarization directions, then polarization information can be obtained, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the polarization measurement function by using a polarization plate array that divides incident light into multiple polarization components, each directed to different regions of a single image pickup device. This allows simultaneous measurement of multiple polarization directions without requiring multiple complete image pickup devices.
Solution Approach 2:
A single image pickup device is made to perform multiple polarization measurement functions by receiving light separated into different polarization directions through the polarization plate array. The same image pickup device captures images for multiple polarization states, eliminating the need for multiple dedicated devices.
2Measurement precision
If wavelength selective polarization elements are added to achieve multi-wavelength polarization imaging, then polarization direction determination accuracy improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies wavelength selective polarization elements specifically at critical locations in the optical path where light from different wavelength bands needs to be separated and polarized differently. This targeted placement achieves accurate polarization direction determination for multiple wavelengths without adding complexity throughout the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
Wavelength selective polarization elements act as intermediaries that first separate light by wavelength and then apply appropriate polarization directions to each wavelength band. This intermediary function enables accurate polarization measurement across multiple wavelengths by mediating between the light source and the image pickup device.
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 efficient polarization imaging by determining polarization directions and enhancing contrast between normal and lesion tissues, facilitating differential diagnosis with improved image quality and reduced complexity.
Implementation Method 1
a first wavelength selective polarization element that polarizes, in a first direction, a light in a first wavelength band among the illumination lights generated by the light source section or returned lights from a subject irradiated with the illumination lights; a second wavelength selective polarization element that polarizes, in a second direction different from the first direction, a light in a second wavelength band different from the first wavelength band
Data Source
AI summary
The invention includes: a light source section generating illumination lights in plural different wavelength bands; a first polarization element polarizing, in a first direction, a light in a first wavelength band among the illumination lights or returned lights from a subject; a second polarization element polarizing, in a second direction, a light in a second wavelength band among the illumination lights or returned lights; an image pickup device generating a first image pickup signal based on polarized light from the first polarization element and a second image pickup signal based on polarized light from the second polarization element; and an image processing section that compares intensities of the first and second image pickup signals, calculates the first or second direction corresponding to the image pickup signal having a higher intensity, as a polarization direction of the subject, and outputs a signal for displaying information on the polarization direction.