Portable Optical Inspection Probe with Switched Filter Module
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current oral cavity inspection devices are bulky, invasive, and inconvenient for use, lacking the ability to easily switch filters for different spectral observations and requiring on-spot diagnosis without image data storage or wireless transmission.
Innovation Solution
A portable noninvasive inspection device with a switched filter module, integrated light source on the probe head, and an image sensor that allows for easy filter switching and wireless image transmission, featuring a light channel for uniform illumination and improved imaging quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a conventional microscope-based inspection device is used, then inspection precision is improved, but device portability deteriorates and operation convenience deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The inspection device is divided into separate functional modules: a handheld probe head for inspection and a separate image acquisition system. The probe head can be detached and operated independently, allowing the user to hold only the lightweight probe while the bulkier imaging components remain stationary or are handled separately.
Solution Approach 2:
An optical fiber cable serves as an intermediary between the handheld probe head and the image acquisition system. This allows transmission of optical signals over a distance, enabling the probe to be positioned close to the target tissue while the imaging electronics remain in a convenient location for the operator.
2Device complexity
If a fixed filter is installed in the central visualization channel, then device structure is simplified, but filter replaceability deteriorates and spectral observation flexibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The filter system transitions from a fixed static configuration to a dynamic replaceable system. Filters are mounted in a removable holder that can be quickly exchanged, allowing the operator to change spectral observation characteristics during the inspection process without modifying the device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
A universal filter holder design accommodates multiple different filters with the same mounting interface. This single holder structure supports various spectral filters, enabling one component to perform multiple spectral observation functions.
3Ease of operation
If the light source is positioned far from the target tissue, then device portability is improved, but light energy loss increases and illumination quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a single distant light source, multiple LED light sources are distributed along the probe head to create a virtual array of closer light sources. This copying approach maintains portability while reducing the effective distance between light sources and target tissue, minimizing energy loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The light source arrangement moves from a single point source in three-dimensional space to a distributed linear or surface arrangement along the probe head. This dimensional redistribution allows light sources to be positioned closer to the target while maintaining overall device compactness and portability.
4Device complexity
If on-spot diagnosis is required without image storage, then device complexity is reduced, but information retention deteriorates and diagnostic capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates image capture and storage capabilities that are activated in advance during the inspection process. Images are captured and stored in memory during the examination, preparing the data for later review or transmission without requiring additional complex post-processing equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of requiring the physician to mentally record or manually document findings during the procedure, the system creates digital copies of the inspection images and stores them in memory. This allows the diagnostic information to be retained, reviewed, and transmitted without adding significant complexity to the handheld 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 convenient, noninvasive, and efficient optical inspection with the ability to obtain different spectral images of a target tissue through various filters, reducing light energy loss and providing better imaging quality with the option for wireless data transmission.
Implementation Method 1
a light source illuminating a target, such as a lesion, to generate an optical inspection signal
Implementation Method 2
at least one switched filter module arranged in the optical path and filtering the optical inspection signal to obtain a corresponding spectral signal
Implementation Method 3
an image sensor receiving the spectral signal and generating a spectral image
Implementation Method 4
a light channel is formed between the inner sleeve and the outer sleeve for entering lights of the light source and uniformly distribute lights on the target
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is directed to a device which includes the following features: a light source illuminates a target to generate an optical inspection signal; a probe head provides an optical path for the optical inspection signal; a probe tube arranged at a front end of the probe head; at least one switched filter module arranged in the optical path, allowing the optical inspection signal to pass therethrough to generate a corresponding spectral signal; and an image sensor arranged behind the switched filter module, receiving the spectral signal and generating a spectral image. The spectral image can be transmitted to an external device, wherefrom the user can use the spectral image to examine the target in further detail. The present invention features a rotary-type or movable-type switched filter module, which facilitates the user to switch filters easily during optical inspection.