Pulsed Fluorescence Imaging Synchronization for Low-Light Endoscopy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional endoscopes with image sensors in the handpiece unit are prone to misalignment and damage, limiting their use to color imaging only and requiring multiple specialized systems for fluorescence imaging, which is costly and inefficient for capturing multiple reagents in a single session.
Innovation Solution
A pulsed imaging system with a monochromatic pixel array and controlled electromagnetic radiation pulsing generates RGB images with overlaid fluorescence data, allowing multiple imaging techniques in a single session by placing the image sensor at the distal end of the endoscope.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the image sensor is placed in the handpiece unit, then color imaging capability is achieved, but the endoscope becomes delicate and prone to misalignment and damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the image sensor from the handpiece unit and relocates it to the distal end of the endoscope. This separation removes the fragile sensor from the vulnerable handpiece area, allowing the distal end to be more robust while maintaining color imaging capability through the relocated sensor.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single sensor location (handpiece) to multiple functional capabilities at the distal end by incorporating both color imaging and fluorescence imaging sensors at the distal tip, enabling dual functionality in a compact space through dimensional optimization.
2Loss of information
If multiple specialized imaging systems are used for fluorescence imaging, then comprehensive fluorescence data can be captured, but the cost increases and efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple imaging capabilities (color imaging and fluorescence imaging with multiple reagents) into a single integrated endoscope system. The distal end contains both a color image sensor and a fluorescence image sensor, allowing simultaneous or sequential capture of multiple imaging modalities without requiring separate specialized systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The endoscope is designed with universal imaging capabilities at the distal end, where both color and fluorescence sensors can detect multiple fluorescent reagents (first, second, and third reagents) using a single device. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for multiple specialized systems and enables comprehensive imaging in one session.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a color filter array is used in the image sensor, then color image data can be captured, but the pixel array cannot fit in the small distal end of the endoscope
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the pixel array dimensions to fit within the constrained distal end space by reducing the area requirement through advanced sensor design. This allows the color filter array to be accommodated in the compact distal end while maintaining color imaging capability.
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 imaging with reduced pixel count, providing precise fluorescence and color data in a light deficient environment, enhancing medical diagnostics and reducing the need for multiple sensors, thus improving image quality and durability.
Implementation Method 1
an image sensor that senses electromagnetic radiation in a visible spectrum and generates an image frame consisting of color image data
Implementation Method 2
an emitter that emits pulses of electromagnetic radiation... the image sensor is configured to detect relaxation emission of the fluorescent reagent
Data Source
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AI summary
Pulsed fluorescence imaging in a light deficient environment is disclosed. A system includes an emitter for emitting pulses of electromagnetic radiation and an image sensor comprising a pixel array for sensing reflected electromagnetic radiation. The system includes a controller configured to synchronize timing of the emitter and the image sensor. The system is such that at least a portion of the pulses of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the emitter comprises electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength from about 770 nm to about 790 nm or from about 795 nm to about 815 nm.