Pulsed Endoscopic Imaging Without Separate Clock Signals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional endoscopes with image sensors placed in handpiece units face challenges in capturing high-quality images in light deficient environments due to misalignment and fragility, and are limited to color imaging, while fluorescence imaging requires specialized systems that are costly and inefficient for multiple reagents.
Innovation Solution
An endoscopic imaging system with a monochromatic pixel array and a pulsing emitter that generates color images by capturing exposure frames in response to different wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation, allowing for fluorescence imaging data to be overlaid on RGB images, and eliminates the need for output and input clocks by embedding the clock signal within the data stream.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the image sensor is placed in the handpiece unit, then the system can capture color images, but the endoscope becomes delicate and prone to misalignment or damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates the imaging functions into distinct modules: a distal endoscope portion with light sources and a separate handpiece unit with the image sensor. This segmentation allows the fragile sensor to remain protected in the handpiece while the distal end remains robust for clinical use, resolving the contradiction between versatility and reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional image sensor with color filter array is used, then color images can be captured, but the pixel array cannot fit in the small distal end of an endoscope
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from spatial multiplexing (color filter arrays at each pixel) to temporal multiplexing (sequential wavelength illumination with a monochromatic sensor). This dimensional change allows color imaging capability without requiring large physical space in the distal end, resolving the contradiction between versatility and size.
3Adaptability or versatility
If fluorescence imaging is added to capture multiple reagents, then comprehensive diagnostic information can be obtained, but the system becomes costly and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a single monochromatic image sensor that can capture both color images and fluorescence images by switching between different illumination wavelengths. This universal sensor design eliminates the need for separate sensors for different imaging modes, reducing system complexity and cost while maintaining multi-reagent imaging capability.
4Measurement precision
If output and input clocks are used for synchronization, then precise timing can be achieved, but the data transmission complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the clock signal from the data stream by embedding timing information within the pixel data itself. This eliminates the need for separate clock lines and reduces transmission complexity while maintaining precise synchronization between the distal end light sources and the handpiece sensor.
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-quality, multi-modal imaging within a single session, reducing the size and complexity of the image sensor, enhancing image quality, and allowing for precise identification of structures and tissues in light deficient environments.
Implementation Method 1
an image sensor, the image sensor configured to sense reflected electromagnetic radiation for generating a plurality of exposure frames
Implementation Method 2
an emitter, the emitter emitting pulses of electromagnetic radiation
Implementation Method 3
Fluorescence is the emission of light by a substance that has absorbed light or other electromagnetic radiation
Implementation Method 4
Certain fluorescent materials will cease to glow nearly immediately when the radiation source stops
Data Source
AI summary
Pulsed fluorescence imaging without input clock or data transmission clock 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 plurality of bidirectional data pads and a controller in communication with the image sensor. The system is such that at least a portion of the pulses of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the emitter comprises one or more of: electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength from about 770 nm to about 790 nm; or electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength from about 795 nm to about 815 nm.