Rotatable Stereo Optical System for Surgical Exoscope
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing exoscopes with monocular optical systems limit spatial perception during surgical operations, and the use of stereo optical systems results in image rotation and loss of stereo effect when the device is swiveled, making orientation difficult for surgeons.
Innovation Solution
A device with a rotatable stereo optical system comprising two objectives arranged at an angle, allowing the stereo basis to remain aligned and maintaining the stereo effect even when the device is swiveled, using a magnetic drive for rotation and a hermetically sealed housing for sterilization compatibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a monocular optical system is used in the exoscope, then the device complexity is reduced, but the spatial perception capability for the surgeon is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The optical system is segmented into two separate observation strands, each with its own objective lens, arranged side-by-side to capture two different perspectives of the object field. This segmentation enables stereoscopic imaging while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The two observation strands and their respective objectives are nested within a single shaft structure, with both optical paths integrated into one compact housing. This nesting allows the stereoscopic system to fit within the existing exoscope form factor without significantly increasing external dimensions
2Adaptability or versatility
If the exoscope is swiveled to adjust position, then the adaptability to different surgical positions is improved, but the stereo basis rotates and the stereo effect is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The optical unit is made dynamically rotatable about its own axis independently of the shaft position. This dynamic adjustment mechanism allows the stereo basis to be reoriented after swiveling, restoring the horizontal stereo effect while maintaining the adapted position for different surgical requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The optical unit is pre-configured with a rotation mechanism that can automatically or manually compensate for shaft swivel angles. This preliminary preparation ensures that the stereo basis can be realigned to a horizontal orientation regardless of the shaft's position, preventing loss of stereo effect
3Loss of information
If the optical unit is made rotatable to maintain stereo basis alignment, then the spatial perception is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rotation mechanism for the optical unit utilizes a magnetic drive system that replaces traditional mechanical gears and linkages. Magnetic coupling allows the optical unit to rotate and be held at adjusted positions without complex mechanical transmission components, reducing overall mechanical complexity
Solution Approach 2:
A magnetic field is introduced as an intermediary between the drive mechanism and the optical unit. This magnetic mediator transmits rotational force and positioning control without direct mechanical contact, simplifying the connection between control elements and the optical assembly
4Reliability
If a hermetically sealed housing is used for sterilization compatibility, then the reliability in surgical environment is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The hermetically sealed housing is designed as a disposable component that can be sterilized along with the entire exoscope shaft. This approach prioritizes reliable sterilization over long-term reusability of the housing, allowing standard sterilization processes to be applied without requiring extremely tight long-term sealing precision
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 stable and unmodified depiction of stereoscopic images, maintaining spatial perception and orientation for surgeons, even during device swiveling, while ensuring hygiene and durability in a surgical environment.
Implementation Method 1
provision is made for a magnetic drive for bringing about the rotation of the optical unit, which magnetic drive comprises at least one first magnetic coupling element arranged outside of the housing, said magnetic coupling element interacting with at least one second magnetic coupling element arranged within the housing
Implementation Method 2
The optical unit is held in a rotatable manner in a hermetically sealed housing
Data Source
AI summary
A device for recording an image of an object field on a human or animal body from outside of the body including a shaft and an observation optical system, arranged at a distal end of the shaft, for recording the image of the object field, wherein the observation optical system is embodied as a stereo optical system including an electronic image recorder for recording a stereo image of the object field and wherein the device includes an optical unit, which includes the observation optical system and is rotatable about a first axis of rotation approximately parallel to a direction of view of the observation optical system.