Segmented Wavelength Converters for Uniform Endoscope Illumination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing illumination apparatuses using wavelength conversion struggle to achieve uniform light distribution and color consistency in illumination light, leading to uneven color tones and reduced image quality, particularly in applications like endoscope systems where precise light distribution is crucial.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus employs a combination of first and second wavelength converters, a diffusion member, and a reflector to convert excitation light into wavelength-converted light with controlled light distribution angles, ensuring uniform emission of light across different regions, thereby matching the light distribution of wavelength-converted and excitation light components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single wavelength conversion member is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the light distribution uniformity and color consistency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The wavelength conversion member is divided into multiple regions (first wavelength conversion region and second wavelength conversion region) with different conversion characteristics. This segmentation allows each region to contribute differently to the overall light distribution, achieving uniform illumination and color consistency without requiring complex external optical systems.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the wavelength conversion member are assigned different local properties: the first region converts excitation light to first wavelength-converted light with specific distribution characteristics, while the second region converts to second wavelength-converted light with different distribution characteristics. This local differentiation enables precise control over the overall light distribution pattern.
2Stability of the object's composition
If multiple wavelength converters are used, then the light distribution uniformity is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple wavelength conversion functions are merged into a single integrated wavelength conversion member. The first and second wavelength conversion regions are combined within one component, allowing multiple wavelength conversion processes to occur simultaneously in a unified structure, thereby achieving uniform light distribution without increasing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The single wavelength conversion member performs multiple functions: it simultaneously converts excitation light to different wavelength regions (first and second wavelength-converted light) with different distribution characteristics. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate conversion components while maintaining color consistency and light distribution uniformity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If wavelength conversion is applied, then the illumination spectrum is expanded, but the light distribution uniformity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Different regions of the wavelength conversion member are designed with specific local conversion properties: the first region produces first wavelength-converted light with a predetermined light distribution angle, while the second region produces second wavelength-converted light with different distribution characteristics. This local quality differentiation ensures that the expanded spectrum maintains uniform light distribution.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention controls the light distribution by adjusting parameters such as the light distribution angles of different wavelength-converted lights. By setting specific angular parameters for each wavelength conversion region, the system achieves both spectral expansion and uniform light distribution across the illumination field.
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
This configuration results in illumination light with reduced color unevenness and increased central intensity, providing bright and uniformly distributed light for improved image quality, particularly in endoscope systems where distant areas are effectively irradiated with consistent illumination.
Implementation Method 1
a first wavelength converter which absorbs part of the first excitation light emitted from a first excitation light source and emits first wavelength-converted light that is light in a wavelength region that differs from a wavelength region of the first excitation light
Implementation Method 2
a second wavelength converter which absorbs part of the first excitation light and emits second wavelength-converted light that is light whose wavelength differs from a wavelength of the first excitation light and the first wavelength-converted light
Implementation Method 3
a reflector including a reflecting surface which is arranged to surround the first wavelength converter and the second wavelength converter, the reflector reflecting the first wavelength-converted light and the second wavelength-converted light on the reflecting surface thereof
Data Source
AI summary
An illumination apparatus includes a first wavelength converter which absorbs part of the first excitation light and emits first wavelength-converted light, a second wavelength converter which absorbs part of the first excitation light and emits second wavelength-converted light, a reflector including a reflecting surface which is arranged to surround the members, and a holder which holds the members. A first region where light distribution angles of light emitted from the members have a predetermined value or less and a second region where the light distribution angle is less than the predetermined value are present in a region surrounded by the reflecting surface. The holder holds at least one part of the wavelength converter and at least one part of the second wavelength converter at the first region.