Stereo Endoscope Image Measurement with Dual Processing Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image measuring apparatuses for stereo endoscopes face challenges in achieving accurate measurement due to differences in pattern projection and parallax image matching, leading to varying measurement accuracies and dynamic range limitations.
Innovation Solution
An image measuring apparatus that includes an image acquiring section for generating input image data, an image processing section for performing different image processing operations on the data to produce output images for display and measurement, with a processing selection section to adjust image processing based on measurement accuracy conditions, and a measurement section for performing stereo measurements using parallax images.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If image processing is applied to enhance display quality, then visual clarity is improved, but measurement accuracy deteriorates due to processing artifacts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the image processing pipeline into two separate paths: one for display enhancement and another for measurement. The display processing path applies image enhancement techniques to improve visual clarity, while the measurement path uses the original or minimally processed images to maintain measurement accuracy. This segmentation allows both display quality and measurement precision to be optimized independently.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary processing step that generates both enhanced display images and measurement-appropriate images from the same input. This intermediary stage allows the system to produce two different output versions: one optimized for visual display with enhanced contrast and brightness, and another preserved for accurate measurement without processing artifacts.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple image processing operations are performed to widen dynamic range, then display quality is improved, but processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic processing where the image processing operations are selectively applied based on the intended use. The system can dynamically switch between different processing modes: full enhancement for display, minimal processing for measurement, or intermediate levels for other applications. This dynamic approach allows the system to adapt processing complexity to the specific requirement, avoiding unnecessary computational overhead.
3Measurement precision
If pattern projection is used for measurement, then measurement capability is improved, but system complexity increases compared to parallax matching
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the image processing section multi-functional by enabling it to perform both display enhancement and measurement processing using the same hardware infrastructure. The system can universally handle different processing requirements (display optimization, measurement accuracy, dynamic range expansion) through a single integrated processing unit that selectively applies appropriate algorithms based on the intended application.
Data Source
AI summary
An image measuring apparatus includes: an image acquiring section which images an object to generate input image data; an image processing section which performs image processing on the input image data to generate two output image data; a display which displays display image data corresponding to one of the output image data generated by the image processing section for an input of at least one measurement point; an input unit which inputs a measurement operation on the display image data as a reference; and a measurement section which performs measurement based on another output image data for which image processing by the image acquiring section is different from that for the display image data based on the measurement operation on the input unit.