Stereo Endoscope Offset Image Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge in endoscope design is to effectively arrange two image sensors in a distal end region with limited space, while maintaining optimal image capture and resolution, especially as endoscopes become more miniaturized.
Innovation Solution
A stereo endoscope design featuring two image sensors arranged in the distal end region with components having cylindrical forms and semicircular cross sections, where the sensors are oriented oppositely and offset relative to each other, allowing for efficient use of space and improved resolution by utilizing the available installation space effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If two image sensors are arranged next to one another in the distal end region, then the installation space is minimized, but the image capture resolution and pixel density are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from arranging image sensors in a planar configuration to a three-dimensional arrangement where sensors are positioned at different depths and orientations within the distal end region. This spatial dimensionality change allows larger sensors with higher pixel density to be accommodated without increasing the overall footprint, thereby resolving the contradiction between compact installation space and high image capture resolution
2Length of moving object
If the endoscope is miniaturized, then the device size is reduced, but the arrangement of two image sensors becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested arrangement where the two image sensors are positioned within nested or adjacent optical pathways in the distal end region. The sensors are arranged such that their optical axes are separated by a small distance, allowing them to be nested within the constraints of a miniaturized endoscope diameter while maintaining sufficient spatial separation for independent operation and high-resolution imaging
3Measurement precision
If image sensors are arranged offset from one another, then the stereo base is improved, but the installation space increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves an improved stereo base by arranging image sensors with offset positions in three-dimensional space rather than relying solely on lateral separation. The sensors are positioned at different depths and orientations, creating a three-dimensional stereo base configuration that provides enhanced depth perception while maintaining a compact installation footprint
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 design enables a compact stereo endoscope with improved resolution and pixel density, facilitating better image capture and processing, while allowing for a smaller diameter and more efficient use of space within the endoscope shaft.
Implementation Method 1
a first image sensor (30) in the distal end region of the shaft, for capturing the first image, and a second image sensor (50) in the distal end region of the shaft, for capturing the second image
Data Source
AI summary
A stereo endoscope for capturing a first image which is provided to be observed by a first eye and a second image which is provided to be observed by a second eye, including a shaft with a distal end region, a first image sensor in the distal end region of the shaft, for capturing the first image, and a second image sensor in the distal end region of the shaft, for capturing the second image. The first image sensor and the second image sensor are arranged offset relative to one another in a direction which is parallel to at least either a light-sensitive layer of the first image sensor or a light-sensitive layer of the second image sensor and which is orthogonal to a longitudinal axis the distal end region of the shaft. The first image sensor and the second image sensor are oriented in opposite directions.