Stereo Imaging Miniature Endoscope with Conjugated Multi-Bandpass Filters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional stereoscopic imaging devices are too bulky for minimally invasive surgery (MIS) due to their size, which exceeds the limitations of endoscopes typically used in MIS, preventing their application in procedures requiring small-diameter imaging devices.
Innovation Solution
Development of small-diameter high-definition stereoscopic endoscopes and micro-robotic imaging systems utilizing Conjugated Multi-Bandpass Filters (CMBFs) that allow for stereoscopic imaging within a single lens or dual bores, eliminating the need for active shutters and enabling miniaturization by using a single focal plane array to capture right and left field views.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional stereoscopic imaging devices use two cameras placed side by side, then depth perception and stereoscopic vision are achieved, but the device size increases and exceeds endoscope diameter limitations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two camera functions into a single FPA by using a single lens with two pupils (right and left pupils) that direct light from different angles to the same sensor array. This combining approach achieves stereoscopic imaging capability while reducing device diameter to fit within 4mm endoscope constraints
Solution Approach 2:
The single lens is segmented into two functional pupils (right pupil and left pupil) that capture light from different angular directions. This segmentation allows the single FPA to receive and process separate right-eye and left-eye images, achieving stereoscopic vision without requiring two separate cameras
2Productivity
If active shutters (liquid crystal or mechanical) are used to block one pupil while the other is open, then sequential color image capture is enabled, but device complexity and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical shutters and liquid crystal shutters with a static optical filter system. Conjugated multi-bandpass filters are positioned at the pupil planes to selectively transmit or block specific color bands (red, green, blue) for each pupil, achieving sequential color capture without moving parts or active control mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The conjugated multi-bandpass filters are designed to automatically separate color bands for right and left pupils without requiring external control signals or power supply. The filters inherently direct specific color wavelengths to appropriate pupils, enabling self-regulating sequential color image capture
3Length of moving object
If a single lens with two pupils and conjugated multi-bandpass filters is used, then device miniaturization is achieved, but filter complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The single lens serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as the optical element for both right and left pupils, focuses light for both stereoscopic channels, and works in conjunction with the conjugated multi-bandpass filters to achieve both color separation and angular separation. This multi-functionality reduces the overall number of components needed
4Measurement precision
If conventional cameras are used for stereoscopic imaging, then image quality is maintained, but the device cannot fit within 4mm diameter endoscopes for minimally invasive surgery
Solution Approach 1:
The patent nests the right and left pupil optical paths within a single lens structure, with both pupils and their associated conjugated multi-bandpass filters integrated into one compact optical unit. This nested configuration allows stereoscopic imaging components to be housed within a 4mm diameter endoscope while maintaining image quality
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 the creation of high-definition stereoscopic images with reduced energy consumption and increased reliability, suitable for MIS and space exploration, providing depth perception and color distinction in compact form factors.
Implementation Method 1
stereoscopic endoscopes with ConjugatedMulti-Bandpass Filters (CMBFs) covering right and left pupils
Data Source
AI summary
An endoscope includes a housing with a distal end insertable into a cavity; an image capture device at the distal end to obtain 3D images, and process them to form a video signal; and a folded substrate folded into a U-shape having first and second legs. The image capture device includes a detector and a lens system with right and left multi-band pass filters having right pass bands that are complements of left pass bands. The lens system receives the 3D images including right and left images. The detector faces the lens system to obtain the right and left images. A processing circuit faces the proximal end behind the detector to process signals from the detector. The folded substrate includes the detector at an outer side of the first leg facing the lens system and the processing circuit at an outer side of the second leg facing the proximal end.