Stereoscopic Coupler Alignment for Endoscope Camera Parallax
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Prior stereoscopic couplers for stereo endoscopes are complex, difficult to maintain optically aligned, and costly, leading to issues with depth distortions and user fatigue due to parallax caused by misalignments in optical parameters.
Innovation Solution
A novel stereoscopic coupler with precision alignment and easy-to-use locking mechanisms, comprising a 'scope locking' section for secure attachment, a 'focusing mechanism' with adjustable optics, and a 'camera attachment' section for precise optical coupling and focusing, utilizing precision machining and elastomeric seals for secure and aligned optical connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If prior art stereoscopic couplers are used, then mechanical coupling between endoscope and camera is achieved, but optical alignment precision deteriorates leading to parallax and depth distortions
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler is divided into distinct functional sections: a first section receiving the endoscope with first coupling optics, and a second section receiving the camera with second coupling optics. This segmentation allows independent optimization and alignment of each optical path, improving overall optical alignment precision while managing complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupler acts as an intermediary device between the endoscope and camera, providing a stable mechanical and optical interface. The coupling optics within the coupler mediate the optical transmission, ensuring precise alignment and reducing parallax effects that would otherwise occur with direct coupling.
2Measurement precision
If complex alignment mechanisms are added to improve optical precision, then alignment accuracy improves, but ease of operation deteriorates due to difficult maintenance and adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler is pre-aligned and pre-adjusted during manufacturing to establish precise optical alignment between the endoscope and camera interfaces. This preliminary action ensures that when the coupler is assembled and locked into position, the optical parameters are already optimized, eliminating the need for complex field adjustments and simplifying maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to automatically maintain optical alignment once the coupler is assembled. The mechanical locking features and optical coupling elements work together to self-maintain alignment without requiring user intervention or complex adjustment mechanisms, improving ease of operation while preserving precision.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A stereoscopic coupler for mechanically and optically coupling an endoscope to a portion of a camera, the stereoscopic coupler comprising: means for mechanically and optically coupling the stereoscopic coupler to an endoscope; and means for mechanically and optically coupling the stereoscopic coupler to a portion of a camera; wherein the stereoscopic coupler comprises: a pair of optics; a mechanical actuator for operation by a user; and means for physically moving the pair of optics as a unit in response to movement of the mechanical actuator by the user.