Stereoscopic Endoscope Single Sensor Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Stereoscopic imaging systems in minimally invasive surgery face challenges in achieving accurate alignment of stereoscopic images due to the high degrees of freedom in mounting separate image sensors, leading to imaging errors and viewer fatigue, which are difficult to correct without introducing artifacts.
Innovation Solution
The use of a single image sensing chip with two side-by-side optical paths and a single or dual prisms to align stereoscopic right and left side images, reducing the degrees of freedom in mounting and eliminating the need for complex image processing to correct for rotation and scaling errors, thereby simplifying alignment and enhancing image quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two physically separate sensors are used for stereoscopic imaging, then the imaging system can capture both left and right images, but the mounting alignment becomes complex with 12 degrees of freedom that are difficult to control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two separate image sensors into a single sensor chip with two separate photoelectric conversion regions. This integration reduces the mounting complexity from 12 degrees of freedom to essentially zero, as both imaging regions are fixed relative to each other on the same substrate, eliminating alignment issues between separate sensors while maintaining stereoscopic imaging capability
Solution Approach 2:
The single sensor chip is segmented into two distinct photoelectric conversion regions that function as separate imaging sensors. Each region captures images for one eye, maintaining the stereoscopic function while benefiting from the integrated mounting structure that eliminates alignment complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If two separate image sensors are mounted with six degrees of freedom each, then stereoscopic images can be captured, but misalignment errors affect image location, rotation, scale, and focus
Solution Approach 1:
By combining two sensors into one integrated chip, the patent eliminates the 12 degrees of freedom mounting variables that cause misalignment. The fixed relative positions of the two photoelectric conversion regions on the same substrate ensure consistent image location, rotation, scale, and focus alignment without requiring precise mechanical mounting tolerances
3Manufacturing precision
If additional image processing is used to compensate for sensor rotation, then alignment can be improved, but imaging artifacts are introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs alignment correction in advance during the sensor design and manufacturing stage by fixing the relative positions of the two photoelectric conversion regions on the same chip substrate. This preliminary alignment eliminates the need for post-capture image processing that would otherwise be required to correct rotation and scaling errors, thereby avoiding the introduction of imaging artifacts
4Ease of manufacture
If a single image sensing chip is used with two optical paths, then manufacturing and alignment are simplified, but the optical path design becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a beam splitting prism as an intermediary optical element that divides the incoming light into two separate optical paths directed at the two photoelectric conversion regions. This intermediary component manages the optical path complexity while allowing the sensor chip itself to remain a simple integrated structure, easing manufacturing
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 simplifies the manufacturing process, reduces misalignment issues, and provides a more compact and robust imaging system resistant to shocks and thermal cycles, while maintaining good stereoscopic viewing without differential rotation or focus errors.
Implementation Method 1
a single prism is used to turn the light for both the right side and left side images onto the single image sensing chip
Data Source
AI summary
A stereoscopic endoscope comprises a first lens train; a second lens train; a prism; and a continuous image sensor surface. The first lens train directs light along a first path through the first lens train and the prism to be incident on a first region of the continuous image sensor, and the second lens train directs light along a second path through the second lens train and the prism to be incident on a second region of the continuous image sensor.