Wavelength-Selective Imaging Device for Simultaneous Visible and Diagnostic Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current medical imaging systems require two separate cameras and additional hardware to capture both visible light and diagnostic emission wavelength images, leading to increased cost, complexity, and processing overhead.
Innovation Solution
An integrated imaging device that captures both visible light and diagnostic images using a single camera, employing a filter wheel or beam splitter to selectively pass wavelengths, allowing for simultaneous capture and superimposition of images.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two separate cameras are used to capture visible light and diagnostic emission wavelength images, then imaging capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate camera systems into a single integrated imaging device that captures both visible light and diagnostic emission wavelength images simultaneously. The device incorporates a single camera with integrated sensors that can detect multiple wavelength ranges, eliminating the need for separate cameras and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining dual imaging capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging device is designed with universal sensors capable of detecting both visible light and diagnostic emission wavelengths (such as near-infrared) through a single optical path. The camera system can switch between or simultaneously capture multiple wavelength ranges, making one device perform the function of previously required two separate cameras
2Adaptability or versatility
If two separate cameras are used to capture visible light and diagnostic emission wavelength images, then imaging capability is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two separate camera systems into one integrated device, reducing the total number of components that need to be manufactured and assembled. By using a single camera with multi-wavelength capability, the system eliminates redundant parts, reducing manufacturing costs while preserving the ability to capture both visible light and diagnostic emission images
3Adaptability or versatility
If two separate cameras are used to capture visible light and diagnostic emission wavelength images, then imaging capability is improved, but processing overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the image capture function for both visible light and diagnostic emission wavelengths into a single camera system with unified processing. This eliminates the need for separate software synchronization and image registration processes required when using two independent cameras, reducing processing overhead while maintaining the ability to generate composite images
4Adaptability or versatility
If additional optics are added to split and direct light to separate cameras, then imaging capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the need for complex optical splitting systems by using a single camera with sensors that can directly detect multiple wavelength ranges. This removes the requirement for dichroic mirrors, beam splitters, and separate optical paths, simplifying the overall optical design while maintaining the capability to capture both visible light and diagnostic emission images
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
The solution reduces hardware requirements and processing complexity, enabling cost-effective and efficient simultaneous capture and display of visible light and diagnostic images, enhancing visualization in medical and other imaging applications.
Implementation Method 1
A filter in the filter wheel selectively passes wavelengths of light to form a visible light image of the object
Implementation Method 2
a filter that selectively passes wavelengths of light to form a diagnostic image of the object, the diagnostic image corresponding to emissions from an imaging medium within the object
Implementation Method 3
the devices being exposed to an image through a beam splitter and filters that selectively pass incident photons along a number of paths according to wavelength
Implementation Method 4
fluorescent dyes may be adapted for sequestration or preferential uptake at a location of medical interest, such as a lesion. The location may then be exposed to a light source that stimulates fluorescence of the dye
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging device captures both a visible light image and a diagnostic image, the diagnostic image corresponding to emissions from an imaging medium within the object. The visible light image (which may be color or grayscale) and the diagnostic image may be superimposed to display regions of diagnostic significance within a visible light image. A number of imaging media may be used according to an intended application for the imaging device, and an imaging medium may have wavelengths above, below, or within the visible light spectrum. The devices described herein may be advantageously packaged within a single integrated device or other solid state device, and/or employed in an integrated, single-camera medical imaging system, as well as many non-medical imaging systems that would benefit from simultaneous capture of visible-light wavelength images along with images at other wavelengths.