Compact fluorescence endoscopy video system
US8961403B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 16, 2010 |
| Grant date | Feb 24, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 25, 2033 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01N21/6458
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A fluorescence endoscopy video system includes a multimode light source that produces light for color and fluorescence imaging modes. Light from the light source is transmitted through an endoscope to the tissue under observation. The system also includes a compact camera for color and fluorescence imaging. Images obtained through the endoscope are optically divided and projected onto one or more image sensors by a fixed beam splitter in the camera. The fixed beam splitter eliminates the need for inserting a movable mirror into the light path between the endoscope and the image sensors. Image signals from the camera are processed in the system processor/controller where a contrast enhancement function can be applied. The contrast enhancement function increases the color contrast between normal tissue and tissue suspicious for early cancer. Finally, the system also includes a calibration feature whereby the system performance can be maintained when used with different endoscopes.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.