Wide FOV wedge prism endoscope

Area of Science:

• Medical Devices
• Robotics
• Optical Engineering

Background:

• Traditional endoscopes require system movement to alter the field of view.
• Limited maneuverability in small anatomical spaces poses challenges for endoscopic visualization.
• Existing systems may risk damaging delicate tissues during exploration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel robotic endoscope system capable of wide-field visualization without repositioning the entire instrument.
• To enhance endoscopic capabilities for navigating and observing confined anatomical regions.
• To create a clinically suitable endoscope that minimizes the risk of tissue trauma.

Main Methods:

• A rigid endoscope integrated with two steerable wedge prisms at the distal tip was designed.
• Rotation of individual wedge prisms allows for dynamic adjustment of the viewing direction.
• Prism design incorporates measures to prevent vignetting, ensuring image clarity.
• The system features a 10mm diameter endoscope with a detachable drive unit for sterilization.

Main Results:

• The robotic endoscope achieved a maximum local field of view of 19 degrees and a global field of view of 93 degrees.
• The system demonstrated the ability to observe a wide area without moving the entire endoscope.
• Evaluation experiments confirmed acceptable image quality and system performance.
• The compact drive unit ensures it does not impede surgeons or other surgical robots.

Conclusions:

• The novel robotic endoscope system effectively provides a wide field of view in constrained environments.
• Its design is optimized for clinical use, offering enhanced visualization with reduced risk of tissue damage.
• The system's performance and image quality are suitable for medical applications, representing a significant advancement in endoscopic technology.