Device and Method for Compensating Color Displacements in Fiber Optic Imaging Systems

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This patent describes a device and method for compensating color displacements commonly found in fiber optic imaging systems, such as those used in fiberscopes (flexible endoscopes using fiber bundles). The invention introduces a calibration approach that accurately reconstructs the true color value associated with each optical fiber. By mapping the intensity values of various color-sensitive sensor elements (like RGB pixels on a camera sensor), and applying appropriate calibration values, the system can provide accurate color representation of transmitted light—mitigating artifacts caused by the physical and optical properties of the fiber bundle and sensor arrangement.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Medical endoscopy, providing more accurate color images for diagnosis and treatment.
• Industrial inspection of cavities, pipes, or machinery where fiberscopic cameras are used.
• Quality control in manufacturing processes that utilize fiber optic imaging.
• Scientific research in biology or engineering where small-scale, accurate color imaging is essential.
• Security, surveillance, or search-and-rescue operations using flexible fiber optic cameras in hard-to-reach areas.
• Integration into intelligent cameras or imaging systems for enhanced color reconstruction.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Significantly improved color fidelity and accuracy in fiber optic imaging systems.
• Reduction or elimination of color artifacts and distortions caused by non-uniform illumination and sensor arrangements.
• Improved diagnostic and assessment capabilities in medical and industrial applications due to truer color representation.
• Applicability to both visible and non-visible (e.g., infrared, ultraviolet) light imaging, expanding the range of uses.
• Compatibility with existing sensor designs and the potential for real-time processing using hardware or software solutions.
• Better support for image analysis algorithms (like motion estimation) that rely on accurate intensity and color information.

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

A color value (58) for an individual fiber optic of a fiberscope can be created based on the intensity values (34) of a plurality of different-colored sensitive sensor elements (4, 6, 8) of a sensor element arrangement (10) if the calibration values are provided for each of the color ranges associated with the fiber optic (14). Using the calibration values (38) provided, the intensity values (34) of all sensor elements (4, 6, 8) of the respective color range illuminated by the fiber optic (14) can be combined in order to obtain the color value (58) associated with the fiber optic (14), which accurately renders the color of the light transported by the fiber optic (14).