JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, social distancing has become mandatory. To protect healthcare workers and prevent further spread of coronavirus, contactless examination with wireless endoscopy is being researched.

Objective:

This study introduced a novel, contactless endoscopic diagnosis system using a wireless endoscope resembling a mask.

Methods:

We built a Wi-Fi-based contactless mask endoscopy system comprising a disposable endoscope and a controller. Three experiments were conducted. First, a simple transoral model was created to evaluate the end-effect force when the continuum articulates. A force sensor was placed where the soft palate is. The force against the surface was measured 10 times. Without articulating the endoscope continuum, the tip of the endoscope was collided with the force sensor located on the simulated oropharynx wall of the transoral model only using back-and-forth articulation of the tongue continuum. The collision was repeated 11 times with 10 s intervals. Second, to evaluate the delay in the video broadcast from the endoscope, from the same camera module, the video was transferred both directly from the camera and broadcast from the Raspberry Pi module. Using forward-articulating movement as a standard, we compared the frame rate and delays between the two videos. Third, using a phantom resembling the real-life structure of a patient’s laryngopharyngeal tract, the contactless mask endoscope was applied to the phantom. The operator outside the meeting room controlled the endoscope through a wireless connection using a tablet to take snapshots and videos of stickers attached to the desired parts of the phantom. The process was repeated after changing the operator’s location: in the front of the meeting room, in the corridor, and in the laboratory right next to the meeting room.

Results:

Wi-Fi-based contactless mask endoscopy system was successfully demonstrated. Two kinds of continuum segments were combined and the articulatable continuum segment had 2 DOF. To make maintenance and sterilization easier, key & pulley parts are also included. Mean collision force against the wall of the transoral model was measured to be 30.2gf, while maximum collision force was 37gf, minimum was 24gf. The delay resulting from the wireless connection was 0.72 seconds. It has taken around 1 minute to take the tip of the contactless mask endoscopy system with articulation via Android application, and get the video data of the desired areas of the phantom.

Conclusions:

Contactless wireless video streaming was successful within the range of the access point regardless of the presence of any material blocking the way. The Wi-Fi-based contactless mask endoscope is controlled and articulated wirelessly, minimizing or completely avoiding possible contact between patients and device operators. By minimizing contact, contactless medical devices can protect healthcare workers from infectious viruses like COVID-19.