Since the advent of medical imagingtechnology, capsule endoscopy has played a significant role in the field ofmedical diagnosis. This technology employs a small, swallowable capsuleequipped with a micro camera that captures real-time images within the gastrointestinaltract, providing doctors with a direct view for the diagnosis of lesions.However, despite offering a relatively non-invasive examination method forpatients, current capsule endoscopy technology has its limitations: shortbattery life, limited functionality, untimely data transmission, inaccuratepositioning, and primitive sampling methods. Therefore, our project aims toimprove existing capsule endoscopy technology by integrating multiple functionsand, in the future, attempting to replace batteries with wireless powertransfer methods.
In this project, we have developed anadvanced capsule endoscope through innovative collaboration between Electricaland Computer Engineering (ECE) and Mechanical Engineering (ME). By meticulouslyselecting and designing electronic components, such as the high-resolutionOV2640 camera, we ensured clear imaging and stable data transmission for thecapsule endoscope. Additionally, we chose the compact ESP32 chip withintegrated WiFi and MCU functionalities to enable high-speed processing andcompactness, ensuring quick responsiveness and ease of operation. From themechanical engineering perspective, we utilized the direct contact MF51thermistor temperature sensor, whose small size and precise measurement capabilitiesallow the capsule to provide accurate temperature data in affected areas. Toensure stability during extended operations, we selected the high-capacity1200mAh FLY battery, providing enough power for all-day monitoring. In terms ofcircuit design, we established a precise PCB design that integrates allnecessary modules—including the power source, sensors, camera, LED lights, andantenna—onto a compact double-sided FPCB. This design allows the capsule tomove freely in tight spaces while ensuring optimal performance and stability ofall functions. The entire capsule endoscope design includes wireless datatransmission, ensuring efficiency and safety during operation.
The goal of this project is to develop aprototype for concept validation that demonstrates the ability to wirelesslycapture and transmit images and temperature data from within the human body. Bysimulating the stomach environment, our model showcases the potential of thisadvanced endoscopic technology for future medical diagnosis and treatment. Inthe future, this model could not only play a role in traditionalgastrointestinal disease diagnosis but also in emerging health monitoring andtreatment methods. Furthermore, its integrated sensors and method of wirelesssignal transmission provide new directions and possibilities for the futuredevelopment of medical devices.
