1.Industry Background and Market Demand Growth
Against the backdrop of expanding global demand for minimally invasive medical procedures and precision industrial inspection, endoscopic imaging technology is undergoing a strategic shift from “seeing” to “seeing clearly and accurately.” According to medical imaging market research reports, the global endoscopy market exceeded $30 billion in 2023, with disposable endoscopes and micro-modules achieving an annual growth rate of 18.7%. In industrial inspection, applications such as precision pipeline inspection and semiconductor manufacturing are driving demand for high-resolution micro-cameras at an annual growth rate exceeding 22%, demonstrating similarly rapid development.
II. Analysis of Technological Evolution Trends
(1) Breakthroughs in Sensor Miniaturization
The current focal point of industry competition lies in balancing sensor size with imaging quality. Traditional 1/6-inch sensors struggle to meet imaging demands for cavities smaller than 3 millimeters. The OCHFA20 employs a 1/18-inch micro-sensor, maintaining 720×720 effective pixels while keeping the module diameter under 3 millimeters. This technological breakthrough directly addresses clinical demands for narrow-cavity surgeries in urology, pulmonology, and related fields.
2.2 Specialized Evolution of Imaging Performance
Market research indicates a clear divergence in image performance requirements across medical scenarios.
2.2.1 Diagnostic Applications: Requires resolution ≥720P, low-light SNR >38dB
2.2.2 Surgical Navigation Applications: Emphasizes real-time performance with latency <80ms and frame rate ≥30fps
Teaching/Recording Applications: Emphasize color fidelity and dynamic range.
The OCHFA20 module achieves 72.3% quantum efficiency (QE) through its 1.008 μm pixel design, delivering >41 dB signal-to-noise ratio under typical surgical lighting conditions—sufficient for most diagnostic scenarios.
III. Application Scenario Expansion Analysis
(1) Multi-Department Penetration in Healthcare
Beyond traditional gastrointestinal endoscopy, this technology is expanding into emerging fields.
Dental Robotics: Achieves 0.1 mm positioning accuracy when integrated with implant navigation systems.
Pet Healthcare: Suitable for examining the unique anatomical structures of canine and feline ear canals and respiratory tracts.
Skin Screening: Integrates AI algorithms for quantitative analysis of dermatological lesions.
3.2 Precision Enhancement in Industrial Inspection: This technology resolves multiple inspection challenges in industrial settings.
Energy Pipelines: Enables panoramic corrosion detection in pipelines exceeding 50 mm diameter.
Semiconductor Manufacturing: Performs non-destructive quality control within chip packaging.
3D Printing: Monitors interlayer bonding quality in real-time.
IV. Future Development Trends Forecast
5.1 Technology Convergence Trends
AI Integration: Within three years, 60% of endoscopic modules are projected to incorporate AI acceleration units.
Multispectral Imaging: Narrowband imaging and fluorescence navigation will become standard features in mid-to-high-end products.
Wireless Technology: Low-power wireless transmission modules will enable new bedside diagnostic applications.
5.2 Market Growth Drivers
Policy Impulse: China's 14th Five-Year Plan explicitly supports minimally invasive device innovation.
Cost Reduction: Maturity of domestic sensor supply chains drives annual module cost reductions of 8%–12%.
V. Industry Challenges and Response Strategies
Current key challenges include:
1. Sterilization Compatibility: Long-term effects of ethylene oxide sterilization on optical components require further validation.
2. Data Security: Medical imaging transmission must comply with data protection regulations such as HIPAA/GDPR.
3. Supply Chain Stability: Core materials like optical glass and filters face supply risks.
