Expanding Standalone Image Analysis to New Optical Systems

Publication ID: 24-11857151_0002_PTD
Published: November 07, 2025
Category:New Applications & Use Cases

Legal Citation

pr1or.art Inc., “Expanding Standalone Image Analysis to New Optical Systems,” Published Technical Disclosure No. 24-11857151_0002_PTD, Published November 07, 2025, available at https://archive.pr1or.art/24-11857151_0002_PTD
This technical disclosure describes improvements that would be readily apparent to a Person Having Ordinary Skill In The Art (PHOSITA) when considered in combination with the foundational architecture disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 11,857,151.

Summary of the Inventive Concept

This inventive concept applies the core technology of standalone endoscopic objective image analysis to various new applications, including solar concentrators, telescopes, virtual reality headsets, microscopes, and laser cutting machines.

Background and Problem Solved

The original patent focused on evaluating the image quality of endoscopic objectives. However, the need for image analysis is not limited to endoscopy. Other industries and applications require similar image analysis capabilities to ensure optimal performance of their optical systems. The inventive concept addresses the limitation of the original patent by expanding its core technology to new applications.

Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept

The inventive concept involves adapting the standalone image analysis module to analyze images produced by optical components in various new applications. For instance, in solar concentrators, the module can evaluate the optical components to optimize energy output. In telescopes, the module can detect optical aberrations to improve image quality. In virtual reality headsets, the module can provide feedback on the quality of optical components to enhance user experience. In microscopes, the module can calibrate optical components for precise imaging. In laser cutting machines, the module can inspect optical components for optimal performance. The processing unit can be configured to evaluate the optical components based on the analyzed images, providing valuable insights for improvement.

Novelty and Inventive Step

The new claims introduce novel applications of the standalone image analysis technology, expanding its scope beyond endoscopy. The inventive step lies in adapting the core technology to address specific challenges in new industries, thereby providing a unique solution for image analysis in these domains.

Alternative Embodiments and Variations

Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include adapting the standalone image analysis module for use in other optical systems, such as optical fibers, spectrometers, or optical sensors. Variations could also include integrating the module with machine learning algorithms for enhanced image analysis or incorporating additional sensors for more comprehensive system evaluation.

Potential Commercial Applications and Market

The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in various industries, including renewable energy, astronomy, virtual reality, life sciences, and manufacturing. The market for image analysis in these industries is substantial, and the inventive concept offers a unique solution for optimizing optical system performance.

CPC Classifications

SectionClassGroup
A A61 A61B1/00009
A A61 A61B1/04
G G06 G06T5/003
G G06 G06T5/006
G G06 G06T7/0012
H H04 H04N23/67
G G06 G06T5/005
G G06 G06T7/174
G G06 G06T2207/10068
G G06 G06T2207/20221
G G06 G06T2207/30168
H H04 H04N23/6845
H H04 H04N23/951

Field of Art

Optical imaging systems and image analysis technologies, encompassing medical imaging, optical inspection, and computational image processing across multiple domains including endoscopy, microscopy, and precision optical systems

Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile

A skilled practitioner with expertise in optical engineering, image processing algorithms, computational analysis techniques, and interdisciplinary optical system design with knowledge of signal processing, machine learning, and sensor technologies

Obviousness Rationale

A PHOSITA would recognize that the core image analysis methodology disclosed in the source patent for endoscopic objective evaluation represents a generalizable technique applicable across diverse optical systems. The fundamental principles of capturing intermediate images, analyzing spatial frequencies, and evaluating optical component performance are directly transferable to other precision optical domains. The technical adaptations proposed in the PTD represent predictable extensions of the source patent's core technological approach.

Obvious Combinations & Variations

Source Patent Element
Image capture system configured to capture intermediate images along an optical axis
PTD Variation
Applying the image capture methodology to solar concentrators, telescopes, and laser cutting machines
Obviousness Reasoning
Known technique of adapting image analysis algorithms across similar optical systems with predictable results in performance evaluation
Source Patent Element
Processing images using spatial frequency and edge detection algorithms
PTD Variation
Extending image processing techniques to detect optical aberrations in virtual reality headsets and microscopes
Obviousness Reasoning
Standard signal processing approach for identifying optical system performance using well-established computational methods
Source Patent Element
Standalone system for evaluating optical components independent of primary device
PTD Variation
Creating modular image analysis modules that can be integrated into different optical systems
Obviousness Reasoning
Design choice representing a predictable engineering solution for generalized optical component inspection
Source Patent Element
Camera movable along optical axis to capture multiple intermediate images
PTD Variation
Implementing similar image capture strategies across microscopes, telescopes, and other precision optical systems
Obviousness Reasoning
Recognized technique for comprehensive optical component evaluation using systematic image capture approaches
Source Patent Element
Image processing system configured to identify in-focus portions
PTD Variation
Applying focus detection algorithms to calibrate and optimize optical components in diverse systems
Obviousness Reasoning
Well-understood computational method for assessing optical system performance with predictable technological transfer
35 U.S.C. § 103 Summary: Based on the teachings of US Patent 11857151 and the published technical disclosure, a person having ordinary skill in the art would find the proposed variations in optical system image analysis to be obvious extensions of existing technological approaches, rendering potential claims in these domains anticipated and non-patentable under standard obviousness criteria.

Original Patent Information

Patent NumberUS 11,857,151
TitleSystems and methods for standalone endoscopic objective image analysis
Assignee(s)STERIS Instrument Management Services, Inc.