Adaptable Endoscope Systems for Specialized Environments
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept discloses adaptable endoscope systems tailored for high-security, disaster relief, underwater exploration, high-altitude, and search and rescue applications, providing enhanced imaging capabilities in unique operational environments.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed an optical system, endoscope apparatus, and endoscope, which, while effective, had limitations in terms of adaptability to specialized environments. The new inventive concept addresses this limitation by incorporating novel components and configurations to cater to specific market needs.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The adaptable endoscope systems comprise an optical system with a λ/4 wavelength plate of higher multi-order, which enables operation in extreme temperature environments. The systems also feature waterproof housings, GPS modules, and specialized objective optical systems to cater to diverse operational requirements. The quarter-wave plate, polarizing beam splitter, and image processor are configured to provide high-quality images in challenging conditions.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new inventive concept introduces novel components and configurations that adapt the original optical system to specialized environments, thereby providing a non-obvious solution to the problem of limited adaptability. The inventive step lies in the integration of these components to achieve enhanced imaging capabilities in unique operational environments.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments may include the use of different birefringent materials, varying the refractive index of the glass material, or incorporating additional sensors for environmental monitoring. Variations may also include adapting the system for use in other specialized environments, such as extreme weather conditions or space exploration.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The adaptable endoscope systems have significant commercial potential in various industries, including healthcare, disaster relief, underwater exploration, aerospace, and search and rescue operations. The systems can provide enhanced imaging capabilities, improved safety, and increased efficiency in these specialized environments.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61B1/00096 |
| A | A61 | A61B1/000095 |
| A | A61 | A61B1/05 |
| A | A61 | A61B1/0655 |
| G | G02 | G02B23/2407 |
| G | G02 | G02B23/2484 |
| G | G02 | G02B27/283 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Medical imaging systems, optical instrumentation, endoscopic technologies with expertise in optical design, wavelength manipulation, and imaging system configurations
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A skilled optical engineer or biomedical imaging specialist with advanced degrees in optics, electrical engineering, or biomedical engineering, possessing comprehensive knowledge of optical system design, polarization techniques, and medical imaging technologies
Obviousness Rationale
A person having ordinary skill would recognize that the PTD's environmental adaptations represent predictable extensions of the source patent's core optical system design. The fundamental optical architecture remains consistent, with modifications targeting specialized operational contexts that would be apparent to a skilled practitioner familiar with endoscopic imaging technologies. The variations represent routine engineering adaptations that leverage the source patent's fundamental optical principles.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,158 |
|---|---|
| Title | Optical system, endoscope apparatus and endoscope |
| Assignee(s) | OLYMPUS CORPORATION |