Specialized Endoscopy Systems for Niche Environments
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The present disclosure relates to specialized endoscopy systems adapted for use in high-security environments, disaster relief scenarios, extreme weather conditions, underwater environments, and space exploration, providing enhanced performance and reliability in these unique operational contexts.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed an optical system, endoscope apparatus, and endoscope with improved depth of field. However, these systems are not optimized for specific, challenging environments. The present inventive concept addresses this limitation by adapting the optical system for niche applications, ensuring high-quality imaging and reliable operation in demanding conditions.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The specialized endoscopy systems comprise an optical system with a quarter-wave plate including one birefringent material, a polarizing beam splitter configured to split light from the objective optical system into two, and an image sensor configured to pick up two images. The systems are specifically designed for use in high-security environments with advanced encryption protocols, disaster relief scenarios with limited resources, extreme weather conditions with enhanced durability, underwater environments with specialized waterproofing, and space exploration scenarios with microgravity considerations.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The novelty of the present inventive concept lies in the adaptation of the optical system for specialized, niche applications, which is non-obvious compared to the original patent. The inventive step is the combination of the quarter-wave plate, polarizing beam splitter, and image sensor with the specific design considerations and adaptations for each unique operational environment.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include variations in the quarter-wave plate material, polarizing beam splitter design, and image sensor configuration to further optimize performance in specific environments. Additionally, the systems could be integrated with other specialized equipment, such as robotic arms or sensors, to enhance their capabilities in these niche applications.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The specialized endoscopy systems have significant commercial potential in various industries, including defense, healthcare, disaster relief, oil and gas, and space exploration. The systems' ability to provide high-quality imaging and reliable operation in challenging environments makes them attractive solutions for organizations operating in these niches.
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, specifically endoscopic optical systems with advanced polarization and image sensing technologies, requiring expertise in optical engineering, medical device design, and image processing
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A skilled optical engineer with advanced degrees in optics or biomedical engineering, familiar with endoscopic imaging technologies, polarization techniques, and multi-spectral image acquisition methods
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that adapting the source patent's optical system to specialized environments represents predictable variations using known optical engineering techniques. The core optical configuration remains substantially unchanged, with modifications primarily addressing environmental constraints. The fundamental optical principles of quarter-wave plate polarization and light splitting are directly transferable across different operational contexts.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,158 |
|---|---|
| Title | Optical system, endoscope apparatus and endoscope |
| Assignee(s) | OLYMPUS CORPORATION |