Specialized Endoscopes for Extreme Environments

Publication ID: 24-11857162_0004_PTD
Published: November 07, 2025
Category:Specialized Variations & Niche Solutions

Legal Citation

pr1or.art Inc., “Specialized Endoscopes for Extreme Environments,” Published Technical Disclosure No. 24-11857162_0004_PTD, Published November 07, 2025, available at https://archive.pr1or.art/24-11857162_0004_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. 11,857,162.

Summary of the Inventive Concept

This inventive concept discloses a series of specialized endoscope variations tailored for specific, niche markets and operational environments, such as disaster relief, high-security needs, extreme weather conditions, search and rescue, and high-altitude environments.

Background and Problem Solved

Conventional endoscopes are limited in their ability to operate effectively in challenging environments, such as debris-filled passageways, low-light conditions, or extreme temperatures. The original patent addressed the need for a more robust and flexible endoscope, but did not account for the unique demands of specialized markets.

Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept

The inventive concept comprises a range of endoscope variations, each designed to address specific challenges in their respective environments. For disaster relief, the endoscope features a flexible insertion portion and high-resolution camera module for navigating through debris-filled passageways and capturing images in low-light environments. For high-security needs, the endoscope incorporates an encrypted data transmission system and secure authentication protocol to ensure the integrity of sensitive information. For extreme weather conditions, the endoscope is ruggedized and waterproof, with a heating element for maintaining a stable temperature and a reinforced insertion portion for withstanding high winds and debris. For search and rescue, the endoscope is compact and portable, with a GPS tracking module for locating trapped individuals and a two-way communication system for real-time feedback. Finally, for high-altitude environments, the endoscope features a pressurized housing, oxygen sensor, and specialized lighting module to compensate for low ambient light levels.

Novelty and Inventive Step

The inventive concept's novelty lies in its tailored approach to addressing specific, niche markets and operational environments, which are not adequately addressed by conventional endoscopes. The inventive step resides in the unique combinations of features and components that enable the endoscope to operate effectively in these challenging environments.

Alternative Embodiments and Variations

Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include endoscopes designed for underwater exploration, space exploration, or other specialized applications. Variations could also include different materials, dimensions, or configurations to accommodate specific user needs or environmental constraints.

Potential Commercial Applications and Market

The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in various industries, including disaster relief, healthcare, security, search and rescue, and aerospace. The target market includes organizations and professionals operating in these fields, who require specialized endoscopic solutions to perform their tasks effectively.

CPC Classifications

SectionClassGroup
A A61 A61B1/018
A A61 A61B1/0051
A A61 A61B1/0057
A A61 A61B1/00087
A A61 A61B1/00091
A A61 A61B1/00094
A A61 A61B1/00098
A A61 A61B1/00101
A A61 A61B1/05
A A61 A61B1/0676

Original Patent Information

Patent NumberUS 11,857,162
TitleEndoscope
Assignee(s)OLYMPUS CORPORATION