Specialized Endoscopic Imaging Systems for Niche Environments
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
A suite of endoscopic imaging systems tailored for specific, high-demand environments, including high-security facilities, disaster relief situations, extreme weather conditions, confined spaces, and high-altitude environments.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed a method for endoscopic imaging, an endoscopic imaging system, and a software program product. However, these solutions lack adaptability for unique operational environments. The present inventive concept addresses this limitation by providing specialized variations of the endoscopic imaging system for niche applications.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept encompasses a range of endoscopic imaging systems, each designed to operate effectively in a specific environment. For high-security environments, the system incorporates encryption and real-time transmission capabilities. In disaster relief situations, the system is equipped with a built-in GPS receiver to provide location-specific information. For extreme weather conditions, the system is designed to operate using a rechargeable battery and is protected by a waterproof housing. In confined spaces, the system features a flexible video endoscope and real-time feedback to the operator. In high-altitude environments, the system adjusts the light source intensity based on the altitude to optimize image quality.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The novelty of the present inventive concept lies in the adaptation of the original endoscopic imaging system for specific, high-demand environments. The inventive step is the integration of environment-specific features, such as encryption, GPS, waterproof housing, flexible video endoscope, and altitude-based light source adjustment, which provide a unique solution for each niche application.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include variations in the type of light source used, the design of the video endoscope, or the integration of additional sensors or features to enhance the system's performance in specific environments.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The present inventive concept has significant commercial potential in various industries, including healthcare, security, disaster relief, and environmental monitoring. The market demand for specialized endoscopic imaging systems is expected to grow as the need for adaptable, high-performance solutions in niche environments increases.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61B1/043 |
| A | A61 | A61B1/000094 |
| A | A61 | A61B1/044 |
| A | A61 | A61B1/0638 |
| A | A61 | A61B1/0655 |
| G | G06 | G06F18/214 |
| G | G06 | G06N3/08 |
| G | G06 | G06V10/141 |
| G | G06 | G06V10/143 |
| H | H04 | H04N5/265 |
| H | H04 | H04N23/74 |
| G | G06 | G06V2201/032 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Medical imaging technologies, specifically endoscopic imaging systems with advanced sensor and illumination capabilities, requiring expertise in biomedical engineering, optical systems, and digital image processing
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or medical device technologist with advanced knowledge of CMOS imaging sensors, multi-spectral illumination techniques, and adaptive imaging control systems, typically holding a master's or doctoral degree in biomedical engineering or related field
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the disclosed environment-specific endoscopic imaging variations represent predictable adaptations of the source patent's core imaging technology by applying standard engineering design modifications to address specific operational constraints. The fundamental imaging methodology remains consistent, with incremental enhancements that would be considered routine problem-solving within the technical domain. These variations represent logical extensions of the existing endoscopic imaging framework by integrating known supplementary technologies to address niche environmental challenges.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,165 |
|---|---|
| Title | Method for endoscopic imaging, endoscopic imaging system and software program product |
| Assignee(s) | OLYMPUS WINTER & IBE GMBH |