INK FORMULATION AND MANUFACTURE THEREOF

SYSTEMS FOR REGULATING TEMPERATURE AND ILLUMINATION INTENSITY AT THE DISTAL TIP OF AN ENDOSCOPE

SYSTEMS FOR REGULATING TEMPERATURE AND ILLUMINATION INTENSITY AT THE DISTAL TIP OF AN ENDOSCOPE

Catheter access and control device and method of using same

The present application discloses a handle configured to receive a catheter. The handle comprises a port that communicates with a lumen of the catheter and a mechanism is provided that moves the end of the catheter for positioning. The guide wire traverses a reservoir located in the handle. In particular, the handle comprises an enclosure with a conduit and a reservoir, where the conduit extends through the enclosure from the left side to the right side and the reservoir space has a curved or concave base. The bottom side and top side of the handle converge into a tapered point on the left side.

POPPET VALVE ASSEMBLY FOR CONTROLLING A PNEUMATIC ACTUATOR

A poppet valve assembly to control a pneumatic actuator may include a housing having a central bore. A first module may be disposed within the central bore, and the first module may have a first and second poppet valve. A second module may also be disposed within the central bore, and the second module may have a third and fourth poppet valve. A supply of pressurized fluid may be in fluid communication with a plurality of control valves such that pressurized fluid from the control valves opens and closes the poppet valves. The supply of pressurized fluid may also be in fluid communication with the first module and the second module such that the opening and closing of the poppet valves controls the position of the pneumatic actuator. 1. A poppet valve assembly comprising:a valve housing having a central bore;a first module disposed within the central bore, the first module comprising a first normally closed poppet valve and a second normally closed poppet valve, wherein each of the first and second normally closed poppet valves has an open position and a closed position;a central port formed in the first module, wherein the central port of the first module is adapted to be coupled to a first volume of a pneumatic cylinder;an exhaust port formed in the first module such that the central port is in fluid communication with the exhaust port when the first poppet valve is in the open position; anda supply port formed in the first module such that the central port is in fluid communication with the supply port when second poppet valve is in the open position,wherein the supply port is configured to be in fluid communication with a supply of pressurized fluid such that when the second poppet valve is in the open position, pressurized fluid is provided to the first volume of the pneumatic cylinder, andwherein the exhaust port is configured to vent pressurized fluid from the first volume of the pneumatic cylinder when the first poppet valve is in the open position.2. The ...

VALVE SIGNATURE DIAGNOSIS AND LEAK TEST DEVICE

A valve signature diagnosis and leak testing device includes a spool valve operatively connected to a pilot valve, the pilot valve being configured to position the spool valve to one of an open position and a closed position. A blocker valve is fluidly connected to a control fluid outlet of the spool valve. An electrical module is operatively connected to the pilot valve, a supply of control fluid, and the blocker valve, the electrical module being capable of sending pulsed electrical signals to the pilot valve and the blocker valve to selectively position the spool valve and the blocker valve to an open or closed position. 1. A valve signature diagnosis and leak testing device for a control valve , the valve signature diagnosis and leak testing device comprising:a spool valve operatively connected to a pilot valve, the pilot valve being configured to position the spool valve to one of an open position and a closed position, the spool valve including a first control fluid inlet, a first control fluid outlet, and a second control fluid outlet, the first control fluid inlet being fluidly connected to a supply of control fluid and the first control fluid outlet being configured to be connected to a valve actuator;a blocker valve fluidly connected to the second control fluid outlet; andan electrical module operatively connected to the pilot valve, the supply of control fluid, and the blocker valve, the electrical module being capable of sending pulsed electrical signals to the pilot valve and the blocker valve to selectively position the spool valve and the blocker valve to an open or a closed position,wherein the open position of the spool valve fluidly connects the first control fluid inlet to the first control fluid outlet and the closed position of the spool valve fluidly connects the first control fluid outlet to the second control fluid outlet.2. The valve signature diagnosis and leak testing device of claim 1 , wherein the electrical module includes a main ...

WIRELESS MONITORING AND CONTROL OF SAFETY STATIONS IN A PROCESS PLANT

A safety station for use in a process plant includes one or more leverless limit switches to detect activation of one or more parts of the safety station. The safety station further includes a wireless transmitter coupled to the leverless limit switches to transmit signals associated with the safety station to a base station device, which is communicatively coupled to one or more control and/or monitoring devices. 1. A safety station for use in a process plant , the safety station comprising:one or more leverless limit switches to detect activation of one or more parts of the safety station; anda wireless transmitter coupled to the leverless limit switches to transmit signals associated with the safety station to a base station device, wherein the base station device is communicatively coupled to one or more control and/or monitoring modules.2. The safety station of claim 1 , wherein the leverless limit switch is a GO® switch manufactured by the TopWorx corporation.3. The safety station of claim 1 , wherein the leverless limit switch remains latched until physically reset.4702. The safety station of claim 1 , wherein the wireless transmitter is the Rosemount dual input transmitter manufactured by the Emerson corporation.5. The safety station of claim 1 , wherein the wireless transmitter is an intrinsically safe wireless transmitter.6. The safety station of claim 1 , wherein the safety station is a safety shower and/or an eye wash station.7. The safety station of claim 1 , wherein at least one of the one or more control and/or monitoring stations is a remote touch screen panel.8. The safety station of claim 1 , wherein at least one of the one or more control and/or monitoring stations is a paperless recorder.9. The safety station of claim 1 , wherein at least one of the one or more control and/or monitoring stations is a workstation.10. A safety station monitoring and control system in a process plant claim 1 , the system comprising:one or more safety stations ...

SWITCH MODULE

A switch module used for position sensing may be operated in a number of modes for compatibility with a number of legacy position sensing products. A dry switch circuit can be configured to provide a direct output, emulating dry reed, high-side or low-side switched configurations. Alternatively, the dry switch circuit can be connected to an input of a NAMUR circuit to provide the known current output for that standard. In another configuration the dry switch can be selectively coupled to one of two NAMUR circuits allowing the switch module to provide a low-to-high current NAMUR output or a high-to-low current NAMUR output. 1. A switch module arranged and adapted to report a position of a moveable element external to the switch module , the switch module comprising:a first external connection, a second external connection, and a third external connection;a dry contact relay having a relay contact position responsive to a position of a component external to the switch module, the dry contact relay having a common connection, a normally open connection and a normally closed connection, where the normally open connection corresponds to a first position of the moveable element and the normally closed connection corresponding to a second position of the moveable;a NAMUR circuit having a first input connection pair and a first output connection pair;an electrical connection from the normally open connection of the dry relay to a first input of the first input connection pair of the NAMUR circuit;a selector operable to connect the common connection of the dry contact relay to i) a null contact of the selector or ii) a second input of the first input connection pair of the NAMUR circuit;a second electrical connection from the first output of the NAMUR circuit to one of the first external connection or the second external connection; anda third electrical connection between the second output of the NAMUR circuit to the third external connection;a first jumper that removeably ...

Fluid Channeling Component of a Multi-Camera Endoscope

There is provided herein a tip section of a multi-camera endoscope, the tip section comprising: a fluid channeling component for a tip section of a multi-camera endoscope, the fluid channeling component comprising one or more fluid channels configured for flowing for insufflation and/or irrigation fluid, and one or more support elements adapted to receive, support and/or secure a flexible electronic circuit board and/or one or more of a front camera, a side camera, an optical assembly, and a light source attached thereto; and a folded flexible electronic circuit board. 1. (canceled)2. (canceled)3. (canceled)4. (canceled)5. (canceled)6. (canceled)7. (canceled)8. (canceled)9. (canceled)10. (canceled)11. (canceled)12. (canceled)13. (canceled)14. (canceled)15. (canceled)16. (canceled)17. (canceled)18. (canceled)19. (canceled)20. (canceled)21. (canceled)22. (canceled)23. (canceled)24. (canceled)25. (canceled)26. (canceled)27. (canceled)28. (canceled)29. (canceled)30. (canceled)31. (canceled)32. (canceled)33. (canceled)34. (canceled)35. (canceled)36. (canceled)37. (canceled)38. (canceled)39. (canceled)40. (canceled)41. (canceled)42. (canceled)43. A fluid channeling component for a tip section of a multi-camera endoscope , the fluid channeling component comprising:one or more fluid channels configured to flow insufflation and/or irrigation fluid; andone or more support elements adapted to receive, support and/or secure a electronic circuit board and/or one or more of a front camera, a side camera, an optical assembly, and a light source attached to said electronic circuit board.44. The fluid channeling component of claim 43 , wherein said one or more support elements comprise one or more camera holders configured to directly or indirectly support a front and/or a side looking camera and/or an optical assembly thereof.45. The fluid channeling component of claim 44 , wherein said one or more camera holders are configured to indirectly support said front and/or side looking ...

MUTLI-VIEWING ELEMENT ENDOSCOPE

There is provided herein a tip section of a multi-viewing element endoscope, the tip section comprising: two or more side-pointing viewing elements positioned at or in proximity to a distal end of said tip section, wherein each of said two or more side-pointing viewing elements having a discrete illuminator associated therewith, wherein the field of view provided by the two or more side-pointing viewing elements covers a front and side views; a working channel configured for insertion of a surgical tool; and a pathway fluid injector for inflating and/or cleaning a body cavity into which the endoscope is inserted. 120-. (canceled)21. An endoscope system comprising:a front-pointing viewing element positioned at a distal tip section, said front-pointing viewing element comprising a camera;a first side-pointing viewing element positioned at the distal tip section, said first side-pointing viewing element comprising a lens assembly located at the distal tip section and a fiber optic, wherein said lens assembly is configured to receive light from an area of interest, and the received light is transferred through said fiber optic;a first side fluid injector positioned on a first surface of the distal tip section; anda first depression on the first surface, wherein the first side-pointing viewing element and the first side fluid injector are positioned within the first depression.22. The system of claim 21 , wherein a first field of view of the front-pointing viewing element partially overlaps with a second field of view of the first side-pointing viewing element.23. The system of claim 21 , further comprising:a second side-pointing viewing element positioned on a second surface of the distal tip section, the second side-pointing viewing element comprising a camera located at the distal tip section,a second side fluid injector positioned on the second surface; anda second depression on the second surface, wherein the second side-pointing viewing element and the second side ...

Systems and methods for image magnification using relative movement between an image sensor and a lens assembly

The present specification describes a novel system for dynamically modifying the magnification power of optical devices used in high performance and critical applications such as medical procedures. The present specification describes an optical imaging system having a magnification control system connected to a sensor device for enabling movement of sensor device with respect to a lens assembly of the imaging system, wherein distance between the sensor device and the lens assembly is altered to enable different levels of magnification capability.

MULTIPLE VIEWING ELEMENTS ENDOSCOPE SYSTEM WITH MODULAR IMAGING UNITS

An optical assembly adapted to be positioned within an endoscope tip and having three modular camera units, comprising: a front modular camera unit defined by a front central axis and a first and second side modular camera units defined by first and second side central axes that are substantially parallel to one another and substantially perpendicular to the front central axis. Each modular camera unit further comprises a holder for housing an associated optical element and an image sensor in data communication with a corresponding printed circuit board. The front, first side and second side modular camera units are respectively positioned in first, second and third compartments of an assembly holder. 118-. (canceled)19. An imaging unit for use in an endoscope , the imaging unit comprising:an optical element comprising one or more lenses;a sensor configured to receive light from the optical element; a first section coupled to the sensor, and', 'a second section extending from the first section, wherein the second section is transverse to the first section; and, 'a connector coupled to the sensor, wherein the connector comprisesa circuit board coupled to the second section, wherein the sensor communicates electronically with the circuit board through the connector, wherein the circuit board is transverse to the second section and the first section.20. The imaging unit of claim 19 , wherein the first section claim 19 , the second section claim 19 , and the circuit board are planar.21. The imaging unit of claim 19 , wherein at least a portion of the first section is coplanar with the sensor.22. The imaging unit of claim 19 , wherein the second section is cantilevered from the first section.23. The imaging unit of claim 19 , wherein the circuit board is cantilevered from the second section.24. The imaging unit of claim 19 , wherein the second section is L-shaped.25. The imaging unit of claim 19 , wherein the second section is parallel to a central longitudinal axis of ...

Ligator

An apparatus applicable for the ligation of internal tissue in a created or natural cavity in animals or in the human body, for example varicose veins in the gullet or a duodenal diverticulum, by means of an elastic band ( 19 ) while observing the ligations through an endoscope. The apparatus includes an automatic trigger unit ( 1 ) mounted firmly on the handle of the endoscope which can release a number of elastic bands ( 19 ) with the aid of a single-stranded trigger cord ( 11 ). Only a single elastic band ( 19 ) is released for each ligation thereby establishing a one-man-operated apparatus.

FLEXIBLE ELECTRONIC CIRCUIT BOARD FOR A MULTI-CAMERA ENDOSCOPE

There is provided herein a flexible electronic circuit board for a tip section of a multi-camera endoscope, the circuit board comprising a front camera surface configured to carry a forward looking camera, a first side camera surface configured to carry a first side looking camera, a second side camera surface configured to carry a second side looking camera, one or more front illuminator surfaces a configured to carry one or more front illuminators to essentially illuminate the FOV of the forward looking camera, one or more side illuminator surfaces configured to carry one or more side illuminators to essentially illuminate the FOV of the first side looking camera and one or more side illuminator surfaces configured to carry one or more side illuminators to essentially illuminate the FOV of the second side looking camera. 1. A flexible electronic circuit board for a tip section of a multi-camera endoscope , the circuit board comprising:a front camera surface configured to carry a forward looking camera;a first side camera surface configured to carry a first side looking camera;a second side camera surface configured to carry a second side looking camera;one or more front illuminator surfaces configured to carry one or more front illuminators to essentially illuminate the FOV of the forward looking camera;one or more side illuminator surfaces configured to carry one or more side illuminators to essentially illuminate the FOV of the first side looking camera; andone or more side illuminator surfaces configured to carry one or more side illuminators to essentially illuminate the FOV of the second side looking camera.2. The flexible electronic circuit board of claim 1 , wherein said front camera surface and said one or more front illuminator surfaces are essentially parallel to each other claim 1 , and essentially perpendicular to a center portion of said flexible electronic circuit board claim 1 , when said flexible electronic circuit board is in a folded ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR IMAGE MAGNIFICATION USING RELATIVE MOVEMENT BETWEEN AN IMAGE SENSOR AND A LENS ASSEMBLY

The present specification describes a novel system for dynamically modifying the magnification power of optical devices used in high performance and critical applications such as medical procedures. The present specification describes an optical imaging system having a magnification control system connected to a sensor device for enabling movement of sensor device with respect to a lens assembly of the imaging system, wherein distance between the sensor device and the lens assembly is altered to enable different levels of magnification capability. 124-. (canceled)25. An endoscope comprising:a proximal end comprising a control portion; and a printed circuit board,', 'an image sensor movably coupled to the printed circuit board, wherein the image sensor is configured to move via a change in pressure at a portion of the distal end, and', 'a flexible coupling having a first end coupled to the printed circuit board and a second end coupled to the image sensor to electrically connect the printed circuit board to the image sensor, wherein the flexible coupling maintains an electrical connection between the printed circuit board and the image sensor as the image sensor moves relative to the printed circuit board upon actuation of the control portion., 'a sensor device comprising, 'a distal end comprising a distal tip, wherein said distal tip comprises26. The endoscope of claim 25 , wherein the flexible coupling includes a first cable claim 25 , a pin coupled to the first cable claim 25 , and a second cable coupled to the pin.27. The endoscope of claim 26 , wherein the first cable is coupled to the image sensor claim 26 , and the second cable is coupled to the printed circuit board.28. The endoscope of claim 25 , wherein the printed circuit board is a first printed circuit board claim 25 , wherein the distal tip further comprises a second printed circuit board claim 25 , and wherein each of the first printed circuit board and the second printed circuit board extends ...

Tissue Collection and Separation Device

An improved tissue specimen trapping device for collecting and separating solid particles and materials from body fluids has a porous separator that rests on a shelf-like annular ledge between upper and lower portions of the tissue collection container. At least one tissue collection basket removably disposed in the tissue collection container above the separator shelf has a porous bottom surface to filter tissue specimens from body fluids and has downward projections to the tissue collection basket above the separator shelf to create a space therebetween.

Surgical Snare Device

A surgical snare device for use in polypectomy procedures includes a snare loop capable of being deployed with a plurality of precise internal diameters. The device includes a handle with first and second handle assemblies and a collar. The first handle assembly has multiple numerical markings on a side. The second handle assembly is slidable along the first handle assembly to deploy the snare loop from an elongate tubular sheath attached to the distal end of the first handle assembly. When the second handle assembly is slid to a position such that it aligns with one of the numerical markings on the first handle assembly, the snare loop will be deployed with an internal diameter in millimeters that corresponds precisely to the numerical marking. For example, sliding the second handle assembly to a ‘10’ marking will deploy a snare loop having an internal diameter of 10 mm. The collar is positioned just distal to the second handle assembly and is also slidable along the first handle assembly. The collar functions as a depth stop and prevents further distal movement of the second handle assembly.

DEVICE AND METHOD FOR TRACKING THE POSITION OF AN ENDOSCOPE WITHIN A PATIENT'S BODY

Systems and methods of tracking the position of an endoscope within a patient's body during an endoscopic procedure is disclosed. The devices and methods include determining a position of the endoscope within the patient in the endoscope's coordinate system, capturing in an image fiducial markers attached to the endoscope by an external optical tracker, transforming the captured fiducial markers from the endoscope's coordinate system to the optical tracker's coordinate system, projecting a virtual image of the endoscope on a model of the patient's organ, and projecting or displaying the combined image. 1. An endoscope system having an endoscope handle and an endoscope body adapted to be inserted into a gastrointestinal tract of a patient , the system comprising:a plurality of orientation markers positioned on said endoscope handle, and at least one orientation marker positioned on a patient bed;a plurality of touch sensors positioned at different locations longitudinally along the endoscope body, wherein each of said plurality of touch sensors is adapted to generate first orientation data;one or more cameras positioned external to said patient and adapted to detect one or more of said plurality of orientation markers and generate second orientation data;a controller adapted to receive said first orientation data and second orientation data, generate a virtual model of the patient's gastrointestinal tract showing a position of the endoscope within the patient's gastrointestinal tract, and generate data related to the positioning of the patient on the patient bed; anda projector adapted to receive the data indicative of the virtual model from the controller and project the virtual model onto the patient.2. The endoscope system of claim 1 , wherein the data indicative of a position of said endoscope body includes positions of all of the endoscope body that has entered into the gastrointestinal tract of the patient.3. The endoscope system of claim 1 , wherein the touch ...

CIRCUIT BOARD ASSEMBLY FOR A MULTIPLE VIEWING ELEMENTS ENDOSCOPE USING CMOS SENSORS

A circuit board design uses CMOS sensors for the tip section of a multi-viewing element endoscope. Side sensors and their optical assemblies are assembled to a common base board to save space. Individual base boards are separately constructed, inserted into grooves of a main base board, and are further connected to the main base board by means of flexible circuit boards. 121-. (canceled)22. An endoscope system comprising:a front pointing viewing element, a first side pointing viewing element, and a second side pointing viewing element, a first base board to which the front pointing viewing element is connected;', 'a second base board including a first side and a second side opposite the first side, wherein the first side pointing viewing element is connected to the first side of the second base board, and wherein the second side pointing viewing element is facing a direction opposite the first side pointing viewing element and is connected to the second side of the second base board; and', 'a third base board to which said first and said second base boards are connected, wherein said first and second base boards are placed transverse to said third base board; and, 'a circuit board assembly comprisinga fluid channeling component including at least one fluid channel.23. The endoscope system of claim 22 , wherein said first and second base boards are positioned perpendicular to each other.24. The endoscope system of claim 22 , wherein said first base board is coupled to a frame which is configured to hold the front pointing viewing element.25. The endoscope system of claim 22 , wherein said second base board is coupled to at least one frame claim 22 , wherein the frame is configured to hold at least one of the first side viewing element and the second side viewing element.26. The endoscope system of claim 22 , wherein each of the front pointing viewing element claim 22 , the first side pointing viewing element claim 22 , and the second side pointing viewing element is ...

Method of attaching a mesh to a coated loop member of a surgical snare device

There is provided herein, a method of attaching a mesh to a loop member, which includes covering a wire with a layer, manipulating the wire along with the layer to form the loop member, wherein the loop member has a shape, placing the mesh over the loop member, wherein portions of the mesh extend beyond a circumference of the loop member, transferring heat to the layer to cause it to partially melt and become tacky, allowing the mesh to fuse with the tacky layer and form a secure bond on cooling, and trimming portions of the mesh extending beyond the circumference of the loop member. A retrieval device formed by the method includes the loop member and attached mesh positioned and longitudinally movable within a tubular sheath. The loop member and mesh are deployed to capture a target object and partially retracted for removal of the object.

MULTI-FOCAL, MULTI-CAMERA ENDOSCOPE SYSTEMS

A multi-focal, multi-camera endoscope having a tip section including a first optical assembly for generating a first image of a body cavity; a second optical assembly for generating a second image of a body cavity; at least one illuminator associated with each of the first optical assembly and second optical assembly; and a processing system configured to: zoom the first optical assembly and thereby generate a zoomed first image in place of the first image; and automatically cause a physical display to eliminate a display of the second image and to only display said zoomed first image. To eliminate the display of the second image, the processing system reduces a power supply to the second optical assembly, reduces an illumination intensity of an illuminator associated with the second optical assembly or causes the physical display to power off, darken, or blacken. 120-. (canceled)21. An endoscope system , comprising: a first optical assembly for generating a first image of a body cavity,', 'a second optical assembly for generating a second image of the body cavity, and', 'at least one illuminator associated with each of the first optical assembly and the second optical assembly;, 'an endoscope comprisinga physical display; and simultaneously display on the physical display the first image and the second image;', 'cause the first optical assembly to generate a magnified first image;', 'automatically cause the physical display to eliminate a display of the second image; and', 'display the magnified first image on the physical display., 'a processing system configured to22. The endoscope system of claim 21 , wherein claim 21 , to eliminate the display of the second image claim 21 , the processing system reduces a power supply to the second optical assembly.23. The endoscope system of claim 21 , wherein claim 21 , to eliminate the display of the second image claim 21 , the processing system reduces an illumination intensity of said at least one illuminator associated ...

CONFIGURABLE PROCESS CONTROL DEVICE WITH ELECTRONIC DISPLAY ASSEMBLY

A configurable process control device, which includes a field device, such as a valve position controller, that can be configured by a user to emulate any one of a plurality of different types of process control devices, is provided with an electronic display assembly. The electronic display assembly is operatively connected with a control circuit that is arranged to respond to the specific configuration of the field device to cause the electronic display assembly to display information relevant to the specific type of control device the field device has been configured to emulate. The information may include safety certification information specific to each of the different types of process control devices that the field device can be configured to emulate. 1. A configurable process control device for use in a plurality of use environments , wherein at least one of a pre-defined plurality of certifications must be displayed in conjunction with the configurable process control device depending on which of the use environments the configurable process control device is to be used in , the configurable process control device comprising:a field device;a first control circuit operatively coupled to the field device, the first control circuit arranged to control the field device and arranged to be reconfigured by a user to allow the field device to selectively emulate any of a plurality of different process control device types;an electronic display assembly, the electronic display assembly arranged to selectively display different information; anda second control circuit, the second control circuit operatively coupled to the electronic display assembly and the first control circuit, the second control circuit having access to a plurality of different certification information sets, each certification information set corresponding to a different one of the plurality of different process control device types;wherein the second control circuit causes the electronic display ...

REMOVABLE TIP ENDOSCOPE

There is provided herein, an endoscope comprising an elongated shaft terminating with a tip section wherein said tip section comprises a permanent section connected to the elongated shaft and a removable section securely connectable to the permanent section, wherein the removable section comprises at least one capture device and at least one light source. 120-. (canceled)21. An endoscope system comprising an shaft defined by a longitudinal axis , wherein the shaft comprises: a recess that extends longitudinally;', 'a first connector positioned within said recess; and', 'a hollow protrusion extending from a distal face of the permanent section; and, 'a permanent section, wherein the permanent section extends cylindrically along the longitudinal axis, comprising a channel into which the hollow protrusion is configured to be slidably inserted;', 'a section extending from a proximal face of the removable section and having a second connector, wherein said second connector is configured to connect to the first connector positioned in the recess; and', 'at least one electronic component positioned in the removable section;, 'a removable section connectable to the permanent section, the removable section comprisingwherein, upon attachment of the removable section to the permanent section, an endoscope tip is formed.22. The system of claim 21 , wherein the removable section comprises a distal face of the endoscope tip.23. The system of claim 21 , wherein the at least one electronic component within the removable section comprises a front-facing camera or a side-facing camera.24. The system of claim 21 , wherein the removable section is cylindrical.25. The system of claim 21 , wherein the at least one electronic component within the removable section comprises a front-facing camera claim 21 , at least one front-facing illuminator claim 21 , a side-facing camera claim 21 , and at least one side-facing illuminator.26. The system of claim 21 , wherein the permanent section ...

MULTI CAMERA ENDOSCOPE ASSEMBLY HAVING MULTIPLE WORKING CHANNELS

There is provided herein an endoscope assembly, the assembly comprising at least one front-pointing camera and at least one front illuminator associated therewith, at least one side-pointing camera and at least one of side illuminator associated therewith, a first front working channel configured for insertion of a medical tool and a second front working channel configured for insertion of a medical tool. 1. An endoscope assembly , the assembly comprising: the first fraction extends outward along the length of the fluid channeling component, and comprises a housing that has encased therein a working channel extending along the length of said fluid channeling component, and', 'the second fraction is a void;, 'a substantially cylindrical fluid channeling component having a length and a height, the fluid channeling component having, along said height, a first fraction and a second fraction, whereinan electrical assembly configured to fit within said second fraction, wherein the electrical assembly comprises an integrated circuit board having mounted thereon a front-pointing camera and a side-pointing camera;at least one front illuminator positioned adjacent the front-pointing camera and at least one side illuminator positioned adjacent the side-pointing camera; and,a tip cover section configured to be removably attachable to said fluid channeling component and configured to receive said electrical assembly, wherein the tip section comprises a front working channel configured to mate to said working channel of the fluid channeling component and provide a contiguous pathway for receiving a medical tool, at least one optical window configured to mate to said at least one front illuminator, and at least one optical window positioned along a first side of the tip section and configured to mate to said at least one side illuminator.2. The assembly according to claim 1 , further comprising at least one front fluid injector configured for cleaning at least one of said front- ...

Disposable air/water and suction valves for an endoscope

A disposable air/water valve for an endoscope, including a shaft having a passage from an opening to a vent. The shaft has grooves and ridges and a protrusion formed at the vent. Seals are set within some of the grooves. An inner ring, having a diaphragm, extends from an outer circumference of the inner ring to an internal circumference of an outer cap. Hinges extend vertically downward from the diaphragm and ribs are formed along the internal circumference of the outer cap. A button cap has an internal ring that securely attaches to the shaft. A resilient member is securely disposed between the button cap and the diaphragm. The outer cap, inner ring, and internal ring of the button cap define a central bore to accommodate the shaft therein.

CIRCUIT BOARD ASSEMBLY OF A MULTIPLE VIEWING ELEMENTS ENDOSCOPE

There is provided herein, an electronic circuit board assembly for a tip section of a multiple viewing elements endoscope, the assembly including a base board configured to carry a first metal frame to support a front looking viewing element and a second metal frame to support a side looking viewing element; and a flexible illumination circuit board comprising a front foldable panel configured to carry three sets of front illuminators for essentially illuminating the field of view (FOV) of the front looking viewing element, and a side foldable panel configured to carry a set of side illuminators for essentially illuminating the field of view (FOV) of the side looking viewing element. 120-. (canceled)21. An electronic circuit board assembly for a multi-viewing elements endoscope , the assembly comprising:a first base circuit board;a first frame configured to receive a front image sensor including a second circuit board, wherein the first frame is positioned at one end of the first base board; anda second frame configured to receive a side image sensor including a third circuit board, wherein said second frame is positioned adjacent to said first frame;wherein the first circuit board and the second circuit board are each folded into a “U” shape.22. The electronic circuit board assembly of claim 21 , further comprising:a first lens assembly coupled to the first frame; anda second lens assembly coupled to the second frame.23. The electronic circuit board assembly of claim 21 , further comprising:a first illumination circuit board comprising a first panel and a first illuminator, wherein the first illuminator circuit board is mounted on the first base circuit board within at least one first groove of the first base circuit board; anda second illumination circuit board comprising a second panel and a second illuminator, wherein the second illuminator circuit board is mounted on the first base circuit board within at least one second groove of the first base circuit board; ...

PIEZOELECTRIC LOUDSPEAKER

The present invention discloses a piezoelectric loudspeaker. The piezoelectric loudspeaker comprises a sound producing plate, a resonant sound-box, a surround and a reflective sound-box. The sound producing plate comprises a piezoelectric ceramic element. The resonant sound-box includes a first opening comprising a first carrying part. The sound producing plate is disposed on the first carrying part. A cavity resonator is formed between the sound producing plate and the resonant sound-box. The surround is disposed between the first carrying part and the sound producing plate. The reflective sound-box includes a second opening and a reflective output opening. The second opening comprises a second carrying part. The resonant sound-box is disposed on the second carrying part. A reflective cavity body is formed between the resonant sound-box and the reflective sound-box, and the reflective cavity body is connected the reflective output opening. 1. A piezoelectric loudspeaker , comprising:a sound producing plate including at least one piezoelectric ceramic element being able to vibrate the sound producing plate;a resonant sound-box including a first opening comprising a first carrying part, the sound producing plate being disposed on the first carrying part, and a cavity resonator being formed between the sound producing plate and the resonant sound-box;a surround disposed between the first carrying part and the sound producing plate; anda reflective sound-box including a second opening and a reflective output opening, a second carrying part formed on a partial of an inner edge of the seconding opening, the resonant sound-box being disposed on the second carrying part, a reflective cavity body being formed between the resonant sound-box and the reflective sound-box, the reflective output opening being disposed on a side of the reflective sound-box, and the reflective cavity body being communicating with the reflective output opening.2. The piezoelectric loudspeaker of ...

MULTI-ELEMENT COVER FOR A MULTI-CAMERA ENDOSCOPE

A multi-camera endoscope includes a the tip section comprising: a front looking camera and a front discrete illuminator to essentially illuminate the field of view of said front looking camera; a right side looking camera and a right discrete illuminator to essentially illuminate the field of view of said right side looking camera; a left side looking camera and a left discrete illuminator to essentially illuminate the field of view of said left side looking camera; and a multi-component cover configured to cover and seal said tip section such as to essentially prevent entry of fluids from the environment of said endoscope to inner parts of said tip section. The tip cover includes removable or repositionable window components which provide access to internal components of the tip for repair or removal, without removing the main tip cover. 120-. (canceled)21. A multi-component cover for a tip section of a medical device , the tip section comprising at least one side pointing viewing element , the multi-component cover comprising:a main component configured to cover a portion of the tip section, the main component comprising a distal face and one or more side walls extending proximally from the distal face and extending longitudinally along a length of the tip section; anda removable window component located adjacent to the one or more side walls of the main component and proximal of the distal face, wherein the removable window component includes a recessed portion defining a first window opening, and the removable window component is configured to removably cover a second window opening defined by the main component.22. The multi-component cover of claim 21 , wherein the second window opening is defined by the main component such that it aligns with the removable window component.23. The multi-component cover of claim 21 , wherein the second window opening is defined by edges that are adapted to couple to the removable window component.24. The multi-component cover ...

ENDOSCOPIC IMAGE ENHANCEMENT USING CONTRAST LIMITED ADAPTIVE HISTOGRAM EQUALIZATION (CLAHE) IMPLEMENTED IN A PROCESSOR

Systems and methods of enhancing images use a contrast limited adaptive histogram equalization (CLAHE) algorithm in a field programmable gate array (FPGA). The images may be obtained by the imaging elements of a multiple imaging elements endoscope of an endoscopy system. 120-. (canceled)21. An endoscope system comprising:an endoscope including a first viewing element; and a base board module;', receiving a first video stream from the first viewing element,', 'building first histogram information based on a first portion of the first video stream,', 'building second histogram information based on a second portion of the first video stream,', 'converting the first histogram information into first cumulative distribution function values including applying a first clipping threshold to the first histogram information,', 'converting the second histogram information into second cumulative distribution function values including applying a second clipping threshold to the second histogram information, wherein the second clipping threshold is different from the first clipping threshold,', 'obtaining a first plurality of frames from the first video stream,', 'rearranging the first plurality of frames to generate a plurality of first delayed video streams,', 'generating a first enhanced video stream based on the plurality of first delayed video streams, the first cumulative distribution function values, and the second cumulative distribution function values, and', 'sending an output video stream indicative of the first enhanced video stream to a display., 'one or more processing boards that implement a contrast limited adaptive histogram equalization (CLAHE) algorithm to enhance images obtained by the first viewing element, wherein the one or more processing boards perform the steps of], 'a control unit operatively coupled to the endoscope by a cable, wherein the control unit comprises22. The endoscope system of claim 21 , wherein the first video stream is received by an ...

DISPOSALBE AIR/WATER AND SUCTION VALVES FOR AN ENDOSCOPE

A disposable air/water valve for an endoscope, including a shaft having a passage from an opening to a vent. The shaft has grooves and ridges and a protrusion formed at the vent. Seals are set within some of the grooves. An inner ring, having a diaphragm, extends from an outer circumference of the inner ring to an internal circumference of an outer cap. Hinges extend vertically downward from the diaphragm and ribs are formed along the internal circumference of the outer cap. A button cap has an internal ring that securely attaches to the shaft. A resilient member is securely disposed between the button cap and the diaphragm. The outer cap, inner ring, and internal ring of the button cap define a central bore to accommodate the shaft therein. 120-. (canceled)21. A valve for a medical device , comprising:a shaft having a passage from a first opening to a vent;at least one seal;an outer cap;an inner ring having a diaphragm that extends from an outer circumference of the inner ring to an internal circumference of the outer cap, wherein at least one hinge extends vertically downwards from said diaphragm;a button cap attached to the shaft; anda resilient member disposed between the button cap and the diaphragm, wherein the outer cap, the inner ring, and the button cap define a central bore to accommodate said shaft;wherein said at least one hinge is configured to connect to a corresponding mount on the medical device.22. The valve of claim 21 , wherein the shaft further comprises a groove claim 21 , and the valve further comprises a bushing within the groove claim 21 , wherein the bushing is configured to center said valve within a channel of the medical device.23. The valve of claim 21 , wherein the shaft claim 21 , the outer cap claim 21 , the inner ring claim 21 , and the button cap comprise at least one of polyurethane claim 21 , polyurea claim 21 , polyether(amide) claim 21 , PEBA claim 21 , thermoplastic elastomeric olefin claim 21 , copolyester claim 21 , styrenic ...

Ink Formulation and Manufacture Thereof

An ink formulation for marking living tissue comprises a dispersion of carbon black pigment particles encapsulated in water soluble shells, mixed with a pharmaceutically accepted carrier, such as water, and a preservative. A dispersion formulation is preferential to a suspension formulation for marking living tissue because the carbon particles of the dispersion formulation are less likely to aggregate and sediment over time. In addition, the absence of large quantities of additives makes a dispersion formulation less reactive to living tissue, further enhancing its appeal as a biological marker. 1. An ink formulation for marking living tissue , wherein said ink formulation is made by the following process:a. mixing a pharmaceutically accepted carrier with a preservative to form a carrier-preservative compound;b. pre-wetting a carbon pigment with a first emulsifying agent;c. mixing a second emulsifying agent with glycerin to form an emulsifier-glycerin compound;d. adding said emulsifier-glycerin compound to the pre-wet carbon and mixing until encapsulated carbon particles are formed; and,e. mixing said carrier-preservative compound with said encapsulated carbon particles to form said ink formulation.2. The ink formulation for marking living tissue of claim 1 , wherein said pharmaceutically accepted carrier is water.3. The ink formulation for marking living tissue of claim 2 , wherein said water comprises between 85.00 and 92.00% of the total formulation by weight.4. The ink formulation for marking living tissue of claim 2 , wherein said water comprises 91.73% of the total formulation by weight.5. The ink formulation for marking living tissue of claim 1 , wherein said preservative is chosen from a group comprising 2-phenoxyethanol claim 1 , benzyl alcohol claim 1 , methyl/propyl paraben blend claim 1 , and polyaminopropyl biguanide.6. The ink formulation for marking living tissue of claim 5 , wherein said preservative comprises between 1.00 and 1.50% of the total ...

COMPACT MULTI-VIEWING ELEMENT ENDOSCOPE SYSTEM

The present specification is directed towards endoscopes, such as colonoscopes, that provide a broader field of view and allow extended access of surgical tools and also enable efficient packing of all necessary elements in the tip section, while maintaining their functionality. Also described are methods and systems for capturing and displaying still and video images using an endoscope corresponding to a left-side looking, a front-looking and a right-side looking viewing element of an endoscopic tip generated in a native aspect ratio. 120-. (canceled)21. An electronic assembly for a device usable for performing a medical procedure , wherein the electronic assembly comprises:one or more first electronic components;a first circuit board configured to carry the one or more first electronic components, wherein the first circuit board is flexible so as to allow the first circuit board to be folded from an unfolded configuration to a folded configuration;one or more second electronic components; anda second circuit board configured to carry the one or more second electronic components, wherein the second circuit board is flexible so as to allow the second circuit board to be folded from an unfolded configuration to a folded configuration, and wherein the folded second circuit board receives the folded first circuit board therein;wherein the first circuit board includes a U-shaped portion configured to receive one of the one or more first electronic components.22. The electronic assembly of claim 21 , wherein the U-shaped portion is planar in the unfolded configuration.23. The electronic assembly of claim 21 , wherein the U-shaped portion is a first U-shaped portion claim 21 , and wherein the first circuit board includes a second U-shaped portion configured to receive one of the one or more first electronic components.24. The electronic assembly of claim 23 , wherein the second U-shaped portion is proximal to the first U-shaped portion claim 23 , and wherein a portion of ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR REGULATING TEMPERATURE AND ILLUMINATION INTENSITY AT THE DISTAL TIP OF AN ENDOSCOPE

The present specification describes a system and method for computing the temperature of the tip of a multiple viewing elements endoscope based on a measurement of junction temperatures of light emitting diode (LED) illuminators inside the tip. The measurement of temperature is used for taking corrective action if the temperature exceeds a limit. The temperature measurement is used for optimizing image parameters, as the performance of image sensors is affected by changes in ambient temperature. 113-. (canceled)14. An endoscopy system comprising:a shaft having a distal tip; an image sensor, and', 'a illuminator, the image sensor having a field of view illuminated by the illuminator;, 'a viewing element at the distal tip, wherein the viewing element comprisesa circuit in electrical communication with the illuminator; generate an output indicative of a temperature of the illuminator based on the input and a function defining a relationship between voltage across the illuminator and temperature of the illuminator, and', 'modify an operational parameter of at least one component of the endoscope system when the output is outside of a threshold range of values for the output of the illuminator., 'a controller in electrical communication with the circuit, wherein the controller receives an input from the circuit, the input being indicative of a voltage across the first illuminator, and wherein the controller is programmed to15. The endoscopy system of claim 14 , wherein the function defining a relationship between voltage across the illuminator and temperature of the illuminator defines a relationship where the voltage drops as the temperature of the illuminator rises for any given forward current.16. The endoscopy system of claim 14 , wherein the controller is in electrical communication with a power supply claim 14 , wherein the controller is programmed to send a signal to the power supply to reduce voltage to at least one component at the distal tip when the first ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR VARYING STIFFNESS OF AN ENDOSCOPIC INSERTION TUBE

The specification describes endoscopes that enable varying stiffness of an insertion portion in an endoscope assembly. In one example, an actuator operates either a spring or a flexible tube to vary stiffness of the insertion portion. In alternative examples, an elliptical wheel arrangement or screw mechanism provides a means to increase stiffness of the insertion portion of an endoscope assembly. In further examples, fluid and gas may be used inside the insertion potion to vary stiffness by varying pressure of the fluid/gas. 118-. (canceled)19. A medical device comprising:an insertion portion;a handle that is connected to the insertion potion at a proximal portion of the insertion portion;a bending portion at a distal portion of the insertion portion;an actuator;a spring having a proximal portion and a distal portion, wherein the proximal portion of the spring is connected to the actuator, and wherein the actuator is configured to activate the spring to deform the spring; anda wire extending along a length of the insertion portion, the wire having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the proximal end of the wire is connected to the distal portion of the spring, and the distal end of the wire is connected to the bending portion, such that the wire is pulled when the spring is deformed by the actuator.20. The medical device of claim 19 , wherein the spring comprises superelastic material.21. The medical device of claim 20 , wherein the superelastic material is Nitinol.22. The medical device of claim 19 , wherein the actuator is configured for connection to an electric current source that activates the spring.23. The medical device of claim 19 , wherein the actuator is configured for connection to a heat source that activates the spring.24. The medical device of claim 19 , wherein the actuator is configured for connection to a gear motor that activates the spring.25. The medical device of claim 19 , further comprising a shaft connecting the spring and the wire.26. ...

FLEXIBLE ELECTRONIC CIRCUIT BOARD FOR A MULTI-CAMERA ENDOSCOPE

There is provided herein a flexible electronic circuit board for a tip section of a multi-camera endoscope, the circuit board comprising a front camera surface configured to carry a forward looking camera, a first side camera surface configured to carry a first side looking camera, a second side camera surface configured to carry a second side looking camera, one or more front illuminator surfaces a configured to carry one or more front illuminators to essentially illuminate the FOV of the forward looking camera, one or more side illuminator surfaces configured to carry one or more side illuminators to essentially illuminate the FOV of the first side looking camera and one or more side illuminator surfaces configured to carry one or more side illuminators to essentially illuminate the FOV of the second side looking camera. 120-. (canceled)21. An imaging module for a medical device , comprising:a first optical assembly;a second optical assembly;a flexible circuit board having a bent configuration and an unbent configuration, and wherein the flexible circuit board comprises: a distal section configured to hold the first optical assembly and a proximal section configured to hold the second optical assembly;a holder configured to hold the flexible circuit board and including a first space configured to receive the first optical assembly and a second space configured to receive the second optical assembly; anda fluid channeling component, wherein the holder is configured to support the fluid channeling component.22. The imaging module of claim 21 , wherein the distal section of the flexible circuit board includes a first distal portion claim 21 , a second distal portion claim 21 , and a proximal portion that together form an arc shape configured to support the first optical assembly.23. The imaging module of claim 21 , wherein the holder comprises:a first planar distal surface extending transverse to a central longitudinal axis of the first optical assembly; anda second ...

OPTICAL SYSTEMS FOR MULTI-SENSOR ENDOSCOPES

There is provided herein an optical system for a tip section of a multi-sensor endoscope, the system comprising: a front-pointing camera sensor; a front objective lens system; a side-pointing camera sensor; and a side objective lens system, wherein at least one of said front and side objective lens systems comprises a front and a rear sub-systems separated by a stop diaphragm, said front sub-system comprises, in order from the object side, a first front negative lens and a second front positive lens, said rear sub-system comprises, in order from the object side, a first rear positive lens, an achromatic sub-assembly comprising a second rear positive lens and a third rear negative lens, wherein the following condition is satisfied: f≤1.8f, where f is the composite focal length of the total lens system and fis the focal length of said first rear positive lens. 120-. (canceled)21. An objective lens system comprising:a first subsystem comprising a first plurality of lenses;a second subsystem separated from the first sub-system by a stop diaphragm and comprising a second plurality of lenses;a lens holder having a first passage extending therethrough;an image sensor received by the lens holder; anda lens barrel having a second passage extending therethrough, wherein the lens barrel receives the first and second subsystems within the second passage, wherein the lens holder receives the lens barrel within the first passage, and wherein the lens barrel is configured to move within the lens holder to change a distance between: (a) the first and the second subsystems, and (b) the image sensor.22. The objective lens system of claim 21 , wherein the first plurality of lenses include:a negative lens,a positive lens positioned on an image side of the negative lens, anda front meniscus lens disposed between the negative lens and the positive lens.23. The objective lens system of claim 21 , wherein a lens of said second plurality of lenses is the lens closest to the image sensor.24. ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR REGULATING TEMPERATURE AND ILLUMINATION INTENSITY AT THE DISTAL TIP OF AN ENDOSCOPE

The present specification describes a system and method for computing the temperature of the tip of a multiple viewing elements endoscope based on a measurement of junction temperatures of light emitting diode (LED) illuminators inside the tip. The measurement of temperature is used for taking corrective action if the temperature exceeds a limit. The temperature measurement is used for optimizing image parameters, as the performance of image sensors is affected by changes in ambient temperature. 113-. (canceled)14. An endoscopy system comprising:a shaft having a distal tip; an image sensor, and', 'a illuminator, the image sensor having a field of view illuminated by the illuminator;, 'a viewing element at the distal tip, wherein the viewing element comprisesa circuit in electrical communication with the illuminator; generate an output indicative of a temperature of the illuminator based on the input and a function defining a relationship between voltage across the illuminator and temperature of the illuminator, and', 'modify an operational parameter of at least one component of the endoscope system when the output is outside of a threshold range of values for the output of the illuminator., 'a controller in electrical communication with the circuit, wherein the controller receives an input from the circuit, the input being indicative of a voltage across the first illuminator, and wherein the controller is programmed to15. The endoscopy system of claim 14 , wherein the function defining a relationship between voltage across the illuminator and temperature of the illuminator defines a relationship where the voltage drops as the temperature of the illuminator rises for any given forward current.16. The endoscopy system of claim 14 , wherein the controller is in electrical communication with a power supply claim 14 , wherein the controller is programmed to send a signal to the power supply to reduce voltage to at least one component at the distal tip when the first ...

Compact Multi-Viewing Element Endoscope System

The present specification is directed towards endoscopes, such as colonoscopes, that provide a broader field of view and allow extended access of surgical tools and also enable efficient packing of all necessary elements in the tip section, while maintaining their functionality. Also described are methods and systems for capturing and displaying still and video images using an endoscope corresponding to a left-side looking, a front-looking and a right-side looking viewing element of an endoscopic tip generated in a native aspect ratio. 1. A manifold for use in an endoscope , comprising:a manifold housing having a partially cylindrical shape with a curved top surface, a partially curved first side and a partially curved second side wherein the manifold housing comprises a base portion with a first width, a first length, and a proximal surface and an elongated portion, which is attached to the base portion, with a second width, a second length, and a distal surface, wherein the first width is greater than the second width and the first length is less than the second length;a first channel extending from the base portion through the elongated portion, wherein the first channel has an entrance port positioned on said proximal surface of the base portion and an exit port positioned on a distal surface of the elongated portion;a second channel extending from the base portion through the elongated portion, wherein the second channel has an entrance port positioned on said proximal surface of the base portion and an exit port positioned on a distal surface of the elongated portion;a Y-shaped fluid conduit comprising a central stem portion, a first prong portion, and a second prong portion, wherein the central stem portion extends from an entrance port on the proximal surface of the base portion through the base portion, wherein the first prong portion extends from an end of the central portion through the base portion to an exit port on the partially curved first side; and ...

Endoscopic Injection Needle Device

An endoscopic injection needle device includes a flexible elongate sheath attached to a handle. Disposed within the sheath is drive shaft having a lumen within and a needle at its distal end. The drive shaft is movable longitudinally within the sheath and is attached at its proximal end within the handle to an actuator. Advancing the actuator extends the needle from the distal end of the device. The actuator includes a locking mechanism that locks it in place with the handle when advanced a certain distance. The locking mechanism includes multiple locking positions wherein the exposed length of the needle corresponds to the distance advanced by the actuator at each locking position. Also included in the distal end of the sheath are a spring coil and a collar. The collar is positioned distal to the spring coil and includes a dome shaped distal end that extends beyond the distal end of the sheath. The drive shaft extends through the spring coil and, when retracted, the needle is housed within the collar. The spring coil and collar stabilize the distal end of the sheath, facilitating consistent deployment and retraction of the needle. 1. An injection needle device for use with an endoscope , said device comprising:a handle having a cylindrical body, an exterior surface, a proximal end, and a distal end, said handle further comprising a first locking member on said exterior surface and a compressible spring within said cylindrical body;an actuator having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein said actuator is coupled at said proximal end to the distal end of said cylindrical body of said handle, said actuator further comprising a second locking member having a plurality of locking components, each of said locking components being separated by an interval;a spring coil;a drive shaft having a first lumen, a proximal end, and a distal end, wherein said proximal end of said drive shaft attaches to said distal end of said actuator and wherein said distal end of said shaft ...

Surgical Snare Device

A surgical snare device for use in polypectomy procedures includes a snare loop capable of being deployed with a plurality of precise internal diameters. The device includes a handle with first and second handle assemblies and a collar. The first handle assembly has multiple numerical markings on a side. The second handle assembly is slidable along the first handle assembly to deploy the snare loop from an elongate tubular sheath attached to the distal end of the first handle assembly. When the second handle assembly is slid to a position such that it aligns with one of the numerical markings on the first handle assembly, the snare loop will be deployed with an internal diameter in millimeters that corresponds precisely to the numerical marking. For example, sliding the second handle assembly to a ‘10’ marking will deploy a snare loop having an internal diameter of 10 mm. The collar is positioned just distal to the second handle assembly and is also slidable along the first handle assembly. The collar functions as a depth stop and prevents further distal movement of the second handle assembly.

MULTI-JET CONTROLLER FOR AN ENDOSCOPE

The present specification describes a control mechanism to control fluid flow through one or more fluid channels that supply fluid to the distal tip of an endoscope. A pump is provided with an endoscope to control the flow of fluid from an external source to a combination of fluid channels within the endoscope, which supply fluid to front and side jets of a multi-jet endoscope assembly. The pump is preferably dual-direction pump that enables control of fluid to either the front jet or to the front and side jets of the endoscope. 123-. (canceled)24. An apparatus for controlling a flow direction of fluid from a fluid source external to a medical device into the medical device , comprising:a tube comprising a first combination of fluid channels and a second combination of fluid channels;a pump connected to the tube, wherein the pump is adapted to direct fluid from the fluid source to the first combination of fluid channels and the second combination of fluid channels in the tube;a controller to activate the pump, wherein the controller is configured to cause the pump to direct fluid to the first combination of fluid channels upon a first activation of the controller, and wherein the controller is configured to cause the pump to direct fluid to the second combination of fluid channels upon a second activation of the controller; andthe medical device, wherein the medical device comprises a first opening and a second opening;wherein the first combination of fluid channels is configured to supply fluid to the first opening; andwherein the second combination of fluid channels is configured to supply fluid to the second opening.25. The apparatus of claim 24 , wherein the pump is a peristaltic pump.26. The apparatus of claim 24 , further comprising a user trigger to control the controller claim 24 , wherein the user trigger comprises a button claim 24 , and wherein the button is configured such that pressing the button causes the first activation of the controller and ...

Multiple Viewing Element Endoscope System Having Multiple Sensor Motion Synchronization

Multiple-sensor motion synchronization in a multi-viewing element endoscope system is achieved by rotating CMOS image sensors, relative to each other, and programming each CMOS image sensor to scan in specific directions. Frames collected from scans at different times are stored, processed, and displayed to form a complete image.

Item Eligibility and/or Promotion Determination Application

In general, the present invention is directed to systems and methods of utilizing an application operating on a mobile device to determine any applicable offers or eligibility and rank such offers and eligibility for user selection. More specifically, a process may be conducted by a processor in communication with a mobile device and data stores including user data, retailer data, and/or product and service data, the process including comparing identification information associated with a product or service received from the mobile device with data in the data stores; determining the product or service and identifying any associated promotional offers or plan eligibility associated with the product or service, the user, and/or the retailer; ranking any promotional offers or plan eligibility based at least in part on size of promotion; transmitting to the mobile device an identifier of applicable promotional offers or plan eligibility. 1. A system , comprising:a processor; user data, including memberships, groups, plans, and/or entitlements associated with a user;', products and services offered by a retailer;', 'any promotional offers offered by the retailer;, 'retailer data, including, 'product and service data, including identification information of each product and service, and any promotional offers or plan eligibility associated with the product or service;, 'one or more data stores, the one or more data stores storing data comprisingwherein the processor is in selective communication with one or more retailers, manufacturers, membership plans, insurance providers, and/or entitlement providers to populate and update the one or more data stores;wherein the processor is in selective communication with a mobile device of the user; comparing first media data comprising identification information associated with a product or service received from the mobile device with product and service data stored in the one or more data stores;', 'based at least in part on the ...

COMPACT MULTI-VIEWING ELEMENT ENDOSCOPE SYSTEM

The present specification is directed towards endoscopes, such as colonoscopes, that provide a broader field of view and allow extended access of surgical tools and also enable efficient packing of all necessary elements in the tip section, while maintaining their functionality. Also described are methods and systems for capturing and displaying still and video images using an endoscope corresponding to a left-side looking, a front-looking and a right-side looking viewing element of an endoscopic tip generated in a native aspect ratio. 120-. (canceled)21. A modular electronic assembly for a device usable for performing endoscopic procedures , wherein the modular electronic assembly comprises:one or more first electronic components;a first circuit board configured to carry the one or more first electronic components, wherein the first circuit board is flexible so as to allow the first circuit board to be folded from an unfolded configuration to a folded configuration;one or more second electronic components;a second circuit board configured to carry the one or more second electronic components, wherein the second circuit board is flexible so as to allow the second circuit board to be folded from an unfolded configuration to a folded configuration, and wherein the folded second circuit board receives the folded first circuit board therein.22. The modular electronic assembly of claim 21 , wherein portions of the folded second circuit board extend across a first side of the folded first circuit board claim 21 , a second side of the folded first circuit board claim 21 , a third side of the folded first circuit board claim 21 , and a fourth side of the folded first circuit board claim 21 , wherein the first and the second sides are opposite sides of the folded first circuit board claim 21 , and wherein the third and the fourth sides are opposite sides of the folded first circuit board.23. The modular electronic assembly of claim 21 , wherein portions of the folded second ...

QUICK DISCONNECT CONNECTOR ASSEMBLY

A quick-disconnect connector assembly includes a housing having a bore that extends up to but not through a first end of the housing. The connector assembly also includes a proximity switch disposed within the bore, and the proximity switch includes a switch body, a first contact member, and a second contact member. A portion of each of the first and second contact members extends from the switch body towards a second end of the housing. In a first switch position, a contact of a displaceable switching assembly is in contact with the first contact member, and in a second switch position, the contact is in contact with the second contact member. The connector assembly also includes an external connection assembly including a first pin that is electrically coupled to the first contact member and a second pin that is electrically coupled to the second contact member. 1. A quick-disconnect connector assembly comprising:a housing that extends along a longitudinal axis from a first end to a longitudinally-opposite second end, the housing including one or more interior surfaces that cooperate to define a bore that extends from the second end to a point adjacent to the first end such that the bore does not extend through the first end of the housing, wherein the bore includes a first bore portion; a switch body extending along a body longitudinal axis, the switch body having a first end disposed adjacent to the first end of the housing and a longitudinally-opposite second end; and', 'a first contact member and a second contact member, each of the first and second contact members having a first end and a longitudinally-opposite second end, the second end being disposed within the switch body and the first end being disposed external to the switch body, wherein a portion of each of the first and second contact members extends from the second end of the switch body towards the second end of the housing,', 'wherein in a first switch position, a contact of a displaceable ...

FLUID DISTRIBUTION DEVICE FOR A MULTIPLE VIEWING ELEMENTS ENDOSCOPE

There is provided herein a tip section for an endoscope assembly that includes a fluid distribution device for circulating fluid for cleaning a body cavity. In an embodiment, the tip section includes a groove aligned with side jet channels, where multiple holes drilled above the groove, through the periphery of a tip cover covering the tip section, provide an exit for the fluid circulated by the side jet channels in all directions around the tip cover. In another embodiment, the tip section includes a removable attachment that covers jet channel openings. Multiple holes drilled through the cover provide a multiple jet exit for the fluid circulated by the jet channels in multiple directions around the tip cover. 123-. (canceled)24. An imaging module for a medical device , comprising: a first base board; and', 'a second base board spaced from the first base board; and, 'a circuit board comprisingan optical assembly including an image sensor and at least one lens, wherein the at least one lens is positioned between the first base board and the second base board; andwherein the image sensor is connected to the first base board and the second base board.25. The imaging module of claim 24 , wherein the image sensor is bent or folded.26. The imaging module of claim 24 , wherein the image sensor includes first connector pins at a first end of the image sensor and second connector pins at a second end of the image sensor; wherein the first end opposes the second end; and wherein the first connector pins are coupled to the first base board and the second connector pins are coupled to the second base board.27. The imaging module of claim 26 , wherein the first connector pins are coupled to a first surface of the first base board; wherein the second connector pins are coupled to a second surface of the second base board; wherein the first surface faces a first direction claim 26 , and the second surface faces a second direction that is opposite the first direction.28. The ...

ENDOSCOPE SYSTEM WITH MULTIPLE CONNECTION INTERFACES TO INTERFACE WITH DIFFERENT VIDEO DATA SIGNAL SOURCES

Endoscopes having a tip section with viewing elements coupled to a CMOS image sensor and/or a CCD image sensor for transforming light captured by the viewing element into digital and/or analog signals are described. A main connector is coupled with the tip section for transmitting the signals to a main control unit of the endoscope. The main connector includes a pad for transmitting digital signals provided by the CMOS image sensor to a push pin probe in a receptacle of the main control unit. The main connector also include another interface for transmitting analog signals to the main control unit. 120-. (canceled)21. A control unit comprising:a receptacle configured to receive a connector of a medical device;a first region of the receptacle, wherein the first region comprises a first probe configured to receive a first set of video data signals having a first bandwidth; anda second region of the receptacle spaced from the first region, wherein the second region comprises an interface configured to receive a second set of video data signals having a second bandwidth.22. The control unit of claim 21 , wherein the first probe comprises a spring loaded pin.23. The control unit of claim 21 , wherein the second region comprises a multi-pin interface configured to attach to a complementary multi-pin interface in the connector of the medical device.24. The control unit of claim 21 , wherein the first probe is configured to be compressed upon attachment of the receptacle to a connector of the medical device.25. The control unit of claim 21 , wherein the first bandwidth is greater than the second bandwidth.26. The control unit of claim 25 , wherein the first bandwidth is greater than 1 GHz and the second bandwidth is less than 0.5 GHz.27. The control unit of claim 21 , wherein the first region further comprises a light guide claim 21 , a gas channel claim 21 , a second probe claim 21 , and a third probe claim 21 , wherein the first probe claim 21 , the second probe claim 21 ...

ENDOSCOPE CONTROL UNIT WITH BRAKING SYSTEM

A control unit that includes a braking system for fixing the position of an endoscope tip is provided. The control system includes an up-down control knob and a right-left control knob. The brakes are engaged by rotating the control knob itself counter-clockwise from a free wheeling position. After the brakes have been engaged, a sufficient amount of force applied to the control knobs will move the endoscope tip slightly in the corresponding direction, allowing for fine tuning of tip position after braking. 1. A control unit providing a braking system for an articulation unit of endoscope , said control unit comprising:a first shaft having a first end and a second end, the first end being coupled with a first operating knob, the second end being coupled with a first cable drum and a first cable pair that are coupled with the articulation unit of the endoscope, wherein at least a portion of the first shaft in proximity to the first operating knob includes a space;a second hollow shaft having a first end and a second end, the first end being coupled with a second operating knob, the second end being coupled with a second cable drum and a second cable pair that are coupled with the articulation unit of the endoscope, wherein the first shaft is positioned within the second shaft;a brake knob rotatable about its center axis;a stationary sleeve arranged between the first and the second shafts;a spring supported by the first shaft in proximity to the first end of the first shaft;a pin extending into the space of the first shaft and coupled to said brake knob by the spring, wherein said pin has a first position and a second position; andat least one brake body extending outwardly from said pin, wherein said at least one brake body does not press against the stationary sleeve when the pin is in the first position;wherein the pin is movable from the first position into the second position by rotational motion of said brake knob in a first rotational direction and compression ...

Endoscope Tip Position Visual Indicator and Heat Management System

The present specification discloses an endoscope having a tip section equipped with multiple viewing elements. Each of the viewing elements' field of view is illuminated by a discrete illuminator, such as a LED, being operated in a flash mode. The flash mode of operation of the LEDs enable doctors to obtain a position of the endoscope tip within a patient's body from outside by viewing the light emitted by the LEDs. Since the light is emitted for short pre-defined periods of time, the heat generated by the LEDs during their periods of operation is within a safe threshold value, and does not cause any burn injury inside the patient's body. 1. A system for managing heat generated in a tip of an endoscope , comprising:a controller external to the endoscope, wherein said controller comprises a memory for storing programmatic functions and a processor for executing said programmatic functions;an input device in data communication with said controller, wherein said input device is adapted to receive data indicative of a programmatic function and wherein said input device is configured to communicate said data indicative of a programmatic function to the controller; and,a plurality of discrete illuminators positioned within said tip and in electrical communication with said controller, wherein each of said plurality of discrete illuminators emits an amount of visible light and wherein said controller executes a programmatic function based upon said data indicative of a programmatic function that causes at least one of said plurality of discrete illuminators to modulate an amount of visible light emitted by it in accordance with said programmatic function.2. The system of wherein the programmatic function defines claim 1 , for at least one of said plurality of discrete illuminators claim 1 , a first non-zero power level for a first period of time and a second non-zero power level for a second period of time.3. The system of wherein the first power level causes at least one ...

Image Capture Assembly for Use in a Multi-Viewing Elements Endoscope

An image capturing assembly for use in an endoscope includes a manifold with a base and a casing extending outward from the base, a partially enclosed housing adapted to physically attach to the manifold, a foldable LED carrier substrate capable of carrying a plurality of LEDs, a flexible optical carrier substrate capable of carrying a plurality of camera sensors, and a tip cover adapted to cover the manifold, housing, LED carrier substrate, and optical carrier substrate. The manifold includes at least one continuous channel extending throughout its length. The foldable LED carrier substrate includes a central, forward facing portion, adapted to carry at least one illuminator for a front viewing element, and a pair of arms extending proximally from the central portion. Each arm includes at least one foldable protrusion adapted to carry an illuminator for a side viewing element. 1. An image capturing assembly adapted to be used in an endoscope , the assembly comprising:a manifold having a proximal base with a first length and a first width and a casing extending outward from said proximal base, wherein said casing has a second length and second width and wherein said first length is less than the second length and the first width is greater than the second width;a partially enclosed housing wherein said partially enclosed housing is adapted to physically attach to the manifold;a LED carrier substrate, wherein said LED carrier substrate is adapted to be foldable and to carry a plurality of LEDs;a flexible optical carrier substrate, wherein said flexible optical carrier substrate is adapted to be foldable and to carry a plurality of camera sensors; anda tip cover adapted to cover said manifold, said partially enclosed housing, said LED carrier substrate, and said flexible optical carrier substrate.2. The image capturing assembly of claim 1 , wherein the manifold is a unitary part.3. The image capturing assembly of claim 1 , wherein the proximal base is substantially ...

Multiple Viewing Elements Endoscope Having Two Front Service Channels

An endoscope assembly has a tip that includes at least one front-pointing camera and at least one front illuminator associated therewith, at least one side-pointing camera and at least one side illuminator associated therewith, a first front service channel with a first exit point, and a second front service channel with a second exit point where the first and the second service channel exit points are located in close proximity on the front distal end of the tip. Further, an interior volume of the tip is in a range of 2.75 cmto 3.5 cm, wherein each of the at least two viewing elements is configured to generate a field of view ranging from 120 to 180 degrees, a depth of field ranging from 3 to 100 mm, and a peripheral distortion of less than 80%. 1. An image capturing assembly adapted to be used in a tip of an endoscope , wherein the tip has a proximal end , a distal end and an interior volume , the assembly comprising:an L shaped component, having a base positioned at the proximal end of the tip and a casing that extends distally from the base to the distal end of the tip, wherein the base of the L shaped component has a first length and a first width, the casing has a second length and a second width, and said first length is less than the second length and the first width is greater than the second width; andat least four channels, each of said at least four channels being fluidically isolated from each other and passing through the base and the casing so as to extend from the proximal end of the tip to the distal end of the tip.2. The image capturing assembly of claim 1 , wherein a first of said at least four channels is a working channel having a diameter in a range of 3.4 mm to 4.2 mm.3. The image capturing assembly of claim 2 , wherein a second of said at least four channels is a working channel having a diameter in a range of 2.4 mm to 3.2 mm.4. The image capturing assembly of claim 3 , wherein the first of said at least four channels is separated from the ...

Circuit Board Assembly Of A Multiple Viewing Elements Endoscope

There is provided herein, an electronic circuit board assembly for a tip section of a multiple viewing elements endoscope, the assembly including a base board configured to carry a first metal frame to support a front looking viewing element and a second metal frame to support a side looking viewing element; and a flexible illumination circuit board comprising a front foldable panel configured to carry three sets of front illuminators for essentially illuminating the field of view (FOV) of the front looking viewing element, and a side foldable panel configured to carry a set of side illuminators for essentially illuminating the field of view (FOV) of the side looking viewing element. 1. An electronic circuit board assembly for a tip section of a multi-viewing elements endoscope , the assembly comprising:a base board;a first metal frame configured to receive a sensor and a printed circuit board, wherein the first metal frame is positioned at one end of the base board;a second metal frame configured to receive a sensor and a printed circuit board, wherein said second metal frame is positioned adjacent to said first metal frame;a first illumination circuit board comprising a curved panel, wherein said curved panel comprises at least two sets of front illuminators and is mounted on said base board proximate said first metal frame; anda second illumination circuit board comprising a curved panel, wherein said curved panel comprises at least one set of side illuminators and is mounted on said base board proximate said second metal frame.2. The assembly according to claim 1 , further comprising a front image sensor and front printed circuit board claim 1 , wherein said front image sensor and front printed circuit board are mounted on said first metal frame.3. The assembly according to claim 2 , further comprising a front lens assembly coupled to said first metal frame.4. The assembly according to claim 1 , further comprising a side image sensor and side printed circuit ...

Adjustable orthotic foot brace and method for adjusting a foot brace

The orthotic foot brace for a person wearing a footwear generally has: a lower leg holder securable to a lower leg of the person for use, a lower leg strut connected to the lower leg holder and extending downwardly towards the footwear during use; a foot strut structurally connected to the lower leg strut and having at least one side portion, each side portion extending forwardly along a respective side of the footwear and extending outwardly along a respective side of the footwear; an instep strut provided in the form of an extension of the foot strut along a long axis of the footwear, the instep strut having a distal portion securable to the footwear, and at least a proximal portion being slidably connected to the foot strut in a manner to allow adjusting the extension distance of the distal portion to a selected position.

Removably Attachable Endoscopic Water Bottle Assembly and A Flushing Adaptor Thereof

The present specification describes an endoscopic water bottle assembly including a cap configured to attach a water bottle and having a port configured to receive a supply tube; a supply tube assembly, having a distal end and a proximal end; and a water bottle configured to receive said cap, wherein the cap includes a first coupling portion to removably attach the water bottle to a second coupling portion, which is attached to an endoscopic main control unit and is configured to receive said first portion of the coupling system. The present specification also describes a flushing adaptor for connecting a fluid source to a dual lumen supply tube, where the flushing adaptor includes a first opening, a second opening, and a housing with a chamber for fluidly connecting said first and second openings, that enables fluid received from said first opening to be distributed throughout the tube via the connector. 1. A reusable endoscopic water bottle assembly , the assembly comprising:a cap having internal threading, a port, and a first portion of a coupling system;a supply tube assembly, having a distal end and a proximal end, wherein the supply tube is configured to attach to the cap using a connector;a water bottle comprising an externally threaded neck configured to attach to said internal threading of the cap; anda second portion of said coupling system configured to attach to an endoscopic main control unit and configured to attach to the first portion of the coupling system.2. The assembly according to claim 1 , wherein the externally threaded neck of said water bottle comprises a groove for receiving a sealing member claim 1 , and wherein the sealing member is positioned between the water bottle and the cap.3. The assembly according to claim 1 , wherein the cap further comprises a tube holder.4. The assembly according to wherein the tube holder is configured to receive and releasably hold said connector claim 3 , wherein the connector has a plurality of protrusions ...

Video Processing In A Compact Multi-Viewing Element Endoscope System

The present specification is directed towards endoscopes, such as colonoscopes, that provide a broader field of view and allow extended access of surgical tools and also enable efficient packing of all necessary elements in the tip section, while maintaining their functionality. Also described are methods and systems for capturing and displaying still and video images using an endoscope corresponding to a left-side looking, a front-looking and a right-side looking viewing element of an endoscopic tip generated in a native aspect ratio. 1. An endoscope system comprising:an endoscope having a tip;a circuit board, having a processing element and memory, positioned within said tip;at least two cameras positioned in said tip, wherein each of said two cameras is in electrical communication with the circuit board;a video controller external to said endoscope for concurrently controlling the at least two cameras, wherein the video controller is configured to generate a plurality of signals specific to each of the at least two cameras and a plurality of shared signals which are not specific to each of the at least two cameras; anda cable for electrically connecting the video controller and circuit board, wherein the circuit board is adapted to process the plurality shared signals, using said processing element, to generate signals specific to each of the at least two cameras.2. The system of wherein the cable has a diameter of 2.5 millimeters or less.3. The system of wherein the plurality of shared signals includes synchronization signals for the at least two cameras.4. The system of wherein the plurality of shared signals comprise clock signals for the at least two cameras.5. The system of wherein the plurality of shared signals comprise supply voltage signals for the at least two cameras.6. The system of wherein the circuit board is configured to receive one of the plurality of shared signals from the video controller and use that signal to generate separate signals claim ...

SUCTION CONTROL UNIT FOR AN ENDOSCOPE HAVING TWO WORKING CHANNELS

A suction control unit placed on an endoscope to control application of suction through at least one of two working channels of the endoscope. The suction unit has first and second valves with first and second valve openings, at a proximal end, that lead through to a distal end, which is adapted to be placed on the first and second ports of the two working channels. The suction unit has a channel extending between the first and second valves, an opening extending from a front wall to a rear wall of the housing and through the channel, and a switcher having a handle and a shaft with a through hole. When the shaft is placed within the opening and in a first position, suction is applied to both the working channels. When the shaft is placed within the opening and in a second position, suction is applied to only one of the two working channels. 122-. (canceled)23. A method of applying suction through at least one of two working channels of an endoscope , the method comprising: [ a first valve and a second valve on either side of a longitudinal axis of the housing, wherein a proximal end of the first and the second valve has respective first and second valve openings that lead through to a distal end of the first and the second valve, and wherein the distal end of the first and the second valve is aligned with first and second ports of the two working channels;', 'a channel extending between the first and the second valve within the housing, wherein a channel axis is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the housing;', 'an opening extending from a front wall to a rear wall of the housing and through the channel between the first and the second valve;, 'a housing comprising, 'a switcher having a handle and a shaft extending from the handle along a long axis, wherein the shaft has a through hole such that a hole axis is substantially perpendicular to the long axis, and wherein the shaft is placed within the opening;, 'installing a suction control unit on ...

MULTI-CAMERA ENDOSCOPE

A tip section of a multi-camera endoscope includes a front-pointing camera on a planar surface of a distal end of the tip section and two side-pointing cameras positioned on a cylindrical surface in proximity to the planar surface such that the side field of view provided by the two side-pointing cameras partially overlaps with the front field of view provided by the front-pointing camera. The tip section further includes a working channel configured for insertion of a surgical tool; and a pathway fluid injector for inflating and/or cleaning a body cavity into which the endoscope is inserted. 120-. (canceled)21. A medical device including a shaft and a tip section , wherein the tip section comprises:a front-pointing viewing element positioned on a distal-facing surface of the tip section, the front-pointing viewing element having a first field of view; anda first side-pointing viewing element positioned on a first side surface of the tip section, wherein the first side-pointing viewing element has a second field of view and includes a fiber optic extending from the tip section to a proximal portion of the medical device;wherein the first field of view partially overlaps with the second field of view.22. The medical device according to claim 21 , wherein said front-pointing viewing element has a length over which an external object remains in focus in a range of 3-100 millimeters.23. The medical device according to claim 21 , wherein the second field of view is at least 150 degrees.24. The medical device according to claim 21 , wherein the first field of view is at least 150 degrees.25. The medical device according to claim 21 , wherein the fiber optic is configured to receive light from an area of interest and transfer the light through the fiber optic to a camera located outside the tip section.26. The medical device according to claim 25 , wherein the camera located outside the tip section is located in a handle of the medical device or in a console associated ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR IMAGE MAGNIFICATION USING RELATIVE MOVEMENT BETWEEN AN IMAGE SENSOR AND A LENS ASSEMBLY

The present specification describes a novel system for dynamically modifying the magnification power of optical devices used in high performance and critical applications such as medical procedures. The present specification describes an optical imaging system having a magnification control system connected to a sensor device for enabling movement of sensor device with respect to a lens assembly of the imaging system, wherein distance between the sensor device and the lens assembly is altered to enable different levels of magnification capability. 124-. (canceled)25. An endoscope comprising:a proximal end comprising a control portion; a lens,', a printed circuit board,', 'an image sensor movably coupled to the printed circuit board, and', 'a flexible coupling having a first end coupled to the printed circuit board and a second end coupled to the image sensor to electrically connect the printed circuit board to the image sensor, wherein the flexible coupling maintains an electrical connection between the printed circuit board and the image sensor as the image sensor moves relative to the printed circuit board upon actuation of the control portion., 'a sensor device comprising], 'a distal end comprising a distal tip, wherein said distal tip comprises26. The endoscope of claim 25 , wherein the flexible coupling includes a first cable claim 25 , a pin coupled to the first cable claim 25 , and a second cable coupled to the pin.27. The endoscope of claim 26 , wherein the first cable is coupled to the image sensor and the second cable is coupled to the printed circuit board.28. The endoscope of claim 25 , further comprising a tube configured to move the sensor device claim 25 , wherein the tube extends from the sensor device to the control portion.29. The endoscope of claim 28 , further comprising:a first cylindrical section coupled to a proximal end of the tube;a second cylindrical section coupled to a distal end of the tube;a first hub positioned within the first ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR GUIDING AND TRACKING A REGION OF INTEREST USING AN ENDOSCOPE

A system and method of repositioning a region of interest within an endoscopic image from a first location to a target location on the display screen of an endoscopy system is provided. The endoscopy system includes an insertion portion having a tip section with at least one viewing element for capturing images of a body cavity having the region of interest. The method includes detecting a region of interest within a body cavity, displaying the region of interest on a display screen in communication with the endoscopy system, marking the region of interest on the display screen, selecting a target location on the display screen, estimating a transformation to be applied to the region of interest, and applying the estimated transformation for causing the region of interest to be displayed at the target location of the display screen. 121-. (canceled)22. A system for displaying a region of interest within a medical image on a target area of at least one display screen , the system comprising:an insertion portion having a tip section with at least one viewing element for capturing images comprising the region of interest;the at least one display screen coupled to the at least one viewing element; and receiving an image of the region of interest captured through the at least one viewing element;', 'transmitting the image of the region of interest to the at least one display screen;', 'recording a demarcation of the region of interest on the display screen;', 'recording a demarcation of the target area on the at least one display screen;', 'determining a transformation to be applied to the region of interest; and', 'transmitting the determined transformation to the at least one display screen to provide guidance to direct a movement of the insertion portion toward the target area based on the recorded demarcation of the target area such that the region of interest is positioned in the target area on the at least one display screen., 'one or more processors configured ...

MULTI CAMERA ENDOSCOPE ASSEMBLY HAVING MULTIPLE WORKING CHANNELS

There is provided herein an endoscope assembly, the assembly comprising at least one front-pointing camera and at least one front illuminator associated therewith, at least one side-pointing camera and at least one of side illuminator associated therewith, a first front working channel configured for insertion of a medical tool and a second front working channel configured for insertion of a medical tool. 120-. (canceled)21. A fluid channeling component for use with a medical device , the fluid channeling component having a length and a height , and comprising:a base positioned at a proximal end of the fluid channeling component,a first fraction extending along the length of the fluid channeling component from the base to a distal portion of the fluid channeling component and including a housing that has encased therein a first working channel extending along the length of said fluid channeling component,a second fraction extending along the length of the fluid channeling component from the base to the distal portion of the fluid channeling component, wherein the second fraction opposes the first fraction, anda void between the first fraction and the second fraction.22. The fluid channeling component of claim 21 , wherein the void is configured to receive an electrical assembly such that the electrical assembly is positioned between the first fraction and the second fraction.23. The fluid channeling component of claim 22 , wherein the electrical assembly includes one or more cameras claim 22 , an integrated circuit board claim 22 , and one or more illuminators.24. The fluid channeling component of claim 21 , wherein the second fraction comprises a housing that has encased therein a second working channel extending along the length of said fluid channel component.25. The fluid channeling component of claim 21 , wherein the first fraction is a first segment of a cylinder claim 21 , the second fraction is a second segment of a cylinder claim 21 , and the void extends ...

Circuit Board Assembly for a Multiple Viewing Element Endoscope Using CMOS Sensors

A circuit board design uses CMOS sensors for the tip section of a multi-viewing element endoscope. Side sensors and their optical assemblies are assembled to a common base board to save space. Individual base boards are separately constructed, inserted into grooves of a main base board, and are further connected to the main base board by means of flexibal circuit boards.

White Balance Enclosure for Use with a Multi-Viewing Elements Endoscope

The specification describes a white balance enclosure for use with a tip of a multi-viewing elements endoscope. The white balance enclosure is used to provide a reference white background to the plurality of viewing elements when the tip is positioned within the white balance enclosure and a white balance circuit is used to calculate and store reference white balance values based on white field/test feed signals generated by the plurality of viewing elements exposed to the reference white background. 1. A device for enabling uniform white balancing of a first viewing element and a second viewing element in an endoscopic tip , comprisinga housing defining an enclosed volume and having an opening for receiving said endoscopic tip, wherein said opening has a first diameter configured to snugly receive said endoscopic tip such that external light is prevented from entering through said opening when said endoscopic tip is inserted therein and wherein the enclosed volume has a surface area that is at a predefined distance from the second viewing element when said endoscopic tip is inserted therein; anda member extending out from the surface area and within the enclosed volume, wherein said member is configured to position said first viewing element at the predefined distance from the surface area.2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the first viewing element and second viewing element each have a field of view claim 1 , wherein the surface area of the enclosed volume within said first field of view of the first viewing element is a first color claim 1 , wherein the surface area of the enclosed volume within said second field of view of the second viewing element is a second color claim 1 , and wherein the first and second colors are equal.3. The device of claim 1 , wherein a portion of said surface area of the enclosed volume within said second field of view is at least 10 millimeters from the second viewing element.4. The device of claim 2 , further comprising at least one ...

Operational Interface in a Multi-Viewing Element Endoscope

The present specification describes an endoscopy display system including an endoscope with a distal tip having at least three image capturing components, and a handle with an actuator that, when activated, generates a video processing command; a controller including a video processing system adapted to transmit commands to the three image capturing components and receive an image feed from each of said three image capturing components; and a display system, including at least one monitor that concurrently receives and concurrently visually displays each of said processed image feeds, where the video processing system is adapted to process each of said image feeds in accordance with the video processing command to cause at least one of changing a position of, zooming into or out of; recording; freezing; highlighting; or superimposing a navigation indicator upon the at least one of the processed image feeds. 1. An endoscopy display system comprising:an endoscope comprising a distal tip, wherein said distal tip has at least three image capturing components, and a handle, wherein said handle has at least one actuator that, when activated, generates a video processing command;a controller external to said endoscope, wherein said controller comprises a video processing system adapted to transmit commands to said three image capturing components and receive an image feed from each of said three image capturing components; and a position of each of said processed image feeds on the at least one monitor to change;', 'a zoom into at least one of said processed image feeds;', 'a recording of at least one of said processed image feeds;', 'a freezing of at least one of said processed image feeds;', 'a highlighting of one of said processed image feeds; or', 'a superimposing of a navigation indicator on at least one of said processed image feeds., 'a display system, wherein said display system comprises at least one monitor that concurrently receives each of said processed image ...

Tip Protector for a Multi-Viewing Elements Endoscope

A tip protector for a multiple viewing element endoscope is provided, that protects the front as well as side viewing elements in the tip. In one embodiment, the protector comprises wings that act as shock absorbers. The protector is further designed such that the endoscope can washed without having to remove the protector from the tip. 1. A protective apparatus for protecting the components in a tip section of an endoscope from damage , comprising:a substantially cylindrical body, having a first end and a second end, wherein the tip section of the endoscope is inserted through the first end;at least two sets of windows placed along an axial length of the cylindrical body, wherein the axial length is measured from said first end to said second end; and,at least one shock absorbing structure positioned between adjacent at least two sets of windows.2. The protective apparatus of further comprising a finger tab mechanism at the first end that is used to open or close the protective apparatus over the endoscope tip section so that the apparatus is secured on the tip section.3. The protective apparatus of wherein the internal diameter of the substantially cylindrical body ranges from 3 mm to 20 mm.4. The protective apparatus of wherein each of the at least two set of windows comprise three windows.5. The protective apparatus of wherein the windows are of equal dimensions.6. The protective apparatus of wherein the windows are of different dimensions.7. The protective apparatus of wherein the windows have a length in the range of approximately 2 mm to 12 mm and a width in the range of approximately 3 mm to 13 mm.8. The protective apparatus of further comprising at least two shock absorbing structures.9. The protective apparatus of wherein the shock absorbing structures are substantially rectangular.10. The protective apparatus of wherein the shock absorbing structures have a length in the range of 20 mm to 40 mm and a width in the range of 2 mm to 12 mm.11. The protective ...

Endoscope Control Unit with Braking System

A control unit that includes a braking system for fixing the position of an endoscope tip is provided. The control system includes an up-down control knob and a right-left control knob. The brakes are engaged by rotating the control knob itself counter-clockwise from a free wheeling position. After the brakes have been engaged, a sufficient amount of force applied to the control knobs will move the endoscope tip slightly in the corresponding direction, allowing for fine tuning of tip position after braking. 1. A control unit providing a braking system for an articulation unit of endoscope , said control unit comprising:a first shaft having a first end and a second end, the first end being coupled with a first operating knob, the second end being coupled with a first cable drum and a first cable pair that are coupled with the articulation unit of the endoscope, wherein at least a portion of the first shaft in proximity to the first operating knob is hollow;a second hollow shaft having a first end and a second end, the first end being coupled with a second operating knob, the second end being coupled with a second cable drum and a second cable pair that are coupled with the articulation unit of the endoscope, wherein the first shaft is positioned within the second shaft;a brake knob rotatable about its center axis;a stationary sleeve arranged between the first and the second shafts;a spring supported by the first shaft in proximity to the first end of the first shaft;a pin extending into the hollow portion of the first shaft and coupled to said brake knob by the spring, wherein said pin has a first position and a second position; anda brake body extending outwardly from said pin, wherein said brake body does not press against the stationary sleeve when the pin is in the first position;wherein the pin is movable from the first position into the second position by rotational motion of said brake knob in a first rotational direction and compression of said spring, ...

FLUID DISTRIBUTION DEVICE FOR A MULTIPLE VIEWING ELEMENTS ENDOSCOPE

There is provided herein a tip section for an endoscope assembly that includes a fluid distribution device for circulating fluid for cleaning a body cavity. In an embodiment, the tip section includes a groove aligned with side jet channels, where multiple holes drilled above the groove, through the periphery of a tip cover covering the tip section, provide an exit for the fluid circulated by the side jet channels in all directions around the tip cover. In another embodiment, the tip section includes a removable attachment that covers jet channel openings. Multiple holes drilled through the cover provide a multiple jet exit for the fluid circulated by the jet channels in multiple directions around the tip cover. 1. An endoscope tip having a length extending from a proximal end to a distal end , comprising:a base comprising the proximal end, said base having a first channel extending from a face of the proximal end to a first opening positioned on a side of the base;a manifold attached to the base and comprising the distal end, said manifold having at least one fluidically isolated channel;an optical assembly having at least two cameras, wherein the optical assembly is attached to said manifold; anda fluid distribution device, wherein said fluid distribution device is adapted to connect to said first opening and comprises a plurality of channels extending through the fluid distribution device and to a plurality of openings on a surface of said fluid distribution device, each of said plurality of channels being adapted to receive fluid from the first channel and distribute the fluid to at least one of said plurality of openings.2. The endoscope tip of wherein the fluid distribution device has a substantially flat base adapted to be positioned against the side of the base and a curved top surface.3. The endoscope tip of wherein the fluid distribution device has a center channel extending from the substantially flat base through a center of the detachable fluid ...

TRACEABLE METALLIC PRODUCTS AND METALLIC SUPPORT FOR NANOSTORAGE

The invention relates to traceable metallic products, methods of uses and methods of making same. The metallic products may be made traceable for integrity purposes, identification purposes, counterfeit avoidance and the like. The invention also relates to metallic supports for nanostorage of various compounds and samples. 1. A traceable metallic product , wherein said metallic product comprises a porous surface layer formed by anodization , and wherein said porous surface layer comprises at least one traceable biological compound.2. (canceled)3. The traceable metallic product of claim 1 , wherein said at least one traceable biological compound is selected from the group consisting of nucleic acids claim 1 , peptidic molecules claim 1 , lipids claim 1 , mono and polysaccharides claim 1 , hormones claim 1 , vitamins claim 1 , and derivatives thereof.4. (canceled)5. The traceable metallic product of claim 1 , wherein said at least one traceable biological compound is carried in nanopores of the porous surface layer claim 1 , and wherein said at least one traceable compound is recoverable from said porous surface layer for detection claim 1 , identification and/or utilization purposes.6. (canceled)7. The traceable metallic product of claim 1 , wherein said traceable metallic product consists of a metallic support for nanostorage of compound and samples.8. The traceable metallic product of claim 1 , wherein said porous surface layer is sealed.9. The traceable metallic product of claim 1 , wherein said porous surface layer further comprises an electrodeposit of at least one metal selected from the group consisting of silver claim 1 , gold claim 1 , copper claim 1 , nickel claim 1 , zinc claim 1 , tin claim 1 , cadmium claim 1 , palladium and platinum.10. The traceable metallic product of claim 1 , wherein said traceable metallic product consists of a traceable piece of aluminum comprising a porous surface layer formed by anodization claim 1 , and wherein said porous ...

OPTICAL SYSTEM FOR AN ENDOSCOPE

A lens assembly of a viewing element for an endoscope has lenses and a barrel containing the lenses. The internal surface of the barrel is shaped in accordance with the relative position and size of the lenses and a lens holder encompassing at least a portion of the barrel. The barrel and/or the lens holder are injection-molded and can be variably positioned relative to each other. An optional adhesive layer that reduces or eliminates small particles from the viewing element is positioned on an inner surface of the barrel and/or lens holder and used to remove any internal particulate matter that may otherwise obstruct the field of view. 120-. (canceled)21. A lens assembly for use in a medical device , the lens assembly comprising:a barrel having a length, a proximal end, a distal end, a radially inward facing surface, and a radially-outward facing surface;a plurality lenses in the barrel, wherein a profile of the radially inward facing surface of the barrel is configured to receive and hold the plurality of lenses;a holder having a radially inward facing surface, a proximal end, and a distal end, wherein the barrel is received within the holder; andan adhesive layer at a proximal end of the radially inward facing surface of the barrel and/or a proximal end of the radially inward facing surface of the holder, wherein a radially inward facing surface of the adhesive layer remains exposed to a space within the barrel and/or the holder.22. The lens assembly of claim 21 , wherein the adhesive layer has a thickness in a range of 20 μm to 50 μm.23. The lens assembly of claim 21 , wherein the adhesive layer comprises any one or combination of acryl claim 21 , silicon claim 21 , a pressure sensitive adhesive claim 21 , and gel.24. The lens assembly of claim 21 , wherein the lens assembly is configured to receive vibratory forces to shake loose particles into the adhesive layer claim 21 , and wherein the radially inward facing surface of the adhesive layer that remains ...

MULTI-FOCAL, MULTI-CAMERA ENDOSCOPE SYSTEMS

A multi-focal, multi-camera endoscope having a tip section including a first optical assembly for generating a first image of a body cavity; a second optical assembly for generating a second image of a body cavity; at least one illuminator associated with each of the first optical assembly and second optical assembly; and a processing system configured to: zoom the first optical assembly and thereby generate a zoomed first image in place of the first image; and automatically cause a physical display to eliminate a display of the second image and to only display said zoomed first image. To eliminate the display of the second image, the processing system reduces a power supply to the second optical assembly, reduces an illumination intensity of an illuminator associated with the second optical assembly or causes the physical display to power off, darken, or blacken. 120-. (canceled)21. A method of using an endoscope system that includes a first optical assembly , a second optical assembly , and at least one illuminator associated with each of the first optical assembly and the second optical assembly , the method comprising:generating a first image of a body cavity from the first optical assembly and a second image of the body cavity from the second optical assembly;simultaneously displaying the first image and the second image on a first screen and a second screen, respectively;adjusting the first optical assembly to generate and display a magnified portion of the first image on the first screen; andautomatically eliminating the display of the second image on the second screen.22. The method of claim 21 , wherein eliminating the display of the second image includes reducing a power supply to the second optical assembly.23. The method of claim 21 , wherein eliminating the display of the second image is enabled by reducing an illumination intensity of said at least one illuminator associated with the second optical assembly.24. The method of claim 21 , wherein ...

Multi-Element Cover for a Multi-Camera Endoscope

There is provided herein a tip section of a multi-camera endoscope, the tip section comprising: a front looking camera and a front discrete illuminator to essentially illuminate the Field Of View (FOV) of said front looking camera; a right side looking camera and a right discrete illuminator to essentially illuminate the FOV of said right side looking camera; a left side looking camera and a left discrete illuminator to essentially illuminate the FOV of said left side looking camera; and a multi component cover configured to cover and seal said tip section such as to essentially prevent entry of fluids from the environment of said endoscope to inner parts of said tip section.

ILLUMINATOR CIRCUIT BOARD ASSEMBLY FOR AN ENDOSCOPE

The present specification describes a circuit board design that uses circuit boards for illuminator sets associated with the various optical assemblies. In one configuration, front and side illuminators are assembled on front and side illuminator circuit boards. Leaf connectors associated with each illuminator are provided to interface with a common base board. 118-. (canceled)19. A system for use in a medical device , the system comprising:a front viewing element;a side viewing element;a first circuit board connected to the front viewing element and the side viewing element; a main component configured to cover a portion of a tip section of the medical device, the main component comprising a distal face and one or more side walls extending proximally from the distal face and extending longitudinally along a length of the tip section; and', 'a removable window component located adjacent to the one or more side walls of the main component and proximal of the distal face, wherein the removable window component includes a first window opening, and the removable window component is configured to removably cover a second window opening defined by the main component; and, 'a cover comprisinga second circuit board coupled to the removable window component.20. The system of claim 19 , wherein the second circuit board is U-shaped claim 19 , and the first window opening is positioned between opposing portions of the second circuit board.21. The system of claim 19 , wherein the removable window component includes a recessed portion defining the first window opening.22. The system of claim 19 , wherein the removable window component includes a third window opening.23. The system of claim 22 , further comprising an illuminator coupled to the second circuit board claim 22 , wherein the illuminator aligns with the third window opening.24. The system of claim 21 , wherein the removable window component includes a third window opening configured to align with an illuminator and a ...

OPERATIONAL INTERFACE IN A MULTI-VIEWING ELEMENT ENDOSCOPE

The present specification describes an endoscopy display system including an endoscope with a distal tip having at least three image capturing components, and a handle with an actuator that, when activated, generates a video processing command; a controller including a video processing system adapted to transmit commands to the three image capturing components and receive an image feed from each of said three image capturing components; and a display system, including at least one monitor that concurrently receives and concurrently visually displays each of said processed image feeds, where the video processing system is adapted to process each of said image feeds in accordance with the video processing command to cause at least one of changing a position of, zooming into or out of; recording; freezing; highlighting; or superimposing a navigation indicator upon the at least one of the processed image feeds. 1. An endoscopy display system comprising:an endoscope comprising a distal tip, wherein said distal tip has at least three image capturing components, and a handle, wherein said handle has at least one actuator that, when activated, generates a video processing command;a controller external to said endoscope, wherein said controller comprises a video processing system adapted to transmit commands to said three image capturing components and receive an image feed from each of said three image capturing components; anda display system, wherein said display system comprises at least one monitor that concurrently receives each of said processed image feeds from the video processing system and concurrently visually displays each of said processed image feeds and wherein said video processing system is adapted to process each of said image feeds in accordance with the video processing command to cause at least one of: a zoom into at least one of said processed image feeds;', 'a recording of at least one of said processed image feeds;', 'a freezing of at least one of ...

MANIFOLD FOR A MULTIPLE VIEWING ELEMENTS ENDOSCOPE

There is provided herein an integrated manifold for the tip of a multiple viewing elements endoscope which combines the functionalities of the front holder, side holder/cage and fluid channeling components into a single part. The manifold includes square slots that are equipped with tracks. Square shaped lens assemblies having protrusions are used in the endoscope tip, such that the protrusions allow the optical assemblies to slide into the tracks of the square slots. This ensures gapless placement of viewing elements with no deviation in their position and field of view. 121-. (canceled)22. An endoscope tip , comprising: at least one outer surface, and', 'at least one protrusion protruding from the at least one outer surface;, 'at least one viewing element, the at least one viewing element comprisinga proximal base having a length and a width;a casing projecting distally from said proximal base, wherein said casing has a length and a width, wherein said proximal base length is less than said casing length, and wherein said proximal base width is greater than said casing width; and at least one recess configured to receive a portion of the at least one viewing element, and', 'at least one groove adjacent said at least one recess, wherein said at least one groove is configured to receive said at least one protrusion of said at least one viewing element., 'a frame projecting from said casing, wherein said frame comprises23. The endoscope tip of claim 22 , wherein said at least one viewing element includes a front-facing viewing element and a side-facing viewing element claim 22 , said at least one recess includes a front recess configured to receive a portion of the front-facing viewing element and a side recess configured to receive a portion of the side-facing viewing element.24. The endoscope tip of claim 23 , wherein the front-facing viewing element and the side-facing viewing element are perpendicularly arranged.25. The endoscope tip of claim 23 , wherein a field ...

VALVE SIGNATURE DIAGNOSIS AND LEAK TEST DEVICE

A valve signature diagnosis and leak testing device includes a spool valve operatively connected to a pilot valve, the pilot valve being configured to position the spool valve to one of an open position and a closed position. A blocker valve is fluidly connected to a control fluid outlet of the spool valve. An electrical module is operatively connected to the pilot valve, a supply of control fluid, and the blocker valve, the electrical module being capable of sending pulsed electrical signals to the pilot valve and the blocker valve to selectively position the spool valve and the blocker valve to an open or closed position.

ENDOSCOPE WITH INTEGRATED MEASUREMENT OF DISTANCE TO OBJECTS OF INTEREST

The present specification describes a method for determining the distance of an object from the tip of an endoscope during an endoscopic procedure, wherein at least one lens is configured to converge light from outside the tip onto a sensor that includes a plurality of photodiodes a portion of which are adjacent pairs of photodiodes configured to be phase detection pixels. The method includes receiving light into each adjacent pair of photodiodes, wherein said light is reflected off a surface of said object; determining a first response curve to said light for a first photodiode of said adjacent pair of photodiodes and a second response curve to said light for a second photodiode of said adjacent pair of photodiodes; identifying an intersection between the first response curve and the second response curve; and using data derived from said intersection to determine said distance to the object. 124-. (canceled)25. A method for estimating a path of a distal tip of an endoscope during an endoscopic procedure , wherein the distal tip comprises a first viewing element , the method comprising:acquiring an image of an interior portion of a patient's body using the first viewing element;acquiring distance information of a distance to an object;acquiring angulation information of an angle to the object;calculating an estimated path of travel of the endoscope using the distance information and the angulation information;generating a graphical overlay using the estimated path of travel of the endoscope; anddisplaying the graphical overlay directly on a real-time image of an interior portion of the patient's body, wherein the real-time image is generated from at least the first viewing element.26. The method of claim 25 , wherein the object is a surface of the interior portion of the patient's body claim 25 , and acquiring distance information includes:receiving light into a pair of photodiodes, wherein said light is reflected off of the surface of the interior portion of the ...

Image capture and video processing systems and methods for multiple viewing element endoscopes

A multiple sensor endoscope system and a video processing method, wherein the system includes an endoscope having a plurality of daisy chained image sensors and a central control unit, is described. At least one daisy-chained image sensor includes a sensor array for capturing images and generating video packets from the captured images, a video compression unit configured to compress the video packets, a self-packet buffer configured to store the video packets, a serial-to-parallel de-serializer input unit configured to convert serialized input video packets to parallel data, a chain packet buffer configured to store the video packets received from previous-in-chain image sensors, an arbitration unit configured to interleave the stored video packets, and a serial output unit configured to output serially the interleaved video packets. The central control unit is configured to de-interleave the video packets and regenerate separated images as captured by the plurality of daisy chain image sensors.

ENDOSCOPE CONTROL UNIT WITH BRAKING SYSTEM

A control unit that includes a braking system for fixing the position of an endoscope tip is provided. The control system includes an up-down control knob and a right-left control knob. The brakes are engaged by rotating the control knob itself counter-clockwise from a free wheeling position. After the brakes have been engaged, a sufficient amount of force applied to the control knobs will move the endoscope tip slightly in the corresponding direction, allowing for fine tuning of tip position after braking. 122-. (canceled)23. An endoscope system , comprising:an articulation actuator;a shaft coupled to the articulation actuator; anda braking system, comprising: a braking disc configured to move between an extended position, wherein', 'the braking disc is engaged with the braking lid, and a retracted position, wherein the braking disc is disengaged from the braking lid,', 'a braking bushing, wherein said braking bushing receives said braking disc,', 'a biasing member configured to bias the braking bushing, and', 'a braking actuator, wherein the braking actuator is configured to provide relative rotation between said braking bushing and said braking lid;, 'a braking lid,'}wherein said braking bushing is received within said biasing member.24. The endoscope system of claim 23 , wherein said braking bushing comprises indentations configured to receive protrusions of said braking lid claim 23 , wherein the braking bushing is rotatable relative to the braking lid between a first configuration claim 23 , wherein the indentations and the protrusions are out of alignment claim 23 , thereby causing said braking bushing to compress said biasing member claim 23 , and a second configuration claim 23 , wherein the indentations receive the protrusions claim 23 , thereby allowing the biasing member to decompress.25. The endoscope system of claim 23 , wherein said braking actuator is configured to rotate said braking lid.26. The endoscope system of claim 23 , wherein said shaft is ...

ENDOSCOPIC IMAGE ENHANCEMENT USING CONTRAST LIMITED ADAPTIVE HISTOGRAM EQUALIZATION (CLAHE) IMPLEMENTED IN A PROCESSOR

Systems and methods of enhancing images use a contrast limited adaptive histogram equalization (CLAHE) algorithm in a field programmable gate array (FPGA). The images may be obtained by the imaging elements of a multiple imaging elements endoscope of an endoscopy system. 120-. (canceled)21. A medical device system comprising:a medical device configured to be inserted into a body of a patient, the medical device including a first viewing element; and receiving a first video stream from the first viewing element,', 'building first histogram information based on a first portion of the first video stream,', 'building second histogram information based on a second portion of the first video stream,', 'converting the first histogram information into first cumulative distribution function values including applying a first clipping threshold to the first histogram information,', 'converting the second histogram information into second cumulative distribution function values including applying a second clipping threshold to the second histogram information, wherein the second clipping threshold is different from the first clipping threshold,', 'generating a first enhanced video stream based on the first cumulative distribution function values, and the second cumulative distribution function values, and', 'sending an output video stream indicative of the first enhanced video stream to a display., 'one or more processing boards that implement a contrast limited adaptive histogram equalization (CLAHE) algorithm to enhance images obtained by the first viewing element, wherein the one or more processing boards perform the steps of, 'a control unit operatively coupled to the medical device, wherein the control unit comprises22. The endoscope system of claim 21 , wherein the first video stream is received by an adapter of the one or more processing boards claim 21 , the adapter having a conversion module claim 21 , and wherein the first video stream is converted from a first color ...

SYSTEM FOR DETECTING THE LOCATION OF AN ENDOSCOPIC DEVICE DURING A MEDICAL PROCEDURE

A system for detecting the location of an endoscopic device inside a patients' body comprises an endoscope assembly with an insertion tube having a set of codes indicative of an insertion depth and a rotational direction of the endoscopic device and a detector to detect the set of codes and calculate the location information. The images captured by the endoscopic device are automatically tagged with corresponding location information. Optionally, the endoscope assembly further comprises a system for generating three dimensional images and videos without increasing the number of cameras. Optionally, the endoscope assembly further comprises a system having a plurality of sensor devices for generating a real time image map of an endoscopic tip portion traversing a lumen. Optionally, the endoscope assembly further comprises a special garment for colonoscopy patients to preserve the modesty of the patients and to protect a physician from spraying fecal matter. 123-. (canceled)24. An endoscope assembly comprising: a control handle configured to control one or more functions of the endoscope;', 'an insertion tube having a length extending distally from said control handle and comprising a plurality of markings; and', 'at least one imaging assembly at a tip section of the insertion tube configured to generate two-dimensional image data of a plurality of areas in a field of view of the at least one imaging assembly, and to transmit the two-dimensional image data to a processor; and, 'an endoscope comprisinga detector configured to detect said plurality of markings during insertion of the insertion tube into a subject, and to transmit data representative of said plurality of markings to the processor; anda main control unit coupled to said control handle and comprising said processor, wherein said processor is adapted to merge the transmitted two-dimensional image data, based on the transmitted data representative of said plurality of markings, to generate three-dimensional ...

Compositions and Methods for siRNA Inhibition of Angiogenesis

用于在患者体内跟踪内窥镜的位置的装置和方法

本发明公开了在内窥镜手术期间在患者体内跟踪内窥镜的位置的系统和方法。所述装置和方法包括在所述内窥镜的坐标系中确定所述内窥镜在所述患者体内的位置，通过外部光学跟踪器在图像中捕获被附接至所述内窥镜的基准标记物，将所述捕获的基准标记物从所述内窥镜的坐标系变换至所述光学跟踪器的坐标系，在所述患者器官的模型上投射所述内窥镜的虚像，以及投射或显示所述组合的图像。

System for cleaning and sanitizing

The present invention provides a system ( 10 ) for cleaning and sanitizing surfaces that incorporates a high pressure fluid supply ( 52 ) and a low pressure fluid supply ( 42 ), often carrying an ozonated fluid, and alternates directed streams of the two fluids for application to contaminated surfaces through a single applicator ( 70, 100 ).

COMPOSITION

Disposable air/water valve and suction valve for endoscope

本发明涉及一种用于内窥镜的一次性空气/水阀，所述一次性空气/水阀包括轴，所述轴具有从开口至通气孔的通路。所述轴具有凹槽和隆起部以及形成于所述通气孔处的突起部。密封件设置于所述凹槽的一些凹槽内。具有隔膜的内环从所述内环的外圆周延伸至外盖的内圆周。铰链从所述隔膜竖直地向下延伸，并且肋部沿着所述外盖的所述内圆周形成。按钮盖具有内部环，所述内部环牢固地附接至所述轴。弹性构件牢固地设置于所述按钮盖和所述隔膜之间。所述外盖、内环和所述按钮盖的内部环限定了中心孔以将所述轴容纳于其中。

Cysteine engineered antibodies and conjugates withCysteine engineered antibodies and conjugates with a free cysteine amino acid in the heavy chain a free cysteine amino acid in the heavy chain

Disclosed is a cysteine engineered antibody compriDisclosed is a cysteine engineered antibody comprising a free cysteine amino acid having a thiol reasing a free cysteine amino acid having a thiol reactivity value in the range of 0.6 to 1.0; and a sectivity value in the range of 0.6 to 1.0; and a sequence in the heavy chain selected from SEQ ID NOSquence in the heavy chain selected from SEQ ID NOS: 11, 12, 13, and 15: LVTVCSASTKGPS SEQ ID NO:11 : 11, 12, 13, and 15: LVTVCSASTKGPS SEQ ID NO:11 LVTVSCASTKGPS SEQ ID NO:12 LVTVSSCSTKGPS SEQ ID LVTVSCASTKGPS SEQ ID NO:12 LVTVSSCSTKGPS SEQ ID NO:13 HTFPCVLQSSGLYS SEQIDNO:15 where the cysteiNO:13 HTFPCVLQSSGLYS SEQIDNO:15 where the cysteine in SEQ ID NOS: 11, 12, 13, and 15 is the free cne in SEQ ID NOS: 11, 12, 13, and 15 is the free cysteine amino acid. Also disclosed are antibody-drysteine amino acid. Also disclosed are antibody-drug conjugate compounds with the cysteine engineereug conjugate compounds with the cysteine engineered antibody described above and a drug moiety selecd antibody described above and a drug moiety selected from a maytansinoid, an auristatin, a dolastatted from a maytansinoid, an auristatin, a dolastatin, and a calicheamicin. in, and a calicheamicin.

Solenoid actuated butterfly valve

A butterfly valve (100) and a valve system using the butterfly valve are disclosed. The butterfly valve includes a valve body (102) and a valve disk (112) disposed in the body such that the valve disk may be rotated between at least a first position and a second position using a linear actuator. The actuator may be a linear solenoid coupled to the valve disk spaced a distance from the axis of rotation of the valve disk.

Multivalent antibodies and uses therefor. Multivalent antibodies and uses thereof.

Energy activated printing process

给出了反应性油墨和在基材上使用反应性且热激活的油墨产生图像的方法。在基材上印刷图像，而不使该油墨中的反应试剂反应。随后，使该反应试剂反应而将图像显著持久且牢固地固定到基材上。还将印刷的升华或类似热激活的染料印刷在该基材上。该升华或类似热激活的染料被激活，并且对施加到基材上的聚合物具有亲合性。

Method and apparatus for making insulating translucent panel assemblies

A method of making an insulating translucent panel assembly (10) such as a window or door lite is provided. In the method, a spacer (16) between two translucent panels (12) of glass or plastic includes a thermo- responsive sealing material (22). When heat and compression are applied to the spacer (16), the thermo-responsive sealing material (22) softens and fully seals the spacer (16) to the two translucent panels (12). A spacer (16) designed to be used in this method is also provided.

Patent DE4028660C2

Elevator for directing medical tool

There is provided herein an endoscope assembly comprising at least one front-pointing viewing element on a front end of a distal section of the endoscope assembly, at least one side-looking viewing element on at least one side wall of the distal section of the endoscope assembly, a working channel configured for insertion of a medical tool towards the distal section, and a system for regulating the direction of exit of medical device wherein said system enables the medical device to exit at multiple angles to the long dimension of the endoscope device either from the front end or through side walls of the distal section of the device.

Liquid flourescent dye concentrate for flow cytometry evaluation of virus-size particles and related products and methods

A kit, and method for flow cytometry include a liquid dye concentrate for fluorescent staining of virus-size particles with a plurality of fluorogenic dyes in a liquid medium. The liquid dye concentrate includes a plurality of fluorogenic dyes and one or both of (i) the liquid medium comprising a liquid mixture including water and liquid phase organic material and (ii) disaccharide dissolved in the liquid medium.

System and method of scanning a body cavity using a multiple viewing elements endoscope

A method for scanning a body cavity by using an endoscope for capturing images of internal walls of the body cavity is provided. The method includes providing a two dimensional model of the internal walls of the body cavity, the model being used as a reference frame, capturing a sequence of images of the internal walls of the body cavity, associating a plurality of information with at least one of the captured images, and mapping each captured image on a corresponding pre-defined location on the reference frame in real time, in the order of capture, until no portion of the reference frame remains unmapped or until all acquired images are mapped.

Disposable air/water and suction valves for endoscope

【課題】容易に製造および組み立てることができ、高価な材料を必要としない空気／水および吸引バルブを提供する。【解決手段】開口部から通気孔までの通路を有するシャフトを含む、内視鏡用の使い捨ての空気／水バルブ。シャフトは、溝と隆起部と通気孔に形成された突起とを有する。シールが、溝のいくつかの中に設けられる。ダイアフラムを有する内側リングが、内側リングの外周から外側キャップの内周まで延びる。ヒンジがダイアフラムから垂直方向下方に延び、リブが外側キャップの内周に沿って形成される。ボタンキャップが、シャフトに確実に結合するインターナルリングを有する。弾性部材が、ボタンキャップとダイアフラムとの間に確実に配置される。外側キャップ、内側リング、およびボタンキャップのインターナルリングは、シャフトを収容するための中央ボアを画定する。【選択図】図１Ａ

Method of constructing and executing a process

Disclosed is a method of constructing and executing a process. A conventional process is minutely divided into minimum unit subprocesses, and the minutely divided subprocesses are classified into a decision subprocesses and a routine subprocess by whether they require decision-making. Any subprocess which is executable using the setup condition in a specific decision subprocess is classified into the routine subprocess in such a manner that the classified routine subprocess follows on the specific decision subprocess. One or a series of decision subprocesses are combined with one or a series of routine subprocesses which are executable on the condition of the completion of the decision subprocesses to form one unit process, and a job-support computer program is created to allow the plurality of subprocesses included in the one unit process to be successively executed. A plurality of subprocesses which are executable in accordance with common input data are detected from the minutely divided minimum unit subprocesses, and a job flow is constructed to allow the respective jobs in the plurality of subprocesses to be simultaneously initiated and executed in parallel. The present invention can drastically reduce the lead-time of a process while facilitating execution of the entire process with high efficiency.

Enclosed proximity switch assembly

An enclosed proximity switch assembly includes a top enclosure and a bottom enclosure that are coupled to form an interior volume. A shaft protrusion upwardly extends from a top surface of the top enclosure, and an interior bore portion having an enclosed volume is defined within the shaft protrusion to form a portion of the interior volume. A first end of a vertical shaft is rotatably disposed within the interior bore portion such that the shaft rotates relative to the top and bottom enclosures. A samarium cobalt target magnet is coupled to the shaft, and the target magnet interacts with a samarium cobalt driver magnet within a proximity switch when the target magnet is rotated within a predetermined distance of a top portion of the proximity switch. The interaction causes a switch to move from a first state to a second state, or vice versa.

Systems and methods for image magnification using relative movement between an image sensor and a lens assembly

The present specification describes a novel system for dynamically modifying the magnification power of optical devices used in high performance and critical applications such as medical procedures. The present specification describes an optical imaging system having a magnification control system connected to a sensor device for enabling movement of sensor device with respect to a lens assembly of the imaging system, wherein distance between the sensor device and the lens assembly is altered to enable different levels of magnification capability.

Component of printed circuit boards

A component (10) for use in manufacturing articles, such as printed circuit boards, comprising a laminate constructed of a sheet of copper foil (20) that, in a finished circuit board, constitutes a functional element, and a sheet of carbon steel (14) having a layer of an inert metal (16) thereon, the sheet of carbon steel (14) constituting a discardable element. One surface (22) of the copper sheet (20) and the surface (18) of the inert metal layer (16) on the carbon steel sheet (14) are essentially uncontaminated and engageable with each other at interfaces. The copper sheet (20) is attached to the inner metal layer (16) of the carbon steel (14) at their borders and defines substantially uncontaminated central zones inwardly of the edges of the sheets that are unjoined at the interfaces.

For using the circuit board assemblies of more observation element endoscopes of cmos sensor

一种电路板设计将CMOS传感器用于多观察元件内窥镜的顶端部。将侧传感器及它们的光学组件组装到共同的基板上，以节约空间。将各个基板独立地制作，插入主基板的槽中，进而利用柔性电路板连接到主基板。

Combined drape and carrying bag unit

The present invention provides a combination drape and carrying bag unit including a singular sheet or plurality of joined sheet of pliable materials, both permeable and impermeable, of size to define a mat to accommodate a working medical procedural area thereon, upon which may be placed in single or combination, medical equipment and patient. The sheet has a drawstring casing extending about its periphery. The casing has openings therein on opposite sides of the mat and a drawstring is received in the drawstring casing and is of size to extend continuously about the periphery of the sheet when it defines a mat. The drawstring is slidably received in the drawstring casing so that when portions of the drawstring are pulled out of the drawstring casing through the openings, the periphery of the sheet forms gathers adjacent the casing to permit the periphery to reduce in size whereby the unit forms a carrying bag. Those portions of the drawstring which are pulled out of the casing may be secured together adjacent the openings to form a handle for the carrying bag.

Data generating device, data generating method and data generating program

An endoscope tip position visual indicator and heat management system

The present specification discloses an endoscope having a tip section equipped with multiple viewing elements. Each of the viewing elements' field of view is illuminated by a discrete illuminator, such as a LED, being operated in a flash mode. The flash mode of operation of the LEDs enable doctors to obtain a position of the endoscope tip within a patient's body from outside by viewing the light emitted by the LEDs. Since the light is emitted for short pre-defined periods of time, the heat generated by the LEDs during their periods of operation is within a safe threshold value, and does not cause any burn injury inside the patient's body.

Systems and methods for providing, reloading, and redeeming stored value cards used in transit applications

The invention is directed to systems and methods of conducting transactions associated with a transit card. A method of conducting transactions may be conducted between a processor and a transit processor. Steps may include receiving a redemption request and determining if it is a pre-authorization request or a redemption; if the redemption request is a pre-authorization request, determining if the account is authorized for a particular transit type. If the account is authorized, communicating approval to the transit processor. If the account is not authorized communicating denial. If the redemption request is a redemption: determining if account value is sufficient to pay the redemption amount; if not, denying and if so approving the transaction and deducting the amount, and determining if the account value is below a pre-determined threshold for a particular transit types, and if so, updating the status of the account at a data store.