The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Nov. 09, 2004
Filed:
Jun. 18, 2002
Keymed (Medical & Industrial Equipment) Ltd., Essex, GB;
Abstract
The present invention provides an apparatus ( ) for use as a borescope or endoscope for viewing an object at a remote or inaccessible location. The apparatus ( ) comprises a tube ( ) having a proximal end and a distal end and means in the tube for obtaining an image of an object and transmitting it to a viewing device. The apparatus ( ) also comprises illumination means comprising an array ( ) of light emitting diodes ( ) mounted on a substrate ( ) and covered by a common protective shield ( ) of optically clear material. The array ( ) may be mounted at the distal end of the tube ( ) adjacent a viewing port ( ). Alternatively, the array ( ) may be mounted at the proximal end of the tube, adjacent the end face ( ) of a bundle of optical fibers which transmit light to the distal end of the tube ( ). The arrangement eliminates the need for an external light source ande light guide, thereby reducing light losses and making the apparatus more compact.