U.S. patent application number 10/002768 was filed with the patent office on 2002-03-28 for portable data collection device.
Invention is credited to Fitzgerald, Patrick J., Nitzberg, Mark J., Sheehan, David M..
Application Number | 20020038076 10/002768 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 22307299 |
Filed Date | 2002-03-28 |
United States Patent
Application |
20020038076 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Sheehan, David M. ; et
al. |
March 28, 2002 |
Portable data collection device
Abstract
A portable data collection device is provided for diagnostic
image and data collection at a remote location. The device is
implemented as an otoscope including a speculum and light source
for illumination of the ear canal. A digital camera element
collects the reflected images and provides the images to a
processor. The processor processes the images using pattern
matching techniques and displays and/or stores suitable images. The
images are transferred to a base station for subsequent
transmission to a remote server or computer, where an authorized
party may access and examine the images. An authorization or
prescription from the remote server or computer may be required to
enable data collection and transmission by the otoscope.
Inventors: |
Sheehan, David M.; (Poway,
CA) ; Nitzberg, Mark J.; (Cambridge, MA) ;
Fitzgerald, Patrick J.; (San Diego, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
LAHIVE & COCKFIELD
28 STATE STREET
BOSTON
MA
02109
US
|
Family ID: |
22307299 |
Appl. No.: |
10/002768 |
Filed: |
November 14, 2001 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10002768 |
Nov 14, 2001 |
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09425499 |
Oct 22, 1999 |
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6319199 |
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60105696 |
Oct 26, 1998 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
600/200 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61B 1/00055 20130101;
A61B 1/00059 20130101; A61B 1/227 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
600/200 |
International
Class: |
A61B 001/267 |
Claims
1. A remote data collection device in communication with a central
server, the data collection device comprising: an image sensor for
capturing diagnostic images; a processor for processing the
captured images; a memory for storing the captured images; and a
communications port for transmitting the captured images to the
central server and for receiving instructions from the central
server; and a user interface to facilitate use of the data
collection device by a remote party.
2. A device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the device is a portable
otoscope comprising a speculum and a controllable light source for
illuminating a target area of an ear canal and providing reflected
images to the image sensor.
3. A device as claimed in claim 2, wherein the light source
comprises a conical light pipe.
4. A device as claimed in claim 2, wherein the light source
comprises light fibers extending through the speculum.
5. A device as claimed in claim 2, and further comprising a lens
assembly disposed within the speculum for focusing light on the
target area and for focusing the reflected light onto the image
sensor.
6. A device as claimed in claim 2, wherein the image sensor is a
digital camera element.
7. A device as claimed in claim 6, wherein the digital camera
element responds to a wide range of frequencies, and wherein the
light source comprises individually controllable light sources that
emit light in distinct frequency ranges.
8. A device as claimed in claim 6, wherein the processor performs
pattern matching by comparing images obtained by the digital camera
element with pre-recorded eardrum images.
9. A device as claimed in claim 6, wherein the communications port
comprises electrical contacts configured for contact with mating
contacts of an external device.
10. A device as claimed in claim 6, wherein the communications port
comprises an infrared or wireless communications interface.
11. A device as claimed in claim 6, wherein the user interface
comprises buttons or keys for user input and a display screen for
displaying images or collected data.
12. A device as claimed in claim 11, wherein the user interface
further comprises audio output and input means, and LEDs for visual
output.
13. A device as claimed in claim 9, wherein the external device is
a base unit configured to receive and communicate with the device,
and wherein the base unit transmits images from the data collection
device to the central server, and transmits instructions from the
central server to the data collection device.
14. A system for remote data collection comprising: a remote,
portable otoscope comprising a controllable light source for
illuminating a target area of an ear canal and generating reflected
images, a digital camera element for capturing the reflected
images, a processor for processing the reflected images, a memory
for storing the processed images, and a first communications port
for transmitting the processed images and receiving data from an
external source; a base unit having a second communications port
for receiving images from the otoscope and for transmitting
instructions to the otoscope; and a central server in communication
with the base unit for receiving images from the base unit and
transmitting instructions to the base unit, and for receiving data
collection instructions from an authorized, prescribing party.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application No. 60/105,696, filed on Oct. 26, 1998.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates generally to a portable data
collection device and, more particularly, relates to a portable
digital otoscopic camera for capturing, processing, displaying,
storing and/or exporting images of a subject eardrum.
BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Broadly speaking, the present invention provides a data
collection device for remote collection of diagnostic and/or image
data. The device includes a memory and processor for storing and
processing the collected data; a user interface to permit user
interaction with the device; and a communication port for exchange
of data with an external computer or server. The device is used by
an appropriate party, typically a patient, to collect diagnostic
and/or image data for later examination. Hence, a patient can
collect data at a leisurely pace and in familiar, comfortable
surroundings. Preferably, the device is implemented as a handheld
otoscope with a self-contained digital camera.
[0004] In one embodiment of the present invention, a remote data
collection device is in communication with a central server. The
data collection device comprises an image sensor for capturing
diagnostic images, and a processor for processing the captured
images. The device further comprises a memory for storing the
captured images, a communications port for transmitting the
captured images to the central server and for receiving
instructions from the central server, and a user interface to
facilitate use of the data collection device by a remote party.
[0005] In another embodiment of the present invention, a system for
remote data collection is provided. The system comprises a remote,
portable otoscope having a controllable light source for
illuminating a target area of an ear canal and generating reflected
images. A digital camera element captures the reflected images for
processing and storage in a memory. A first communications port is
provided for transmitting the processed images and receiving
instructions. The system also comprises a base unit having a second
communications port for receiving images from the otoscope and for
transmitting instructions to the otoscope. A central server is in
communication with the base unit and receiving images from the base
unit and transmits instructions to the base unit. An authorized,
prescribing party provides authorizations and prescriptions to the
server.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0006] The present invention is described with reference to the
accompanying drawings. In the drawings, like reference numbers
indicate identical or functionally similar elements, and
[0007] FIG. 1 is a diagram of one sample environment within which a
data collection device according to the present invention may be
used.
[0008] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a data collection device
according to the present invention.
[0009] FIG. 3 is a partial sectional view of a handheld otoscope
according to the present invention.
[0010] FIG. 4 is a front elevation view of the otoscope of FIG.
3.
[0011] FIG. 5 is a rear elevation view of the otoscope of FIG.
3.
[0012] FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating method steps for pattern
matching and image analysis according to the present invention.
[0013] FIG. 7 is a diagram of a format for storing image and ID
records according to the present invention.
[0014] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a base unit according to the
present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0015] 1. Example Environment
[0016] Before describing the data collection device of the present
invention in detail, an example environment within which the data
collection device may operate will be described. One such
environment is a prescription-controlled data collection system as
disclosed in U.S. patent application serial Ser. No. 09/___,___,
filed on even date herewith and claiming the benefit of U.S.
provisional application Ser. No. 60/105,692.
[0017] A prescription controlled data collection system 100 is
illustrated in FIG. 1. System 100 is just one environment that the
data collection device of the present invention may be deployed in;
the device of the present invention could also be utilized within
alternative environments. System 100 comprises a prescribing party
104, a communications medium 140, a server 110 and a collecting
party 122 having a base unit 300 and a data collection device 200.
Device 200 and base unit 300 are the subjects of the present
application and will be described in more detail below.
[0018] In overview, prescribing party 104 writes a prescription 112
that authorizes a collecting party 122 to collect data and transfer
the data to a central server 110. The status of the prescription
and data collected (block 116) are available to a prescribing party
104 having access to server 110. The prescription, authorization,
status and data information (indicated by lines 108, 120, 132 and
134 respectively) is exchanged via any suitable data communications
medium 140. Medium 140 may comprise any suitable data
communications medium including, but not limited to, a wired
network, a wireless RF network, a fiber optic network, telephone
lines, the Internet or combinations of these mediums.
[0019] System 100 improves the efficiency of medical diagnosis and
follow-up by allowing a patient to perform diagnostic and follow-up
data collection at a remote location. In this example, prescribing
party 104 is a doctor or other health service provider having
access to central server 110. As indicated by block 102, a
plurality of prescribing parties (doctors) 104 . . . 106 may have
access to server 110.
[0020] Server 110 may be a computer connected to one or more
communications media, such as communication medium 140. Server 110
includes appropriate software that allows transfer of data to and
from server 110 from remotely located devices and display
terminals. Additionally, server 110 will include appropriate
software for handling the protocols for prescribing the use of
various remote diagnostic devices and for displaying the status of
prescriptions and prescription data. In one implementation, server
110 may be a "web server" with associated standard communications
protocols for communicating over the Internet.
[0021] A doctor 104 having access to server 110 prescribes a
particular diagnostic procedure to a patient (collecting party) 122
in a remote location by communicating a prescription (indicated by
line 108) to a central server 110 over a communications medium 140.
In one example, the prescription authorizes the use of an
appropriate diagnostic or data collection device 200 that is in the
possession of patient 122.
[0022] The prescription process may include registration of device
200 (whose use by the patient is authorized) with server 110.
Registration of device 200 is the process by which server 110
associates device 200 with the doctor or prescribing party 104. In
one example, a unique device ID number or code identifies device
200 to server 110. This number may be communicated by the
prescribing party to the server or, alternatively, assigned by the
server to the device. The doctor/device association may be created
in server 110 in any suitable fashion. In an example where
communication medium 140 is the Internet, doctor 104 may effect
registration of device 200 by completing a web form that is
transmitted via the Internet to server 110. In another example
where medium 140 takes the form of a telephone network, doctor 104
may effect registration of device 200 by calling a telephone
service that prompts the doctor to press appropriate touch-tone
buttons on a telephone. In a further example, doctor 104 may effect
registration by calling or visiting a service whose personnel have
access to server 110.
[0023] In addition to registration of device 200, the prescription
process may also include identification of the doctor 104 to server
110 and identification of the specific data to be collected by the
patient. Again, this may be accomplished through use of a web page,
a telephone service, or through any other appropriate means. Server
110 may assign each prescription a unique prescription ID number or
code. This number will be stored on server 110 (described below),
and may also be provided to the prescribing party for future
reference.
[0024] A particular type or level of authorization may also
designate a prescription. In one example, there are two types of
prescriptions: a device use prescription and a data transfer
prescription. A device use prescription requires device 200 to
receive prescription 112 from server 110 before it can function to
collect data for the prescription. A data transfer prescription,
conversely, authorizes transfer of data from device 200 to server
110. Hence, once device 200 has been used to collect data (with or
without a device use prescription), transfer of the collected data
will be blocked unless server 110 has stored a data transfer
prescription associated with device 200.
[0025] As indicated in FIG. 1, a plurality of prescriptions 112 . .
. 114 may be stored on server 110. Server 110 may store a variety
of information in connection with each prescription. As described
above, server 110 will typically assign a prescription ID number or
code to each prescription. Where prescription types are used, the
prescription type (i.e. device use, data transfer, or other type)
will also be noted and stored. The identity (name) of the
prescribing party (doctor, health service provider, or other
authorized personnel) will typically be stored, as will the name of
the patient associated with the prescription. Incident information,
such as the health condition prompting the prescription (i.e.,
"Tim's right eardrum" or "Ellen's heart monitor") may also be
stored. Finally, the prescription will include the date of the
prescription; and the expiration date (if any) of the prescription.
The expiration date of the prescription is the date after which the
prescription no longer authorizes the use of device 200 or the
transfer of data.
[0026] As is also indicated in FIG. 1, server 110 may store status
and data information 116 . . . 118 associated with each
prescription 112 . . . 114. The status information may be
information such as whether device 200 has been activated (yes/no),
or whether data has been transferred (yes/no). The data is the
information collected by device 200. Examples include, but are not
limited to, otoscopic images, heart monitor signals, breathing
rhythm data, and so on.
[0027] At some time before or after prescribing party 104
communicates prescription 112 to server 110, the patient
(collecting party 122) receives an appropriate diagnostic or data
collection device 200 and base unit 300 and is instructed in their
use. One suitable device, which is the subject of the present
invention, is a digital otoscope and will be described in detail
below. Other devices that may be adapted in accordance with the
present invention to operate within system 100 include (but are not
limited to) rhinoscopes, laryngoscopes, ophthalmoscopes, cameras
for dermatology, heart monitors, blood pressure monitors, oxygen
saturation monitors, and audio monitors.
[0028] It should be noted that there are many industries and
environments amenable to use of the data collection device
described herein. The prescription-controlled data collection
environment discussed above is exemplary only and does not limit
the subject invention in any way.
[0029] 2. Preferred Embodiments of a Data Collection Device
[0030] FIGS. 2-5 illustrate a data collection device 200,
implemented as a portable otoscope, according to the present
invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram overview of device 200, and
FIGS. 3-5 illustrate the device in more detail. Broadly speaking,
device 200 comprises a measurement apparatus for collecting
diagnostic and/or image data (the speculum and camera); a memory
and processor for storing and processing the collected data; a user
interface to permit user interaction with device 200; and a
communication port for exchange of data.
[0031] Device 200 is used by an appropriate party, typically a
patient, to collect diagnostic and/or image data for later
examination. Hence, a patient can collect data at a leisurely pace
and in familiar, comfortable surroundings. In the embodiment
illustrated and described herein, device 200 is implemented as a
handheld otoscope with a self-contained digital camera. Device 200,
however, could be embodied in any data collection device capable of
modification for operation within a subject environment as taught
herein.
[0032] Otoscope 200 comprises a head portion 207 and an elongated
grip portion 209. It includes a speculum 202, a lens system 204, a
digital camera element 206, a processor 208 and memory 210, a user
interface 212, and a communication port 214. Otoscope 200 is used
by a patient to perform a self-examination of an ear canal. The
patient, at his or her own pace, may perform the examination at a
remote location such as the patient's home.
[0033] User interface 212 may serve a variety of functions,
depending on the particular implementation of device 200.
Preferably, interface 212 comprises a display or viewing screen 220
for displaying captured images and data, as well as control or
input buttons or dials 216, 218. Display screen 220 is integral to
otoscope 200 and forms a part of user interface 212. It may be
implemented as a liquid crystal display (LCD) or as any other
appropriate display means. The display screen and input buttons are
conveniently positioned, as shown in FIGS. 3-5, to allow the user
to simultaneously perform an exam, view the results, and make input
selections as necessary. User interface may also comprise audio
output means such as a speaker and additional visual output means
such as LEDs to alert or signal the user as is necessary. User
interface 212 may use a menu-driven control system to facilitate
user interaction. A microphone may also be provided for capture of
voice records to be appended to the collected data. Depending on
the type of device involved and its complexity, many other types
and combinations of interface features are possible.
[0034] Speculum 202 has an elongated, conical shape conducive to
insertion into and examination of a patient's ear canal. This shape
is well known to those of ordinary skill in the art. Moreover,
speculum 202 may be constructed of a soft material and preferably
has a soft, disposable outer cover (not shown). A light source 205
mounted within or adjacent speculum 202 emits light into a central
bore 201 extending through speculum 202. The light emitted by light
source 205 is focused by a lens assembly 204 extending through bore
201 and exits the open end of speculum 202 to illuminate the ear
canal or a target area of the ear canal. Hence, light source 205
should be positioned to accurately and efficiently convey light
through bore 201 and assembly 204. To this end, light source 205
may be implemented as a single piece, conical light pipe (as is
shown in FIG. 3), or as a light fiber extending through speculum
202 and possibly integrated with lens assembly 204. Alternative
light sources could also be used.
[0035] Light source 205 may comprise multiple and individually
controlled light sources, such as light emitting diodes (LEDs) or
light bulbs. The multiple light sources may emit light within the
same or different frequency ranges. Where LEDs are employed, color
control (i.e. red, green, blue, ultra-violet, intra-red, etc.) of
the light emitted can be obtained by using light intensity
modulation and/or multiple colored sources. As will be described
below, the digital camera element may respond to a wide range of
frequencies. Light source 205 may also employ a pulsed operation in
order to control light intensity, exposure and to provide energy
savings.
[0036] Lens assembly 204 extends through and is integrated into
speculum 202. The physical configuration of a suitable lens
assembly will be familiar to those of ordinary skill in the art,
and may comprise multiple lenses and possible a light fiber
assembly (see discussion above). Lens assembly 204 is preferably
removable and replaceable to provide flexibility for various
applications. If device 200 were modified for dental applications,
for example, it may include an angled extension.
[0037] Light emitted by light source 205 exits speculum 202,
strikes the target area (ear canal), and is reflected back into
speculum 202. Lens assembly 204 focuses the reflected light onto an
image sensor 206. In a preferred implementation, image sensor 206
is a digital camera element employing still frame camera
technology. Digital camera element 206 captures and records the
image in digital form. Preferably, digital camera element 206 can
respond to a wide range of frequencies, facilitating its use in
conjunction with a multiple frequency light source.
[0038] Suitable digital camera elements are well known to those of
ordinary skill in the art and include, without limitation, CCDs and
Active Pixel arrays. In one implementation, the image captured by
element 606 comprises a pixel array having a minimum resolution of
100.times.100 pixels, a preferable resolution of 400.times.600
pixels and a most preferable resolution of 1000.times.1000 pixels.
The pixels have values representing luminance and possibly color
information in digital form, and may also represent frequency bands
outside of the visible spectrum of light (infra-red and
ultra-violet, for example).
[0039] Processor 208 and memory 210 (FIG. 2) reside on control
board 222 (FIG. 3). The digital images captured and recorded by
digital camera element 206 are provided to processor 208. Processor
208 is preferably capable of basic processing of multiple images
per second. Such processors are commercially available and well
known to those of ordinary skill in the art. Depending on the
selected mode of operation (described below), the images are
displayed on display screen 220 and/or locally stored in memory
210. Memory 210 may be implemented as a RAM or any other
appropriate electronic storage means.
[0040] Otoscope 200 has several modes of operation. In one mode of
operation, referred to as, a still frame is captured, updated and
displayed on screen 220 multiple times per second to allow the user
to target the desired object or feature. Preferably, the still
frame is updated in the range of 15 to 30 times per second. Upon
pressing an appropriate control button 216 or 218, the user
captures the currently displayed image. The user may then elect
either to save the image to memory 210 or to dispose of the
image.
[0041] In an alternate mode of operation, processor 208 captures
multiple images and automatically selects the best image. In this
mode, which the user enters by pressing an appropriate button or
making an appropriate menu selection, multiple frames are captured
and analyzed by processor 208. Processor 208 selects the best image
for viewing, based on parameters such as alignment and focus, and
displays the image on screen 220. Processor 208 may even target
optimal images, and have control over camera functions such as
zooming and panning to obtain the image. The user may elect to save
the displayed optimal image to memory 210 or to dispose of the
image. This mode is advantageous in that it solves the problem
encountered by doctors and care practitioners of requiring a
patient to hold still during an ear exam. Since digital camera
element 206 can capture 15-30 high quality digital images per
second, the impact of patient movement on image quality is
minimized. Moreover, the practitioner can then carefully analyze
the high quality image at his leisure without access to the
patient.
[0042] In other modes of operation, the user may select frames
previously stored in memory 210 for viewing. The user may also
elect to delete a single stored frame or all stored frames.
Finally, as will be explained in more detail below, the user may
elect to export stored images to a remote site such as a base
station, host PC or website.
[0043] Processor 208 preferably employs pattern matching and image
analysis techniques to automatically identify suitable images from
a series of images captured over a timeframe as otoscope 200 is
moved around within the patient's ear. An image is considered
suitable when a majority of prescribed image landmarks or
characteristics are matched, indicating the presence of an eardrum,
for example. Hence, processor 208 may employ image analysis to
determine surface shapes, such as concavity, convexity and so on.
When an image is recognized as optimal, the user may be audibly or
visually alerted. Pattern matching methodologies that may be used
include, without limitation, template-based matching, neural
network systems and vector analysis.
[0044] In addition to the methodologies described above, pneumatic
measurements may be taken to determine an object's movement. An air
path may be provided to permit pneumatic operation in conjunction
with the image capturing process. Hence, a series of images can be
captured for manual review or automated analysis and the target
object's movement in response to a blast of air can be determined.
Visible, infrared and/or ultraviolet illumination, sensing and
processing may also assist in obtaining data such as temperature
measurements, fluid identification and enhanced image features.
[0045] One implementation of a process for pattern matching and
image analysis is depicted in FIG. 6. In step 250, data collection
with device 200 is initiated. Typically, this will occur when the
user presses an appropriate button 216, 218 on device 200 or makes
an appropriate menu selection. In step 252, digital camera element
206 captures an image. The captured image is compared with patterns
or templates stored in memory 210 in step 254. At decision node
256, if the image is not a good match for an eardrum, the method
returns to step 252 and captures additional images. If the image is
a good match, at step 258, the user is alerted. The alert may be in
the form of a beep, a flashing LED, or any other prominent user
alert. The image may then be viewed on display 220 and/or
transferred to an external device (step 260).
[0046] In one implementation, the images or patterns used by
processor 208 for pattern matching are pre-recorded and stored on
an external server or web page. The user may obtain the images by
connecting to the Internet and manually downloading the appropriate
images via communications port 214. Alternatively, when device 200
is connected to base station 300, the system may automatically
upload the appropriate images. This method is advantageous in that
the user is not required to have particular knowledge regarding the
appropriate images.
[0047] As described above, the captured images and/or data are
stored as records in memory 210. One possible format for storing
image records 270 is depicted in FIG. 7. In addition to images,
additional data such as recorded weights from a scale, heart
monitor readings, and so on may be stored in records 270. Other
information such as a patient ID, device ID, prescription ID and
information, etc. may be appended to image records 270. This other
information is stored in the form of an identification record 272
appended to or associated with each image record 270. Hence, memory
210 contains a set of image records 270 associated with a set of ID
records 272. Once stored in this manner, the image and ID records
may be retrieved, transmitted and/or archived at any time
convenient to the patient and/or doctor. This is especially
significant in medical settings, as the need for many office visits
is eliminated. Moreover, ID records 272 permit efficient tracking
of the patient's identity, the device used, the prescribing party
and prescription, and so on.
[0048] Alternatively, identifying information such as names,
numbers or bar codes, identifying the patient and the particular
image, can be overlaid onto the image record and imbedded in a
digital file. This reduces the need for an appended ID record and
further simplifies record keeping.
[0049] Device 200 also includes a communications port 214 (FIG. 2).
Communications port 214 may receive information from an external
device and may transmit collected images and data to an external
device for analysis and storage at a remote location. Typically,
communications port 214 comprises a standard short-range interface
and software protocol for communication with base unit 300.
Suitable short-range data communications including direct cable,
contact connectors, infrared wireless, RF wireless, and so on. In
the illustrated embodiment (FIG. 3), communications port 214 takes
the form of external electrical connectors. The connectors
interface to and permit communication with a base unit 300, which
will be described below. Alternatively, wired or wireless
connections directly to an external website, server or host PC may
be provided.
[0050] Finally, device 200 includes a power source 224 (accessed by
a door 226) for providing power to all components within device
200. Power source 224 is typically implemented as a rechargeable
battery. Where a battery is utilized, electrical connectors 214 may
also be used in conjunction with base unit 300 to recharge the
battery.
[0051] A base unit 300 for use with device 200 is depicted in FIG.
8. Base unit 300 comprises cradles 302 and 304 for receiving and
holding, respectively, the head and grip portions 207 and 209 of
otoscope 200 when it is not in use. Grip cradle portion 304
includes electrical contacts 306 that contact electrical contacts
214 of otoscope 200 when placed in base unit 300. Contacts 306 may
be used to recharge otoscope battery 224, as well as to exchange
information with otoscope 200. Alternatively, base unit 300 could
have an infrared transceiver or other appropriate communications
interface for short-range communication with otoscope 200.
[0052] Preferably, base unit 300 comprises additional universal
communications ports to permit a wide range of communications with
external devices, particularly with devices of the types used in
healthcare settings. An infrared or wireless transceiver 308 may be
provided to permit communications with an external server,
computer, website or with device 200. A computer jack or interface
310 may be provided for wired communication with an external host
PC or server. Telephone jack or interface 312 may be provided to
permit connection to the Internet or an external telephone. In this
regard, base unit 300 may comprise an integrated modem
incorporating Internet protocols that is connected to interface
312. Power jack or interface 314 permits connection to an
appropriate power source.
[0053] Base unit 300 also comprises a user interface. The user
interface may have some or all of the features as described with
reference to device 300. In the illustrated embodiment, a "send"
button 316 is provided to initiate transmission of collected data
to an external device, and LED indicators 318 are provided for
displaying status and/or alerting or signaling the user. A storage
compartment 320 facilitates physical storage of components and
accessories such as speculum covers and batteries.
[0054] Though not illustrated, base unit 300 may also comprise a
local processor and memory for storage and processing of image data
received from otoscope 200 and authorization or instruction data
received from an external device or computer.
[0055] Once images and data have been collected with device 200,
device 200 may be placed in base station 300. Utilizing
communications port 214, image records may be downloaded to from
device 200 to base station 300 for later export to an external
website, server or host PC. In the illustrated embodiment, the
downloading would occur via the contacting electrical connectors.
At the prompt of the user, the image records would be transmitted
to an external website, server or host computer via the appropriate
communications port 308, 310 or 312. The data may be encoded to
ensure secure transmission. Alternatively, the image records may be
transmitted directly to an external storage site via base unit 300
without intervening storage in base unit 300. Additionally, images
for pattern matching and recognition may be selected and imported
from an external device to base unit 300 via the appropriate
communications port 308-312, and from base unit 300 to device 200
via communications port 214.
[0056] In one implementation within a system such as system 100 of
FIG. 1, an appropriate authorization or prescription from server
110 is required for data collection and transmission with device
200. In this implementation, the patient first connects base unit
300 as is appropriate. This may include, for example, plugging a
power line and a telephone line into jacks 310, 312. Next, device
200 is appropriately connected to base unit 300, and the user makes
an appropriate selection to initiate communication with server 110.
Base unit 300 then communicates with the server 110 via
communications medium 140 (as indicated by line 132 of FIG. 1). The
communications could, for example, involve sending a device ID.
Having received the device ID number, server 110 verifies that the
device has been registered, retrieves any pending prescriptions 112
. . . 114, and passes the prescriptions onto base unit 300 via
communications medium 140 (line 120).
[0057] Base unit 300 transfers the prescription instructions to
device 200, which can then collect the required images and/or data.
The images and data are collected, processed and stored in device
200 as described above. The collected images and/or data may be
transferred from device 200 to base unit 300 by appropriate user
action or, with direct contacts, by placing the device in the base
unit. When directed, either by the system or the user, base unit
300 transfers the data to server 110 via an appropriate
communications port.
[0058] Various embodiments of the present invention have been
illustrated and described herein. It should be understood, however,
that these embodiments are presented by way of example only, and
not limitation. Thus, the breadth and scope of the present
invention is not limited by the embodiments described herein, but
is defined by the following claims and their equivalents.
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