U.S. patent application number 17/392643 was filed with the patent office on 2021-11-25 for medical examination system enabling interchangeable operating modes.
The applicant listed for this patent is Welch Allyn, Inc.. Invention is credited to Ervin Goldfain, Raymond A. Lia, Michael T. McMahon, David G. Perkins, Steven R. Slawson, John R. Strom, Robert L. Vivenzio.
Application Number | 20210361241 17/392643 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005754695 |
Filed Date | 2021-11-25 |
United States Patent
Application |
20210361241 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Perkins; David G. ; et
al. |
November 25, 2021 |
MEDICAL EXAMINATION SYSTEM ENABLING INTERCHANGEABLE OPERATING
MODES
Abstract
An examination system having separate enabled interchangeable
operating modes includes at least one medical device having a
housing retaining an optical system. The examination system further
includes an adapter that is configured for aligning a plurality of
disparate smart devices with the optical system of the medical
device when the adapter is attached to the medical device, thereby
enabling multiple operating modes without modification to the
device. In at least one version, common engagement features are
provided on a plurality of medical devices to permit the adapter
and an attached smart device to be used therewith
interchangeably.
Inventors: |
Perkins; David G.; (Tully,
NY) ; Lia; Raymond A.; (Auburn, NY) ;
Vivenzio; Robert L.; (Auburn, NY) ; Strom; John
R.; (Moravia, NY) ; Goldfain; Ervin;
(Syracuse, NY) ; Slawson; Steven R.; (Camillus,
NY) ; McMahon; Michael T.; (Syracuse, NY) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Welch Allyn, Inc. |
Skaneateles Falls |
NY |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000005754695 |
Appl. No.: |
17/392643 |
Filed: |
August 3, 2021 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
15495065 |
Apr 24, 2017 |
11096627 |
|
|
17392643 |
|
|
|
|
62327154 |
Apr 25, 2016 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61B 5/6898 20130101;
A61B 3/14 20130101; A61B 2562/0233 20130101; F16B 1/00 20130101;
A61B 1/303 20130101; H04N 7/185 20130101; A61B 1/233 20130101; A61B
5/0077 20130101; A61B 3/12 20130101; A61B 2560/0443 20130101; A61B
3/1208 20130101; A61B 1/267 20130101; A61B 1/227 20130101; A61B
1/042 20130101; A61B 1/00105 20130101; F16B 2001/0035 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A61B 5/00 20060101
A61B005/00; A61B 1/00 20060101 A61B001/00; A61B 1/04 20060101
A61B001/04; A61B 1/227 20060101 A61B001/227; A61B 1/233 20060101
A61B001/233; A61B 1/303 20060101 A61B001/303; A61B 3/12 20060101
A61B003/12; F16B 1/00 20060101 F16B001/00; H04N 7/18 20060101
H04N007/18 |
Claims
1. An adapter for interconnecting a smart device with a medical
examination device, said adapter comprising: a distal connecting
portion for enabling releasable attachment to a proximal end of the
medical examination device; a proximal connecting portion
configured to support the smart device, the smart device having an
integrated camera and a display; and one or more interface plates
secured to a front facing side of the smart device, wherein the
proximal connecting portion is configured to engage the one or more
attached interface plates such that the camera is aligned with an
optical axis of the medical examination device upon attachment of
the distal connecting portion to the proximal end of the medical
examination device.
2. The adapter according to claim 1, in which the distal connecting
portion includes an opening configured for alignment with the
optical axis of the medical examination device when the adapter is
attached to the medical examination device.
3. The adapter according to claim 1, further comprising a lever
configured for releasing the adapter from the medical examination
device.
4. The adapter according to claim 3, in which the distal connecting
portion includes a spring-loaded pin that is movable into and out
of a defined recess sized to engage the proximal end of the medical
examination device, the lever being movable to a position enabling
release of the adapter from the medical examination device.
5. The adapter according to claim 1, in which the adapter is
rotatably movable to a plurality of mounting orientations about the
optical axis when the distal connecting portion is attached to the
proximal end of the medical examination device.
6. The adapter according to claim 1, in which the adapter is
configured to position a camera aperture of the smart device at a
convergence point of an optical system of the medical examination
equivalent to that of a viewer's eye using an eyepiece of the
medical examination device.
7. The adapter according to claim 1, in which the adapter is
configured for releasable attachment to one or more of a group of
medical examination devices, the group including an otoscope, an
ophthalmoscope, a dermatoscope, a rhinoscope and a colposcope.
8. The adapter according to claim 1, wherein the one or more
interface plates are made from a metal, wherein the adapter further
comprises at least one magnet disposed on the proximal connecting
portion for releasably securing the one or more interface
plates.
9. The adapter according to claim 1, wherein the adapter is
configured to support a selected one of a plurality of smart
devices and optically align the camera of the selected smart device
with the optical axis of the medical examination device upon
attachment.
10. The adapter according to claim 1, wherein the distal connecting
portion is configured for attachment to at least one of an otoscope
and an ophthalmoscope.
11. An adapter comprising: a planar support surface configured to
releasably retain a smart device, the smart device having an
integrated camera and a display; a device connecting portion
distally extending from the planar support surface and having a
formed opening, the device connecting portion being configured for
releasable attachment to a proximal end of a medical examination
device; and one or more interface plates positioned on the smart
device such that when the device connecting portion is attached to
the proximal end of the medical examination device, the camera of
the smart device is aligned with an optical axis of the medical
examination device.
12. The adapter of claim 11, in which the device connecting portion
is configured to enable a supported smart device to assume a
plurality of rotatable mounting orientations about the optical axis
of the medical examination device to which the adapter is
attached.
13. The adapter according to claim 11, including a lever for
releasing the adapter from the medical examination device.
14. The adapter according to claim 11, further comprising at least
one magnet positioned on the planar support surface for engaging
one or more of the interface plates.
15. A method for configuring a smart device for a medical
examination of a patient, the smart device comprising a housing
having an integrated camera and display, the method comprising:
using an alignment device, positioning one or more interface plates
on the smart device; securing the smart device to a proximal
connecting portion of an adapter; and attaching a distal connecting
portion of the adapter to a proximal end of the medical examination
device, wherein the secured smart device is automatically aligned
with an optical axis of the medical examination device.
16. The method according to claim 15, further comprising:
positioning the smart device on a mounting surface of the alignment
device; aligning the camera of the smart device with an optical
target on the alignment device in which the optical target is
centered in the display of the smart device; and attaching the one
or more interface plates through one or more openings provided on
the mounting surface of the alignment device.
17. The method according to claim 15, further comprising rotating
the adapter about the optical axis of the medical examination
device to enable the secured smart phone to assume one of a
plurality of orientations.
18. The method according to claim 15, wherein the smart device is
one of a plurality of disparately sized smart devices.
19. The method according to claim 15, wherein the medical
examination device is one or more of a group of medical examination
devices including an otoscope, an ophthalmoscope, a dermatoscope, a
colposcope, and a rhinoscope.
20. The method according to claim 15, further comprising rotating
the adapter relative to the medical examination device to enable
the attached smart device to assume one of a plurality of
rotational configurations.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. Ser. No.
15/495,065, filed Apr. 24, 2017, and entitled: Medical Examination
System Enabling Interchangeable Operating Modes, which claims
priority under relevant portions of 35 U.S.C. .sctn. 119 to U.S.
Ser. No. 62/327,154, filed Apr. 25, 2016, and entitled: Medical
Examination System Enabling Interchangeable Operating Modes. The
entire contents of each application are herein incorporated by
reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] This application is generally directed to the field of
diagnostic medicine and more specifically to a system having at
least one stand-alone medical examination or diagnostic device, in
which the device can assume or be configured to assume separate
interchangeable operating modes. These modes can include a visual
mode as well as an electronic viewing mode using an attached smart
device. An adapter attached to the at least one medical examination
or diagnostic device is configured to support and align one or one
of a plurality of disparate smart devices relative to the optical
axis of the medical device(s).
BACKGROUND
[0003] Hand-held diagnostic devices are well known in the medical
field for purposes of conducting a patient examination, e.g., a
wellness examination that would be typically conducted by a primary
physician, physician's assistant (PA) or other health care
provider, clinician, or caregiver. To that end, a number of
disparate devices are routinely used for examining specific medical
targets of interest, such as the eyes (ophthalmoscope), ears
(otoscope), nose (rhinoscope), skin (dermatoscope), vagina
(vagiscope and colposcope), anus (anoscope) and the like.
[0004] Some or all of these medical diagnostic instruments may
include optical versions having an eyepiece disposed at one end of
an instrument housing. Alternatively, electronic versions are also
known having an electronic imager that captures a digital image of
the intended medical target. More recently, so-called "smart
devices", (e.g., smart phones, tablets and the like), have been
incorporated for use with a medical examination or diagnostic
device. One such example is the iExaminer.RTM. ophthalmoscope,
which is manufactured and sold by Welch Allyn, Inc. of Skaneateles
Falls, N.Y. Features relating to use of a smart device with a
medical examination or diagnostic device herein are more completely
described in greater detail in U.S. Pat. No. 8,944,596 B2 and U.S.
Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0103317A1, the entire
contents of each being herein incorporated by reference.
[0005] Reference is herein made to FIG. 1, which illustrates a
known medical diagnostic device (i.e., an ophthalmoscope 10), which
is configured to retain a smart device (more specifically, a smart
phone). The ophthalmoscope 10 is defined by an instrument housing
14 that includes a distal end 16 and an opposing proximal end 18
and an interior sized and configured to retain a plurality of
components. An optical system and an illumination system (not
shown) are each retained within the interior of the instrument
housing 14 and configured to enable viewing the eye of a patient
(not shown). Features relating to a typical ophthalmoscope for use
herein is more completely described in greater detail in U.S. Pat.
No. 6,065,837, the entire contents of which is herein incorporated
by reference.
[0006] A supporting fixture 20 fixedly secured to the proximal end
18 of the instrument housing 14 is configured to support an
attached smart device 32. More specifically, the supporting fixture
20 is defined by a frame-like structure having an open top or upper
end as well as a pair of parallel channels or slots 24 that are
disposed along opposing lateral sides, enabling a specific smart
device 32 (e.g., an iphone 4.0) to be releasably attached. The
supporting fixture 20 further includes a cylindrically shaped nose
section (not shown) made from a flexible material that is
configured to fully cover the eyepiece of the ophthalmoscope 10.
When the smart phone 32 is attached, the supporting fixture 20
retains the smart device 32 in a single defined position that
provides the necessary alignment for the optics of the smart device
32 relative to the contained optical system (not shown) of the
ophthalmoscope 10.
[0007] In use, the display of the attached smart device 32 is used
to provide digital images of an intended medical target and in
which a phone application stored into the memory of the smart phone
32 enables the instrument to be operated by a user. The supporting
fixture 20 enables the optics of the smart phone 32 to be
specifically aligned with the optical system of the ophthalmoscope
10, when the smart device 32 is attached thereto. A shortcoming of
this system is that the supporting fixture 20 is only configured to
adequately retain the specific smart device 32. Other smart devices
cannot be similarly supported.
[0008] The foregoing is significant because alignment between the
optics of an attached smart device and the optical system of a
stand-alone medical diagnostic or examination device is critical to
performance. Additionally, there is a general and pervasive need in
the field of medical diagnostics to enable or provide medical
examination or diagnostic devices with the capability of assuming a
plurality of operating modes, as needed, so as to provide greater
versatility.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION
[0009] Therefore and according to one aspect, there is provided a
medical examination system comprising a medical device including a
housing having an optical system within an interior of the housing.
The optical system is defined by an optical axis and configured to
operate in an optical viewing mode using an eyepiece. The system
further comprises an adapter for aligning a digital camera of a
smart device with the optical system of the medical device to
enable a separate electronic operating mode, each of the adapter
and the medical device having complementary features to permit
attachment of the adapter to the medical device, the adapter having
at least one feature configured to permit each of a plurality of
different sized smart devices to be attached to the adapter and in
alignment with the optical system of the medical device when the
adapter is attached thereto.
[0010] According to at least one version, an aligning mechanism
includes at least one interface plate interconnecting the smart
device and the medical examination device. In an embodiment, the at
least one interface plate can be secured, such as adhesively, to
the housing of the smart device and in which the medical
examination device is releasably attached to the secured at least
one interface plate. A mount or alignment assembly or fixture can
be provided in order to initially position the at least one
interface plate relative to the smart device and in a predetermined
location, the adapter having an portion configured to engage the at
least one interface plate. Preferably, the interface plate is metal
and the portion of the adapter includes at least one magnet for
releasably securing the interface plate specifically thereon.
[0011] The medical device can include a proximal end having a
device receiving portion that is configured to releasably engage a
device connection portion of the adapter wherein the adapter
includes an opening that is aligned with the camera aperture of the
digital camera of the smart device when the smart device is
attached via the at least one interface plate. The opening of the
adapter is aligned with the viewing axis of the medical device when
the adapter is attached to the medical device.
[0012] According to at least one version, the adapter includes a
lever configured for releasing the adapter from the medical device.
Additionally, the device connection portion of the adapter can
include a spring-loaded pin that is movable into and out of a
defined recess sized to engage the proximal receiving portion of
the medical device, wherein the lever is movable to a position to
release the pin and assist in releasing the adapter from the
medical device.
[0013] When attached, the adapter can be moved to a plurality of
mounting positions relative to the viewing or optical axis of the
medical device. Moreover, the adapter positions the smart device at
the convergence point of the eyepiece, thereby placing the smart
device in the same position as the viewer's eye in the viewing
mode.
[0014] A plurality of different medical examination or diagnostic
devices can be provided, each of the medical devices having a
proximal receiving portion that is configured for engaging the
device connection portion of the adapter.
[0015] According to another aspect, there is provided an adapter
configured for attachment to at least one medical device, the
adapter comprising a support surface configured to retain one of a
plurality of different sized smart devices. The support surface
includes a portion that receives an alignment feature of each smart
device to align the camera aperture of an attached smart device
with a formed opening. Each of the plurality of smart devices
includes a digital camera wherein the adapter, when attached, is
configured to align the digital camera with the optical system of a
medical examination device. The adapter further comprises a device
connection portion configured for engaging a proximal receiving
portion of a medical device such that, when attached, the opening
of the adapter is aligned with the optical axis of the medical
device.
[0016] The adapter can include at least one feature for enabling
release of the adapter from the medical device such as a lever. In
one version, the lever is configured to cooperate with a spring
loaded pin of the proximal receiving portion of the medical
device.
[0017] According to one version, the portion of the support surface
includes at least one magnet for engaging the alignment feature of
the smart device.
[0018] According to yet another aspect, there is provided a medical
device comprising a housing, an optical system disposed within the
housing including an eyepiece enabling an optical viewing mode; and
a proximal receiving portion configured for engaging an adapter
retaining a smart device to enable the medical device to assume an
electronic imaging mode.
[0019] According to one version, the proximal receiving portion
retains a set of eyepiece optics. The proximal receiving portion
can be defined in at least one embodiment as a cylindrical section
having a channel and a lipped portion configured for releasably
engaging a device connection portion of the adapter supporting the
smart device.
[0020] The medical device can be at least one of a plurality of
disparate medical diagnostic instruments including at least one
from the group consisting essentially of dermatoscopes, otoscopes,
ophthalmoscopes, colposcopes, rhinoscopes, each of the instruments
being configured to engage the adapter.
[0021] According to yet another aspect, a medical instrument
examining system comprises a first medical examination device
having a distal end, a proximal end and an optical system aligned
along an optical axis and a second medical examination device
having a distal end, a proximal end and an optical system aligned
along an optical axis. Each of the first and second medical
examination devices has a proximal receiving portion configured for
releasably engaging a device connection portion of the adapter and
in which the adapter includes an opening that is aligned with the
optical axis of the first and second medical examination device
when the adapter.
[0022] The adapter includes a supporting member configured to
retain a smart device having a camera, the adapter being configured
for retaining the smart device such that the camera of the smart
device is automatically aligned with the opening of the adapter and
the optical axis of the first and second medical examination
devices.
[0023] One advantage realized by the herein described medical
examination system is greater versatility by permitting
interchangeable attachment of an eyepiece and an electronic device,
such as a smart device, with at least one stand-alone medical
examination device. In the inventive system, for example, a number
of smart devices can be separably attached and aligned with the
optics contained within at least one or more discrete stand-alone
medical devices using a generic adapter and an interface that
permits the adapter to be connected without modification to a
number of medical devices.
[0024] Another advantage provided by the herein described system is
that either minor or no modifications are required to enable the
interchangeable operating modes and in which the adapter used
enables repeatable alignment between the optical elements of the
stand-alone medical device and the eyepiece or smart device.
[0025] These and other features and advantages will be readily
apparent from the following Detailed Description, which should be
read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0026] Various features and advantages of the present invention
will become more apparent when taken in conjunction with the
following description and drawings wherein identical reference
numerals have been used, where possible, to designate identical
features that are common to the figures, and wherein:
[0027] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a stand-alone medical
diagnostic or examination device having a smart device attached
thereto in accordance with a previously known attachment fixture or
frame;
[0028] FIG. 2(a) is a top perspective view of an alignment assembly
in accordance with an embodiment, the alignment assembly including
an alignment fixture and an interface plate;
[0029] FIG. 2(b) is the top perspective view showing the alignment
fixture of FIG. 2A with a retained interface plate;
[0030] FIG. 2(c) is a perspective view of a smart device disposed
in relation to the alignment fixture of FIGS. 2(a) and 2(b);
[0031] FIG. 2(d) is a top perspective view of the smart device on
the alignment fixture of FIGS. 2(a)-2(c) for purposes of attaching
the interface plate thereto;
[0032] FIG. 2(e) is a bottom perspective view of the alignment
assembly of FIG. 2(d);
[0033] FIG. 2(f) is a front perspective view showing the attachment
of a stand-alone medical diagnostic or examination device to a
smart device using the attached interface plate of FIGS.
2(a)-2(e);
[0034] FIG. 2(g) is a rear perspective view showing the attachment
of the smart device of FIG. 2(f) to the stand-alone medical
diagnostic or examination device;
[0035] FIG. 2(h) is a rear perspective view of the stand-alone
medical diagnostic or examination device and attached smart device
of FIGS. 2(f) and 2(g), including a display relating to optical
alignment;
[0036] FIG. 2(i) is a front perspective view of the stand-alone
medical diagnostic or examination device and attached smart device
of FIGS. 2(f)-2(h);
[0037] FIG. 2(j) is a top perspective view of an alignment fixture
made in accordance with another embodiment;
[0038] FIG. 2(k) is a side perspective view of the alignment
fixture of FIG. 2(j);
[0039] FIG. 2(l) is another top perspective view of the alignment
fixture of FIGS. 2(j) and 2(k);
[0040] FIG. 3 depicts an embodiment of a calibration target that
can be configured for use with the assemblies of FIGS.
2(h)-2(k);
[0041] FIG. 4(a) depicts an exploded perspective view of a medical
instrument assembly in accordance with another embodiment including
a stand-alone medical diagnostic or examination device and various
interface plates for use in enabling the aligned attachment of a
smart device;
[0042] FIG. 4(b) depicts a side perspective view of the medical
instrument assembly of FIG. 4(a), with the interface plates as
attached to the smart device;
[0043] FIG. 4(c) depicts the side perspective view of the medical
instrument assembly of FIGS. 4(a) and 4(b) in a nearly assembled
condition;
[0044] FIG. 4(d) illustrates a rear perspective view of the
stand-alone medical diagnostic or examination device of FIGS.
4(a)-4(c), including magnetic areas configured for alignment with a
smart device;
[0045] FIG. 4(e) illustrates a front perspective view of the smart
device of FIG. 4(d) having the interface plates attached
thereto;
[0046] FIG. 4(f) illustrates a rear perspective view of the
stand-alone medical diagnostic or examination device of FIGS.
4(a)-4(d) having interface plates attached thereto;
[0047] FIGS. 5(a)-5(d) depict rear perspective views of a medical
instrument assembly showing various assembled and unassembled
operating modes between a first stand-alone medical device, an
eyepiece, and a smart device in which the eyepiece and smart device
can be interchangeably attached to the first stand-alone medical
device to enable the various operating modes;
[0048] FIGS. 6(a)-6(d) depict rear perspective views of another
medical instrument assembly showing various assembled and
unassembled operating modes between a second stand-alone medical
device, an eyepiece and a smart device in which the eyepiece and
smart device are interchangeably attached to the second stand-alone
medical device to enable the various operating modes;
[0049] FIGS. 7(a)-7(d) depict rear perspective views of yet another
medical instrument assembly showing various assembled and
unassembled operating modes between another stand-alone medical
device, an eyepiece and a smart device in which the eyepiece and
smart device are interchangeably attached to the stand-alone
medical device to enable the various operating modes;
[0050] FIGS. 8(a)-8(d) depict rear perspective views of still
another medical instrument assembly showing various assembled and
unassembled operating modes between another stand-alone medical
device, an eyepiece and a smart device in which the eyepiece and
smart device are interchangeably attached to the depicted
stand-alone medical device in order to enable the various operating
modes;
[0051] FIG. 9(a) is a side perspective view of a stand-alone
medical diagnostic or examination device configured to support an
aligned smart device using an adapter in accordance with an
embodiment;
[0052] FIG. 9(b) is an exploded assembly view of the medical
diagnostic or examination device, adapter and smart device of FIG.
9(a);
[0053] FIG. 9(c) is a side perspective view of another stand-alone
medical diagnostic or examination device as configured to support
an aligned smart device using an adapter;
[0054] FIG. 9(d) is an exploded assembly view of the stand-alone
medical diagnostic or examination device and smart device of FIGS.
9(a) and 9(b) and an adapter made in accordance with another
embodiment;
[0055] FIG. 10(a) is a perspective view of a medical examination
device made in accordance with another embodiment and configured to
provide an optical viewing mode;
[0056] FIG. 10(b) is a perspective view of the medical examination
device of FIG. 10(a) having an attached smart device, the medical
examination device being configured in an electronic viewing
mode;
[0057] FIG. 11(a) is a perspective view of a medical examination
device made in accordance with another embodiment in which the
device is configured in an optical viewing mode;
[0058] FIG. 11(b) is a perspective view of the medical examination
device of FIG. 11(a), including an attached smart device, the
medical examination device being configured in an electronic
viewing mode;
[0059] FIG. 12(a) is a perspective view of another medical
diagnostic or examination device having a smart device attached
thereto in accordance with another embodiment, the smart device
being disposed in a specific adjustable mounting orientation;
[0060] FIG. 12(b) is another perspective view of the medical
diagnostic or examination instrument of FIG. 12(a), with the
attached smart device in another adjustable mounting
orientation;
[0061] FIG. 13(a) is a perspective view of another medical
diagnostic or examination device having a smart device attached
thereto in accordance with yet another embodiment, the smart device
being disposed in a specific adjustable mounting orientation;
[0062] FIG. 13(b) is the perspective view of the medical diagnostic
or examination instrument of FIG. 13(a), the attached smart device
being disposed in another adjustable mounting orientation;
[0063] FIG. 14(a) is a front facing view of an adapter made in
accordance with another embodiment;
[0064] FIG. 14(b) is an end view of the adapter of FIG. 14(a);
[0065] FIG. 14(c) is the front facing view of the adapter of FIGS.
14(a) and 14(b), with a lever moved to a depressed position;
[0066] FIG. 15(a) is a side elevational view of a medical
examination device supporting a smart device using the adapter of
FIGS. 14(a)-14(c);
[0067] FIG. 15(b) is a front facing view of the medical examination
device of FIG. 15(a); and
[0068] FIG. 15(c) is the side elevational view of medical
examination device of FIGS. 15(a) and 15(b), showing the interface
between a proximal receiving portion and the adapter shown in
section.
[0069] FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram of an optical layout for a
stand-alone medical diagnostic or examination device in accordance
with an embodiment, the device including an attached smart device
and including movable optics provided within the stand-alone
medical device;
[0070] FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram of an optical layout of the
stand-alone medical device of FIG. 16, including a coupled eyepiece
defining an optical viewing mode;
[0071] FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram of an optical layout for a
stand-alone medical diagnostic or examination device in accordance
with another embodiment, the device including movable optics
contained in the device and an attached smart device defining an
electronic imaging mode;
[0072] FIG. 19 is a schematic diagram of an optical layout of the
stand-alone medical device of FIG. 18, including a coupled
eyepiece;
[0073] FIG. 20 is a schematic diagram of an optical layout for an
illumination system of a stand-alone medical diagnostic or
examination device in accordance with another embodiment;
[0074] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a mounting fixture in
accordance with an embodiment for various components of the herein
described medical examination system;
[0075] FIG. 22(a) is a side elevational view of another medical
diagnostic or examination device in accordance with another
embodiment; and
[0076] FIG. 22(b) depicts the medical device of FIG. 22(a) in
section.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0077] The following description relates to certain embodiments of
a medical examination system that includes at least one stand-alone
medical diagnostic or examination device that is configured for
operation in a number (at least two (2)) of interchangeable
operating modes. In at least one version, an adapter is configured
to generically support one of a plurality of smart devices, such as
smart phones, in which the generic adapter is further configured to
be attached to one of a plurality of disparate medical examination
devices. In another version, a plurality of medical devices are
configured with a common or generic interface enabling a smart
device to be used interchangeably with the medical devices.
[0078] For purposes of explanation, the specific medical
examination or diagnostic devices described in the following
embodiments include otoscopes for examining the ears of a patient
and ophthalmoscopes for examining aspects of the eyes of a patient.
However, it will be readily apparent that the concepts discussed
herein are further applicable to a varied number of other
stand-alone medical diagnostic or examination instruments or
devices, such as but not limited to dermatoscopes, vagiscopes,
colposcopes, and anoscopes, among other devices capable of viewing
of a medical target of interest.
[0079] In addition, the following description utilizes a number of
terms for the purpose of providing an adequate or suitable frame of
reference in relation to the accompanying drawings. These terms,
which may include "inner", "outer", "external", "internal",
"distal", "proximal", "above", "below", "top", "bottom" and the
like should not be interpreted as necessarily limiting the intended
scope of the invention, including the claims, unless so
specifically indicated.
[0080] As used herein, the term "smart device" refers to any
apparatus or device that is mobile and connected to other devices
via wireless protocols or networks under IEEE 802.11 including but
not limited to WiFi, Bluetooth, 3G and the like. The smart device
as defined herein includes at least one electronic imaging device
(e.g., a digital camera) and related optics, memory and a
microprocessor capable of running application software, which may
include but is not limited to smart phones and tablets.
[0081] As used herein, the term "stand-alone medical diagnostic or
examination device" refers to an instrument used to view a medical
target of interest of a patient which includes an optical system
and optionally includes an illumination system. Examples of these
devices may include but are not limited to otoscopes,
ophthalmoscopes, dermatoscopes, vagiscopes and anoscopes for
viewing a medical target of interest.
[0082] A system according to several embodiments is described
herein and defined by at least one stand-alone medical diagnostic
or examination device that can be used interchangeably using an
interface that enables an optical mode as well as an electronic
imaging mode. As discussed herein, each of the optical system of
the medical device(s) and the camera of the smart device can be
repeatably and reliably aligned to enable dual functionalities
without significant modification to the stand alone diagnostic or
examination device.
[0083] With reference to FIGS. 2(a) and 2(b) and according to a
first embodiment, an alignment fixture 100 is provided that is used
for indexing a smart device prior to attachment to a medical
diagnostic or examination device. As discussed herein, the purpose
of the fixture 100 is to provide placement of an interface or
alignment plate(s) on a smart device. The positioning of the
interface plate(s) enables proper alignment between the camera of
the smart device and the optical system of a medical device to
which the smart device is attached. The alignment fixture 100
according to the depicted version is defined by a raised platform
108 having a planar upper or top surface 112, as well as a
plurality of legs 116 that extend downwardly from the upper surface
112. One of the legs 116 according to this embodiment includes a
support flange 117 that further includes an optical target 118,
such as a reticle. An elongate slot 120 formed in the top surface
112 of the alignment fixture 100 is sized and configured to receive
an interface plate 104.
[0084] The interface plate 104 according to this specific
embodiment is a substantially planar section made preferably from
metal and including a through hole 105 and a slot 107, each aligned
and spaced from one another. According to this embodiment, an upper
side 106 of the interface plate 104 includes an adhesive layer to
enable securement to the front facing surface 144 of a smart device
140 as shown in FIGS. 2(c)-2(e) using the alignment fixture 100.
More specifically, the interface plate 104 is positioned within the
elongate slot 120 of the alignment fixture 100, with the upper side
106 of the interface plate 105 facing upwardly. The smart device
140, which according to this embodiment is a smart phone, is then
brought to the alignment fixture 100 with the front facing surface
144 of the smart device 140 facing the top surface 112 of the
alignment fixture 100 and the contained camera 146 of the smart
device 140 being aimed at the optical target 118.
[0085] As shown in these figures, the smart device 140 is activated
by the user and an application stored into memory on the smart
device 140 is configured to provide a target on the display 144,
including a cross hair or other aiming means (e.g., a target 148)
in order to verify that the optical target 118 is centered on the
display 144. Once the target 148 is centered on the display 144 of
the smart device 140, and as shown in FIGS. 2(d) and 2(e), the
smart device 140 can be brought into contact with the adhesive
layer 106 of the interface plate 104. The smart device 140 and
attached interface plate 104 can be subsequently removed from the
alignment fixture 100 by releasing the interface plate 104 from the
retaining slot 120.
[0086] With reference to FIGS. 2(f)-2(i), the smart device 140
having the attached interface plate 104 can then be attached to a
stand-alone medical diagnostic or examination device. According to
this depicted embodiment, the stand-alone medical or examination
device is an otoscope 160 that is used for viewing the outer and
middle ear of a patient. The otoscope 160 is defined by a housing
164 that includes an instrument head attached to the upper end of a
downwardly extending handle, the instrument head having a distal
end and an opposing proximal end as well as an interior that is
sized and configured to retain a number of optical elements. The
distal end of the instrument head of the otoscope 160 includes a
conical insertion portion that is configured to releasably receive
a hollow speculum tip element, also having a conical configuration
that is designed to be fitted only to a predetermined distance into
the outer ear of a patient (not shown).
[0087] According to this version, the rear or proximal facing side
surface 176 of the instrument housing 164 includes a pair of spaced
magnets 180. When assembled and as shown in FIGS. 2(h) and 2(i),
the hole 105 and slot 107 of the fixedly secured interface plate
104 provides a specific and repeatable datum with regard to the
smart device 140 to enable optical alignment when the smart device
140 is attached to the otoscope 160. When attached, the camera 146
of the attached smart device 140 is specifically aligned with the
optical system of the otoscope 160 and more specifically a rear or
proximal opening 169 of the instrument housing 164.
[0088] It will be understood that variations of the alignment
fixture are also contemplated given the need determined by
Applicants to precisely and very accurately align the interface
plate properly onto a smart device for the herein described
examination system. For example and as shown in FIGS. 2(j)-2(l),
another alignment fixture 100A is depicted for purposes of aligning
a smart device for positioning of at least one interface plate (not
shown). The alignment fixture 100A, according to this version, is
defined by a structure having a planar support surface 109A.
Respective x-axis and y-axis adjustment assemblies 130A, 134A are
engageable with lateral sides of a smart device, and more
specifically a smart phone 140A that is positioned onto the top of
the planar support surface 109A. According to this version, the
interface place (not shown) can be placed within a shelf (not
shown) located directly beneath the planar support surface 109A.
More specifically, the interface plate(s) is positioned within a
defined recess(es) or slot(s) (not shown) in the shelf with an
exposed adhesive side of the interface plate(s) facing a slot 110A,
FIG. 2(l), of the alignment fixture 100A.
[0089] According to this embodiment, the alignment fixture 100A
includes respective x-axis and y-axis adjustment assemblies 130A
and 134A that include respective spring-loaded adjustment or
support blocks 138A and 139A, each set orthogonally to one another
on the top of the planar support surface 109A. Respective x-axis
and y-axis screw adjustment members 137A and 141A, according to
this embodiment, are fixedly and threadingly disposed within the
center of a corresponding beam-like member 143A and 145A in spaced
parallel relation to the spring-loaded adjustment blocks 138A and
139A. Each of the beam-like members 143A, 145A further include a
recessed interior portion 146A and 147A, respectively, that is
sized to be placed onto and cover a lateral edge of a smart device
(e.g., smart phone 140A) that is introduced onto the fixture 100A.
When mounted, the relative position of the smart phone 140A can be
laterally shifted wherein vertical movement is restricted by the
beam-like members 143A, 145A, as well as the lateral support
surface 109A of the alignment fixture 100A.
[0090] When the camera of the smart phone 140A is activated, an
alignment application stored by the phone memory is programmed to
display a set of cross hairs or other suitable target 148A. The
smart phone 140A is then placed on the planar support surface 109A
with the display side facing upwardly and the camera of the smart
phone 140A aligned with a pinhole 111A, FIG. 2(l) formed on the
planar support surface 109A that is aligned with an optical target
118A disposed beneath the planar support surface 109A. A back light
(not shown) can be disposed beneath the optical target 118A to
enhance illumination and visualization by the smart device
140A.
[0091] The smart phone 140A is initially set with lateral edges of
the smart phone 140A being placed against the spring-loaded support
blocks 138A and 139A. The screw adjustment members 137A, 141A and
the beam-like members 143A, 145A are retracted sufficiently to
allow the smart phone 140A to be initially positioned onto the
planar support surface 109A. Once crudely positioned and aligned,
the x-axis and y-axis adjustment members 130A, 134A are then moved
into position using the screw adjustment members 137A, 141A with
the beam-like members 143A, 145A, and more specifically the
interior recessed portions 146A and 147A covering and engaging the
lateral edges of the smart phone 140A. Fine adjustments can then be
made against the bias of the spring loaded support blocks 138A,
139A to accurately center the image 149A of the optical target 118A
on the display 144A and more specifically the cross hairs (target
148A) as needed, until the image 149A of an optical target 119A
disposed beneath the planar support surface 109A is centered on the
display 144A, and more specifically within the defined cross hairs
148A.
[0092] The above procedure can also detect misalignment and
tolerancing issues of the smart device 140A and permit the image
149A of the optical target 118A to be as effectively and accurately
centered relative to the cross hairs 148A on the display 144A as
possible. Such tolerancing and misalignment issues are minor for
typical use of the smart device, but are magnified when used for
purposes of optically aligning to a medical diagnostic or
examination device. Once centered, the shelf retaining the at least
one interface plate can be pressed upwardly into contact with the
front facing side of the smart device 140A, adhesively and reliably
securing the at least one interface plate.
[0093] It will be understood that the alignment fixture 100A can be
easily modified to accept smart devices having different
configurations and footprints to permit optical alignment and
placement of an interface plate(s) as herein described.
[0094] When attached in the manner shown herein, the optical
parameters of the entire assembly can be calibrated using a
calibration target 198, such as shown in FIG. 3 using the display
144 of the mounted smart phone 140. Optical parameters such as
white balance, gray scale and color can be optimized using an
application stored within the smart device or other suitable
means.
[0095] It should be understood that the number and location of
interface plates used for alignment to a stand-alone medical device
can be suitably varied provided that the interface plate(s)
accurately align a mounted smart device and more specifically the
contained optics of the attached smart device with the optical
system of the medical diagnostic or examination device. One
alternative embodiment is shown in FIGS. 4(a)-4(f) in which a pair
of interface plates 204, 208, are provided for disposition between
the rear facing surface 207 of a stand-alone medical diagnostic or
examination device 200, in this instance an otoscope, and the front
facing surface 223 of a smart device 220, for example, a smart
phone. Initially, a pair of interface plates 204, 208 are attached
to the front facing surface 223 of the smart device 220 using an
alignment fixture (not shown) that is similar to that previously
shown and depicted in FIGS. 2(a)-2(l). Though not shown, the
process of assembly is similar in that the alignment fixture
includes a raised platform or an upper or top planar surface that
further includes a pair of slots that are spaced from one another
and configured for retaining each of the interface plates in a
spaced relation. According to this embodiment, the pair of
interface plates include a first interface plate 204 and a second
interface plate 208. Also and as in the proceeding, an optical
target can be provided on the alignment fixture.
[0096] To assemble, each of the first and second interface plates
204, 208 are placed within the retaining slots on the top surface
of the alignment fixture with the camera of the smart device 220
being aimed at the optical target and viewed using a cross hair or
similar aiming means provided on the display of the smart device
220 using an application stored within the smart device 220. When
the camera of the smart device 220 is properly aimed such that the
optical target is centered on the cross hairs provided on the
display, the smart device 220 can then be brought into contact with
the top surface of the alignment fixture in which each of the
facing sides of the interface plates 204 and 208 include an exposed
adhesive layer in order to secure same to the smart device 220.
[0097] The smart device 220 can then be removed from the alignment
fixture and secured to the rear facing side or surface 207 of the
medical examination device 200, which according to this embodiment
is an otoscope. In at least one version, the rear facing side 207
of the medical examination device 200 includes a pair of magnets
214, 217 spaced from one another that receive the smart device 220
and more specifically the interface plates 204, 208, the latter
being positioned to ensure the attached smart device 220, and more
specifically the camera of the smart device 220, is aligned
properly with the optical system of the examination device 200.
[0098] With reference to FIGS. 5(a)-5(d), there are depicted a
number of varied arrangements between a stand-alone medical
diagnostic or examination device 300, an eyepiece 320 and a smart
device 360, each of the latter being interchangeably attached to
the proximal end of the medical diagnostic device 300.
[0099] First and as shown in FIGS. 5(a) and 5(b), the eyepiece 320
can be releasably engaged with the stand-alone medical examination
device 300 (i.e., an otoscope). The eyepiece 320 according to this
depicted embodiment is defined by a substantially cylindrical
housing 324 having an interior that is configured to retain at
least one optical element, such as an objective lens (not shown).
The eyepiece 320 can be releasably attached to the stand-alone
medical examination device 300 by means of a magnetic interface 309
formed at the proximal end of the medical device 300. According to
this embodiment, the magnetic interface 309 includes a plurality of
retained magnets which are disposed in a circumferential
configuration about a proximal opening of the medical device 300.
The distal end of the eyepiece 320 is configured to engage the
magnetic interface 309 in a manner in which the contained optics of
the eyepiece 320 are optically aligned with the contained optics of
the medical examination device 300.
[0100] The eyepiece 320, according to this specific embodiment.
further includes an external focusing knob 328 disposed on the
housing 324, that when rotated, is configured to axially shift the
position of the contained optical element, as needed. When coupled
to the stand-alone medical device 300, the external focusing knob
328 can be accessed by the user and rotated to permit adjustments
to be made optically while the magnetic interface 309 continues to
maintain support and optical alignment of the eyepiece 320 with the
optics of the stand-alone medical device 300.
[0101] As shown in FIGS. 6(a) and 6(b), a similar arrangement can
be provided for another stand-alone medical diagnostic or
examination device 400 (e.g., an ophthalmoscope) in which the
eyepiece 320 can also be releasably and interchangeably attached to
the proximal end 405 of the device 400. As in the prior embodiment,
the device 400 includes a magnetic interface 409 in which a
plurality of retained magnets are disposed in a circumferential
pattern to enable optical alignment with the stand-alone medical
examination device, when the eyepiece 320 is attached. This
attachment further enables a user to view the intended target
through the proximal end of the eyepiece 320. In use, the eyepiece
320 can be interchangeably attached to either medical diagnostic or
examination device 300, 400 without modifications being required to
either the devices 300, 400 or the eyepiece 320.
[0102] Still further and with reference to FIGS. 5(c) and 5(d), and
FIGS. 6(c) and 6(d), a smart device 360 can also be separably and
interchangeably attachable to the proximal surface 305, 405 of
either medical examination or diagnostic device (otoscope 300 or
ophthalmoscope 400) in lieu of the eyepiece 320 to provide a
separate electronic imaging or viewing mode. According to each of
these depicted embodiments, at least one interface plate is first
provided and attached to the front or distal facing side of the
smart device 360 such as using an alignment fixture (not shown) in
a manner previously described--see FIGS. 2(a)-2(i). Once the
interface plate(s) are attached, the smart device 360 can be
interchangeably attached to the rear facing or proximal surface
305, 405 of either medical examination device 300, 400 using at
least a portion of the magnetic interface 309, 409 as well as at
least one other suitably spaced magnet 311, 411, the latter being
separately provided on the rear facing surface 305, 405 of the
otoscope 300 or ophthalmoscope 400 in spaced relation to the
interface 309, 409 to properly locate the smart device 360 in
alignment with the contained optics of the medical examination
device 300, 400. It should be understood that other configurations
are possible.
[0103] It should be noted that the design of the medical
examination device can be suitably altered to better accommodate an
attached and optically aligned smart device for purposes of
operation. For example and according to FIGS. 7(a)-7(d) and FIGS.
8(a)-8(d), another embodiment of a medical examination assembly is
depicted in which stand-alone medical examination devices (otoscope
500 or ophthalmoscope 600) are commonly defined by a body or
housing 504, 604 in which the upper portion of the handle 508, 608
is curved so as to create an offset of the instrument head 510, 610
relative to the handle 508, 608 of the device 500, 600 to enable an
attached smart device 360 to be more efficiently centered and
balanced due to the off-center nature of an attached smart device
360. Other suitable variations and configurations will be readily
evident, for example, depending on the smart device to be supported
in the herein described assembly.
[0104] In each of the latter examples, an eyepiece 320 and a smart
device 360 can be interchangeably used in connection with either
medical examination device 500, 600. The eyepiece 320 is releasably
attached by engagement of the distal end of the eyepiece housing
324 with a magnetic interface 509, 609 formed about the periphery
of the proximal optics opening of the device 500, 600. The smart
device 360 is interchangeably mounted using at least one interface
plate (not shown in these views) using a technique that is similar
to that described in FIGS. 2(a)-2(l), including a suitable
alignment fixture having retention slots that permit specific
placement or positioning of the smart device 360 to further provide
suitable optical alignment relative to an optical target on the
alignment fixture that is configured to represent the optical
system of the otoscope 500 or ophthalmoscope 600 and attached to
magnets 511, 611 of the medical devices 500, 600 respectively.
[0105] In accordance with another embodiment and with reference to
FIGS. 9(a) and 9(b) there is shown another stand-alone medical
diagnostic or examination device that can be configured to support
a smart device to provide versatility through an enhanced
electronic viewing mode According to this version, the medical
examination or examination device is an otoscope 700, such as the
Macroview otoscope manufactured and sold by Welch Allyn, Inc. of
Skaneateles Falls, N.Y. This device is described more completely in
U.S. Pat. No. 7,399,275, the entire contents of which are herein
incorporated by reference. The otoscope 700 according to this
embodiment includes a cylindrical handle portion 704 having an
upper necked portion 706 that supports an instrument head 708. The
handle portion 704 includes a battery compartment (not shown) that
retains a set of stacked batteries (not shown) that are coupled to
a light source (not shown) retained in the necked portion 706.
Light is transmitted from the contained light source through a
distal end 711 of the instrument head 708, using a fiberoptic
bundle or other suitable means. The fiberoptic bundle (not shown)
is configured as a ringlet of fibers that surround a distal optical
element (not shown) contained within the instrument head 708. The
interior of the instrument head 708 is essentially hollow and
includes a conical insertion portion 712 at the distal end 711, as
well as a proximal opening including a proximally extending
eyepiece 710. In use, an otoscopic tip element (a speculum tip) is
releasably attached to a conical insertion portion 712 of the
instrument head 708 in which the target of interest (e.g., the
tympanic membrane) can be viewed through contained optics via the
proximal opening along a defined optical axis. As noted, further
details relating to the construction and features of the otoscopic
device 700, including the speculum tip, are discussed in greater
detail in U.S. Pat. No. 7,399,275, herein previously incorporated
by reference.
[0106] As further shown in FIGS. 9(a) and 9(b), an adapter 720 is
provided that is attached to the proximal end of the otoscopic
device 600. According to this embodiment, the adapter 720 is
defined by a distal engaging portion 724 that is configured for
engaging the instrument head 708 of the otoscope 700 and a proximal
supporting portion 728 that is configured to receive a smart device
750, such as a smart phone, as shown. The distal engaging portion
724, according to this specific embodiment, is defined by a pair of
resilient fingers 732 that are configured to engage a slot or
slotted portion 713 formed on an upper or top surface of the
instrument head 708. The proximal supporting portion 728 of the
adapter 720 includes a recessed slot 736 sized for receiving an
interface plate 738 (partially shown in the exploded view of FIG.
9(b)) that is first attached to the distal facing side or surface
of the smart device 750, using an alignment and indexing fixture in
a manner similar to that previously described with regard to FIGS.
2(a)-2(l). In this specific version, the slot 736 (or other part of
the adapter 720) is further defined by at least one magnet, the
adapter 720 further having a through opening 740 that aligns the
optics of the device 700 and those of the optics of the smart
device 750 opposite a connector 758 at the lower portion of the
adapter 720. The connector 758 is configured to engage with and
cover the eyepiece 710 of the otoscope 700.
[0107] When attached, the smart device 750, including the display
754, is situated substantially above the instrument 700 as is
depicted in FIG. 9(a) with the optics of the smart device 750 being
disposed in proper alignment with the optical system of the
otoscope 700.
[0108] The above described adapter 720 can be utilized with other
stand-alone medical diagnostic or examination devices. For the sake
of clarity, similar parts are herein labeled with the same
reference numbers. With reference to FIG. 9(c), an ophthalmoscope
800 includes a handle portion 804 that further includes a necked
portion 806 for supporting an instrument head 808. The instrument
head 808 retains a plurality of components to enable viewing of a
patient's eye (not shown) and more specifically the retina (not
shown). According to this embodiment, the device 800 is configured
to with an eyepiece 810 at the proximal end of the instrument head
808 in which the interior of the instrument head 808 includes a
plurality of optical elements as well as an illumination system,
the latter having a contained light source for viewing portions of
the eye of the patient. Details relating to the salient features of
the ophthalmoscope 800 are provided in U.S. Pat. No. 6,065,837, the
entire contents of which are herein incorporated by reference.
[0109] The adapter 720 is attached to the instrument 800 to permit
interchangeability between instruments and operating modes (between
an optical viewing mode using the eyepiece 810 and an electronic
viewing mode using an attached smart device 750). As previously
discussed, the adapter 720 includes a distal engaging portion 724
and a proximal supporting portion 728. The distal engaging portion
724 includes a pair of resilient fingers 732 that are configured to
engage a recessed slot or slotted portion 813 provided in an upper
surface of the instrument head 808. The proximal supporting portion
728 is defined by a vertical support surface including a recessed
slot (not shown) that receives an interface plate attached,
adhesively or otherwise, to the distal or front facing side of the
smart device 750 preferably in the manner previously described. The
adapter 720 further includes a cylindrically shaped connector
portion 758 in a lower portion of the adapter 720 that is sized to
engage the eyepiece 810 of the ophthalmoscope 800 or other medical
stand-alone device and in which a gusset 727 engages a top portion
of the instrument head 808 to optionally provide additional support
and stability.
[0110] With reference to FIG. 9(d), an alternative adapter is
depicted for use with a stand-alone medical diagnostic or
examination device (e.g., the otoscope 700 previously discussed).
According to this version, the adapter 920 includes a proximal
supporting portion 928 that includes an open end 929 and a pair of
laterally disposed guide rails 930, the latter being sized to
receive a smart device 750. According to this specific embodiment,
the adapter 920 includes a distal engaging portion 924 having a set
of resilient fingers 932 that are configured to engage the slotted
portion 713 formed on the upper or top surface of the instrument
head 708. The adapter 920 also includes a lower connector portion
758 that is sized to engage the eyepiece 710 of the diagnostic or
examination device 700. Each of the herein described adapters 720,
920 enable a smart device, such as device 750, to be attached to at
least one stand-alone medical instrument and permit interchangeable
operating modes (optical and electronic).
[0111] Yet another embodiment of a medical instrument assembly or
system is illustrated in FIGS. 10(a)-10(b). According to this
version, a stand-alone medical examination or diagnostic device
(e.g., an otoscope 1000) is provided that is defined by a housing
1004 further defined by a handle 1008 that downwardly extends from
an instrument head 1010. The instrument head 1010 is defined by a
distal end 1012 including a conically shaped insertion portion (not
shown). The insertion portion is configured to releasably support a
conically shaped and hollow speculum tip element 1014, the tip
element 1014 being releasably attached by means of a rotatable
actuator knob 1015. Alternatively, the tip element 1014 can be
secured by manually twisting the element in place onto the conical
insertion portion using bayonet or other suitable engagement
features. Details relating to the speculum tip element and an
exemplary attaching and releasing mechanism are described in
greater detail in U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,354,399 and 8,197,403, each of
which are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety.
[0112] Within the interior of the otoscope 1000 is a light source
(not shown) such as an incandescent lamp or at least one LED, which
is disposed in a lower portion of the instrument head 1010. A
bundle of optical fibers (not shown) are coupled to the light
source and directed as a ringlet at the distal end of the conical
insertion portion in order to effectively illuminate the target of
interest. The handle 1008 includes an interior compartment that
retains at least one battery (not shown) for energizing the light
source. A series of optical elements are disposed within the
interior of the instrument head 1010 and aligned along an optical
axis with a separate optical train being provided within the
confines of an eyepiece 1024, the latter being releasably attached
to the otoscope 1000 in order to create an optical viewing
mode.
[0113] According to this embodiment an adapter 1020, which is
provided at a proximal end of the otoscope 1000, permits attachment
of the eyepiece 1024. The adapter 1020 includes a set of magnets
(not shown) that permits releasable and interchangeable attachment
of the eyepiece 1024 or a smart device 1050, as described below. As
noted, the eyepiece 1024 includes an interior retaining a series of
optical elements that are suitably aligned with optical elements
provided in the interior of the instrument head 1010. According to
this specific embodiment, the eyepiece 1024 is defined by a housing
1027 that is coextensive with the handle 1008 of the otoscope 1000,
including a substantially planar distal facing surface 1029.
[0114] With further reference to FIG. 10(a), the adapter 1020 is
attached to or according to this embodiment is directly integrated
as a part of the device housing 1004. More specifically, the
adapter 1020 is defined by a planar section 1022 which is disposed
within a rear receiving slot 1036 of the device housing 1004. This
planar section 1022 includes a proximal face surface 1026 having at
least one recessed slot (not shown) that permits the selective
engagement of a smart device 1050, FIG. 10(b). In accordance with
prior embodiments discussed, such as depicted in FIGS. 2(a)-2(l),
an attachment device includes at least one retaining slot that
receives an interface plate. The smart device 1050 is then
positioned in relation to the alignment fixture and the camera of
the smart device 1050 is aimed at an optical target of the
alignment fixture until centered in the display of the smart device
1050. Upon centering and as previously discussed, the smart device
1050 is then engaged with the supported interface plate(s), the
latter having an adhesive layer to provide securement. The indexing
and positioning of the interface plate(s) guarantees proper
alignment of the smart device 1050 to the otoscope 1000 and more
specifically between the interface plate(s) and the at least one
recessed slot (not shown) formed in the proximal facing surface
1026 of the adapter 1020. The at least one magnet (not shown) is
provided in the adapter 1020 in alignment with the recessed slot(s)
to releasably secure the smart device 1050.
[0115] According to this embodiment, the adapter 1020 is supported
for pivotal movement from the rear receiving slot 1036 of the
device housing 1004 about the optical axis of the device 1000. This
pivotability permits the attached smart device 1050 to assume a
plurality of adjustable mounting orientations enabling the position
of the smart device 1050 to be changed selectively. Advantageously,
this latter feature permits enhanced operation and versatility.
[0116] In terms of operation, the herein described system can be
used initially in an optical viewing mode as depicted in FIG. 10(a)
with the eyepiece 1024 being releasably engaged with the proximal
facing surface 1026 of the adapter 1020. The eyepiece 1024 is
releasably attached and can be released from the adapter 1020 by
disrupting the magnetic attachment. As shown in FIG. 10(b), the
smart device 1050, having an attached interface plate(s) (not
shown) can then be interchangeably attached in lieu of the eyepiece
1024 by engaging the interface plate with the recessed receiving
slot of the adapter 1020. The magnets according to this embodiment
are directly aligned with the recessed receiving slot on the
adapter 1020 to insure attachment. In this latter mode, the camera
of the smart device 1050 is aligned with the optical axis of the
otoscope 1000 and the smart device 1050 is further configured to
assume a plurality of mounting configurations based on the pivotal
connection of the adapter 1020 with the remainder of the otoscope
1000.
[0117] In either operational mode, the user inserts the speculum
tip element 1014 a predetermined distance into the outer ear of a
patient and the image of the intended target, as illuminated by the
contained light source is viewed or transmitted directly along the
optical axis to either the eyepiece 1024 or the smart device 1050
for viewing on the display 1054, FIG. 10(b).
[0118] Another medical examination system is depicted in FIGS.
11(a)-11(b). According to this embodiment, the medical diagnostic
or examination device used is an ophthalmoscope 1100 defined by a
housing 1104 having a handle portion 1108 and an instrument head
1110. The instrument head 1110 is defined by a distal end 1112 that
receives an elastomeric eye cup 1116 configured to engage against
the patient and a proximal end that includes an adapter 1120. The
interior of the instrument head 1110 includes an optical and
illumination system that is configured to view the eye (e.g., the
retina) of a patient (not shown) including a defined optical axis
extending between the distal and proximal ends of the device 1100.
The adapter 1120, which is similar to that previously described in
the prior embodiment, is configured to interchangeably receive
either an eyepiece 1124, FIG. 11(a), or a smart device 1050, FIG.
11(b), respectively.
[0119] As in the prior otoscopic version, the adapter 1120 is
defined by a planar section 1122 which is disposed within a rear
receiving slot of the device housing 1104. This planar section 1122
includes a proximal or rear face surface 1126 having at least one
recessed slot (not shown) that permits the selective engagement of
a smart device 1050. In accordance with prior embodiments
discussed, such as depicted in FIGS. 2(a)-2(l), an alignment
fixture includes at least one retaining slot that receives an
interface plate. The smart device 1050 is then positioned in
relation to the alignment fixture and the camera of the smart
device is aimed at an optical target of the alignment fixture until
centered in the display of the smart device. Upon centering and as
previously discussed, the smart device is then engaged with the
supported interface plate(s), the latter having an adhesive layer
to provide securement. The indexing and positioning of the
interface plate(s) guarantees proper alignment of the smart device
1050 to the ophthalmoscope 1100 and more specifically between the
interface plate(s) and the at least one recessed slot formed in the
rear facing surface 1126 of the adapter 1120. At least one magnet
(not shown) is provided in the adapter 1120 in alignment with the
recessed slot(s) to releasably secure the smart device 1050.
[0120] According to this embodiment, the adapter 1120 is supported
for pivotal movement from the rear receiving slot 1136 of the
device housing 1104 about the optical axis of the device 1100. The
adapter 1120 includes a distal engagement portion (not shown) that
is disposed over a proximally extending end (not shown) of the
instrument head 1110 in overlaying relation. This pivotability
feature permits the attached smart device 1050 to assume a
plurality of adjustable mounting orientations about the optical
axis wherein the position of the smart device 1050 can be changed
selectively upon attachment to the adapter 1120 without otherwise
disturbing optical alignment. For example, the engagement portion
can include at least one or more detents (not shown) to provide
specific mounting orientations (e.g., each 90 degrees to create
four (4) mounting orientations). Advantageously, this latter
feature permits enhanced operation and versatility.
[0121] With reference to FIGS. 12(a) and 12(b), there is shown
another embodiment of a medical examination system that permits
pivotal movement of an attached smart device. This system includes
a medical examination device (i.e., an ophthalmoscope 1200) having
a cylindrical handle portion 1206 with an instrument head 1210
attached to an upper part of the handle portion 1206. The
instrument head 1210 is defined by a distal end 1211 and an
opposing proximal end 1213, the distal and proximal ends 1211, 1213
defining an aligned optical axis of the assembly. The adapter 1220,
according to this embodiment, is defined by a substantially planar
section having a distal facing surface 1226 and a proximal facing
surface 1228. The proximal facing surface 1228 includes at least
one recessed slot (not shown) that is configured for receiving an
interface plate (not shown) attached to the front facing side of a
smart device 1050, in a manner as previously described. According
to this embodiment, the distal facing surface 1226 of the adapter
1220 includes at least one magnet directly aligned with the
recessed slot, as well as a distal engagement portion including an
open upper end and a channel that is configured to receive an
eyepiece portion of the instrument head 1210. The eyepiece portion
according to this embodiment includes a necked portion including a
proximal lip that axially secures the adapter 1220 once attached to
the device 1200.
[0122] When attached, the necked portion can be slidingly engaged
within the defined channel with the proximal lip being retained
within the channel. In at least one variation, the channel and the
proximal lip are configured to permit the adapter (and attached
smart device) to assume a plurality of mounting orientations, such
as shown in FIGS. 12(a) and 12(b), as well as FIGS. 13(a) and 13(b)
depicting another stand-alone medical device, i.e., an otoscope
1300 having a handle portion 1306 downwardly extending from an
instrument head 1310 having respective distal and proximal ends
1311, 1313. As in the preceding, the otoscope 1300 can be similarly
configured with the same or similarly configured adapter 1320 that
permits the further attachment of a smart device that, upon
attachment, can be oriented in various orientations based on a
pivotal connection between the medical device and the adapter. As
in the preceding, the adapter 1320 is a planar section having a
distal facing surface 1326, a proximal facing surface 1328 and a
distal engagement portion (not shown) that is sized to overlay the
proximal eyepiece end of the instrument head 1310.
[0123] With reference to FIGS. 14(a)-15(c), an adapter 1500 in
accordance with another embodiment is herein described. The adapter
1500 is preferably fabricated from a lightweight structural
material, such as a moldable plastic, having a supporting member or
body 1504 that includes a forward or front facing side 1507 and a
rear facing side 1509, respectively. The adapter 1500 is further
configured with a device connection portion 1512 extending from the
front facing side 1507 that is configured for attaching the adapter
1500 to a medical examination device. The adapter 1500 is further
configured such that a smart device 1550 can be releasably or
otherwise attached to the rear facing side 1509 of the supporting
member 1504. A center portion 1520 located on the rear facing side
1509 is sized for accommodating an interface plate (not shown) that
is attached to the smart device 1550 (e.g., a smart phone). The
interface plate can be properly located and positioned on the smart
device 1550 by means of a fixture such as shown in FIGS. 2(a)-2(l)
or a similar technique for purposes of aligning the camera of the
smart device 1550 with the optical system of the medical
examination device, as further discussed herein. A set of magnets
1511 provided in the center portion 1520 releasably secures the
smart device 1550 in position on the adapter 1500.
[0124] According to this embodiment, the device connection portion
1512 is defined by an outer surface 1515 which is parallel to the
front facing surface 1507 with a shaped recess 1530 formed between
the surfaces 1507, 1515 that is configured for releasable
engagement with a proximal receiving portion 1564, FIG. 15(c), of a
medical examination device 1560, FIG. 15(c). A portion of the outer
surface 1515 is cutout as shown by 1517, the cutout portion 1517
being aligned with a through opening 1519 formed in the supporting
member 1504. One end of a release lever 1524 is disposed in
relation to the device attachment portion 1512, wherein the
opposite end of the lever 1524 is accessed by a user to move the
lever 1524 between undepressed and depressed positions as shown in
FIGS. 14(a) and 14(c), respectively. The end of the release lever
1524 disposed in relation to the device connection portion 1512 is
engaged by a spring-loaded pin 1540, partially shown, that is
movable into and out of the shaped recess 1530 of the device
connection portion 1512. A stop 1544 disposed on the front facing
side 1507 of the adapter 1500 provides a limit for movement of the
release lever 1524 for the depressed position.
[0125] The design of the adapter 1500 enables a plurality of smart
devices, such as smart phones, each being different in terms of
overall footprint to be releasably attached in a specific
orientation. As noted and for locating the smart phone according to
this version, an interface plate such as previously described above
is placed specifically on the front facing side of the smart device
1550 before releasably securing the smart device 1550 to the rear
facing side 1509 of the adapter 1500. When attached in this manner,
the camera aperture 1554 of the smart device 1550 is aligned with
the through opening 1519 of the adapter 1550.
[0126] Referring to FIGS. 15(a)-15(c), the adapter 1500 is shown as
attached to a medical examination device 1560 that includes an
instrument head or housing 1568 having a proximal receiving portion
1564. The proximal receiving portion 1564 according to this
embodiment is a substantially cylindrical portion that extends
rearwardly from the proximal end of the instrument head 1568. The
receiving portion 1564 further includes a channel 1572, the latter
preferably having a plurality of flats (not shown in this view, but
shown as 1430 in a similar medical device shown in FIG. 22(b). The
formed recess 1530 is aligned so that the adapter 1500 can be slid
over the proximal receiving portion 1564 (in a direction into and
out of the plane of the drawing). When engaged, the upper surface
1515 engages the channel 1572 and the formed recess 1530 is engaged
by an outer ringed portion 1575 of the proximal receiving portion
1564. When engaged, the through opening 1519 of the adapter 1500 is
aligned with the optical axis of the medical examination device,
including a set of eyepiece lenses 1580, 1582 disposed in the
interior of the proximal receiving portion 1564. According to this
embodiment, the adapter 1500 can assume one of a plurality of
mounting orientations by placing the device connection portion 1512
of the adapter 1500 and more specifically the shaped recess 1530
relative to the proximal end of the medical device 1560.
[0127] In operation and when the adapter 1500 is not attached, the
medical device 1560 can be used in an optical viewing mode to view
the target of interest through the proximal end, which includes a
brow rest 1590. The medical device 1560 can be alternatively used
in an electronic imaging mode when the adapter 1500 is attached in
which the aperture 1554 of the attached smart device 1550 is
aligned with regard to the convergence point of the optics of the
medical device 1560 such that the smart device 1550 receives a
focused image of the medical target of interest. According to this
embodiment, the adapter 1500 enables the attachment of one of a
plurality of disparate smart devices and in which the attached
smart device 1550 is fully aligned with the optical system of the
medical device 1560. Each of the above operating modes can be
realized without modification to the medical device 1560 by the
inclusion or removal of the adapter 1500. That is, no additional
optical module is required.
[0128] In addition to being configured to receive one of a
plurality of different smart devices, the herein described adapter
1500 can be used with a plurality of disparate medical diagnostic
instruments, each having a proximal end and receiving portion as
described for purposes of attachment. These instruments can
include, but are not limited to a ophthalmoscope, an otoscope, a
colposcope, a dermatoscope, a rhinoscope, an anoscope or other
hand-held medical examination device. For example and in a wellness
examination, the adapter 1500 (and attached smart device 1550) can
be interchangeably used with an otoscope and an ophthalmoscope for
viewing the ears and the eyes, respectively, using the display of
the connected smart device 1550. It will be understood, however,
that the connective features of this embodiment is an example
wherein other suitable configurations are possible for enabling the
above-described functions.
[0129] With reference to FIGS. 16-19, a number of optical
configurations are depicted based on the various operating modes of
the herein described examination system and as typified by the
preceding structural embodiments. For purposes of this discussion,
these schematic diagrams pertain to otoscopes and ophthalmoscopes
in keeping with the embodiments previously discussed. It should be
understood that other versions could be contemplated.
[0130] In certain ophthalmoscopes, optical adjustments can be
accomplished in the removable eyepiece of the instrument. For
purposes of interchangeability and additional operating modes for
the herein described examination system and when a smart device was
used in the combination with the ophthalmoscope during tests, it
was determined that the device needed a focus range of about +/-10
diopters to accommodate all patients, while the imaging system of
known smart devices typically only had a focus range of about +/-3
diopters. Based on the foregoing, it was concluded that there is a
need to move the focus adjustment to the patient end (distal) of
the instrument to permit focusing in both operational modes of the
system; that is either with or without a smart device being
attached.
[0131] FIGS. 16 and 17 herein present schematic views of the
optical system of the ophthalmoscope 1200 that is configured to
provide focusable adjustment of an optical element (objective lens)
retained within the instrument head (not shown). First and with
reference to FIG. 16, a focusable objective lens 1230 is disposed
within the instrument head distally of a beam splitter 1234 and a
set of focusing or imaging lenses 1238, each commonly aligned along
a defined optical axis 1244. An image sensor 1248 of a smart device
attached to the proximal end of the medical device 1200 is also
aligned with above optical elements. The beam splitter 1234 is
configured to receive illumination from an off-axis light source
1260 such as an LED or an incandescent bulb, the light emitted by
this source 1260 being directed to the eye 1280 of a patient (shown
schematically) while further permitting reflected light from the
patient's eye 1280 to be transmitted and focused at the camera
sensor 1248 by the focusing lenses 1238.
[0132] By optionally making the objective lens 1230 axially movable
according to this embodiment, an increased focus range can be
achieved. In this configuration, the autofocus function of the
attached smart device should be disabled. The optical system of the
instrument 1200 and more specifically the contained objective lens
1230 can be optionally adjustable according to one version using a
focusing mechanism, such as a focusing knob (not shown) provided on
the instrument head. Details relating to one example of a focusing
mechanism for use in a medical examination device is more
completely described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,399,275, previously
incorporated by reference. The focusable objective lens can
according to one embodiment be adjusted +/-20 diopters, or
minimally +/-10 diopters.
[0133] In lieu of the smart device, an optical layout is presented
in FIG. 17 that again includes the objective lens 1230, the beam
splitter 1234 and the focusing or imaging lenses 1238 each commonly
disposed along the defined optical axis 1244 of the device 1200
extending through the distal and proximal ends of the instrument
head along with the aligned optical train of an attached eyepiece,
such as shown. In this version, the optical train of the attached
eyepiece includes a plurality of fixed eyepiece lenses 1288 and a
distal aperture stop 1292, each also aligned along the defined
optical axis 1244 for viewing by the eye 1296 of the doctor. As in
the previous example, the objective lens 1230 contained within the
instrument head is axially movable to increase the focusing range
of the device 1200.
[0134] Similar arrangements can be provided in another medical
examination or diagnostic device. Referring to FIGS. 18 and 19,
imaging and optical (eyepiece) modes are shown schematically for an
otoscope 1300 that is defined by a distal lens 1332 disposed in
relation to the speculum tip element shown partially as 1336, the
latter being releasably attached to the distal end of the
instrument head. The distal lens 1332 according to this embodiment
is covered by a plano window 1338 wherein a field stop 1342 is
provided in relation to a focusable objective lens 1346, which in
this version is a doublet defined by a first lens 1347 and a second
lens 1348. The first distalmost lens 1347 is defined by a distal
plano surface and an opposing concave surface. The second adjacent
lens 1348 of this doublet is defined by a distal concave surface
and an opposing plano surface. Each of the above optical elements
are commonly aligned along a defined optical or imaging axis 1350
extending through the distal and proximal ends with the instrument
having an attached speculum tip element 1336, also shown
schematically according to these examples. In the version shown in
FIG. 18, the system includes an optically aligned smart device,
shown diagrammatically as 1354, the device including a camera
aperture as well as an image sensor disposed and aligned along the
defined optical axis 1350, such as through use of an interface
plate and adapter as described with regard to FIGS.
12(a)-15(c).
[0135] As shown in FIG. 19, the otoscope 1300 alternatively
receives the attached eyepiece, which includes a set of fixed
eyepiece optics 1364 and an aperture stop 1368 that is aligned with
the eye of the doctor or caregiver along the defined optical or
imaging axis of the assembly. In each depicted version, the
focusable objective lens 1346 is disposed adjacent the proximal end
of the instrument head (not shown) and aligned with the camera lens
and the image sensor of the attached smart device or the eyepiece.
A focusing mechanism can also be provided, such as described, by
way of example, in previously incorporated U.S. Pat. No. 7,399,275.
In terms of operation, an image of the tympanic membrane, shown
schematically as 1312, is transmitted through a plano window at the
distal end of the conical insertion portion and through an adjacent
distal lens through a field stop and then to the focusable
objective lens 1346, which condenses the image taken through either
the attached eyepiece to the doctor's eye 1362 or smart device. It
should be noted that the optical systems described are merely
exemplary and other optical systems can be similarly aligned, for
example, with an adapter such as 1500 to permit separate operating
modes.
[0136] With additional reference to FIGS. 16 and 17, FIG. 20
illustrates an optical layout of the corresponding off-axis
illumination system. Light from the contained light source 1260,
such as an LED or an incandescent bulb is directed through a
condenser lens 1264 along a defined illumination axis 1268 and
reflected from the angled surface of the beamsplitter 1234. This
light is then further directed through the objective lens 1230 and
is focused at the eye of the patient 1280. According to this
version, a series of fixation lights 1270 are provided at the
distal end of the instrument head. The number of fixation lights
used can be varied. According to one example, at least two fixation
lights can be provided that are diametrically opposed about the
distal aperture of the instrument 1200 that are separately operated
from the contained illumination source 1260. In terms of operation,
the caregiver would move the device toward the eye of the patient
and activate one of the fixation lights 1270. The patent would be
requested to concentrate his or her vision on the fixation light
1270. By including multiple fixation lights, different portions of
the retina can be examined by requesting the patient focus on the
fixation lights in sequence and obtain measurements. In one
example, a ringlet of several fixation lights could be disposed in
which the images obtained using a smart device or other can be
stitched and effectively cover a larger portion of the retina
(15-30 degrees or more, enabling the determination of diabetic
retinopathy. In another version, various other eye-related
diagnoses can be obtained such as, but not limited to hypertension
(artery-to-vein ratio), macular degeneration, glaucoma, diabetes,
and those relating to retinal detachments.
[0137] With reference to FIG. 21, each of the herein described
instruments can be provided for access to a user in kit form, by
defining a mounting unit 1800 that includes a plurality of slots
1808 formed in a support surface 1804 for accommodating various
stand-alone medical diagnostic or examination devices 1814, as well
as interchangeably mounted smart devices, adapters and eyepieces.
Each of the various embodiments that are depicted can be provided
for mounting to either a wall or similar structure (not shown) or
can be mounted to other fixturing such as a movable cart in which
the mounting can be permanent to releasable depending on the
application. The mounting unit according to at least one version
can include a supporting frame that is filled with a soft compliant
material. The number of shaped slots formed in the filled compliant
material can be are sized to receive, for example a pair of medical
diagnostic or examination devices and accessories such as eyepieces
and the like. The medical devices 1814 can be stored by positioning
the distal end of the medical devices within the shaped slots 1808
with a portion of the devices 1814 being directly inserted into the
slots 1808 and remaining portion being accessible, as needed, for
removal by a user. The mounting units 1800 can be appropriately
shaped with either the mounting surface 1804 or the supporting
surfaces of the units 1800 being angled to provide additional
versatility. In the depicted version, the mounting unit 1800 is
configured to accommodate various forms of stand-alone medical
devices, including versions previously discussed with reference to
FIGS. 5(a)-6(d). It will be readily apparent to the person of
sufficient skill in the field that other modifications and
variations are possible, including versions in which the batteries
of each of the retained instruments can be charged.
[0138] FIGS. 22(a) and 22(b) herein depict another medical
examination device made in accordance with aspects of the present
invention and more specifically an ophthalmoscope 1400. More
specifically, the ophthalmoscope 1400 is defined by a handle
portion 1406 (partially shown) and an instrument head 1410 that is
releasably connected to a necked upper portion 1409 of the handle
portion 1406. A light source 1415 forming a portion of an
illumination system is powered by batteries (not shown) that are
contained in the handle portion 1406. Optics are contained and
aligned along respective optical and illumination axes within the
interior of the instrument head 1410. The illumination axis extends
upwardly from the contained light source 1415 through a number of
optical elements 1417 including a rotatable aperture wheel 1420
formed in a lower portion of the instrument head 1410 in which
light is directed to a distal end 1412 of the instrument head 1410
for directing to the eye of a patient (not shown). The optical
system includes a series of optical elements 1419 that are aligned
along an optical axis extending through the distal end 1412 and a
proximal end 1416 of the instrument head 1410. A rotatable diopter
wheel 1424 is also disposed along the defined optical axis near the
proximal end 1416 of the device 1400. Additional details relating
to an optical and illumination system useful with this design can
be found in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0073875A1
and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0103317A1, the
entire contents of which are herein incorporated by reference.
[0139] The proximal end 1416 of the herein described instrument
1400 can include an interface that permits the attachment of an
adapter, such as previously described with regard to FIGS.
14(a)-15(c). More specifically, the proximal end 1416 of the
instrument 1400 is defined by an outer lipped portion 1426, as well
as a channel 1430 disposed between the lipped portion 1426 and a
rear wall 1431 of the instrument head 1410. An adapter 1500, FIGS.
14(a)-14(c), as previously discussed, is defined by a supporting
member having respective front and rear facing surfaces. The rear
facing surface of the adapter 1500 includes a recessed area that is
positioned to receive at least one interface plate of an attached
smart device in a releasable fashion. As in the prior described
embodiment, the adapter 1500 is further defined by an open-ended
engagement portion that is sized and configured to engage the
proximal end 1416 of the instrument 1400 with the lipped portion
1426 of the proximal end 1416 fitting within a formed channel of
the open-ended device engagement portion and the channel 1430 of
the proximal end fitting engaging a shoulder of the engagement
portion. According to this embodiment, the channel 1430 is defined
by four substantially flat sides to enable the adapter 1500 to be
fitted in a plurality of mounting orientations. Alternatively, the
channel can be defined by a cylindrical or other shaped surface.
According to one version, detents can be provided to enable
rotation of the attached smart device to a plurality of mounting
orientations while still maintaining the optical alignment between
the camera of the attached smart device and the optical system of
the instrument 1400. Other suitable configurations such as flats in
the channel can be contemplated for providing similar
capabilities.
PARTS LIST FOR FIGS. 1-22(B)
[0140] 10 stand-alone medical diagnostic or examination device
(ophthalmoscope) [0141] 14 instrument housing [0142] 16 distal end
[0143] 18 proximal end [0144] 20 frame or supporting structure
[0145] 24 parallel channels or slots [0146] 32 smart device [0147]
100 alignment fixture [0148] 100A alignment fixture [0149] 104
interface plate [0150] 105 hole, interface plate [0151] 106 upper
side, interface plate [0152] 107 slot, interface plate [0153] 108
raised platform [0154] 109A planar support surface [0155] 110A slot
[0156] 111A pinhole [0157] 112 upper or top surface [0158] 116 legs
[0159] 117 support flange [0160] 118 optical target [0161] 118A
optical target [0162] 120 elongate slot [0163] 130A x-axis
adjustment assembly [0164] 134A y-axis adjustment assembly [0165]
137A screw adjustment member [0166] 138A spring-loaded adjustment
or support block [0167] 139A spring-loaded adjustment or support
block [0168] 140 smart device [0169] 140A smart device [0170] 141A
screw adjustment member [0171] 143A beam-like member [0172] 144
display [0173] 144A display [0174] 145A beam-like member [0175] 146
camera, smart device [0176] 148 target [0177] 148A target [0178]
149A image of optical target [0179] 160 otoscope [0180] 164 housing
[0181] 169 rear or proximal opening [0182] 176 rear or proximal
facing surface [0183] 180 spaced magnets [0184] 198 calibration
target [0185] 200 stand-alone medical examination device [0186] 204
first interface plate [0187] 207 rear facing side, medical device
[0188] 208 second interface plate [0189] 214 magnet [0190] 216
facing surface [0191] 217 magnet [0192] 220 smart device [0193] 223
front facing surface [0194] 300 medical diagnostic or examination
device [0195] 303 distal end, device [0196] 305 back or proximal
surface [0197] 309 magnetic interface [0198] 311 magnet [0199] 320
eyepiece [0200] 324 housing, eyepiece [0201] 326 proximal end,
eyepiece [0202] 328 focusing knob, eyepiece [0203] 360 smart device
[0204] 364 display, smart device [0205] 400 medical diagnostic or
examination device [0206] 403 distal end, device [0207] 405 back or
proximal surface, device [0208] 409 magnetic interface [0209] 412
magnet [0210] 500 medical diagnostic or examination device [0211]
503 distal end, device [0212] 504 body or housing [0213] 505 back
or proximal surface, device [0214] 508 handle [0215] 509 magnetic
interface [0216] 510 instrument head [0217] 511 magnet [0218] 600
medical diagnostic or examination device [0219] 603 distal end,
device [0220] 604 body or housing [0221] 605 back or proximal
surface, device [0222] 608 handle [0223] 609 magnetic interface
[0224] 610 instrument head [0225] 611 magnet [0226] 700 otoscope
[0227] 704 handle portion [0228] 706 upper necked portion [0229]
708 instrument head [0230] 710 eyepiece [0231] 711 distal end
[0232] 712 conical insertion portion [0233] 713 slotted portion or
slot [0234] 720 adapter [0235] 724 distal engaging portion [0236]
727 gusset [0237] 728 proximal supporting portion [0238] 732
resilient fingers [0239] 736 recessed slot [0240] 738 interface
plate [0241] 740 through opening [0242] 750 smart device [0243] 754
display [0244] 758 connector or connector portion [0245] 800
ophthalmoscope [0246] 804 handle portion [0247] 806 necked portion
[0248] 808 instrument head [0249] 810 eyepiece [0250] 813 slot or
slotted portion [0251] 920 adapter [0252] 924 distal engaging
portion [0253] 928 proximal supporting portion [0254] 929 open end
[0255] 930 guide rails [0256] 932 resilient fingers [0257] 958
connector or connector portion [0258] 1000 otoscope [0259]
23063301.1 [0260] 1004 housing [0261] 1008 handle [0262] 1010
instrument head [0263] 1012 distal end [0264] 1014 speculum tip
element [0265] 1015 actuator knob [0266] 1020 adapter [0267] 1022
planar section, adapter [0268] 1024 eyepiece [0269] 1026 proximal
facing or face surface [0270] 1027 housing, eyepiece [0271] 1029
distal facing surface, eyepiece [0272] 1036 slot, receiving [0273]
1050 smart device [0274] 1054 display [0275] 1100 ophthalmoscope
[0276] 1104 housing [0277] 1108 handle portion [0278] 1110
instrument head [0279] 1112 distal end [0280] 1116 elastomeric eye
cup [0281] 1120 adapter [0282] 1122 planar section [0283] 1124
eyepiece [0284] 1126 rear facing surface, adapter [0285] 1136 rear
slot [0286] 1200 ophthalmoscope [0287] 1206 handle portion [0288]
1210 instrument head [0289] 1211 distal end [0290] 23063301.1
[0291] 1213 proximal end [0292] 1220 adapter [0293] 1226 distal
facing or face surface, adapter [0294] 1228 proximal facing
surface, adapter [0295] 1230 objective lens [0296] 1234 beam
splitter [0297] 1238 focusing/imaging lenses [0298] 1244 optical
axis [0299] 1248 image sensor [0300] 1260 light source [0301] 1264
condenser lens [0302] 1268 illumination axis [0303] 1270 fixation
lights [0304] 1280 eye, patient [0305] 1284 image sensor [0306]
1284 eyepiece [0307] 1288 fixed lenses [0308] 1292 aperture stop
[0309] 1296 doctor's eye [0310] 1300 otoscope [0311] 1306 handle
portion [0312] 1310 instrument head [0313] 1311 distal end [0314]
1313 proximal end [0315] 1320 adapter [0316] 1326 distal facing
surface [0317] 1328 proximal facing surface [0318] 1332 distal lens
[0319] 1336 speculum [0320] 1338 plano window [0321] 23063301.1
[0322] 1342 field stop [0323] 1346 focusable objective lens [0324]
1348 second lens [0325] 1350 optical axis [0326] 1354 smart device
[0327] 1362 doctor's eye [0328] 1364 fixed eyepiece lenses [0329]
1368 aperture stop [0330] 1400 ophthalmoscope [0331] 1406 handle
portion [0332] 1409 upper necked portion [0333] 1410 instrument
head [0334] 1412 distal end [0335] 1415 light source [0336] 1416
proximal end [0337] 1417 optical elements [0338] 1419 optical
elements [0339] 1420 aperture wheel [0340] 1424 diopter wheel
[0341] 1426 lipped portion [0342] 1430 channel [0343] 1431 rear
wall, instrument head [0344] 1500 adapter [0345] 1504 supporting
member or body [0346] 1507 forward or front facing side, adapter
[0347] 1509 rear facing side, adapter [0348] 1511 magnets [0349]
1512 device connection portion [0350] 1515 outer surface [0351]
1517 cutout portion, outer surface [0352] 23063301.1 [0353] 1519
through opening, supporting member [0354] 1520 center portion
[0355] 1524 release lever [0356] 1530 shaped recess [0357] 1540
spring-loaded pin [0358] 1544 stop [0359] 1550 smart device [0360]
1554 aperture, camera [0361] 1560 medical examination device [0362]
1564 proximal receiving portion [0363] 1568 housing, device [0364]
1572 channel [0365] 1575 outer ringed portion [0366] 1580 eyepiece
lens [0367] 1582 eyepiece lens [0368] 1590 browrest [0369] 1600
medical examination device [0370] 1604 proximal end [0371] 1608
shoulder, annular [0372] 1612 channel [0373] 1616 interior [0374]
1620 optical element [0375] 1624 seal [0376] 1628 opening, end
[0377] 1700 medical examination device [0378] 1704 proximal end
[0379] 1708 shoulder, annular [0380] 1712 channel [0381] 1716
interior [0382] 1720 optical element [0383] 1722 optical element
[0384] 1726 opening, end [0385] 1800 mount [0386] 1804 support
surface [0387] 1808 slots
[0388] The invention is inclusive of combinations of the aspects
described herein. References to "a particular aspect" (or
"embodiment" or "version") and the like refer to features that are
present in at least one aspect of the invention. Separate
references to "an aspect" or "particular aspects" or the like do
not necessarily refer to the same aspect or aspects; however, such
aspects are not mutually exclusive, unless so indicated or as are
readily apparent to one of skill in the art. The use of singular or
plural in referring to "method" or "methods" and the like is not
limiting. The word "or" is used in this disclosure in a
non-exclusive sense, unless otherwise explicitly noted.
[0389] The invention has been described in detail with particular
reference to certain preferred aspects thereof, but it will be
understood that variations, combinations, and modifications can be
effected by a person of ordinary skill in the art within the
intended spirit and scope of the invention.
* * * * *