Stereoscopic endoscope with virtual reality viewing
US6139490A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 10, 1997 |
| Grant date | Oct 31, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 10, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04N13/398
- WIPO fieldAudio-visual technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A stereoscopic endoscope system for producing images that can be perceived in three dimensions. An endoscope apparatus includes a sheath carrying a light source and two independent fixed lens endoscopes. Collimated light from the proximal ends of each endoscope are directed along folded optical paths to independent video cameras. The images generated by the video cameras energize monitors in a virtual reality display device that can be positioned proximate an observer's eyes. Adjustable mirrors and the provision of the rotation of at least one of the video cameras on its axis facilitate the alignment of the images for maximum effect.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.