US6032070A
Expired / Lapsed
US
⏱️ 0.0 years remaining
Method and apparatus for detecting electro-magnetic reflection from biological tissue
Assignee: University of Arkansas at Fayetteville
•
Filing: 1995-06-07
•
Granted: 2000-02-29
•
Expires: 2015-06-07
Abstract
Abstract A system and method is provided to view an anatomical structure such as a blood vessel in high contrast with its surrounding tissue. The system and method may be used to produce an image of an anatomical structure using reflected electromagnetic radiation singularly scattered from target tissue. The system and method may also provide same-side illumination and detection of reflected electromagnetic radiation in a convenient integral imaging device. The system and method may also provide helmet mounted imaging technology in a single integral helmet which allows the wearer to view an anatomical structure located within a patient such that the image is continuously oriented according to the orientation of the helmet wearer's head. The system and method may also be used in the performance of venipuncture. The system and method may provide for improved contrast between any anatomical structure and its surrounding tissue for use in any imaging system.
Inventors
- 👤 Stephen T. Flock
- 👤 Louis Fink
- 👤 Milton Waner
Bibliographic Details
Application Number
—
Jurisdiction
US
Data Source
google_patents
Last Synchronized
2026-10-24 04:23
CPC Classifications
A; A61; A61B; A61B5/00; A61B5/48; A61B5/4887; A61B5/489; A61B5/0059; A61B5/15; A61B5/150007; A61B5/150015; A61B5/15003; A61B5/150748; A61B90/00; A61B90/36; A61B17/00; A61B17/34; A61B17/3403; A61B90/30; A61B2090/306; A61B90/37; A61B2090/373; A61B90/50; A61B2090/502; A61M; A61M5/00; A61M5/42; A61M5/427
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 128
Claim 1
Independent Claim
75 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source wherein said light source comprises a monochromatic source within the infrared range and wherein said monochromatic light source within the infrared range comprises means for illumination within the range of 700-900 nm; an image detector which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue; and a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure from said image detector.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
75 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source wherein said light source comprises a monochromatic source within the infrared range and wherein said monochromatic light source within the infrared range comprises means for illumination within the range of 700-900 nm; an image detector which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue; and a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure from said image detector.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
49 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source; an image detector further comprising a video camera which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue; and a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure received from said image detector.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
49 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source; an image detector further comprising a video camera which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue; and a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure received from said image detector.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
51 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source; an image detector further comprising a liquid crystal television detector which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue; and a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure received from said image detector.
Claim 6
Dependent Claim
51 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source; an image detector further comprising a liquid crystal television detector which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue; and a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure received from said image detector.
Claim 7
Dependent Claim
59 words
An image apparatus comprising a light source; an image detector which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue; a contrast enhancing element wherein said contrast enhancing element includes at least one bandpass filter and a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure received from said image detector.
Claim 8
Dependent Claim
59 words
An image apparatus comprising a light source; an image detector which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue; a contrast enhancing element wherein said contrast enhancing element includes at least one bandpass filter and a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure received from said image detector.
Claim 9
Dependent Claim
65 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source; an image detector which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue; a contrast enhancing element wherein said contrast enhancing element includes at least one bandpass filter which passes wavelengths around 800 nm; and a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure received from said image detector.
Claim 10
Dependent Claim
65 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source; an image detector which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue; a contrast enhancing element wherein said contrast enhancing element includes at least one bandpass filter which passes wavelengths around 800 nm; and a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure received from said image detector.
Claim 11
Dependent Claim
58 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source: an image detector which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue: a contrast enhancing element wherein said contrast enhancing element includes a digital processor filter; and a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure received from said image detector.
Claim 12
Dependent Claim
58 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source: an image detector which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue: a contrast enhancing element wherein said contrast enhancing element includes a digital processor filter; and a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure received from said image detector.
Claim 13
Dependent Claim
58 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source; an image detector which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target issue: a contrast enhancing element wherein said contrast enhancing element includes at least one collimator; and a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure received from said image detector.
Claim 14
Dependent Claim
58 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source; an image detector which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target issue: a contrast enhancing element wherein said contrast enhancing element includes at least one collimator; and a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure received from said image detector.
Claim 15
Dependent Claim
85 words
An imaging apparatus comprising: a light source; an image detector which detects light from said light source transmitted through biological target tissue; a monitor which receives and displays image information from said image detector; and a contrast enhancing element which includes a first polarizing optical element in the path of incident light between said light source and said biological tissue and a second polarizing optical element in the path of the transmitted light between the non-light source side of the tissue and said image detector.
Claim 16
Dependent Claim
85 words
An imaging apparatus comprising: a light source; an image detector which detects light from said light source transmitted through biological target tissue; a monitor which receives and displays image information from said image detector; and a contrast enhancing element which includes a first polarizing optical element in the path of incident light between said light source and said biological tissue and a second polarizing optical element in the path of the transmitted light between the non-light source side of the tissue and said image detector.
Claim 17
Dependent Claim
81 words
An imaging apparatus comprising: a light source; an image detector which detects light from said light source reflected from a biological target tissue; a monitor which receives and displays image information from said image detector; and a contrast enhancing element which includes polarizing optical element in the path of incident light between said light source and said biological tissue and a polarity selecting optical element in the path of the reflected light between the said biological tissue and said image detector.
Claim 18
Dependent Claim
81 words
An imaging apparatus comprising: a light source; an image detector which detects light from said light source reflected from a biological target tissue; a monitor which receives and displays image information from said image detector; and a contrast enhancing element which includes polarizing optical element in the path of incident light between said light source and said biological tissue and a polarity selecting optical element in the path of the reflected light between the said biological tissue and said image detector.
Claim 19
Dependent Claim
53 words
An imaging apparatus comprising: a light source; an image detector which detects light from said light source transmitted through biological target tissue; a monitor which receives and displays image information from said image detector; and a contrast enhancing element including a modulation source and a light phase modulator connected to said modulation source.
Claim 20
Dependent Claim
53 words
An imaging apparatus comprising: a light source; an image detector which detects light from said light source transmitted through biological target tissue; a monitor which receives and displays image information from said image detector; and a contrast enhancing element including a modulation source and a light phase modulator connected to said modulation source.
Claim 21
Dependent Claim
54 words
An imaging apparatus comprising: a light source; an image detector which detects light from said light source reflected from a biological target tissue; a monitor which receives and displays image information from said image detector; and a contrast enhancing element including a modulation source and a light phase modulator connected to said modulation source.
Claim 22
Dependent Claim
54 words
An imaging apparatus comprising: a light source; an image detector which detects light from said light source reflected from a biological target tissue; a monitor which receives and displays image information from said image detector; and a contrast enhancing element including a modulation source and a light phase modulator connected to said modulation source.
Claim 23
Dependent Claim
46 words
An imaging apparatus comprising: a light source; an image detector which detects light from said light source reflected from a biological target tissue; a monitor which receives and displays image information from said image detector; and a contrast enhancing element including an illumination intensity modulation source.
Claim 24
Dependent Claim
46 words
An imaging apparatus comprising: a light source; an image detector which detects light from said light source reflected from a biological target tissue; a monitor which receives and displays image information from said image detector; and a contrast enhancing element including an illumination intensity modulation source.
Claim 25
Dependent Claim
59 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source; an image detector which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue wherein said light source and said image detector are part of a single integral unit; and a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure received from said image detector.
Claim 26
Dependent Claim
59 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source; an image detector which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue wherein said light source and said image detector are part of a single integral unit; and a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure received from said image detector.
Claim 27
Dependent Claim
15 words
An imaging apparatus as in claim 13 wherein said single integral unit comprises a helmet.
Claim 28
Dependent Claim
15 words
An imaging apparatus as in claim 14 wherein said monitor comprises part of said helmet.
Claim 29
Dependent Claim
18 words
An imaging apparatus as in claim 14 wherein said light source is coupled to said optical fiber bundle.
Claim 30
Dependent Claim
25 words
An imaging apparatus as in claim 14 wherein said image detector comprises an infrared sensitive video camera and said light source comprises a diode laser.
Claim 31
Dependent Claim
19 words
An imaging apparatus as in claim 14 wherein said single integral unit comprises an automated piece of surgical equipment.
Claim 32
Dependent Claim
78 words
An imaging apparatus comprising: a light source wherein said light source comprises a dual-wavelength illumination source and said imaging apparatus further comprises an optical fiber bundle wherein said light source is coupled to said optical fiber bundle; an image detector which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue; a contrast enhancing element; and a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure received from said image detector.
Claim 33
Dependent Claim
78 words
An imaging apparatus comprising: a light source wherein said light source comprises a dual-wavelength illumination source and said imaging apparatus further comprises an optical fiber bundle wherein said light source is coupled to said optical fiber bundle; an image detector which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue; a contrast enhancing element; and a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure received from said image detector.
Claim 34
Dependent Claim
76 words
An imaging apparatus comprising: a light source wherein said light source comprises a dual-wavelength illumination source; an image detector which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue; a contrast enhancing element; and a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure received from said image detector wherein said monitor comprises a means to rapidly alternate the display of the image reflected at each respective wavelength.
Claim 35
Dependent Claim
76 words
An imaging apparatus comprising: a light source wherein said light source comprises a dual-wavelength illumination source; an image detector which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue; a contrast enhancing element; and a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure received from said image detector wherein said monitor comprises a means to rapidly alternate the display of the image reflected at each respective wavelength.
Claim 36
Dependent Claim
56 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source; an image detector which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue; a contrast enhancing element wherein said contrast enhancing element includes an exogenous dye adsorbed within the biological target tissue; and a digitizing frame grabber connected to said image detector.
Claim 37
Dependent Claim
56 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source; an image detector which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue; a contrast enhancing element wherein said contrast enhancing element includes an exogenous dye adsorbed within the biological target tissue; and a digitizing frame grabber connected to said image detector.
Claim 38
Dependent Claim
72 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source; an image detector which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue; a contrast enhancing element wherein said contrast enhancing element includes a monoclonal antibody attached to the target biological tissue; a digitizing frame grabber connected to said image detector; and a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure received from said image detector.
Claim 39
Dependent Claim
72 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source; an image detector which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue; a contrast enhancing element wherein said contrast enhancing element includes a monoclonal antibody attached to the target biological tissue; a digitizing frame grabber connected to said image detector; and a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure received from said image detector.
Claim 40
Dependent Claim
72 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source; an image detector which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue; a contrast enhancing element wherein said contrast enhancing element includes a molecule collected on plaque within a blood vessel; a digitizing frame grabber connected to said image detector; and a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure received from said image detector.
Claim 41
Dependent Claim
72 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source; an image detector which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue; a contrast enhancing element wherein said contrast enhancing element includes a molecule collected on plaque within a blood vessel; a digitizing frame grabber connected to said image detector; and a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure received from said image detector.
Claim 42
Dependent Claim
63 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source; an image detector further comprising a liquid crystal television detector which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue and said light source and said detector are phase modulated in synchronicity; and a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure received from said image detector.
Claim 43
Dependent Claim
63 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source; an image detector further comprising a liquid crystal television detector which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue and said light source and said detector are phase modulated in synchronicity; and a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure received from said image detector.
Claim 44
Dependent Claim
49 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source; an image detector further comprising a photorefractive crystal which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue; and a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure received from said image detector.
Claim 45
Dependent Claim
49 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source; an image detector further comprising a photorefractive crystal which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue; and a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure received from said image detector.
Claim 46
Independent Claim
43 words
A method for imaging an anatomical structure comprising illuminating a biological tissue; wherein said step of illuminating comprises illuminating with a wavelength of between 700-900 nm; detecting the reflected image from said biological target tissue; and displaying said reflected image on a monitor.
Claim 47
Independent Claim
43 words
A method for imaging an anatomical structure comprising illuminating a biological tissue; wherein said step of illuminating comprises illuminating with a wavelength of between 700-900 nm; detecting the reflected image from said biological target tissue; and displaying said reflected image on a monitor.
Claim 48
Independent Claim
36 words
A method for imaging an anatomical structure comprising illuminating a biological target tissue; bandpass filtering the light of interest; detecting the reflected image from said biological target tissue; and displaying said reflected image on a monitor.
Claim 49
Independent Claim
36 words
A method for imaging an anatomical structure comprising illuminating a biological target tissue; bandpass filtering the light of interest; detecting the reflected image from said biological target tissue; and displaying said reflected image on a monitor.
Claim 50
Dependent Claim
88 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source wherein said light source comprises a monochromatic source within the infrared range and wherein said monochromatic light source within the infrared range comprises means for illumination within the range of 700-900 nm; an image detector which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue wherein said light source and said image detector are part of a unit; and a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure from said image detector.
Claim 51
Dependent Claim
88 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source wherein said light source comprises a monochromatic source within the infrared range and wherein said monochromatic light source within the infrared range comprises means for illumination within the range of 700-900 nm; an image detector which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue wherein said light source and said image detector are part of a unit; and a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure from said image detector.
Claim 52
Dependent Claim
21 words
The apparatus of claim 28 wherein said imaging apparatus further comprises a filter for eliminating light outside the wavelength of interest.
Claim 53
Dependent Claim
12 words
The apparatus of claim 29 wherein said filter comprises a bandpass filter.
Claim 54
Dependent Claim
33 words
The apparatus of claim 28 wherein said imaging apparatus further comprises a contrast enhancing element and wherein said monitor is part of the same unit as said image detector and said light source.
Claim 55
Dependent Claim
22 words
The apparatus of claim 28 wherein a helmet is part of the same unit as the image detector and said light source.
Claim 56
Dependent Claim
21 words
The apparatus of claim 32 wherein said imaging apparatus further comprises a filter for eliminating light outside the wavelength of interest.
Claim 57
Dependent Claim
12 words
The apparatus of claim 33 wherein said filter comprises a bandpass filter.
Claim 58
Dependent Claim
53 words
The apparatus of claim 34 further comprising a contrast enhancing element which includes a polarizing optical element in the path of incident light between said light source and said biological tissue and a polarizing selecting optical element in the path of the reflected light between the said biological tissue and said image detector.
Claim 59
Dependent Claim
84 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source wherein said light source comprises a monochromatic source within the infrared range and wherein said monochromatic light source within the infrared range comprises means for illumination within the range of 700-900 nm; an image detector which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue; a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure from said image detector; and a helmet comprising said light source and image detector.
Claim 60
Dependent Claim
84 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source wherein said light source comprises a monochromatic source within the infrared range and wherein said monochromatic light source within the infrared range comprises means for illumination within the range of 700-900 nm; an image detector which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue; a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure from said image detector; and a helmet comprising said light source and image detector.
Claim 61
Dependent Claim
12 words
The apparatus of claim 36 wherein said helmet further comprises said monitor.
Claim 62
Dependent Claim
21 words
The apparatus of claim 37 wherein said imaging apparatus further comprises a filter for eliminating light outside the wavelength of interest.
Claim 63
Dependent Claim
14 words
The apparatus of claim 37 wherein said helmet is made of three head straps.
Claim 64
Dependent Claim
12 words
The apparatus of claim 38 wherein said filter comprises a bandpass filter.
Claim 65
Dependent Claim
53 words
The apparatus of claim 40 further comprising a contrast enhancing element which includes a polarizing optical element in the path of incident light between said light source and said biological tissue and a polarizing selecting optical element in the path of the reflected light between the said biological tissue and said image detector.
Claim 66
Dependent Claim
87 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source wherein said light source comprises a monochromatic source within the infrared range and wherein said monochromatic light source within the infrared range comprises means for illumination within the range of 700-900 nm; an image detector which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue; and a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure from said image detector wherein said image detector and said monitor are part of a unit.
Claim 67
Dependent Claim
87 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source wherein said light source comprises a monochromatic source within the infrared range and wherein said monochromatic light source within the infrared range comprises means for illumination within the range of 700-900 nm; an image detector which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue; and a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure from said image detector wherein said image detector and said monitor are part of a unit.
Claim 68
Dependent Claim
21 words
The apparatus of claim 42 wherein said imaging apparatus further comprises a filter for eliminating light outside the wavelength of interest.
Claim 69
Dependent Claim
82 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source wherein said light source comprises a monochromatic source within the infrared range and wherein said monochromatic light source within the infrared range comprises means for illumination within the range of 700-900 nm; an image detector which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue; a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure from said image detector; and a head piece attached to said monitor.
Claim 70
Dependent Claim
82 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source wherein said light source comprises a monochromatic source within the infrared range and wherein said monochromatic light source within the infrared range comprises means for illumination within the range of 700-900 nm; an image detector which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue; a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure from said image detector; and a head piece attached to said monitor.
Claim 71
Dependent Claim
21 words
The apparatus of claim 44 wherein said imaging apparatus further comprises a filter for eliminating light outside the wavelength of interest.
Claim 72
Dependent Claim
67 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source wherein said light source comprises a source within the infrared range; an image detector which detects light form said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue; and a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure received from said image detector wherein said monitor and said image detector are part of a unit.
Claim 73
Dependent Claim
67 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source wherein said light source comprises a source within the infrared range; an image detector which detects light form said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue; and a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure received from said image detector wherein said monitor and said image detector are part of a unit.
Claim 74
Dependent Claim
14 words
The apparatus of claim 46 wherein the apparatus further comprises a contrast enhancing element.
Claim 75
Dependent Claim
21 words
The apparatus of claim 47 wherein said contrast enhancing element comprises a filter for eliminating light outside the wavelength of interest.
Claim 76
Dependent Claim
16 words
The apparatus of claim 47 wherein said image detector comprises a charge coupled device infrared camera.
Claim 77
Dependent Claim
51 words
The apparatus of claim 47 wherein said contrast enhancing element includes a polarizing optical element in the path of incident light between said light source and said biological tissue and a polarizing selecting optical element in the path of the reflected light between the said biological tissue and said image detector.
Claim 78
Dependent Claim
68 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source wherein said light source comprises a source within the infrared range; an image detector which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue wherein said image detector and said light source are part of a unit; and a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure received from said image detector.
Claim 79
Dependent Claim
68 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source wherein said light source comprises a source within the infrared range; an image detector which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue wherein said image detector and said light source are part of a unit; and a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure received from said image detector.
Claim 80
Dependent Claim
14 words
The apparatus of claim 51 wherein the apparatus further comprises a contrast enhancing element.
Claim 81
Dependent Claim
21 words
The apparatus of claim 52 wherein said contrast enhancing element comprises a filter for eliminating light outside the wavelength of interest.
Claim 82
Dependent Claim
16 words
The apparatus of claim 52 wherein said image detector comprises a charge coupled device infrared camera.
Claim 83
Dependent Claim
51 words
The apparatus of claim 52 wherein said contrast enhancing element includes a polarizing optical element in the path of incident light between said light source and said biological tissue and a polarizing selecting optical element in the path of the reflected light between the said biological tissue and said image detector.
Claim 84
Dependent Claim
65 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source wherein said light source comprises a source within the infrared range; an image detector which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue; a helmet comprising said light source and said image detector; and a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure received from said image detector.
Claim 85
Dependent Claim
65 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source wherein said light source comprises a source within the infrared range; an image detector which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue; a helmet comprising said light source and said image detector; and a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure received from said image detector.
Claim 86
Dependent Claim
14 words
The apparatus of claim 56 wherein the apparatus further comprises a contrast enhancing element.
Claim 87
Dependent Claim
21 words
The apparatus of claim 57 wherein said contrast enhancing element comprises a filter for eliminating light outside the wavelength of interest.
Claim 88
Dependent Claim
16 words
The apparatus of claim 57 wherein said image detector comprises a charge coupled device infrared camera.
Claim 89
Dependent Claim
51 words
The apparatus of claim 57 wherein said contrast enhancing element includes a polarizing optical element in the path of incident light between said light source and said biological tissue and a polarizing selecting optical element in the path of the reflected light between the said biological tissue and said image detector.
Claim 90
Dependent Claim
65 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source wherein said light source comprises a source within the infrared range; an image detector which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue; and a helmet comprising said image detector, said light source and a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure received from said image detector.
Claim 91
Dependent Claim
65 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source wherein said light source comprises a source within the infrared range; an image detector which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue; and a helmet comprising said image detector, said light source and a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure received from said image detector.
Claim 92
Dependent Claim
14 words
The apparatus of claim 61 wherein the apparatus further comprises a contrast enhancing element.
Claim 93
Dependent Claim
21 words
The apparatus of claim 62 wherein said contrast enhancing element comprises a filter for eliminating light outside the wavelength of interest.
Claim 94
Dependent Claim
16 words
The apparatus of claim 62 wherein said image detector comprises a charge coupled device infrared camera.
Claim 95
Dependent Claim
51 words
The apparatus of claim 62 wherein said contrast enhancing element includes a polarizing optical element in the path of incident light between said light source and said biological tissue and a polarizing selecting optical element in the path of the reflected light between the said biological tissue and said image detector.
Claim 96
Dependent Claim
62 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source; an image detector further comprising a video camera which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue wherein said image detector and said light source are part of a unit; and a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure received from said image detector.
Claim 97
Dependent Claim
62 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source; an image detector further comprising a video camera which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue wherein said image detector and said light source are part of a unit; and a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure received from said image detector.
Claim 98
Dependent Claim
21 words
The apparatus of claim 66 wherein said imaging apparatus further comprises a filter for eliminating light outside the wavelength of interest.
Claim 99
Dependent Claim
12 words
The apparatus of claim 67 wherein said filter comprises a bandpass filter.
Claim 100
Dependent Claim
33 words
The apparatus of claim 66 wherein said imaging apparatus further comprises a contrast enhancing element and wherein said monitor is part of the same unit as said image detector and said light source.
Claim 101
Dependent Claim
53 words
The apparatus of claim 66 further comprising a contrast enhancing element which includes a polarizing optical element in the path of incident light between said light source and said biological tissue and a polarizing selecting optical element in the path of the reflected light between the said biological tissue and said image detector.
Claim 102
Dependent Claim
22 words
The apparatus of claim 66 wherein a helmet is part of the same unit as the image detector and said light source.
Claim 103
Dependent Claim
21 words
The apparatus of claim 71 wherein said imaging apparatus further comprises a filter for eliminating light outside the wavelength of interest.
Claim 104
Dependent Claim
12 words
The apparatus of claim 72 wherein said filter comprises a bandpass filter.
Claim 105
Dependent Claim
57 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source; an image detector further comprising a video camera which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue; a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure from said image detector; and a helmet comprising said light source and image detector.
Claim 106
Dependent Claim
57 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source; an image detector further comprising a video camera which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue; a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure from said image detector; and a helmet comprising said light source and image detector.
Claim 107
Dependent Claim
12 words
The apparatus of claim 74 wherein said helmet further comprises said monitor.
Claim 108
Dependent Claim
53 words
The apparatus of claim 74 further comprising a contrast enhancing element which includes a polarizing optical element in the path of incident light between said light source and said biological tissue and a polarizing selecting optical element in the path of the reflected light between the said biological tissue and said image detector.
Claim 109
Dependent Claim
21 words
The apparatus of claim 75 wherein said imaging apparatus further comprises a filter for eliminating light outside the wavelength of interest.
Claim 110
Dependent Claim
14 words
The apparatus of claim 75 wherein said helmet is made of three head straps.
Claim 111
Dependent Claim
12 words
The apparatus of claim 77 wherein said filter comprises a bandpass filter.
Claim 112
Dependent Claim
60 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source; an image detector further comprising a video camera which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue; and a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure from said image detector wherein said image detector and said monitor are part of a unit.
Claim 113
Dependent Claim
60 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source; an image detector further comprising a video camera which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue; and a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure from said image detector wherein said image detector and said monitor are part of a unit.
Claim 114
Dependent Claim
21 words
The apparatus of claim 80 wherein said imaging apparatus further comprises a filter for eliminating light outside the wavelength of interest.
Claim 115
Dependent Claim
55 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source; an image detector further comprising a video camera which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue; a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure from said image detector; and a head piece attached to said monitor.
Claim 116
Dependent Claim
55 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source; an image detector further comprising a video camera which detects light from said light source after it has been reflected from a biological target tissue; a monitor which displays an image of an internal anatomical structure from said image detector; and a head piece attached to said monitor.
Claim 117
Dependent Claim
21 words
The apparatus of claim 82 wherein said imaging apparatus further comprises a filter for eliminating light outside the wavelength of interest.
Claim 118
Dependent Claim
92 words
An imaging apparatus comprising: a light source; an image detector which detects light from said light source transmitted through biological target tissue; a monitor which receives and displays image information from said image detector; a head piece attached to said monitor; and a contrast enhancing element which includes a first polarizing optical element in the path of incident light between said light source and said biological tissue and a second polarizing optical element in the path of the transmitted light between the non-light source side of the tissue and said image detector.
Claim 119
Dependent Claim
92 words
An imaging apparatus comprising: a light source; an image detector which detects light from said light source transmitted through biological target tissue; a monitor which receives and displays image information from said image detector; a head piece attached to said monitor; and a contrast enhancing element which includes a first polarizing optical element in the path of incident light between said light source and said biological tissue and a second polarizing optical element in the path of the transmitted light between the non-light source side of the tissue and said image detector.
Claim 120
Dependent Claim
96 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source in the infrared image: an image detector which detects light from said light source transmitted through biological target tissue; a monitor which receives and displays image information from said image detector; a head piece attached to said monitor; and a contrast enhancing element which includes a first polarizing optical element in the path of incident light between said light source and said biological tissue and a second polarizing optical element in the path of the transmitted light between the non-light source side of the tissue and said image detector.
Claim 121
Dependent Claim
96 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source in the infrared image: an image detector which detects light from said light source transmitted through biological target tissue; a monitor which receives and displays image information from said image detector; a head piece attached to said monitor; and a contrast enhancing element which includes a first polarizing optical element in the path of incident light between said light source and said biological tissue and a second polarizing optical element in the path of the transmitted light between the non-light source side of the tissue and said image detector.
Claim 122
Dependent Claim
89 words
An imaging apparatus comprising: a light source; an image detector which detects light from said light source reflected from a biological target tissue; a monitor which receives and displays image information from said image detector; a head piece attached to said monitor; and a contrast enhancing element which includes a polarizing optical element in the path of incident light between said light source and said biological tissue and a polarizing selecting optical element in the path of the reflected light between the said biological tissue and said image detector.
Claim 123
Dependent Claim
89 words
An imaging apparatus comprising: a light source; an image detector which detects light from said light source reflected from a biological target tissue; a monitor which receives and displays image information from said image detector; a head piece attached to said monitor; and a contrast enhancing element which includes a polarizing optical element in the path of incident light between said light source and said biological tissue and a polarizing selecting optical element in the path of the reflected light between the said biological tissue and said image detector.
Claim 124
Dependent Claim
86 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source in the infrared image: an image detector which detects light from said light source reflected from a biological target tissue; a monitor which receives and displays image information from said image detector; and a contrast enhancing element which includes a polarizing optical element in the path of incident light between said light source and said biological tissue and a polarizing selecting optical element in the path of the reflected light between the said biological tissue and said image detector.
Claim 125
Dependent Claim
86 words
An imaging apparatus comprising a light source in the infrared image: an image detector which detects light from said light source reflected from a biological target tissue; a monitor which receives and displays image information from said image detector; and a contrast enhancing element which includes a polarizing optical element in the path of incident light between said light source and said biological tissue and a polarizing selecting optical element in the path of the reflected light between the said biological tissue and said image detector.
Claim 126
Independent Claim
23 words
A method of using the apparatus of claims 1, 28, 36, 42 or 44 wherein said monitor is worn by the apparatus operator.
Claim 127
Dependent Claim
20 words
A method of using the apparatus of claim 1 or 28 wherein said unit is worn by the apparatus operator.
Claim 128
Dependent Claim
24 words
A method of using the apparatus of claim 1 or 28 wherein both said unit and said monitor are worn by the apparatus operator.
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USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 2003-02-28 | 2003-08-30 | 2004-02-29 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 2007-02-28 | 2007-08-30 | 2008-02-29 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 2011-02-28 | 2011-08-30 | 2012-02-29 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |