Abstract: A system and method for storing, within an image transfer medium, an image and image-specific data associated with the image includes obtaining the image-specific data from a probe such as a borescope or endoscope, obtaining the corresponding image, choosing a specific image transfer medium, writing the image to the medium, and writing the image-specific data to a marker in the medium. In this manner, storing a combination of image data and one or more of system calibration data, overlay replacement data, and audio comment data in a single file of either a non-standard file format or a standard file format that does not explicitly support the inclusion of these data types is possible.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for enhancing the contrast and visual clarity of an image captured by a remote viewing device. A luminance component of a captured image is isolated and represented within a first distribution of luminance values. One or more transformation functions are performed upon the first distribution of luminance values to generate a second distribution of luminance values. The second distribution of luminance values are used to construct and display a second image having enhanced visual clarity relative to the captured image. A portion of the captured image, such as a portion functioning as a magnified zoom window, can be enhanced for visual clarity independently from the remaining portion of the captured image.

Abstract: Devices and methods for protecting components of imaging devices are provided. In the illustrative embodiment, a plano-concave protective cover is provided which is bonded to an imager window by applying a thick, quick-setting adhesive to the exterior of the cover and of the imager window.

Abstract: The present invention features a remote viewing device that is capable of improving its operation by removing slack in its control cables and/or by increasing the range of motion of its viewing head. In one embodiment, the method for improving the operation involves removing at least a portion of the slack in at least one control cable attached to a servo motor. The removal of at least a portion of the slack includes changing the position of a servo motor relative to a flexible tube termination block until a specified tension is encountered in at least one of the control cables. The method further includes determining first and second servo control signal values corresponding to no angular deflection and a specified deflection in a viewing head.

Abstract: A modular remote video inspection system for inspecting the interior of a living thing or of an inanimate object, such as a machine. The system comprises a base module connected by way of an interconnection module to a handset comprising a unitary display module and control module. The system makes observations by generating light that is caused to impinge on a surface of the interior of the object of interest. An inspection module attached to the handset comprises both a light guide for providing the light to the area of interest, and a selected one of a sensor and a light receiver. The inspection module comprises a steerable tip configured to be located adjacent the area of interest. The handset includes both controls for operating the system, and a display for providing a view of the region being inspected, as well as status information for the user of an operator.

Abstract: A system comprises: (a) an imaging system having an imaging device for transmitting an electrical signal corresponding to an area being imaged, and magnification functionality adapted to magnify the imaged area; (b) a portable support system for supporting the imaging system having a power supply for supplying power to the imaging system, at least one controller for controlling the zooming functionality of the imaging device, and an image output device; and (c) a positioning system for positioning the imaging system independently of the support system; and a method of using the same which comprising: (a) positioning the imaging system independently of the support system such that a target area is in the field of view of said imaging system while at a first magnification level; (b) imaging the area at a second magnification level greater than the first magnification level; and (c) outputting an image of the area.