Abstract: A hand-held vision sensor apparatus comprises a plurality of light sources, control activation elements and an image sensing array, encased within a housing such that the control activation elements are disposed at a user-accessible location on the housing. The housing further includes a pair of exit apertures for emitting illumination directed toward a medical specimen and an entrance aperture for capturing reflected light from the medical specimen. The light sources are disposed in alignment with the pair of exit apertures, and the image sensing array is aligned with the entrance aperture. The control activation elements are utilized to energize the light sources and control the functioning of the image sensing array. A computer port may be included and used to communicate command controls to the light sources, image sensing array and control activation elements in a manner that allows for a remotely-located technician to communicate with the hand-held vision sensor.

Abstract: A colposcopy instrument (which includes a display screen) is controlled by a specific set of steps defined in software to follow a defined protocol for performing a colposcopy examination. The software is utilized to also control the features of an included camera so that consistent digital images are recorded. The integrated software prompts the medical personnel performing the colposcopy procedure to capture relevant images in an automated sequence that includes, for example, capturing a sequence of images after the application of the acetic acid to the cervix. The displayed user interface guides the individual performing the exam through a series of easy-to-understand screen prompts to capture specific, critical images during the exam. The process, once begun, is automated and does not require the individual performing the exam to make any decisions about whether or not to record a certain image.

Abstract: An illumination source comprised of individual light emitting diodes (LEDs) specifically formed to operate at wavelengths associated with the absorption spectrum of certain biomolecule(s) of interest present in the region of the body being examined. Advantageously, LEDs may be configured to generate a high intensity, narrowband beam that is well-suited for these medical imaging purposes where the ability to provide a proper diagnosis relies on the ability to create a high contrast image for review by the medical professionals. The inventive illumination source may also include a conventional white light source that is used as before for general observation purposes, with the one or more narrowband LEDs activated when there is a need to create a high contrast image of a particular ROI.