Abstract: A robotic platform is capable of multi-tasking under control of a single remote operator. The platform may include a turret mounted on a positioning mechanism. The turret may incorporate an imaging sensor, a target designator and a weapon in a synchronized manner. The robotic platform is capable of switching between different modes: (i) an engaged mode, in which the turret is aligned with the preferred direction of travel of the platform; in the engaged mode the turret is designated by maneuvering the entire robotic platform; (ii) a disengaged mode, in which the robotic platform faces in a first direction while the turret faces another direction to acquired targets. Various functions of driving the platform and operating the turret may be automated to facilitate control by a single operator.

Abstract: The invention is a system that is integrated with an existing robotic system in order to extend its observation, surveillance, and navigational capabilities. The system comprises: a sensor module comprising imaging and other types of sensors that is attached to the robotic device of the robotic system and a system control station comprising a communication link to the robot control station of the existing robotic system. Both the system control station and the sensor module comprise processing units that are configured to work in complete harmony. These processing units are each supplied with software that enables using information supplied by the sensors and other components in the sensor module to provide the robotic systems with many advanced capabilities that could not be achieves prior to attachment of the sensor module to the robot.

Abstract: The present invention is a self contained portable and compact omni-directional monitoring and automatic alarm video device. The device enables automatic omni-directional detection, directional imaging inspection, tracking, real-time alarm transmission, and remote monitoring. The device comprises an omni-directional detection sensor, processor, and directional video imaging camera located inside a rotatable housing. The omni-directional detection sensor enables detection of moving objects near the device's surroundings; the processing assembly enables extraction of information such as the relative direction to the moving object and automatic pointing of the directional video imaging camera in that direction by rotation of the housing. The information acquired by the video camera is then transmitted to a remote control and observation unit.

Abstract: A transformable robotic platform includes a main frame and a tiltable central assembly and two pairs of parallel tracks. A first pair of tracks is fixed to the main frame while a second pair of tracks is pivotable with respect to the main frame. The central assembly incorporates imaging means, designation means and operational means in a synchronized manner, thus simplifying the maneuvering of the robotic platform and the operation of its operational means by a remote operator. Tilting the central assembly as well as the second pair of tracks shifts the center of gravity of the robotic platform rearward decreasing downward gravitational force on the front end of the platform facilitating climbing over obstacles. Tilting the central assembly also provides double-sided operation and about face operation of the robotic platform without the need to perform maneuvers which flip over the entire robotic platform.

Abstract: The present invention discloses an electro-mechanism for extending the capabilities of a bilateral robotic platforms and a method for performing the same. The electro-mechanism includes an attitude sensor to provide indication of the side over which a bilateral robotic platform operates and an actuator to tilt a mast to an upright position with respect to the ground in order to maximize the performance of the components integrated therewith. The electro-mechanism also provides means to elevate an environmental sensor to provide a superior position for information gathering with respect to the bilateral robotic platform.

Abstract: A robotic platform is presented, having a tiltable operational assembly. The operational assembly incorporates imaging means, designation means and operational means in a synchronized manner thus simplifying the maneuvering of the robotic platform and the operation of its operational means by a remote operator. The operational assembly can be tilted backwards in order to shift the center of gravity of the robotic platform towards its rear to decrease pressure from the front end of the robotic platform to the ground. Alternatively, the operational assembly can be used as an arm which applies pressure over obstacles to raise its distal end from the ground while overcoming obstacles. Tilting the operational assembly also provides double-sided operation of the robotic platform without the need to perform maneuvers which flip the entire robotic platform.

Abstract: The invention is a system that is integrated with an existing robotic system in order to extend its observation, surveillance, and navigational capabilities. The system comprises: a sensor module comprising imaging and other types of sensors that is attached to the robotic device of the robotic system and a system control station comprising a communication link to the robot control station of the existing robotic system. Both the system control station and the sensor module comprise processing units that are configured to work in complete harmony. These processing units are each supplied with software that enables using information supplied by the sensors and other components in the sensor module to provide the robotic systems with many advanced capabilities that could not be achieves prior to attachment of the sensor module to the robot.

Abstract: The invention is a method for the extraction, identification and comparison of skylines from imagery data specifically, for the purpose of accurately locating the position of a mobile platform for navigation purposes. The invention is carried out by processing images obtained using a compact mobile electro-optic device that is designed to be mounted on any mobile platform, such that a clear circumferential view of the surroundings is available. The method allows the position of the mobile platform to be determined in three dimensional space, relative to any arbitrary coordinate system; the exact map coordinates of the platform to be determined; or allows the platform to follow a previously traversed track.

Abstract: The present invention is a robotic mobile platform vehicle that can be thrown into hostile or hazardous environments for gathering information and transmitting that information to a remotely located control station and a system comprising the robotic mobile platform. The system of the invention is adapted to provide it's operator with significant information without being exposed directly to actual or potential danger. One of the key features of the invention is that at least four imaging assemblies are mounted on the robotic platform and that the system has the processing ability to stitch the views taken by the four imaging devices together into an Omni-directional image, allowing simultaneous viewing of a 360 degree field of view surrounding the mobile platform. Another feature is that the system comprises a touch screen GUI and the robotic mobile platform is equipped with processing means and appropriate software.

Abstract: A lens having an axis of symmetry, including a transparent circumferential surface, circumferentially extending about the axis of symmetry, the transparent surface having optical power in planes which include the axis of symmetry, a first reflective surface, symmetric with respect to the axis of symmetry and being operative to reflect light passing through the transparent surface and a second reflective surface, symmetric with respect to the axis of symmetry and axially spaced from the transparent surface and being operative to reflect light reflected by the first reflective surface.

Abstract: The present invention provides a compact mobile reconnaissance device that is designed to be deployed in hostile, dangerous, or difficult to access environments, to absorb shocks, to be resistant to adverse environmental conditions, and to transmit video and audio streams related to events at which it has been deployed to a remote receiver and display unit.

Abstract: The invention is a system for performing a routine vaginal examination. The examination is carried out using a medical imaging device that is optimally shaped to match the shape of the vaginal canal and comprises an imaging sensor, wide field of view optics, illumination means, electronic circuitry, and communication means. In addition a medical image and analysis (MIUA) unit comprising a processor and a dedicated MIUA algorithm is provided, either as part of the device or as a separate unit. The system is characterized in that the dedicated MIUA algorithm compares the acquired images to a predefined standard of quality and verifies that sufficient images of a predefined region of interest (ROI) have been obtained; saves the acquired images that meet the predefined standard and also show the ROI; and signals the user carrying out the examination when a sufficient number of images having sufficient image quality and taken at appropriate viewing angles of the area being examined have been acquired.

Abstract: The present invention describes a self-contained omni-directional imaging device. The device is designed to contain within it all mechanic, electronic, optic and electro-optic components required for its operation, namely: omni-directional optics, image capture device, power source, illumination sources, transmitters, receivers and additional optional elements for enhanced capabilities. A preferred embodiment of the invention describes such a device housed inside a durable spherical structure, designed for deployment to potentially hazardous environments, enabling omni-directional view to those environments without endangering the viewer. The device is capable of acquiring and transmitting still or video images and audio streams to a remote, control and display unit located near the operator.

Abstract: A medical imaging device enables observation within the abdominal and pelvic cavity at a wide field of view and enables medical procedures to be carried out within the wide field of view. The medical imaging device includes a central assembly and a sterile disposable cover, which is slipped over the central assembly. The central assembly has a proximal portion, which remains outside of the abdominal cavity of the patient, and a distal portion, which is inserted into the abdominal cavity through a slit made in the abdominal wall by the surgeon. A first plurality of light emitting diodes is circumferentially distributed around the outer surface of the central assembly near the top of the distal portion and a reversibly inflatable balloon is circumferentially attached to the cover at the location of the first plurality of diodes.

Abstract: The invention is a vision and image capture system for mobile platforms. The system comprises: an imaging sensor that comprises at least one imaging sub-sensor which is integrated in the outside walls of the platform; at least one display screen on which is displayed the images captured by the imaging sub-sensor; and a processing unit comprising hardware and software components for processing the gathered images, displaying them on the screen and optionally allowing other applications. The system of the invention is characterized in that the at least one imaging sub-sensor is mounted approximately at the height of the eyes of the operator of the system and at a predefined angle respective to the mobile platform matching the preferred viewing angle of the operator from his seat within the platform.

Abstract: In a first aspect, the present invention provides an omni-directional imaging assembly. In the preferred embodiment the assembly of the invention comprises a solid omni-directional lens comprising a vertical axis of symmetry; an upper surface, at least part of which is capable of reflecting rays that arrive from the inner side of the omni-directional lens; a transparent perimeter surface; a lower convex surface, at least part of which is capable of reflecting rays that arrive from the direction of the perimeter surface; and a transparent circular surface maintained in the lower convex surface around the vertical axis of symmetry. The light rays from a first 360 degrees, panoramic, scene are refracted by the transparent perimeter surface, are then reflected by the lower convex surface towards the upper surface, and then reflected by the upper surface towards the transparent circular surface, where they are refracted and exit the omni-directional lens.

Abstract: An operator-controllable observation system including an observation assembly including a housing having a generally ellipsoidal configuration with a flat base surface, an imaging subassembly including at least one lens coupled to at least one imaging sensor, control and processing circuitry operative to process outputs of the imaging subassembly and an observation assembly transceiver operative to receive outputs from the control and processing circuitry and to transmit the outputs from the control and processing circuitry.

Abstract: The present invention is an arrow-shaped reconnaissance means, which is designed to be connected to the barrel of a weapon and launched by firing a round of ammunition from the weapon. The reconnaissance means is designed to penetrate and stick into a wall or other target and transmit video and additional data from its location, providing information gathered from an elevated position about the area around the target.

Abstract: The present invention is a system for comprehensive observation and tracking of objects in distinct defined areas. This is implemented by the use of imaging sensors, comprising an electronic video camera and integrated processors, providing an overhead view of a pre determined sector during real time. The system also comprises a central processing unit (CPU) for managing all processed data, a display and managing unit which can be used for initializing, updating parameters and managing the system. The system supports means of communication between the imaging sensors and the central processing unit and between the central processing unit and the display and managing unit.

Abstract: The present invention is an arrow-shaped reconnaissance means, which is designed to be connected to the barrel of a weapon and launched by firing a round of ammunition from the weapon. The reconnaissance means is designed to penetrate and stick into a wall or other target and transmit video and additional data from its location, providing information gathered from an elevated position about the area around the target.