Abstract: An LED based light source unit for an endoscopic imaging system produces illumination for a camera through an endoscope. The light source unit includes an array of LEDs mounted to a thermally conductive substrate, a light guide to collect light emitted from the LEDs and to couple the light into a group of optical fibers within the endoscope, and an interface to allow the light source unit to be removably attached to the endoscope at the endoscope's external light port. The LEDs therein may be overdriven by power for increased light output. When the LEDs reach their lifetime, the light source unit can be discarded.

Abstract: An LED based light source unit for an endoscopic imaging system produces illumination for a camera through an endoscope. The light source unit includes an array of LEDs mounted to a thermally conductive substrate, a light guide to collect light emitted from the LEDs and to couple the light into a group of optical fibers within the endoscope, and an interface to allow the light source unit to be removably attached to the endoscope at the endoscope's external light port. The LEDs therein may be overdriven by power for increased light output. When the LEDs reach their lifetime, the light source unit can be discarded.

Abstract: An LED based light source unit for an endoscopic imaging system produces illumination for a camera through an endoscope. The light source unit includes an array of LEDs mounted to a thermally conductive substrate, a light guide to collect light emitted from the LEDs and to couple the light into a group of optical fibers within the endoscope, and an interface to allow the light source unit to be removably attached to the endoscope at the endoscope's external light port. The LEDs therein may be overdriven by power for increased light output. When the LEDs reach their lifetime, the light source unit can be discarded.

Abstract: An LED based light source unit for an endoscopic imaging system produces illumination for a camera through an endoscope. The light source unit includes an array of LEDs mounted to a thermally conductive substrate. The light source unit is integrated into the proximal end of an endoscope and coupled directly to the optical fibers running to the tip of the endoscope. A plurality of such light source units may be integrated into the housing of an endoscope. Light emitted from each light source unit is directed to a distinctive section of the endoscope's tip and a doctor may control light output of each individual light source unit during a surgery.

Abstract: A hand-held endoscopic surgical instrument, such as a camera or shaver, comprises an illuminated keypad operable by a user to operate the instrument.