Abstract: An objective of an endoscope can be evaluated by collecting a series of differently focused images and digitally stitching them together to obtain a final image for the endoscope that can be then evaluated. Movable optics and/or a camera can be used to collect the series of differently focused images. Image processing algorithms can be used to evaluate the collected images in terms of image sharpness and identify the areas at which each image is in relatively good focus. Once the areas of good focus are identified, the image processing algorithms can extract the areas of good focus. The digital stitching algorithms can be used to assemble the extracted areas of good focus to form a final image where most of the target scene should be in focus. The final image is then reviewed to determine the acceptability of the objective.

Abstract: An objective of an endoscope can be evaluated by collecting a series of differently focused images and digitally stitching them together to obtain a final image for the endoscope that can be then evaluated. Movable optics and/or a camera can be used to collect the series of differently focused images. Image processing algorithms can be used to evaluate the collected images in terms of image sharpness and identify the areas at which each image is in relatively good focus. Once the areas of good focus are identified, the image processing algorithms can extract the areas of good focus. The digital stitching algorithms can be used to assemble the extracted areas of good focus to form a final image where most of the target scene should be in focus. The final image is then reviewed to determine the acceptability of the objective.

Abstract: An objective of an endoscope can be evaluated by collecting a series of differently focused images and digitally stitching them together to obtain a final image for the endoscope that can be then evaluated. Movable optics and/or a camera can be used to collect the series of differently focused images. Image processing algorithms can be used to evaluate the collected images in terms of image sharpness and identify the areas at which each image is in relatively good focus. Once the areas of good focus are identified, the image processing algorithms can extract the areas of good focus. The digital stitching algorithms can be used to assemble the extracted areas of good focus to form a final image where most of the target scene should be in focus. The final image is then reviewed to determine the acceptability of the objective.

Abstract: The present disclosure generally pertains to endoscopes configured to utilize a single optical channel for both image extraction and illumination. In certain embodiments, the disclosure contemplates an endoscope configured with a source of illumination outside of the visible spectrum, such as ultraviolet (UV) light, with the endoscope configured to down-convert such illumination into visible light at the distal end of the endoscope. This configuration not only avoids or reduces image flooding caused by the unwanted reflections on optical surfaces within the endoscope relays and objective, but also doubles the effective area of the lenses, thereby allowing higher quality imaging.

Abstract: A directional illumination system for use with an endoscope for creating shadows in an object field for improving depth perception and contrast. The directional illumination system includes an endoscope distal tip including a plurality of light ports and a plurality of illumination fibers extending within the endoscope distal tip and arranged to direct light through the plurality of light ports onto an object field. At least one light source is operatively coupled to the plurality of illumination fibers for supplying light to the illumination fibers. A switching mechanism is operatively coupled to the plurality of illumination fibers and the at least one light source for selectively delivering light to the illumination fibers.

Abstract: The present disclosure generally pertains to endoscopes configured to utilize a single optical channel for both image extraction and illumination. In certain embodiments, the disclosure contemplates an endoscope configured with a source of illumination outside of the visible spectrum, such as ultraviolet (UV) light, with the endoscope configured to down-convert such illumination into visible light at the distal end of the endoscope. This configuration not only avoids or reduces image flooding caused by the unwanted reflections on optical surfaces within the endoscope relays and objective, but also doubles the effective area of the lenses, thereby allowing higher quality imaging.