Abstract: A retrofocus objective lens system which is conducive for an otoscope includes a first group of optical elements positioned at a distal portion and a second group of optical elements proximally spaced from the first group of optical elements. The first group of optical elements includes at least one negative small diameter lens while the second group of optical elements include a plurality of small diameter lenses having an aggregate optical power which is positive, allowing an image of interest to be transmitted through the system without any intermediate imaging planes, and without the need for rod lenses. The first and second lens groups are retained in a plurality of linearly interconnected lens tubes such that one lens tubes is linearly adjustable in relation to the remaining lens tubes in order to vary the focal length of the lens system.

Abstract: An imaging instrument includes a compact hand-held housing having an electronic imaging element supported within a housing, and a plurality of interchangeable instrument heads separably attachable to the housing. Each of the instrument heads includes an optical system disposed in alignment with the electronic imaging element along an instrument viewing axis. Preferably, the instrument further includes an integral display for displaying at least one captured or real-time video image as viewed through the instrument head of choice. The instrument includes a controller with sufficient programmable logic to capture and store a plurality of imaging images which can be transferred along with audio and/or annotation data relating to a captured image. Corresponding video and audio data can be then transferred using a receiving cradle to a computer which contains software which organizes the stored data for further processing.