US3698387A - Otoscope construction - Google Patents

Otoscope construction Download PDF

Info

Publication number
US3698387A
US3698387A US864348A US3698387DA US3698387A US 3698387 A US3698387 A US 3698387A US 864348 A US864348 A US 864348A US 3698387D A US3698387D A US 3698387DA US 3698387 A US3698387 A US 3698387A
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
otoscope
head
lens
closure
speculum
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
US864348A
Inventor
William C Moore
William S Pilgrim
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Welch Allyn Inc
Original Assignee
Welch Allyn Inc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Welch Allyn Inc filed Critical Welch Allyn Inc
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of US3698387A publication Critical patent/US3698387A/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61BDIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B1/00Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor
    • A61B1/227Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor for ears, i.e. otoscopes
    • A61B1/2275Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor for ears, i.e. otoscopes with controlled air pressure

Definitions

  • a more common type otoscope in use heretofore is one in which the head is provided, at the proximal end of the viewing passage, with a pivotally or hingedly connected closure which can be moved into passage closing position for use as a closed head instrument and swung completely clear of the passage for use as an open head instrument.
  • a problem with this type of otoscope is that it is difficult to get a good seal between the closure and head when the former is moved into closed position.
  • instruments of this construction insofar as applicants are aware, are invariably shaped and dimensioned so that only monocular vision is possible and there is usually insufficient space for both good viewing and instrumentation.
  • the invention to be disclosed herein is an otoscope that is readily convertible from an open to a closed head type, and vice versa, the closed head condition being effected by a slide closure having a novel construction that insures an airtight seal.
  • the otoscope head has a generally rectangular shape with a large proximal or rear end opening that permits binocular vision as well as more space for both viewing and instrumentation.
  • the slide closure which can be completely detached from the instrument head, comprises a lens and a lens frame formed of an elastomer whereby the elastomer frame operates as an airtight gasket between the lens and otoscope head when the closure is in position in the latter.
  • the elastomer lens frame in addition to providing a truly effective seal, protects the lens against breakage if the closure is dropped.
  • Making the closure completely detachable from the otoscope head is advantageous because it permits use of a number of interchangeable closures with different lenses.
  • Another advantage of the otoscope of the invention, as will appear more fully hereinafter, is that the head and speculum portions are molded as a one-piece or unitary construction which results in economies in production.
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an otoscope embodying the invention and the upper part of a supporting battery handle;
  • FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a pneumatic attachment for the otoscope
  • FIG. 3 is an enlarged side elevation of the otoscope with the slide closure in position therein;
  • FIG. 4 is a top plan view of the otoscope of FIG. 3;
  • FIGS. 5 and 6 are front and rear elevations, respectively, of the otoscope of FIG. 3 without the slide closure;
  • FIG. 7 is a vertical section taken on line 7-7 of FIG.
  • FIG. 8 is an enlarged rear elevation of the slide closure for the otoscope
  • FIG. 9 is a vertical section on line 9-9 of FIG. 8 with the lens not in section;
  • FIG. 10 is a horizontal section on line 10- 10 of FIG. 8 with the lens not in section;
  • FIG. 11 is a rear elevation of the lens for the slide closure
  • FIG. 12 is an end elevation of the lens
  • FIG. 13 is a top plan view of the lens.
  • the otoscope is mounted on a battery handle 16 of the type shown in US. Pat. No. 3,071,747, issued Jan. l, 1963 to W. C. Moore, one of the applicants herein.
  • the battery handle is held by the physician in using the instrument, and contains batteries (not shown), a switch button I7 and a rheostat dial 18.
  • the batteries supply power to a lamp 19, FIG. 7, mounted in a metal sleeve 20 which forms the otoscope base.
  • the otoscope is essentially comprised of a head portion 21 and a speculum portion 22 and preferably has a unitary or one-piece molded plastic construction.
  • the head portion 21 has a substantially rectangular configuration in rear elevation, FIG. 6, and its three-dimensional shape is that of a trapezoidal polyhedron as best shown in FIGS. 3 and 4.
  • the speculum portion 22 has a substantially frusto-conical configuration although its wall elements have a slightly concave curvature as indicated in FIGS. 3 and 4.
  • the head portion includes a cylindrical lug 24, FIG. 7, which is fixed as by epoxy cement to a tubular throat piece 25 and the base sleeve 20.
  • the otoscope is formed with a viewing passage 26 which extends continuously through its head and speculum portions. This passage is encircled at the distal end 27 thereof by a pre-forrned bundle 28 of clad light transmitting optical fibers, FIGS. 5 and 7, embedded in the otoscope wall. Near the proximal end of the instrument, the fiber bundle becomes cylindrical in shape and extends centrally down through lug 24 terminating in an optically ground and polished surface 29. The bundle end 29 is adapted to receive light from the lamp 19, the light being emitted in a substantially annular pattern at the distal end of the otoscope to illurninate the field of view.
  • the otoscope speculum portion is provided with a detachable hollow tip 30 which forms an extension of the viewing passage 26 in order to protect the fiber ends at 27 and space them from the area under examination.
  • This tip is formed with a rounded or bulbous distal end 300 to effect a good seal between the tip and wall of the ear canal.
  • the inside of the tip has a small lug (not shown) which engages a slot 31 in the speculum portion to releasably secure the parts together.
  • the fiber bundle arrangement and detachable passage extending tip are not considered to be novel per se having been disclosed in US. Pat. No. 3, I 46,775, issued Sept. 1, 1964 to applicant Moore and another.
  • the otoscope is formed with a relatively large, rectangular opening 32 at its proximal or rear end, FIGS. 6 and 7, which opening communicates with the viewing passage 26 through the instrument.
  • This opening extends completely across the proximal end of the instrument as best shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, and the upper and lower edges of the opening are undercut as at 34 to provide guide ways for a slide closure generally indicated by the reference number 35 and shown in FIGS. 1, 3 and 8-10.
  • the slide closure comprises a suitable lens 36, FIGS. 11-13, which may be a magnifying lens, and a lens frame 37 made of a relatively soft elastomer material.
  • Frame 37 is formed with a continuous interior channel 38 for receiving the peripheral edge of the lens, and its upper and lower edges are outwardly flared as at 39 for dovetailed engagement with the undercut edges 34.
  • the closure can thus be engaged with or disengaged from the otoscope by an endwise or lateral sliding movement and to this end, an elastomer with a low coefficient of friction is employed to facilitate the slidmg.
  • the elastomer frame 37 because of its elasticity and relative softness, makes total contact with the portions of the otoscope head it engages even if there should be an irregularity or roughness in the material of the head and insures an airtight seal between the closure and otoscope when the latter is to be used as a closed head or pneumatic type instrument.
  • the frame of elastomer material thus actually operates as a gasket between the relatively movable lens and otoscope while at the same time serving as a protective support for the lens.
  • air can be introduced into the latter by means of the pneumatic attachment of FIG. 2.
  • This comprises a compressible inflation bulb 40 and a flexible connecting tube 41, the latter having an end fitting 42 that is insertable in a hole 44 through the wall of the otoscope head portion.
  • the relatively wide proximal end opening 32 permits binocular vision in examining the illuminated field adjacent the distal end of the instrument, and this is true also when the slide closure 35 is in position because the usable portion of its lens is nearly as large as the usable portion of the opening, compare FIGS. 6 and 8.
  • the closure can if desired be displaced laterally just enough to permit the insertion of a slender auxiliary instrument, the closure in this case continuing to occupy most of the opening whereby the viewing is done through its lens.
  • an instrument an be provided with a number of i terchangeable rames having lenses or the like of di ferent characteristics.
  • the instrument can be provided with a telescope attachment, a photographic adapter or the like.
  • An otoscope having integrally molded head and speculum portions with an unobstructed viewing passage therethrough, said head portion having a substantially rectangular configuration in rear elevation, the head portion being formed with a rectangular rear opening extending substantially completely across the proximal end of said head portion and in communication with the viewing passage and guide ways adjacent a pair of opposite edges of the opening, a removable clo sure for the opening adapted to be slidably received in said ways, said closure comprising a lens and a rectangular frame for the lens formed of an elastomer with a low coefficient of friction, the elastomer frame operating as an airtight gasket between the lens and otoscope head when the closure is in position in the latter, and a bundle of light transmitting filaments embedded in said head and speculum portions for conducting light to the distal or front end of the otoscope from a source removed therefrom.

Landscapes

  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Surgery (AREA)
  • Nuclear Medicine, Radiotherapy & Molecular Imaging (AREA)
  • Biomedical Technology (AREA)
  • Optics & Photonics (AREA)
  • Pathology (AREA)
  • Radiology & Medical Imaging (AREA)
  • Biophysics (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Heart & Thoracic Surgery (AREA)
  • Medical Informatics (AREA)
  • Molecular Biology (AREA)
  • Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Public Health (AREA)
  • Veterinary Medicine (AREA)
  • Endoscopes (AREA)

Abstract

An otoscope constructed so that its head can be either open or closed, the closed head being employed when it is desired to introduce air into the ear canal. The otoscope has a generally rectangular shape and a large proximal end opening which is provided with a removable slide closure comprising a lens and lens frame of gasket material. The otoscope head and speculum portions are formed as a unitary member, and optical fibers are embedded therein to conduct light to the distal end of the speculum from a source removed therefrom.

Description

United States Patent Moore et al.
[ OTOSCOPE CONSTRUCTION [72] lnventors: William C. Moore, Skaneateles; William S. Pilgrim, Port Byron, both of [73] Assignee: Welch Allyn, lnc., Skaneateles Falls,
[22] Filed: Oct. 7, i969 2| Appl. No.: 864,348
[52] US. [51] Int. Cl. ..A6lb 1/22 [58] Field of Search ..l28l9, 6', 350/241, 247, 252;
[56] References Cited UNITED STATES PATENTS 1,588,79l 6/1926 De Zeng ..l23/9 Oct. 17, 1972 5/1968 ll/l968 Speelman 1 28/9 Benner ..3$0/252 X Primary Examiner-Lucie l-l. Laudenslager AttameyBruns & .lenney [57] ABSTRACT An otoscope constructed so that its head can be either open or closed, the closed head being employed when it is desired to introduce air into the ear canal. The otoscope has a generally rectangular shape and a large proximal end opening which is provided with a removable slide closure comprising a lens and lens frame of gasket material. The otoscope head and speculum portions are formed as a unitary member, and optical fibers are embedded therein to conduct light to the distal end of the speculum from a source removed therefrom.
1 Claim, 13 Drawing Figures PATENTEI] UN 1 7 I972 sum 1 or 2 INVENTORS. WILLIAM c. MOORE & WILLIAM $.PILGRIM OTOSCOPE CONSTRUCTION BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION This invention relates generally to medical diagnostic instruments, and has particular reference to a novel otoscope construction with improved means for using the instrument as a closed head or pneumatic type otoscope.
In an ear examination, it is often desirable to introduce air into the ear canal in order to observe the action of the tympanic membrane under pressure. This is done through an otoscope and requires an instrument with a closed head so that there is no air loss. Since it is also necessary to have open head otoscopes, i.e. with an open passage therethrough, for instrumentation or the like, some otoscopes of the prior art have been provided with heads of both types. This makes a complete instrument relatively expensive and has the disadvantage of necessitating frequent changing from one head to the other.
A more common type otoscope in use heretofore is one in which the head is provided, at the proximal end of the viewing passage, with a pivotally or hingedly connected closure which can be moved into passage closing position for use as a closed head instrument and swung completely clear of the passage for use as an open head instrument. A problem with this type of otoscope is that it is difficult to get a good seal between the closure and head when the former is moved into closed position. Another disadvantage is that instruments of this construction, insofar as applicants are aware, are invariably shaped and dimensioned so that only monocular vision is possible and there is usually insufficient space for both good viewing and instrumentation.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The invention to be disclosed herein is an otoscope that is readily convertible from an open to a closed head type, and vice versa, the closed head condition being effected by a slide closure having a novel construction that insures an airtight seal. Unlike conventional instruments, the otoscope head has a generally rectangular shape with a large proximal or rear end opening that permits binocular vision as well as more space for both viewing and instrumentation. The slide closure, which can be completely detached from the instrument head, comprises a lens and a lens frame formed of an elastomer whereby the elastomer frame operates as an airtight gasket between the lens and otoscope head when the closure is in position in the latter. The elastomer lens frame, in addition to providing a truly effective seal, protects the lens against breakage if the closure is dropped. Making the closure completely detachable from the otoscope head is advantageous because it permits use of a number of interchangeable closures with different lenses. Another advantage of the otoscope of the invention, as will appear more fully hereinafter, is that the head and speculum portions are molded as a one-piece or unitary construction which results in economies in production.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an otoscope embodying the invention and the upper part of a supporting battery handle;
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a pneumatic attachment for the otoscope;
FIG. 3 is an enlarged side elevation of the otoscope with the slide closure in position therein;
FIG. 4 is a top plan view of the otoscope of FIG. 3;
FIGS. 5 and 6 are front and rear elevations, respectively, of the otoscope of FIG. 3 without the slide closure;
FIG. 7 is a vertical section taken on line 7-7 of FIG.
FIG. 8 is an enlarged rear elevation of the slide closure for the otoscope;
FIG. 9 is a vertical section on line 9-9 of FIG. 8 with the lens not in section;
FIG. 10 is a horizontal section on line 10- 10 of FIG. 8 with the lens not in section;
FIG. 11 is a rear elevation of the lens for the slide closure;
FIG. 12 is an end elevation of the lens; and
FIG. 13 is a top plan view of the lens.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT Having reference now to the drawings, the otoscope, generally indicated by the reference number 15, is mounted on a battery handle 16 of the type shown in US. Pat. No. 3,071,747, issued Jan. l, 1963 to W. C. Moore, one of the applicants herein. The battery handle is held by the physician in using the instrument, and contains batteries (not shown), a switch button I7 and a rheostat dial 18. The batteries supply power to a lamp 19, FIG. 7, mounted in a metal sleeve 20 which forms the otoscope base.
The otoscope is essentially comprised of a head portion 21 and a speculum portion 22 and preferably has a unitary or one-piece molded plastic construction. The head portion 21 has a substantially rectangular configuration in rear elevation, FIG. 6, and its three-dimensional shape is that of a trapezoidal polyhedron as best shown in FIGS. 3 and 4. The speculum portion 22 has a substantially frusto-conical configuration although its wall elements have a slightly concave curvature as indicated in FIGS. 3 and 4. The head portion includes a cylindrical lug 24, FIG. 7, which is fixed as by epoxy cement to a tubular throat piece 25 and the base sleeve 20.
The otoscope is formed with a viewing passage 26 which extends continuously through its head and speculum portions. This passage is encircled at the distal end 27 thereof by a pre-forrned bundle 28 of clad light transmitting optical fibers, FIGS. 5 and 7, embedded in the otoscope wall. Near the proximal end of the instrument, the fiber bundle becomes cylindrical in shape and extends centrally down through lug 24 terminating in an optically ground and polished surface 29. The bundle end 29 is adapted to receive light from the lamp 19, the light being emitted in a substantially annular pattern at the distal end of the otoscope to illurninate the field of view.
As indicated in FIG. I, the otoscope speculum portion is provided with a detachable hollow tip 30 which forms an extension of the viewing passage 26 in order to protect the fiber ends at 27 and space them from the area under examination. This tip is formed with a rounded or bulbous distal end 300 to effect a good seal between the tip and wall of the ear canal. The inside of the tip has a small lug (not shown) which engages a slot 31 in the speculum portion to releasably secure the parts together. The fiber bundle arrangement and detachable passage extending tip are not considered to be novel per se having been disclosed in US. Pat. No. 3, I 46,775, issued Sept. 1, 1964 to applicant Moore and another.
In accord with the invention, the otoscope is formed with a relatively large, rectangular opening 32 at its proximal or rear end, FIGS. 6 and 7, which opening communicates with the viewing passage 26 through the instrument. This opening extends completely across the proximal end of the instrument as best shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, and the upper and lower edges of the opening are undercut as at 34 to provide guide ways for a slide closure generally indicated by the reference number 35 and shown in FIGS. 1, 3 and 8-10.
The slide closure comprises a suitable lens 36, FIGS. 11-13, which may be a magnifying lens, and a lens frame 37 made of a relatively soft elastomer material. Frame 37 is formed with a continuous interior channel 38 for receiving the peripheral edge of the lens, and its upper and lower edges are outwardly flared as at 39 for dovetailed engagement with the undercut edges 34. The closure can thus be engaged with or disengaged from the otoscope by an endwise or lateral sliding movement and to this end, an elastomer with a low coefficient of friction is employed to facilitate the slidmg.
The elastomer frame 37, because of its elasticity and relative softness, makes total contact with the portions of the otoscope head it engages even if there should be an irregularity or roughness in the material of the head and insures an airtight seal between the closure and otoscope when the latter is to be used as a closed head or pneumatic type instrument. The frame of elastomer material thus actually operates as a gasket between the relatively movable lens and otoscope while at the same time serving as a protective support for the lens.
With the slide closure 35 in position in the otoscope, and with the tip 30 in substantially airtight engagement with the walls of the ear canal, air can be introduced into the latter by means of the pneumatic attachment of FIG. 2. This comprises a compressible inflation bulb 40 and a flexible connecting tube 41, the latter having an end fitting 42 that is insertable in a hole 44 through the wall of the otoscope head portion.
The relatively wide proximal end opening 32, FIG. 6, permits binocular vision in examining the illuminated field adjacent the distal end of the instrument, and this is true also when the slide closure 35 is in position because the usable portion of its lens is nearly as large as the usable portion of the opening, compare FIGS. 6 and 8. With the closure removed, the wide and relatively large opening 32 pennits another instrument to be introduced into the passageway 26 without seriously obstructing the physician's vision. In this connection, the closure can if desired be displaced laterally just enough to permit the insertion of a slender auxiliary instrument, the closure in this case continuing to occupy most of the opening whereby the viewing is done through its lens. With a completely removable closure as disclosed herein, it will, of course, be apparent that an instrument an be provided with a number of i terchangeable rames having lenses or the like of di ferent characteristics. In addition, the instrument can be provided with a telescope attachment, a photographic adapter or the like.
From the foregoing description of the preferred embodiment of the invention, it will be apparent that an otoscope construction has been disclosed which provides substantial improvements over the prior art, the construction being at the same time economical to produce and efficient in operation.
We claim:
I. An otoscope having integrally molded head and speculum portions with an unobstructed viewing passage therethrough, said head portion having a substantially rectangular configuration in rear elevation, the head portion being formed with a rectangular rear opening extending substantially completely across the proximal end of said head portion and in communication with the viewing passage and guide ways adjacent a pair of opposite edges of the opening, a removable clo sure for the opening adapted to be slidably received in said ways, said closure comprising a lens and a rectangular frame for the lens formed of an elastomer with a low coefficient of friction, the elastomer frame operating as an airtight gasket between the lens and otoscope head when the closure is in position in the latter, and a bundle of light transmitting filaments embedded in said head and speculum portions for conducting light to the distal or front end of the otoscope from a source removed therefrom.
a a a a

Claims (1)

1. An otoscope having integrally molded head and speculum portions with an unobstructed viewing passage therethrough, said head portion having a substantially rectangular configuration in rear elevation, the head portion being formed with a rectangular rear opening extending substantially completely across the proximal end of said head portion and in communication with the viewing passage and guide ways adjacent a pair of opposite edges of the opening, a removable closure for the opening adapted to be slidably received in said ways, said closure comprising a lens and a rectangular frame for the lens formed of an elastomer with a low coefficient of friction, the elastomer frame operating as an airtight gasket between the lens and otoscope head when the closure is in position in the latter, and a bundle of light transmittinG filaments embedded in said head and speculum portions for conducting light to the distal or front end of the otoscope from a source removed therefrom.
US864348A 1969-10-07 1969-10-07 Otoscope construction Expired - Lifetime US3698387A (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US86434869A 1969-10-07 1969-10-07

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
US3698387A true US3698387A (en) 1972-10-17

Family

ID=25343071

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US864348A Expired - Lifetime US3698387A (en) 1969-10-07 1969-10-07 Otoscope construction

Country Status (5)

Country Link
US (1) US3698387A (en)
JP (1) JPS4911193B1 (en)
CA (1) CA920010A (en)
DE (2) DE2029892B2 (en)
GB (1) GB1264725A (en)

Cited By (34)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3949740A (en) * 1973-08-23 1976-04-13 Products International Marketing Disposable speculum for tympanic thermometer
US3978850A (en) * 1975-03-24 1976-09-07 Welch Allyn, Inc. Medical diagnostic instruments
US4106493A (en) * 1977-01-13 1978-08-15 The United States Of America As Represented By The Department Of Health, Education And Welfare Biphasic otoscopic air stimulator for performing clinical caloric tests
US4147163A (en) * 1977-09-06 1979-04-03 Welch Allyn, Inc. Medical instrument and handle assembly
US4380998A (en) * 1981-01-05 1983-04-26 Welch Allyn, Inc. Soft tip speculum
DE3323794A1 (en) * 1983-03-31 1984-10-04 Welch Allyn, Inc., Skaneateles Falls, N.Y. EAR TEST DEVICE
US4585437A (en) * 1983-03-17 1986-04-29 Simms Mark D Introducer for an umbilical artery catheter
DE4303756A1 (en) * 1992-02-10 1993-08-12 Machida Endoscope Co Ltd Clinical monitoring instrument incorporating optical fibre bundle - illuminates interior or organ by repetitive total internal reflection between both walls of hollow circular transparent cone
WO1995015712A1 (en) * 1993-12-10 1995-06-15 Madsen Electronics A/S Oto-acoustic emission analyser
US6011891A (en) * 1996-04-26 2000-01-04 Katzir; Abraham Infrared-transmitting-fiber-optic-cable-based device for non-contact thermometry
USD421123S (en) * 1998-12-09 2000-02-22 Welch Allyn, Inc. Speculum for otoscope
USD422359S (en) * 1998-07-24 2000-04-04 Welch Allyn, Inc. Hand-held medical diagnostic instrument handle
USD423668S (en) * 1998-12-10 2000-04-25 Pharmadesign Inc Otoscope
US6130520A (en) * 1998-03-13 2000-10-10 Welch Allyn, Inc. Diagnostic instrument system
US6190310B1 (en) * 1999-05-26 2001-02-20 Health & Technology, Inc. Disposable otoscope tip system
US6213938B1 (en) 1999-05-26 2001-04-10 Health & Technology, Inc. Disposable otoscope tip stacking system
US6383133B1 (en) * 1999-11-09 2002-05-07 Dwight T. Jones Otoscope kit
US20050027168A1 (en) * 2003-07-28 2005-02-03 Welch Allyn, Inc. Otoscopic tip element and related method of use
US20060252996A1 (en) * 2003-07-28 2006-11-09 Welch Allyn, Inc. Veterinary otoscope
US20080051637A1 (en) * 2003-07-28 2008-02-28 Welch Allyn, Inc. Digital otoscope
US20100073771A1 (en) * 2008-09-09 2010-03-25 Panasonic Corporation Light hood detachable mechanism
US20100314986A1 (en) * 2009-05-12 2010-12-16 David Gershaw Led retrofit for miniature bulbs
US20120088976A1 (en) * 2009-12-30 2012-04-12 Hassan Shehadeh System and method for suction-assisted object removal
US8543192B2 (en) 2011-11-10 2013-09-24 Welch Allyn, Inc. Method and apparatus for analyzing subsurfaces of a target material
DE102013208382A1 (en) * 2013-05-07 2014-11-13 Heine Optotechnik Gmbh & Co Kg otoscope
US8944596B2 (en) 2011-11-09 2015-02-03 Welch Allyn, Inc. Digital-based medical devices
CN105072969A (en) * 2013-02-05 2015-11-18 理查德·沃尔夫有限公司 Led lighting module
US9198560B2 (en) * 2012-03-19 2015-12-01 Welch Allyn, Inc. Medical diagnostic instrument
WO2016044261A1 (en) 2014-09-15 2016-03-24 Welch Allyn, Inc. Borescopic optical system for medical diagnostic instruments and medical diagnostic instruments having interlocking optical and illumination assemblies
US9445712B2 (en) 2014-02-25 2016-09-20 Welch Allyn, Inc. Medical device illuminator and charging system
US10078226B2 (en) 2013-10-14 2018-09-18 Welch Allyn, Inc. Portable eye viewing device enabled for enhanced field of view
US10667678B2 (en) 2018-04-10 2020-06-02 Anna J. Wujciak Ear instrument assembly
WO2021021587A1 (en) * 2019-07-26 2021-02-04 University Of Florida Research Foundation Calibrated pneumatic otoscope
US11147441B2 (en) 2018-01-16 2021-10-19 Welch Allyn, Inc. Physical assessment device

Families Citing this family (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE3009876C2 (en) * 1980-03-14 1985-07-18 Rudolf Riester Gmbh & Co Kg, Fabrik Med. Apparate, 7455 Jungingen Otoscope with ejector device
DE3414730A1 (en) * 1984-04-18 1985-10-31 Rudolf Riester Gmbh & Co Kg, Fabrik Med. Apparate, 7455 Jungingen OTOSCOPE AND METHOD FOR THE PRODUCTION THEREOF
SE449167B (en) * 1984-10-08 1987-04-13 Jorgen Thoren EXCHANGED FUNCH FOR INSTALLATION FOR INSTRUMENTS FOR DIAGNOSTICS AND TREATMENT OF OPENINGS FOR BODY CHANNELS
GB2185688A (en) * 1986-01-25 1987-07-29 Trevor Peter Andrew Clarke Device for cleansing ear canal

Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US1588791A (en) * 1922-06-17 1926-06-15 Dezeng Standard Company Otoscope
US3384076A (en) * 1966-11-14 1968-05-21 Propper Mfg Co Inc Otoscope head
US3411158A (en) * 1966-02-17 1968-11-19 Air Reduction Lens retaining unit

Patent Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US1588791A (en) * 1922-06-17 1926-06-15 Dezeng Standard Company Otoscope
US3411158A (en) * 1966-02-17 1968-11-19 Air Reduction Lens retaining unit
US3384076A (en) * 1966-11-14 1968-05-21 Propper Mfg Co Inc Otoscope head

Cited By (65)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3949740A (en) * 1973-08-23 1976-04-13 Products International Marketing Disposable speculum for tympanic thermometer
US3978850A (en) * 1975-03-24 1976-09-07 Welch Allyn, Inc. Medical diagnostic instruments
US4106493A (en) * 1977-01-13 1978-08-15 The United States Of America As Represented By The Department Of Health, Education And Welfare Biphasic otoscopic air stimulator for performing clinical caloric tests
US4147163A (en) * 1977-09-06 1979-04-03 Welch Allyn, Inc. Medical instrument and handle assembly
US4380998A (en) * 1981-01-05 1983-04-26 Welch Allyn, Inc. Soft tip speculum
US4585437A (en) * 1983-03-17 1986-04-29 Simms Mark D Introducer for an umbilical artery catheter
US4567881A (en) * 1983-03-31 1986-02-04 Welch Allyn Inc. Combination otoscope and audiometer
DE3323794A1 (en) * 1983-03-31 1984-10-04 Welch Allyn, Inc., Skaneateles Falls, N.Y. EAR TEST DEVICE
DE4303756A1 (en) * 1992-02-10 1993-08-12 Machida Endoscope Co Ltd Clinical monitoring instrument incorporating optical fibre bundle - illuminates interior or organ by repetitive total internal reflection between both walls of hollow circular transparent cone
US5345926A (en) * 1992-02-10 1994-09-13 Kabushiki Kaisha Machida Seisakusho Medical observation instrument
WO1995015712A1 (en) * 1993-12-10 1995-06-15 Madsen Electronics A/S Oto-acoustic emission analyser
US5738633A (en) * 1993-12-10 1998-04-14 Madsen Electronics A/S Oto-acoustic emission analyser
US6149605A (en) * 1993-12-10 2000-11-21 Madsen Electronics A/S Oto-acoustic emission analyzer
US6011891A (en) * 1996-04-26 2000-01-04 Katzir; Abraham Infrared-transmitting-fiber-optic-cable-based device for non-contact thermometry
US6130520A (en) * 1998-03-13 2000-10-10 Welch Allyn, Inc. Diagnostic instrument system
USD422359S (en) * 1998-07-24 2000-04-04 Welch Allyn, Inc. Hand-held medical diagnostic instrument handle
USD421123S (en) * 1998-12-09 2000-02-22 Welch Allyn, Inc. Speculum for otoscope
USD423668S (en) * 1998-12-10 2000-04-25 Pharmadesign Inc Otoscope
US6190310B1 (en) * 1999-05-26 2001-02-20 Health & Technology, Inc. Disposable otoscope tip system
US6213938B1 (en) 1999-05-26 2001-04-10 Health & Technology, Inc. Disposable otoscope tip stacking system
US6383133B1 (en) * 1999-11-09 2002-05-07 Dwight T. Jones Otoscope kit
US20080051637A1 (en) * 2003-07-28 2008-02-28 Welch Allyn, Inc. Digital otoscope
US20060252996A1 (en) * 2003-07-28 2006-11-09 Welch Allyn, Inc. Veterinary otoscope
US20050027168A1 (en) * 2003-07-28 2005-02-03 Welch Allyn, Inc. Otoscopic tip element and related method of use
US7354399B2 (en) * 2003-07-28 2008-04-08 Welch Allyn, Inc. Otoscopic tip element and related method of use
US20080139888A1 (en) * 2003-07-28 2008-06-12 Welch Allyn, Inc. Otoscopic tip element and related method of use
US11805990B2 (en) 2003-07-28 2023-11-07 Welch Allyn, Inc. Digital otoscope
US7803110B2 (en) * 2003-07-28 2010-09-28 Welch Allyn, Inc. Veterinary otoscope
US11071446B2 (en) 2003-07-28 2021-07-27 Welch Allyn, Inc. Digital otoscope
US8066634B2 (en) 2003-07-28 2011-11-29 Welch Allyn, Inc. Digital otoscope
US10966600B2 (en) 2003-07-28 2021-04-06 Welch Allyn, Inc. Digital otoscope
US10470650B2 (en) 2003-07-28 2019-11-12 Welch Allyn, Inc. Digital otoscope
US8197403B2 (en) 2003-07-28 2012-06-12 Welch Allyn, Inc. Otoscopic instrument having tip attachment and ejecting mechanism
US8231235B2 (en) * 2008-09-09 2012-07-31 Panasonic Corporation Light hood detachable mechanism
US20100073771A1 (en) * 2008-09-09 2010-03-25 Panasonic Corporation Light hood detachable mechanism
US20100314986A1 (en) * 2009-05-12 2010-12-16 David Gershaw Led retrofit for miniature bulbs
US8106569B2 (en) 2009-05-12 2012-01-31 Remphos Technologies Llc LED retrofit for miniature bulbs
US20120088976A1 (en) * 2009-12-30 2012-04-12 Hassan Shehadeh System and method for suction-assisted object removal
US9642517B2 (en) 2011-11-09 2017-05-09 Welch Allyn, Inc. Digital-based medical devices
US8944596B2 (en) 2011-11-09 2015-02-03 Welch Allyn, Inc. Digital-based medical devices
US11553981B2 (en) 2011-11-09 2023-01-17 Welch Allyn, Inc. Digital-based medical devices
US10238462B2 (en) 2011-11-09 2019-03-26 Welch Allyn, Inc. Digital-based medical devices
US9345407B2 (en) 2011-11-10 2016-05-24 Welch Allyn, Inc. Method and apparatus for analyzing subsurfaces of a target material
US9014792B2 (en) 2011-11-10 2015-04-21 Welch Allyn, Inc. Method and apparatus for analyzing subsurfaces of a target material
US8543192B2 (en) 2011-11-10 2013-09-24 Welch Allyn, Inc. Method and apparatus for analyzing subsurfaces of a target material
US9198560B2 (en) * 2012-03-19 2015-12-01 Welch Allyn, Inc. Medical diagnostic instrument
CN105072969A (en) * 2013-02-05 2015-11-18 理查德·沃尔夫有限公司 Led lighting module
DE102013208382A1 (en) * 2013-05-07 2014-11-13 Heine Optotechnik Gmbh & Co Kg otoscope
US9579014B2 (en) 2013-05-07 2017-02-28 Heine Optotechnik Gmbh & Co. Kg Otoscope
DE102013208382B4 (en) 2013-05-07 2018-10-25 Heine Optotechnik Gmbh & Co Kg otoscope
US10078226B2 (en) 2013-10-14 2018-09-18 Welch Allyn, Inc. Portable eye viewing device enabled for enhanced field of view
US11234586B2 (en) 2014-02-25 2022-02-01 Welch Allyn, Inc. Medical device illuminator and charging system
US10362932B2 (en) 2014-02-25 2019-07-30 Welch Allyn, Inc. Medical device illuminator and charging system
US9445712B2 (en) 2014-02-25 2016-09-20 Welch Allyn, Inc. Medical device illuminator and charging system
US10028648B2 (en) 2014-09-15 2018-07-24 Welch Allyn, Inc. Borescopic optical system for medical diagnostic instruments and medical diagnostic instruments having interlocking assembly features
WO2016044261A1 (en) 2014-09-15 2016-03-24 Welch Allyn, Inc. Borescopic optical system for medical diagnostic instruments and medical diagnostic instruments having interlocking optical and illumination assemblies
US10548468B2 (en) 2014-09-15 2020-02-04 Welch Allyn, Inc. Borescopic optical system for medical diagnostic instruments and medical diagnostic instruments having interlocking assembly features
EP3977914A1 (en) 2014-09-15 2022-04-06 Welch Allyn, Inc. Borescopic optical system for medical diagnostic instruments and medical diagnostic instruments having interlocking optical and illumination assemblies
US11457802B2 (en) 2014-09-15 2022-10-04 Welch Allyn, Inc. Borescopic optical system for medical diagnostic instruments and medical diagnostic instruments having interlocking assembly features
US9675246B2 (en) 2014-09-15 2017-06-13 Welch Allyn, Inc. Borescopic optical system for medical diagnostic instruments and medical diagnostic instruments having interlocking assembly features
US11147441B2 (en) 2018-01-16 2021-10-19 Welch Allyn, Inc. Physical assessment device
USD959661S1 (en) 2018-01-16 2022-08-02 Welch Allyn, Inc. Medical viewing device
US10667678B2 (en) 2018-04-10 2020-06-02 Anna J. Wujciak Ear instrument assembly
WO2021021587A1 (en) * 2019-07-26 2021-02-04 University Of Florida Research Foundation Calibrated pneumatic otoscope
US20220257107A1 (en) * 2019-07-26 2022-08-18 University Of Florida Research Foundation Calibrated pneumatic otoscope

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
JPS4911193B1 (en) 1974-03-15
GB1264725A (en) 1972-02-23
CA920010A (en) 1973-01-30
DE7022759U (en) 1973-02-15
DE2029892B2 (en) 1972-05-10
DE2029892A1 (en) 1971-04-15

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US3698387A (en) Otoscope construction
US3162190A (en) Diagnostic and exploratory instrument
US4006738A (en) Otoscope construction
US3848587A (en) Ear, nose and throat examining instrument
US5919130A (en) Video otoscope
US4802460A (en) Endoscope illuminating optical system device
US4414962A (en) Operating arthroscope
US4651201A (en) Stereoscopic endoscope arrangement
US5394863A (en) Vaginal fornix illuminator
US7901351B2 (en) Fiberoptic otoscope system
CA2309151C (en) Video rectoscope
US3913568A (en) Nasopharyngoscope
US4785796A (en) Otoscope and flexible, disposable curette for use therewith
US4215678A (en) Endoscope
AU2004261180B2 (en) Otoscope
US5873818A (en) Laryngoscope with enhanced viewing capability
US3384076A (en) Otoscope head
GB1526228A (en) Electrically illuminated medical diagnostic instruments
CA2368226C (en) Vaginal speculum with seal
US20140336467A1 (en) Otoscope
WO2023109858A1 (en) Flexible and hard combined endoscope having rinsing and suction functions
US5402771A (en) Anterior commissure laryngoscope
US5196964A (en) Magnifier
US5873819A (en) Pneumatic otoscope
CN216754407U (en) Detachable disposable endoscope