US3698387A - Otoscope construction - Google Patents
Otoscope construction Download PDFInfo
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- 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
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- otoscope
- head
- lens
- closure
- speculum
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- Expired - Lifetime
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- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 title description 10
- 229920001971 elastomer Polymers 0.000 claims description 11
- 239000000806 elastomer Substances 0.000 claims description 11
- 210000003128 head Anatomy 0.000 abstract description 28
- 210000000613 ear canal Anatomy 0.000 abstract description 5
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 abstract description 5
- 239000013307 optical fiber Substances 0.000 abstract description 3
- 239000000835 fiber Substances 0.000 description 3
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229920006333 epoxy cement Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 238000003780 insertion Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000037431 insertion Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000002991 molded plastic Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000002093 peripheral effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000001681 protective effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 210000003454 tympanic membrane Anatomy 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
- A61B1/00—Instruments 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
- A61B1/227—Instruments 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
- A61B1/2275—Instruments 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.
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- 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)
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- 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.
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)
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)
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 |
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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 |
-
1969
- 1969-10-07 US US864348A patent/US3698387A/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
-
1970
- 1970-06-08 CA CA084919A patent/CA920010A/en not_active Expired
- 1970-06-18 DE DE19702029892 patent/DE2029892B2/en not_active Withdrawn
- 1970-06-18 DE DE19707022759U patent/DE7022759U/en not_active Expired
- 1970-06-23 JP JP45054704A patent/JPS4911193B1/ja active Pending
- 1970-08-12 GB GB1264725D patent/GB1264725A/en not_active Expired
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---|---|---|---|---|
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 |
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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 |
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US8197403B2 (en) | 2003-07-28 | 2012-06-12 | Welch Allyn, Inc. | Otoscopic instrument having tip attachment and ejecting mechanism |
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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 |
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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 |
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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 |
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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 |
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