Patent ID: 9204787
Filing Date: 2015-12-08
Classification: A61B,G02B

Abstract:
1. A panning stereo endoscope which maintains an up-down orientation as the stereo endoscope pans an operative field, the panning stereo endoscope comprising: a shaft having an axis; first and second optical channels extending along the shaft, each of the first and second optical channels having an off-axis direction of view; and an actuating mechanism carried by the shaft and adapted to (i) synchronously rotate the first and second optical channels about their respective axes, and (ii) synchronously, inversely piston the first and second optical channels along their respective axes; wherein each of the first and second optical channels comprises a direction of view prism, an objective lens, at least one optical relay and an ocular portion; wherein the direction of view prism, the objective lens, the at least one optical relay and the ocular portion together comprise an optics tube assembly configured to rotate and piston as a unit; and wherein the actuating mechanism comprises a ring gear and a cam, the ring gear and the cam being connected so that they rotate in unison.