Abstract:
A system for wirelessly transmitting data from an endoscope, comprising an endoscope having a control body, an insertion tube extending from the control body, the distal end of the insertion tube containing an image sensor and a light source, and a control head connected to the control body, which comprises a battery; a light source amplifier connected to the battery, the light source amplifier operable to boost the intensity of the light source; a video processor configured to create compressed video data from a video stream captured via the image sensor; and a wireless communication module configured to negotiate a wireless connection with a mobile device, wherein the wireless communication module is further configured to transmit the compressed video data to the mobile device over the wireless connection, and wherein the wireless communication module comprises a channel discriminator configured to automatically avoid RF interference.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/998,690, filed Jul. 7, 2014. 
     
    
     STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT 
       [0002]    Not Applicable 
       PARTIES TO A JOINT RESEARCH AGREEMENT 
       [0003]    Not Applicable 
       REFERENCE TO SEQUENCE LISTING, TABLE, OR COMPUTER PROGRAM LISTING APPENDIX 
       [0004]    Not Applicable 
       STATEMENT REGARDING PRIOR DISCLOSURES BY THE INVENTOR OR A JOINT INVENTOR 
       [0005]    Not Applicable 
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0006]    1. Field of the Invention 
         [0007]    This invention relates in general to the field of medical devices, and more particularly to a system and method for wirelessly transmitting operational data from an endoscope to a remote device. 
         [0008]    Doctors and veterinarians rely on a bevy of medical imaging technologies, including x-rays, x-ray fluoroscopy, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and CT/PET scans to obtain different views of a patient&#39;s symptoms and anatomy. However, for some conditions, it may be advantageous or necessary to gather real-time operational data from inside the body by relying on a device known as an endoscope. 
         [0009]    Endoscopes can be used in a variety of medical procedures. For example, an endoscope may be used to investigate symptoms in the digestive system by searching for the source of abdominal pain or gastrointestinal bleeding. Endoscopes may also be used to confirm a diagnosis, most commonly by performing a biopsy to check for inflammation and cancers of the digestive system. Additionally, treatments may be administered via an endoscope, such as cauterization of a bleeding vessel, widening a narrow esophagus, clipping off a polyp, or removing a foreign object. 
         [0010]    During an endoscopy procedure or examination, an endoscope tube is inserted into a body cavity, such as: the stomach, duodenum, small intestine or large intestine. The insertion tube contains an optical device and a light source that allows the examiner to view the inside of the body cavity via an eyepiece or wired monitor. 
         [0011]    2. Description of Related Art 
         [0012]      FIG. 1  shows an example of a complete endoscopy system, indicated generally at  100 , as it is used in most cases today. The endoscope described above would typically be supported by a wired monitor  108 , wired light source, wired video processor  116 , wired recorder, and a wired printer  112 . The typical dimension for this complete tower is three feet in width by 6 feet in height. The light source and video processor  116  are hard-wired to the endoscope via a cable  118  that contains one entry point at one end that connects to the endoscope  102  and a dual entry point (not depicted) at the other end that allows connection to the video processor  116  and light source. 
         [0013]    In the case where a wired monitor is used, the configuration illustrated in  FIG. 1  is undoubtedly required. Such a configuration limits the usage of the endoscope to procedures conducted in the examiner&#39;s office due to the size and weight of the supporting equipment. Mobility is extremely limited due to its bulky nature. In most cases, the physical presence of the complete system  100  with its bulky componentry and cabling forces the owner to commit significant office area for usage and storage. 
         [0014]    In configurations where an eyepiece is used, the position of the eyepiece requires the examiner to stand in close proximity of the patient. Additionally, this option, by itself, does not provide the capability to capture images and video, nor does it allow for printing or the possibility of other integrated functionality. Use with an eyepiece can also present unique challenges for veterinarians, who must stand in close proximity to an animal patient, which may become spooked during the operation. 
         [0015]      FIG. 2  illustrates a portable wired videoscope, indicated generally at  200 , which attempts to alleviate these shortcomings, among others, by replacing the eyepiece equipped endoscope with a display unit  208  wired  204  to the endoscope  202  stabilized by a grip  206 . The display unit  208  interprets the signal from the endoscope camera (not shown), which is carried via a special-purpose, wired electronic interface  204 . The endoscope body  202  conducts the camera lead wires and the light guide from the distal end of the insertion tube to the wired display unit  208 . Any signal processing is conducted solely within the display unit  208 . Such an encapsulated approach leads to expensive proprietary solutions that handcuff the display technology to the signal processing unit and preclude the substitution of other general purpose displays such as a smart device or tablet. Additionally, the videoscope  200  would still have to be wired to an external light source. 
       BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0016]    In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, a system and method for wirelessly transmitting operational data from an endoscope to a remote device is provided which substantially eliminates or reduces disadvantages associated with previous systems and methods. 
         [0017]    In accordance with one embodiment, a system is provided for wirelessly transmitting data from an endoscope, comprising an endoscope having a control body, an insertion tube extending from the control body and housing an image sensor and a light source in its distal end, and a control head connected to the control body, which comprises a battery, a light source amplifier connected to the battery, the light source amplifier, a video processor configured to create compressed video data from a video stream captured via the image sensor, and a wireless communication module configured to negotiate a wireless connection with a mobile device, wherein the wireless communication module is further configured to transmit the compressed video data to the mobile device over the wireless connection, and wherein the wireless communication module comprises a channel discriminator configured to automatically avoid RF interference. In particular embodiments, the present invention further includes a wireless communication module configured to negotiate a second wireless connection with a second mobile device and to simultaneously transmit the compressed video data to the second mobile device over the second wireless connection. 
         [0018]    In accordance with another embodiment, a method is provided for sharing data on a mobile device wirelessly connected to an endoscope, comprising the steps of: establishing a wireless connection from a first device to a wireless endoscope, receiving video data on the first device from the wireless endoscope over the wireless connection, creating a symbol on the first device based on the video data received from the wireless endoscope, and transmitting the symbol to a second device connected to the wireless endoscope, the symbol to be displayed on the second device alongside the video data. 
         [0019]    In accordance with yet another embodiment, a system is provided for transporting and charging the system of claim  1 , comprising: a force damping system nested within a rigid outer shell, a cavity within the force damping system suitable to receive a stowed device, a charging interface, a transformer connected to the charging interface, a power management controller configured to manage charging of the stowed device, a power cord connected to the transformer, and a battery level indicator configured to monitor power status notifications from the stowed device. In particular embodiments, the present invention further includes charging coils operable to charge the stowed device using wireless induction. 
         [0020]    One advantage of the present invention is its adaptability. For example, wireless transmission of operational data allows an examiner to monitor an ongoing operation using the examiner&#39;s personal device, such as: a smart phone, a tablet, a head-mounted display, or a monitor. 
         [0021]    Remote monitoring of an endoscopy procedure provides yet another advantage of the many embodiments by enabling classrooms or seminars to participate in a live operation. This opens up new possibilities where only a passive review of prerecorded operations was previously possible. Clinical studies may be expanded beyond centralized operational facilities to remote sites, such as a battlefield, emergency clinic, or even a barn. When coupled with the operational data sharing method discussed in detail below, the remote networking capabilities enable new and useful telemedicine applications. For example, an experienced physician could oversee multiple concurrent off-site operations conducted by junior physicians, and provide operational feedback through his monitoring device. 
         [0022]    Another advantage of the present invention is its portability. For human patients, endoscopy procedures are performed in centralized facilities, such as a hospital or clinic, where the equipment may be stored and operated. It is reasonable to expect a patient to travel to and from the facility to have the operation performed. However, for veterinarians performing similar operations, it is not cost effective to transport a large animal, such as a horse or a cow, to a clinic or animal hospital. This is especially true for large marine animals, such as a whale or dolphin. Accordingly, the relatively small footprint of the many embodiments enables veterinarians to travel off-site to perform endoscopy operations. Furthermore, it enables veterinarians to schedule the examination of multiple animals at the same site, or schedule multiple operations in the same day and travel from site to site. 
         [0023]    In order to achieve the main objective, the present invention is directed to the satisfaction of the capabilities required from a conventional endoscope comprising a main body, an insertion tube, valves connected to guide channels to support air, water, and therapeutic instruments, therapeutic instrument insertion port, and angulation knobs and componentry; all of which comprise an existing FDA approved medical device. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0024]    For a more complete understanding of the present invention and its advantages, reference is now made to the following description and the accompanying drawings, in which: 
           [0025]      FIG. 1  illustrates a conventional video endoscope tethered to a monitoring station; 
           [0026]      FIG. 2  illustrates a portable videoendoscope wired to a specially designed monitoring device; 
           [0027]      FIG. 3  illustrates a veterinary endoscopy examination using a wireless endoscope connected to a mobile device; 
           [0028]      FIG. 4A  illustrates a perspective view of a wireless endoscope featuring a flexible insertion tube in accordance with one embodiment; 
           [0029]      FIG. 4B  illustrates an enlarged perspective view of the distal end of a flexible insertion tube; 
           [0030]      FIG. 5  illustrates a side view of a wireless endoscope with a rigid insertion tube; 
           [0031]      FIG. 6  illustrates a cutaway view of a flexible insertion tube; 
           [0032]      FIG. 7  illustrates a detachable wireless endoscope control head connected to an endoscope control body via an interface in accordance with one embodiment; 
           [0033]      FIG. 8  illustrates a perspective view showing a fully-encapsulated wireless endoscope control unit in accordance with one embodiment; 
           [0034]      FIG. 9  illustrates a cutaway view of a wireless endoscope control head in perspective for use in a fully-encapsulated wireless endoscope control unit; 
           [0035]      FIG. 10  is a block diagram illustrating an image sensor circuit in accordance with one embodiment; 
           [0036]      FIG. 11  is a block diagram illustrating the wireless module of a control circuit for a wireless endoscope in accordance with one embodiment; 
           [0037]      FIG. 12  illustrates a system for transmitting operational data from an endoscopy procedure to a plurality of devices in accordance with one embodiment; 
           [0038]      FIG. 13  is a block diagram illustrating the control logic for a wireless endoscope in accordance with one embodiment; 
           [0039]      FIGS. 14A and 14B  illustrate perspective views of a carrying case, in opened and closed configurations, for stowing and charging a wireless endoscopy system; 
           [0040]      FIGS. 15A ,  15 B, and  15 C show several views illustrating the wireless transmission of operational data to a variety of devices; 
           [0041]      FIG. 16  is a data flow diagram illustrating a method of sharing operational data sharing across multiple devices; 
           [0042]      FIG. 17  is a sequence diagram illustrating a method of sharing operational data across multiple devices; and 
           [0043]      FIGS. 18A and 18B  show several views illustrating an optical system in accordance with one embodiment. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       [0044]    Referring to the drawings, embodiments of the present invention will be described below. 
         [0045]      FIG. 3  illustrates a respiratory endoscopy examination being performed on a horse, indicated generally at  300 , using a wireless endoscope  308  connected to a mobile device  304  in accordance with one embodiment. As  FIG. 3  demonstrates, wireless endoscopy is particularly useful in applications where a patient is not fully sedated or restrained. During an operation, the insertion tube  306  of the wireless endoscope  308  is introduced into the horse&#39;s  310  respiratory system via its nostril. Attendant  312  stabilizes the horse  310  and guides the insertion tube  306  during the operation. The veterinarian  314  observes the operation on the display  304 , which may be supported by a tripod or stand, while controlling the endoscope  308 . 
         [0046]    If a veterinary patient, such as a horse, becomes spooked during an operation, the absence of wires can reduce trauma to the animal, which has less equipment attached to it, as well as minimize harm to attending persons and equipment. Likewise, a wireless operating environment eliminates tripping hazards, which can be a common source of physician injury during operations. Such injuries are especially commonplace during laparoscopic inseminations of game animals, which are often conducted on multiple animals simultaneously with wires crisscrossing the floor of the operating environment. 
         [0047]      FIG. 4A  illustrates a perspective view of a wireless endoscope featuring a flexible insertion tube in accordance with one embodiment. The wireless endoscope is comprised of a wireless control head  404 , a control body  406 , and a flexible insertion tube  402 . The endoscope control body  406  features a biopsy port  414  and angulation knobs  412 , which manipulate the distal end  410  of the flexible insertion tube  402 . The wireless control head  404  attaches to the control body  406  via a mechanical coupling that houses an electronic data/control interface  408  (described in further detail in  FIGS. 9 and 13 ). The data interface connects to the optical system, which originates in the control body and extends to the distal end  410  of the flexible insertion tube  402 . The control body  406  may include a light source (usually an LED), which transfers the light to the distal end  410  of the insertion tube via a fiber optic light guide bundle. Alternatively, the light source may be located in the distal end of the insertion tube and powered by the wireless control head  404  via the data/control interface  408 . 
         [0048]      FIG. 4B  illustrates an enlarged perspective view of the distal end assembly  410  of a flexible insertion tube  402 , indicated generally at  450 , that includes a channel for air and water  458 , a water nozzle  460 , an optical system  462 , optional suction  454 , and a biopsy channel  456 . The distal end assembly  410  is enclosed with a cap  452  that works in conjunction with the insertion tube  402  to seal the endoscope instruments from fluids. As illustrated, the optical system comprises a light source and a camera combined into one lens system; however, alternative embodiments may separate the light source and camera across different channels within the insertion tube. 
         [0049]    In operation, the angulation knobs  412  manipulate the distal end  410  so as to direct the optical system. A light lens focuses light from the light source onto a subject within the body. A camera lens then focuses the light reflected from the illuminated subject onto an image sensor (e.g, a CCD, CMOS, NMOS, or PMOS image sensor) housed in the distal end  410 . The image sensor records the captured light as image or video data and transmits it to the control head  404  via lead wires that run from the distal end  410  to the control body  406  and terminate at the data/control interface  408 . If fluids or other body matter obstruct the optical system  462 , a nozzle  460  can be used to direct air or water to clear the obstruction. 
         [0050]      FIG. 5  illustrates a side view of a wireless endoscope with a rigid insertion tube, indicated generally at  500 . The wireless endoscope  500  is comprised of a control head  505 , a control button  503 , a rigid insertion tube  502 , and a sheath lock  506 . 
         [0051]      FIG. 6  illustrates a cutaway view of a flexible insertion tube, indicated generally at  600 , which includes four angulation wires  612 , a wire for variable stiffness  612 , various special purpose channels, an optical system, and protective sheathing. The special purpose channels include a water channel  606 , air channel  608 , biopsy/suction channel  610 , and water jet channel  618 . The optical system includes sensor/light package and signal, power, and ground wires  624 . A light emitting diode (LED) or a laser diode (LD) light source (not shown) may be embedded in the distal end of the insertion tube and powered by the optical system wires  624 . However, in some embodiments, the diode light source may be replaced with a fiber optic light guide bundle that runs the length of the insertion tube and is illuminated by a light source contained within the control head or control body. The angulation wires  612  are arranged in two sets of wire pairs that are oriented along an x- and y-axis respectively. Inner  620  and outer  604  spiral metal bands are wound in opposite directions to help translate torque from the angulation wires  612  along the long axis of the tube, as well as to protect the special purpose channels and optical system. A flexible stainless steel wire mesh  602 , coated by a polymer outer layer  622 , protects the spiral bands and contents. The polymer outer layer  622  is made of a biomaterial that seals the tube and its contents from liquids and features a smooth surface in order to minimize trauma as the insertion tube passes through the body. 
         [0052]    In operation, rotation of an angulation knob via the control body shortens or lengthens one wire of a wire pair with respect to the other wire, thus causing the distal end of the flexible insertion tube to bend in a particular direction along the axis defined by the wire pair. 
         [0053]      FIG. 7  illustrates a detachable wireless endoscope control head connected to an endoscope control body via an interface in accordance with one embodiment. The wireless endoscope system is indicated generally at  700 , and includes a wireless control head  704 , an endoscope control body  728 , and an insertion tube  726 . The endoscope control body  728  is comprised of angulation knobs ( 720  and  732 ), an angulation lock  722 , a therapeutic instrument insertion port  724 , and a control coupling  702 . The control head  704  is comprised of a control button  708 , device status indicators ( 710 ,  712 , and  714 ), a speaker  706 , a control dial  716 , and a control port  718  suitable for connection to the control coupling  702 . Because the presence and configuration of angulation knobs and componentry vary for each type of endoscope, other embodiments may feature an endoscope control body that omits some of the above features or includes other features not listed herein. 
         [0054]    The control button  708  is used to power the device on or off. Depressing the control button for a preset period of time toggles the power state. In some embodiments, the control button may also control the illumination level of the specialized observation and illumination optical system (not pictured). Depressing the control button for a preset time period (different than the time period for power) cycles through levels of magnification or demagnification for the optical system. The method by which the control button powers on or powers off the device control circuitry, or the method by which the control button controls the level of illumination of the specialized observation and illumination optical system, is programmable and can be customized. Alternative embodiments may include multiple buttons, toggles, slide switches, touch screen controls, or programmable relays (i.e., a remote device that connects to and controls the device). 
         [0055]    Device status indicators  710 ,  712 , and  714  are visible on the control head  704 . As depicted, the device status indicators are implemented using light emitting diodes (LED) directly wired to the control circuitry. The device status indicators may change colors or flash on and off according to a predefined pattern in order to signal different states. However, in alternative embodiments, the device status indicators may be implemented in hardware using an embedded programmable display, via software by transmitting status events (e.g., a battery status event or network status event) to a wirelessly connected device via an API, or by any other visual, auditory, or tactile method of alerting a user of a change in device status. 
         [0056]    Some embodiments of the endoscope  728  may be connected to an air and water source via the air/water insertion port  730 . The control body  728  may have an aeration/perfusion button (not shown), a suction button shown, angulation knobs ( 720  and  732 ), an angulation lock  722 , and a therapeutic instrument insertion port  724 . The aeration/perfusion button is pressed in order to instruct aeration or perfusion. The suction button is pressed in order to suck fluid. The angulation knob is manipulated in order to bend the bending section. The presence and configuration of angulation knobs and componentry vary for each type of endoscope. 
         [0057]      FIG. 8  illustrates a perspective view showing a fully encapsulated wireless endoscope control unit in accordance with one embodiment and indicated generally at  800 . The wireless video endoscope  812  includes an elongated insertion tube  803  and a control body  802 . The insertion tube  803  is flexible (soft). The control body  802  is coupled to the proximal end of the insertion tube  803 . The wireless control head  801  is extended from the lateral part of the control body  803 . The insertion tube  807  has an anti-insertion tube breakage member  811 , which is made of an elastic material, fixed to the proximal end thereof. The anti-insertion tube breakage member  811  prevents abrupt bend of a joint that is joined to the control body  802 . 
         [0058]    The insertion tube  803  comprises a flexible tube  810 , a bending section  804 , and a distal part  805 . The flexible tube  810  is flexible and soft. The bending section  804  is fixed to the distal end of the flexible tube  810  and can be bent remotely using the control body  802  and the angulation knobs  806 . The distal part  905  is fixed to the distal end of the bending section  804 . An observation optical and illumination optical system (not shown) are incorporated in the distal part  807 . This specialized observation and illumination optical system  804  contains cabling that runs the length of the insertion tube  803  and through the control body  802 , ultimately linking to control circuitry (described in more detail in  FIG. 13 ) in the wireless control head  801 . An aeration/perfusion nozzle, a suction port, and a fluid supply port are bored in the distal part  807 . When a manipulation is made in order to aerate or perfuse the endoscope, cleaning fluid or gas is jet out to an optical member located on the outer surface of the observation optical system through the aeration/perfusion nozzle. The suction port is bored in the distal end of a therapeutic instrument passage channel run through the insertion tube  803 . Fluid is jetted out to an object to be observed through the fluid supply port. The therapeutic instrument passage channel is used to pass a therapeutic instrument into a body cavity or suck fluid therefrom. 
         [0059]    Some embodiments of the endoscope  812  may be connected to an air and water source via the air/water insertion port  813 . This allows for the usage of the aeration/perfusion button  808  and the suction button  809 . The control body  802  has an aeration/perfusion button  808 , a suction button  809 , an angulation knob  806 , a wireless control head  801 , a remote-control switch  814 , and a therapeutic instrument insertion port  807 . The aeration/perfusion button  808  is pressed in order to instruct aeration or perfusion. The suction button  809  is pressed in order to suck fluid. The angulation knob  806  is manipulated in order to bend the bending section  804 . The presence and configuration of angulation knobs and componentry vary for each type of endoscope. The remote-control button  814  is used to power the wireless control head  801  and control brightness of the camera LEOs. The therapeutic instrument insertion port  807  is an opening that opens onto the therapeutic instrument passage channel. 
         [0060]    In alternative embodiments, the control body  802  may also feature a hanging apparatus comprising a hook, looped hook, spring-loaded closable hook, ring, or any other suitable mechanism for suspending the endoscope from an overhang during operation or cleaning. 
         [0061]      FIG. 9  illustrates a cutaway view of an exemplary wireless endoscope control head in perspective for use in a fully-encapsulated wireless endoscope control unit. The fully-encapsulated control unit, indicated generally at  900 , includes a control head  902  that contains control circuitry  920 , control buttons ( 908  and  914 ), an optical system interface comprising a type-A interface connector  912  that is configured to mate with a type-B interface connector  906 , and a specially-designed lip  916  for hermetically sealing the control head  902  to the control body  904 . The type-A and -B interface connectors can be implemented using any mated electronic connectors that carry sufficient lines to support the optical system interface as described below. The type-A connector  912  connects to the control circuitry  920 , and the type-B connector  906  serves as a terminal for the signal, power, and ground lines carried via the insertion tube  940  from the optical system located in the distal end. The control circuitry  920  and the optical system interface are shown in more detail in  FIG. 13 . 
         [0062]      FIG. 10  is a block diagram illustrating an image sensor circuit in accordance with one embodiment, indicated generally at  1000 . The image sensor circuit  1000  includes an image array  804 , analog/digital signal processor  807 , analog/digital signal control  808 , clock/timing generator and control logic  812 , control register bank  811 , and a serial camera control bus (SCCB) interface  810 . A pattern is captured on the light sensor array and stored in the image array  804 . 
         [0063]    In operation, the image array  1004  is integrated row by row starting with the upper left-hand pixel in the array  1004 . When an integration period begins, the timing generator and control logic circuit  1012  will reset all of the pixels in a row before progressing to the next row in the array  1004 . In embodiments featuring analog output, the control circuitry will transfer the integrated value of each pixel to a correlated double sampling (CDS) circuit and then to a shift register bank. After the shift register bank has been loaded, the pixel information will be serially shifted one pixel at a time to the analog video amplifier  1006 . The gain of this amplifier  1006  is controlled by gain control  1005 . In embodiments featuring a digital readout, the image sensor features an analog-to-digital converter for every column, and conversion is conducted in parallel for each pixel in a row. A flesh-tone balancing algorithm may be applied to the pixels at this stage. After the gain and offset values are set in the video amplifier  1006 , the pixel information is then passed to the analog-to-digital signal processor  1007  where it is rendered into a digital signal  1009 . Subsequently, the digital image data is further processed to remove sensing defects. 
         [0064]    Windowing may be implemented directly on the chip through the timing and control circuit  1012 , which enables any size window in any position within the active region of the array to be accessed and displayed with one-to-one pixel resolution. Windowing can be used for on-chip control of electronic pan, zoom, accelerated readout, and tilt operations on a selected portion or the entire image. In some embodiments, the image sensor  1000  may include progressive and interlaced scan readout modes. In alternative embodiments, the image sensor  1000  may include other auxiliary circuits that enable on-chip features such as image stabilization and image compression. 
         [0065]    The image sensor  1000  may be implemented using a CCD, CMOS, NMOS, PMOS, or other suitable sensor for use with producing digital video (e.g., MPEG-4). The image sensor  1000  is connected to signal, power, and ground wires are long enough to connect the distal end of the insertion tube with the optical system interface. 
         [0066]      FIG. 11  is a block diagram illustrating the wireless module of a control circuit of a wireless endoscope in accordance with one embodiment, indicated generally at  900 . The wireless module includes an antenna  903 , a transmit/receive module  902 , a microprocessor  905 , a real-time clock  904 , a CPU clock  906 , a power supply  907 , and a voltage reference for analog/digital conversion  908 . In some embodiments, the microprocessor  905  also includes a channel hopping mechanism that uses one or more channel discriminators to control the manner in which the wireless module hops among potentially available RF channels, so as to substantially reduce and optimally minimize the likelihood of RF interference from other devices operating within the same band or adjacent bands. 
         [0067]    The communication protocol of the wireless module  1100  may be implemented using widely adopted consumer standards such as 802.11 (WiFi) and 802.15.1 (Bluetooth). In other embodiments, the wireless communication protocol may be implemented using a custom protocol stack, including media access control (MAC) and a physical layer implementation (PHY). To protect sensitive patient data in flight, communication over the wireless connection may be secured using channel or protocol level encryption such as WEP, WPA, AES, or SSL. However, at-rest data protection may also be implemented by encrypting the operational data on chip and requiring connected devices to decrypt the data upon receipt. For video only operational data, the application layer protocol may be implemented using popular consumer standards, such as the IP camera protocol. In other embodiments, the application layer may be implemented using a proprietary protocol that incorporates other operational data, such as symbolic data (see  FIGS. 16 and 17 ), and includes device or user authentication. 
         [0068]      FIG. 12  illustrates a system for transmitting operational data from an endoscopy procedure to a plurality of devices in accordance with one embodiment. The system, indicated generally at  1200 , includes a wireless endoscope  1206 , a patient  1202 , a monitoring device  1210 , operators ( 1208  and  1212 ), observers ( 1224  and  1228 ) with remote devices ( 1226  and  1230 ), a network  1218 , and a network relay  1214 . As depicted, the patient  1202  is a horse; however, a patient may be any human or animal that is examined or operated on using an endoscope. Examples of such operations are provided below in Table 1. The monitoring device  1210  may be implemented using a television, a smart phone, a tablet, a laptop, a desktop computer, a wearable device (e.g., a head-mounted display), or any computer system configured to communicate with the wireless endoscope that is capable of presenting operational data to an operator. The network  1218  may be implemented using a local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), wireless personal area network (WPAN), mesh network, or any other suitable network topology for relaying data over a distance. The network relay may be implemented using a wireless router, a cellular router that connects to a local personal area network as well as a cellular WAN, or any other network hardware or software that is configured to communicate with the wireless module of the endoscope  1206  and relay data across the network  1218 . The network relay  1214  is connected to the network  1218  via a network connection  1216  by cellular, cable, fiber, telephone, satellite, or any other medium for transmitting digital data over a distance. The remote location  1222  includes any indoor or outdoor location that is beyond the effective radio transmission range of the wireless endoscope  1206  because of distance, obstruction, or interference. The remote devices ( 1226  and  1230 ) may comprise any combination of a television, a smart phone, a tablet, a laptop, a desktop computer, a wearable device (e.g., a head-mounted display), or any computer system configured to communicate with the wireless endoscope that is capable of presenting operational data to an operator. 
         [0069]    In operation, a patient  1202  is examined or operated upon using the wireless endoscope  1206  by inserting a flexible or rigid insertion tube  1204 . The wireless endoscope  1206  transmits operational data to connected monitoring devices ( 1208 ,  1210 ,  1226 , and  1230 ). Remote devices ( 1226  and  1230 ) are connected to the wireless endoscope  1206  indirectly via the relay  1214  and the network  1218  via network connections ( 1216  and  1220 ). 
         [0070]    Remote monitoring of an endoscopy procedure provides yet another advantage of the many embodiments by enabling classrooms or seminars to participate in a live operation. This opens up new possibilities where only a passive review of prerecorded operations was previously possible. Clinical studies may be expanded beyond centralized operational facilities to remote sites, such as a battlefield, emergency clinic, or even a barn. When coupled with the operational data sharing method discussed in detail below, the remote networking capabilities enable new and useful telemedicine applications. For example, an experienced physician could oversee multiple concurrent off-site operations conducted by junior physicians, and provide operational feedback through his monitoring device. 
         [0071]      FIG. 13  is a block diagram showing control logic for a wireless endoscope in accordance with one embodiment. The control logic, indicated generally at  1302 , includes a wireless module  1310 , a video processor  1312 , a microcontroller  1314 , a battery  1316 , a wireless charging receiver  1322 , a memory  1318 , and a voltage regulator  1320 . The wireless module  1310  (described in detail in  FIG. 11 ) transmits and receives operational data to and from monitoring devices. The image sensor  1306  captures digital image data through a lens system embedded in the distal tip of the endoscope insertion tube. The image sensor  1306  may be implemented using a CCD, CMOS, or other image sensor as depicted in  FIG. 10 . The video processor  1312  captures image data from the image sensor  1306 , converts it into a video format, and applies any post-capture image processing. The video processor  1312  comprises hardware or software logic for video encoding, image compression, stabilization, magnification, or any other post-capture digital signal processing (DSP). The microcontroller  1314  coordinates functionality between the video processor  1312 , the wireless module  1310 , and the memory  1318 . The microcontroller  1314  may be implemented using a prefabricated solution, such as an Arduino or TinyDuino board, or any other integrated circuit comprising a processor core, memory, and programmable input/output peripherals. The battery  1316  is optimally lithium-ion (Li-Ion), but may be implemented using any rechargeable battery technology that features a compact form factor relative to an endoscope control body. The wireless charging receiver  1322  features charging coils and an inductive charging circuit that may conform to industry standards such as the Qi interface standard promulgated by the Wireless Power Consortium. The memory  1318  provides a secondary cache beyond what is available in the microcontroller  1314 , and may be implemented with any volatile memory technology, such as static random access memory (SRAM) or dynamic random access memory (DRAM). In some embodiments, the memory  1318  may be implemented using a solid state drive or flash memory so as to provide permanent storage capabilities when the device is powered off. The voltage regulator  1320  provides power to the various components by stepping up or stepping down voltage from the battery  1316  as needed. In some embodiments, the voltage level for the light source  1308  may be much greater than what other logic boards or circuits can safely handle. Thus, the voltage regulator  1320  may serve as a brightness booster to provide additional illumination capability to the optical system. 
         [0072]    The optical system interface  1304 , which is housed in the control head (depicted in  FIG. 9 ), connects the image sensor  1306  and the light source  1308  to control circuitry  1302  in the control head. The optical system interface  1304  provides power to the image sensor  1306  and light source  1308 . Data from the image sensor  1306  is relayed to the control logic  1302  via the optical system interface  1304 . The data portion of the optical system interface  1304  may be implemented using any number of signal and control lines depending on the optimal data bus width (likely dependent on image sensor size and frame rate needs). 
         [0073]    In operation, a light lens at the distal end of the insertion tube emits the light onto a subject within the body. A camera lens then focuses the light reflected from the illuminated subject onto an image sensor  1306  housed in the distal end. The image sensor  1306  records the captured light as image or video data and transmits the data to the video processor via the optical system interface  1304 . The video processor  1312  applies post-capture processing, such as stabilization or magnification, to the raw data before compressing it using a codec, such as H.264, MPEG-4, LZO, FFmpeg, or HuffYUV. The video processor  1312  sends the processed data to the controller  1314 , which may buffer it in the memory  1318 . The controller  1314  forwards the processed data to the wireless module  1310  for transmission to connected devices. In some embodiments, the memory  1318  may be implemented using a shared memory directly connected to the various components. 
         [0074]    In addition to the many advantages, a fully portable endoscopy system presents new challenges, such as device power and transportation. A conventional system, as illustrated in  FIG. 1 , could be easily powered by plugging the monitoring equipment directly into an electrical socket. Transporting such a conventional system was limited because the system was only portable to the extent that the monitoring equipment could be wheeled from one room to another. In contrast, a truly portable endoscope enables off-site operation, the success of which is predicated on safe and efficient transportation of sensitive medical equipment. 
         [0075]    Consequently, a system is presented for stowing and charging a wireless endoscope in accordance with the many embodiments.  FIGS. 14A and 14B  illustrate perspective views of an exemplary carrying case, in opened and closed configurations, for stowing and charging a wireless endoscopy system.  FIG. 14A  illustrates an opened carrying-case, indicated generally at  1400 , that includes an outer shell  1410 , molded force-dampening material  1402 , an inductive charging plate  1422 , and power management circuitry  1415 . The outer shell  1410  may be formed of any suitably light-weight, rigid, durable material, such as aluminum, ceramic, plastic, or resin, that has adequate tensile, flexural, and compressive strength to withstand sudden impacts of 1000 N or more. The force-dampening material  1402  absorbs and dissipates sudden impact forces applied to the outer shell  1410 . The force-dampening material  1402  is optimally comprised of flame retardant polyurethane foam, molded with recesses or cavities to match the contours of a wireless endoscope. However, the force-dampening material  1402  may be formed using any suitable material that dissipates force away from the stowed device and is not highly flammable. A high-frequency inductive power transmission pad  1422 , comprising ultra-thin transmission coils, is nested within the portion of the force-dampening material  1402  that receives the control head and control body of the wireless endoscope. The power management circuitry  1415 , when connected to a power source, manages charging of the wireless endoscope by monitoring temperature, charging duration, and device battery level. The power management circuitry is connected to the power transmission pad  1422  via control and power lines  1420 . If the temperature in the case reaches an unsafe operating level (e.g., greater than 50 degrees Celsius), the power management circuitry  1415  is designed to disable inductive charging. In some embodiments, the outer shell may contain ventilation ducts  1465  that allow air to flow through the case. In other embodiments, the recess in the force dampening material  1422  for the endoscope control unit may be lined with conductive sheets (designed to maximize surface area) connected to a large conductive surface area on the exterior of the case for conducting heat away from the interior of the case. 
         [0076]      FIG. 14B  illustrates a closed carrying case in accordance with one embodiment, indicated generally at  1450 , that includes a charging cable  1460 , battery level or charging status indicators  1470 , stacking guides  1480 , ventilation ducts  1465 , and electrodes  1490  and  1492 . The charging cable  1460  is designed to be plugged into a 120-240V wall outlet; however, some embodiments may feature a swappable cable that can be powered by a 12V outlet commonly found in vehicles. The battery level indicators  1470  may be implemented using LEDs, which are illuminated when the device is charged, charging, or dead, or which estimate current device battery levels according to the number of LEDs illuminated. Alternatively, the battery level indicators  1470  may be implemented using an LCD or LED display or other suitable mechanism for displaying status information. 
         [0077]    In some embodiments, the power management circuitry  1415  may include a radio unit to monitor battery level status and charging notifications broadcast from the wireless module of the endoscope according to a proprietary protocol operating in frequency bands allocated for consumer electronics (e.g., the “S” band). Changes in battery level or charging state are reflected on the outside of the case via battery level or charging status indicators  1470 . 
         [0078]    In other embodiments, the carrying case may be stacked with other carrying cases. Stacking guides  1480  are comprised of a pattern of protrusions on the top of the case, matched with corresponding recesses on the bottom of the case. The stacking guides  1480  may be designed as parallel linear ridges as depicted in  FIG. 14B , or as other patterns such as a cross or L-shapes. When two or more cases are laid flat and stacked vertically, the stacking guides  1480  should prevent the cases from becoming easily decoupled by application of a horizontal force. Alternatively, the ridges and recesses of the stacking guides  1480  may form an interlocking pattern (e.g., interlocking trapezoidal ridges), such that one case may be attached to another by sliding the recesses of one case along the interlocking ridges of the other. 
         [0079]    In alternative embodiments, the outer shell  1410  may feature conductive pads, an anode  1490  and a cathode  1492 , which when connected to a second case, form a charging network. The anode  1490  and cathode  1492  are connected to the power management control circuitry  1415 . When the charging cable  1460  provides power to the first case, and the anode  1490  and cathode  1492  provide power to the second case. The orientation and size of the conductive pads should be designed in such a way so as to avoid accidental electrical shock when several cases are being charged. 
         [0080]      FIGS. 15A ,  15 B, and  15 C show several views illustrating the wireless transmission of operational data to a variety of devices, indicated generally at  1500 .  FIG. 15A  illustrates a perspective view of a wireless endoscope  1564  transmitting operational data, over a wireless connection  1566 , gathered via a flexible insertion tube  1562 .  FIG. 15B  illustrates a cross-sectional view of the distal end  1536  of the flexible insertion tube  1562  inserted within a body cavity  1532 . The distal end  1536  captures operational data and transmits the data feed over the wireless connection  1566  to connected devices, such as a smart device  1510  or a head-mounted display  1504 .  FIG. 15C  illustrates a two-dimensional view of operational video data  1502 , streamed from the wireless endoscope  1564 , and viewable on the various connected devices. A smart device, such as a phone or tablet, can display the operational video data  1502  via an embedded high-resolution display. In contrast, a head-mounted display  1504  projects high-resolution images directly into the operator&#39;s retina via a lens  1508 . 
         [0081]      FIG. 16  is a data flow diagram illustrating a method of sharing operational data sharing across multiple devices, indicated generally at  1600 , that comprises a first  1608  and a second device  1610  wirelessly connected to a wireless endoscope  1612 . A device may be a smart phone  1602 , a tablet, a laptop, a desktop computer  1622 , a wearable device  1630  (e.g., a head-mounted display), or any computer system configured to communicate with the wireless endoscope  1612  that is capable of presenting operational data to an operator. 
         [0082]    The method  1600  begins with a wireless endoscope  1612  establishing a wireless connection with at least two devices. The sensor package of the wireless endoscope  1612  then begins to gather operational data. In some embodiments, this may consist of a high-resolution video feed captured by the optical system. In other embodiments, operational data may comprise stereoscopic video (for use with a 3D display), thermal imaging, or multichannel intraluminal impedance (pH monitoring). The wireless endoscope  1612  simultaneously broadcasts the operational data to the several connected devices. To ensure adequate medical privacy, the operational data is encrypted, or is transmitted over encrypted channels. During the operation, an observer using a first device  1608  of the several connected devices creates a symbol  1604  on the first device  1608  in response to operational data presented to the observer. A symbol may be any digital image, video, audio, text, or structured data. For example, an operator could create a symbol  1604  by drawing a figure on a touch screen device  1602 . Or, an operator could create a symbol by recording video or audio commentary to be streamed alongside other operational data. Such a use has particular application in telemedicine or education and may make use of a network relay as depicted in  FIG. 12 . The symbol  1604  is then transmitted to a second device  1610  from the several connected devices via the wireless endoscope  1612 . The symbol  1604  is then presented to the operator of the second device  1610  alongside other operational data. 
         [0083]    In alternative embodiments, an operator may be a remote computer system that transmits a symbol  1604 , comprising previously recorded operational data, to be presented and compared alongside current operational data. Of course, transmission of the symbol  1604  may be shared among connected devices without routing operational data through the wireless endoscope  1612 . 
         [0084]    In some alternative embodiments, the selection of common commercial standards effectively transforms the wireless endoscope  1612  into a medical device platform that enables a wide array of customizable viewing options while greatly reducing equipment costs. For example, wireless connectivity may be implemented using widely adopted consumer standards such as 802.11 (WiFi) and 802.15.1 (Bluetooth) to enable non-proprietary, commercially available consumer devices, such as Google Glass (R) or Oculus Rift (R), to be connected to the wireless endoscope  1612 . Head-mounted displays enable a physician operator to view two- or three-dimensional video data while keeping both hands free to operate the endoscope. Two-dimensional video data may be streamed over the wireless connection using popular protocols like internet protocol camera (IP camera). These commercial devices, which are not marketed for medical purposes, have the additional advantage of being much less costly than typical medical imaging devices that are subjected to extensive FDA review. 
         [0085]      FIG. 17  is a sequence diagram illustrating a method of sharing operational data across multiple devices, indicated generally at  1700 . The method begins at step  1708 , in which a first device  1702  establishes a wireless connection with a wireless endoscope  1704 . Next, a second device  1706  connects to the wireless endoscope  1704  at step  1720 . The lifelines  1714 ,  1718 , and  1726  for the data sharing operation extend until the connection closes. In step  1710 , the first device  1702  receives video data from the wireless endoscope  1704 . The wireless endoscope also transmits video data in parallel to the second device  1706  at step  1722 . 
         [0086]    In step  1712 , an operator creates a symbol on the first device  1702 , which is then transmitted to the wireless endoscope  1704  in step  1716  over the wireless connection. Then, in step  1724 , the wireless endoscope  1704  forwards the symbol to the second device  1706  over a wireless connection. Finally, at step  1728 , the second device  1706  displays the transmitted symbol alongside the video data. 
         [0087]    While the data sharing of  1700  is represented as occurring in sequence, operational data, including video and symbol data, may be continuously broadcast over data packets that are not guaranteed to arrive in order. Subsequent software- or hardware-based processing on the connected devices may reorder the packets according to the proper time sequence, and correlate presentation of the data so it appears synchronously. Because operational data must be presented in real-time, lost or significantly delayed packets may be dropped altogether, resulting in reduced frame rate or signal quality degradation. 
         [0088]      FIGS. 18A and 18B  show several views illustrating the distal end of an optical system in accordance with one embodiment.  FIG. 18A  shows a planar view of the distal end of an exemplary optical system. The optical system includes an aperture  1810  within a diaphragm  1806  that is encircled by one or more light emitters  1802  surrounded by light shielding material  1804 . The light emitters  1802  may be comprised of light emitting diodes (LED), laser diodes (LD), infrared emitting diodes (IRED), fiber optic light guides, or any suitable compact light source that can be embedded within an endoscope insertion tube. A lens system (illustrated in  FIG. 18B ) seals the optical system from fluids. Because some of the light emitted from the light emitters  1802  will reflect off of the lens system, light shielding material  1804  is used to insulate the image sensor (not shown), nested within the aperture  1810 , from overexposure. The light shielding material  1804  may be putty, plastic, tape, or any suitable material for preventing light from reflecting off of the lens system into the aperture  1810 . 
         [0089]    In alternative embodiments, the outer area of the lens system that covers the light emitters  1802  may be polarized differently than the inner area of the lens system to help reduce reflective interference. 
         [0090]      FIG. 18B  shows a side view of an exemplary optical system, indicated generally at  1850 , that includes a lens system  1860 , light emitters  1802 , light shielding material  1804 , an image sensor  1854 , and a sensor chamber  1856 . Light emitted from the optical system  1850  reflects off of the subject under observation to form an image (illustrated as light rays  1852 ). The light rays  1852  are focused by the lens system  1860  through the aperture  1810  onto the image sensor  1854 . 
         [0091]    Capabilities of the present invention extend, but are not limited, to such devices as bronchoscopes (examination of air passages and the lungs), colonoscopies (colon), gastroscopes (small intestine, stomach, and esophagus), arthroscopes (joints), hysteroscopes (uterus), and cystoscopes (urinary tract and bladder). Table 1, below, further illustrates some of the procedures that may be conducted using one or more of the foregoing embodiments. 
         [0000]    
       
         
               
               
             
           
               
                 TABLE 1 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 Procedure 
                 Description 
               
               
                   
               
             
             
               
                 Arthroscopy 
                 Examination of the joints 
               
               
                 Bronchoscopy 
                 Examination of the air passages and the lungs 
               
               
                 Colonoscopy 
                 Examination of the colon 
               
               
                 Colposcopy 
                 Examination of the cervix and the tissues of the vagina and vulva 
               
               
                 Cystoscopy 
                 Examination of the urinary bladder 
               
               
                 EGO (Esophageal 
                 Examination of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum 
               
               
                 Gastroduodenoscopy) 
               
               
                 ERCP (endoscopic 
                 Examination of the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, and pancreas 
               
               
                 retrograde cholangio- 
               
               
                 pancreatography) 
               
               
                 Fetoscopy 
                 Examination of the fetus 
               
               
                 Laparoscopy 
                 Examination of the abdominal cavity via small incision 
               
               
                 Laryngoscopy 
                 Examination of the back of the throat, including the voice box (larynx) 
               
               
                   
                 and vocal cords 
               
               
                 Proctoscopy 
                 Examination of the rectum and the end of the colon 
               
               
                 Rhinoscopy 
                 Examination of the inside of the nose 
               
               
                 Thoracoscopy 
                 Examination of the lungs or other structures in the chest cavity 
               
               
                 Hysteroscopy 
                 Examination of the uterus 
               
               
                 Cystoscopy 
                 Examination of the urinary tract and bladder 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0092]    While various embodiments in accordance with the principles disclosed herein have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only, and not limitation. Thus, the breadth and scope of this disclosure should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplary embodiments, but should be defined only in accordance with any claims and their equivalents issuing from this disclosure. Furthermore, the above advantages and features are provided in described embodiments, but shall not limit the application of such issued claims to processes and structures accomplishing any or all of the above advantages. 
         [0093]    Additionally, the section headings herein are provided for consistency with the suggestions under 37 C.F.R. 1.77 or otherwise to provide organizational cues. These headings shall not limit or characterize the invention(s) set out in any claims that may issue from this disclosure. Specifically and by way of example, a description of a technology in the “Background of the Invention” is not to be construed as an admission that certain technology is prior art to any embodiment(s) in this disclosure. Neither is the “Summary of the Invention” to be considered as a characterization of the embodiment(s) set forth in issued claims. Furthermore, any reference in this disclosure to “invention” in the singular should not be used to argue that there is only a single point of novelty in this disclosure. Multiple embodiments may be set forth according to the limitations of the multiple claims issuing from this disclosure, and such claims accordingly define the embodiment(s), and their equivalents, that are protected thereby. In all instances, the scope of such claims shall be considered on their own merits in light of this disclosure, but should not be constrained by the headings set forth herein.