Abstract:
A system for wirelessly powering various devices positioned on an endoscope, including, for example, a light source, various electronics including an imager and/or a memory device. The system is further provided such that video signal processing parameters are automatically set for an endoscopic video camera system based upon characteristics of an attached endoscope, with reduced EMI and improved inventory tracking, maintenance and quality assurance, and reducing the necessity for adjustment and alignment of the endoscope and camera to achieve the data transfer.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/542,461 filed Oct. 3, 2006 now U.S. Pat. No. 8,194,122, which is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/095,616 filed Mar. 12, 2002 now U.S. Pat. No. 7,289,139. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The invention relates to endoscope video camera systems, where the video camera electronically identifies an attached endoscope and automatically sets system parameters in accordance with certain endoscope parameters and wirelessly provides power to the endoscope. The endoscope may be electronically identified for manipulating, (i.e., reading information from, updating and then writing information to the endoscope) for the purposes of endoscope use and maintenance, inventory tracking and control, and monitoring of various other endoscope parameters. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     An endoscope is an elongated, tubular structured medical device that is inserted into body cavities to facilitate examination by medical professionals. The endoscope includes a telescope with an objective lens at its distal end. The telescope includes an image-forwarding system, which in rigid endoscopes is typically a series of spaced-apart lenses. In flexible endoscopes, typically, the image-forwarding system is a bundle of tiny optical fibers assembled coherently 
     Typically, at the proximal end of the image-forwarding system is an ocular lens that creates a virtual image for direct human visualization. Often a camera means, such as a charge coupled device (CCD) chip or a CMOS device is mounted to the endoscope. It receives the image and produces a signal for a video display. While surgeons can, and often do, look directly into the endoscope through an ocular lens, it is more common for them to use an attached camera and observe an image on a video screen. In conventional and video camera arrangements, the camera (hereinafter referred to as a “camera head”) is usually detachably connected to the endoscope. A camera control unit (CCU) is employed to provide, among other controls, a link between the camera head and the video display. 
     As the camera head is detachable from the endoscope, this necessitates a coupling mechanism to transmit, for example, data and/or optical energy between the endoscope and detachable camera. However, it would be advantageous to eliminate the need for a coupling mechanism to transmit optical energy between the endoscope and detachable camera as misalignment, dirt/debris and damage to the optical path at the coupling location can reduce the efficiency of the optical path. However, the generation of optical energy in the endoscope has not been feasible because to the corresponding increase in weight of the endoscope when a power source (e.g. a battery) is positioned on the endoscope. Accordingly, a system that provides for the generation of optical energy (illuminating light) in the endoscope is desired that does not significantly increase the weight and size of the endoscope is desired. 
     It should further be noted that endoscopes come in a variety of sizes for particular applications and surgical procedures. The telescope lens system may have a variety of optical properties. For example, the objective lens may include a prism whereby the image viewed is at some angle with respect to that of the axis of the telescope. Also, different endoscopes may have different fields of view (FOV). These and other variations affect the optical properties of particular endoscopes. 
     As above noted, the camera head is usually detachable from the endoscope, and is often conveniently constructed so as to be attachable to a variety of endoscopes having differing optical properties. For this reason, a CCU receiving a video signal from an attached camera head will need to know the endoscope optical properties in order to present an optimized image on the video monitor. Currently, the settings of the camera head and CCU are manually adjusted to the endoscope&#39;s optical properties. 
     It would be advantageous to simplify the task of using the endoscope and video camera system by eliminating the need to make manual adjustments to the camera head and/or CCU in order to optimize the video camera system settings for an attached endoscope. 
     To ensure optimal video system operation utilizing a particular endoscope, it is also necessary that the endoscope undergo periodic scheduled and unscheduled maintenance. Further, most endoscope manufacturers require their products to be maintained properly to assure reliable, accurate and precise functionality. This enhances the manufacturer&#39;s reputation and the reliance of health care professionals on the manufacturer&#39;s products. From a manufacturer&#39;s perspective, it is important that only factory authorized personnel service their products; however, it is a reality in the marketplace that some medical facilities may use unauthorized repair services. It is to a manufacturer&#39;s advantage to discourage such sub-optimal maintenance because if maintenance is performed incorrectly, medical personnel may attribute problems caused by the incorrectly performed maintenance to the product and/or manufacturing design. 
     Related to the maintenance of the endoscope are the usage characteristics of the endoscopes. For a manufacturer, how its products are used is valuable information. A manufacturer may want to know, for example, how often each product is used, the elapsed time of each use, the maintenance history of the product, and so on. These factors can impact future endoscope design related to durability, reliability, components and materials used in the manufacturing process. 
     It is known in the art to utilize electronic sensors to record operating conditions beyond the endoscope&#39;s recognized safe operating range to which it has been subjected. Peak values for conditions such as, pressure, humidity, irradiation, and/or shock or impact loads to which the endoscope has been exposed may be recorded. Upon failure of the endoscope, this information may then be utilized to determine the probable cause of the failure. 
     U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,896,166 to D&#39;Alfonso et al. (“the &#39;166 patent”) and 6,313,868 to D&#39;Alfonso et al. (“the &#39;868 patent”), both disclose storing camera parameters and camera use characteristics in a non-volatile memory located in the camera head and transmitting the camera parameters and camera use characteristics to a camera control unit through a data coupling upon connection of the camera unit to a camera control unit. However, neither reference discloses a system where the endoscope has a memory device located in it, so that a single camera unit may be interchanged with a plurality of endoscopes and whereupon connection of the camera unit will automatically read the endoscope parameters and use characteristics. Further, neither the &#39;166 nor the &#39;868 patent discloses a system where the endoscope use characteristics can be updated to log a history of the particular endoscope use. Rather, both the &#39;166 and the &#39;868 patents are limited to updating only the camera unit. Still further, neither the &#39;166 nor the &#39;868 patent discloses a system wherein the endoscope parameters and use characteristics can be read automatically through non-contact transmission. 
     Another problem in the field of endoscope management is that of keeping track of the many different endoscopes used throughout the facility. There have been various approaches to keeping track of the locations and inventory of endoscopes. Simple inventory control and sign-out sheets are labor intensive and inaccurate, and, as a result, are ineffective for assuring the level of scrutiny that is required for medical equipment. Further, sign-out sheets do not allow for monitoring equipment, for example, determining whether the endoscope is functioning properly or needs maintenance. 
     Bar codes have been used for tracking purposes. Bar coding of equipment allows identification and locating of the equipment by reading the bar code with a portable bar code scanner. However, bar coding is ineffective when the equipment has been moved since the last time that it was scanned. Moreover, the use of bar codes can require the labor-intensive step of touring the facility with one or more portable scanners in search of endoscopes. Further, bar codes, like sign-out sheets, do not allow for the monitoring of equipment, for example, determining whether the endoscope is functioning properly or needs maintenance. 
     It is known in the art that energy and data transmission can take place through an inductive coupling in which high frequency coils act like a loosely coupled transformer as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,092,722 to Heinrichs et al. (“the &#39;722 patent”). The high frequency coil, when power is applied to it, produces a high frequency field, which will be imposed upon the high frequency coil of another device when brought into close proximity. 
     One major problem with the use of inductive coupling as disclosed in the &#39;722 patent is that it can create unacceptable levels of electro-magnetic interference (“EMI”) in the operating room environment. Electronic equipment, such as the video signals transmitted from the camera head to the camera control unit, can be particularly sensitive to EMI. Therefore, to reduce the negative effects of EMI, adequate shielding should be provided. This, however, significantly adds to the cost and manufacturing time of the device. Therefore, a system that does not produce EMI is greatly desired. 
     Another disadvantage with the use of inductive coupling as disclosed in the &#39;722 patent is that it necessitates the use of inductive coils both in the endoscope and the camera head adding greatly to the size and the weight of the devices. In addition to the added size and weight of the inductive coils, the necessary shielding for the EMI produced by the inductive coils will further increase the device size and weight. Endoscopes and camera heads that are lighter, smaller and easier to handle are desired. 
     Another disadvantage to the inductive coupling technique as disclosed in the &#39;722 patent is because high frequency coils act like a loosely coupled transformer, both high frequency coils should be aligned one directly on top of the other in order to achieve an effective data transfer. The inductive field created by the high frequency coils is unidirectional and therefore accurate alignment of the component is important. This situation could be very frustrating for medical professionals, having to spend time trying to accurately align the camera head and endoscope to have the video system function properly. Therefore, a system that does not require precise alignment of the components is desired. 
     Radio frequency identification (“RFID”) has been used to locate various devices and/or equipment. However, RFID used in the operating room environment has been limited due to the large power ranges required for locating the device. RFID utilized for locating purposes necessitates using a transceiver with as large a power range as is reasonable. A large power range, unfortunately, may cause receipt of the signal by unintended RFID receivers. That is, if an endoscope is in use in room A, it is undesirable to have unrelated endoscope equipment in room B “respond” to the transceiver. RFID has been limited to tracking the location of devices and/or equipment, facilitating only one-way communication from the device and/or equipment to the recording or tracking system. 
     While RFID has the advantage of having a relatively rapid read rate, one particular limitation RFID has encountered is accuracy of scans in relatively harsh environments. For example, RFID has been known to struggle with getting an accurate read through or near liquids and metals. 
     Therefore, a system is needed that simplifies and optimizes endoscope and video camera usage and does not interfere with sensitive electronic equipment, encourages customers to maintain the endoscope to manufacturer&#39;s parameters and provides the endoscope manufacturer with information regarding product usage and maintenance. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     In one aspect of the invention, a system is provided including an endoscope and a detachable camera head. The endoscope is provided with a transponder/transceiver and the detachable camera head is provided with a corresponding transponder/transceiver such that electrical power is transmitted from the camera head to the endoscope. The endoscope is provided with a light source (e.g. an LED) positioned thereon, where electrical power is wirelessly transmitted from the detachable camera head to the endoscope to power the LED. It is further contemplated that not only is electrical power transmitted, but image data generated by the endoscope (e.g. via a CCD or CMOS device) may also be wirelessly transmitted from the endoscope to the detachable camera head. Still further, command and control data may be transmitted between the endoscope and the detachable camera head. 
     In another aspect of the invention, a system is provided such that an endoscope read/write apparatus stores and provides endoscope parameters and endoscope use history data, utilizing a detachable camera capable of accessing the endoscope parameter data and endoscope use history data, and if required, updating and rewriting endoscope use history data to the endoscope for storage. A transponder/transceiver is affixed to the endoscope, and the endoscope transponder/transceiver is capable of transmitting and receiving wireless signals. The endoscope transponder/transceiver is coupled to a memory device that stores electronic representations of the endoscope parameters and endoscope use history data, and when queried, supplies the electronic representations to the endoscope transponder/transceiver. To transmit wireless signals for communication with the endoscope transponder/transceiver, a camera transponder/transceiver is affixed to the camera and set to receive the endoscope transponder/transceiver transmitted wireless signals. 
     In one embodiment, the present invention utilizes wireless transponder/transceivers using either an RFID format or a standard called IEEE 1902.1, which is also known as the “RuBee” format. As such, the problems associated with inductive coupling such as radiated EMI, alignment requirements, and inability to locate the device are absent. 
     For this application the following terms and definitions shall apply: 
     The term “data” as used herein means any indicia, signals, marks, symbols, domains, symbol sets, representations, and any other physical form or forms representing information, whether permanent or temporary, whether visible, audible, acoustic, electric, magnetic, electromagnetic or otherwise manifested. The term “data” as used to represent predetermined information in one physical form shall be deemed to encompass any and all representations of the same predetermined information in a different physical form or forms. 
     The term “network” as used herein includes both networks and internetworks of all kinds, including the Internet, and is not limited to any particular network or inter-network. 
     The terms “coupled”, “coupled to”, and “coupled with” as used herein each mean a relationship between or among two or more devices, apparatus, files, programs, media, components, networks, systems, subsystems, and/or means, constituting any one or more of (a) a connection, whether direct or through one or more other devices, apparatus, files, programs, media, components, networks, systems, subsystems, or means, (b) a communications relationship, whether direct or through one or more other devices, apparatus, files, programs, media, components, networks, systems, subsystems, or means, and/or (c) a functional relationship in which the operation of any one or more devices, apparatus, files, programs, media, components, networks, systems, subsystems, or means depends, in whole or in part, on the operation of any one or more others thereof. 
     The terms “process” and “processing” as used herein each mean an action or a series of actions including, for example, but not limited to the continuous or non-continuous, synchronous or asynchronous, direction of data, modification, formatting and/or conversion of data, tagging or annotation of data, measurement, comparison and/or review of data, and may or may not comprise a program. 
     The terms “first” and “second” are used to distinguish one element, set, data, object or thing from another, and are not used to designate relative position or arrangement in time. 
     The term “resonant” interaction as used herein, is used to describe the relatively strong coupling that occurs between two substantially same-frequency objects (e.g. a transmitter/receiver), while interacting relatively weakly with other off-resonant environmental objects. “Resonant” interaction would further encompass resonant evanescent coupling where resonant coupling occurs through the overlap of non-radiative near-fields of two objects. 
     In one advantageous embodiment of the present invention, an endoscope video system is provided for communicating between an endoscope and a detachable camera comprising: a first transponder/transceiver is affixed to the endoscope set to transmit wireless signals containing endoscope parameters and endoscope use history data and set to receive wireless signals containing modified endoscope use history data; a second transponder/transceiver affixed to the detachable camera set to transmit wireless signals containing modified endoscope use history data, and set to receive wireless signals containing the endoscope parameters and endoscope use history data; a memory device coupled to the first transponder/transceiver having memory locations for storing the data contained in the wireless signals; and a camera control unit, coupled to the camera, for receiving and processing the endoscope parameters and endoscope use history data. 
     In another advantageous embodiment of the present invention, an endoscope video system is provided for the transfer of data from an endoscope comprising: a transponder/transceiver affixed to the endoscope, set to transmit wireless signals containing endoscope parameters and endoscope use history data, and set to receive wireless signals containing modified endoscope use history data; and a memory device coupled to the transponder/transceiver having memory locations for storing the data contained in the wireless signals. 
     In yet another advantageous embodiment of the present invention, an endoscope video system is provided for automatically adjusting to the parameters of a plurality of endoscopes, and to provide for the transfer of modified endoscope use history data comprising: a transponder/transceiver positioned on a camera head, set to transmit wireless signals containing modified endoscope use history data, and set to receive wireless signals containing endoscope parameters and endoscope use history data; and a camera control unit, coupled to the camera, for receiving and processing the endoscope parameters and endoscope use history data. 
     In still another advantageous embodiment of the present invention, a method is provided for communicating endoscope parameters and use characteristics from an endoscope, having a memory device and a first transponder/transceiver coupled to the memory device, to a camera control unit, and communicating modified endoscope use characteristics from the camera control unit to the endoscope comprising the steps of: storing a plurality of endoscope parameters and endoscope use characteristics in the memory device; providing a camera with a second transponder/transceiver; coupling the second transponder/transceiver to the camera control unit; retrieving the endoscope parameters and endoscope use characteristics from the memory device; transmitting a first wireless signal containing the endoscope parameters and endoscope use characteristics from the first transponder/transceiver; receiving the first wireless signal at the second transponder/transceiver; transferring the endoscope parameters and endoscope use characteristics contained in the first wireless signal from the camera head to the camera control unit; transferring modified endoscope use characteristics from the camera control unit to the camera; transmitting a second wireless signal containing the modified endoscope use characteristics from the second transponder/transceiver to the first transponder/transceiver; receiving the second wireless signal containing the modified endoscope use characteristics; and storing the modified endoscope use characteristics in the memory device memory locations. 
     In a further advantageous embodiment of the present invention, an endoscope video system is provided for communicating between an endoscope and a detachable camera comprising: a first transponder/transceiver attached to the endoscope for transmitting and receiving first data; a second transponder/transceiver attached to the detachable camera for transmitting and receiving second data; and a memory device coupled to the first transponder/transceiver having memory locations for storing data. 
     In a still another advantageous embodiment of the present invention, an endoscope video system for wirelessly powering an endoscope coupled to a detachable camera is provided comprising an endoscope having a first transponder/transceiver positioned thereon, the first transponder/transceiver transmitting and receiving wireless energy, and a camera having a second transponder/transceiver positioned thereon, the second transponder/transceiver wirelessly coupling to the first transponder/transceiver when brought in proximity thereto to transmit energy. The system further comprises an endoscope light source positioned on the endoscope, the endoscope light source coupled to the first transponder/transceiver and receiving electrical power from the first transponder/transceiver. The system is provided such that the endoscope light source generates illuminating light, which is transmitted to an area to be viewed. The system still further comprises an imager generating an image signal representative of the area and a camera control unit, coupled to the camera, the camera control unit receiving and processing the image data. 
     In yet another advantageous embodiment of the present invention, a method for wirelessly powering an endoscope coupled to a detachable camera is provided comprising the steps of positioning a first transponder/transceiver on an endoscope, positioning a second transponder/transceiver on a camera control unit and positioning an endoscope light source on the endoscope. The method further comprises the steps of coupling the endoscope light source to the first transponder/transceiver and positioning an imager on the endoscope. The method still further comprises the steps of wirelessly transmitting energy from the second transponder/transceiver to the first transponder/transceiver and generating illuminating light with the endoscope light source with electrical power provided to the endoscope light source from the first transponder/transceiver. Finally, the method comprises the steps of illuminating an area to be viewed with the illuminating light, generating an image signal representative of the area and transmitting the image signal to a camera control unit for receiving and processing of the image data. 
     The invention and its particular features and advantages will become more apparent from the following detailed description considered with reference to the accompanying drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is an illustration of the assembly of a detachable camera to an endoscope; 
         FIG. 2  illustrates the programming of the endoscope memory device and communication with the detachable camera head; and 
         FIG. 3  illustrates a block diagram for implementing the method of the present invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     Referring now to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate corresponding structure throughout the views. 
       FIG. 1  illustrates an endoscope system  10  for wirelessly transmitting energy and data, including, for example, storing and transmitting electronic representations of endoscope characteristics. In accordance with one advantageous embodiment, an endoscope transponder/transceiver  20  is mounted on an endoscope  12  and communicates with a camera head transponder/transceiver  24  mounted on a detachable camera head  14 . Endoscope transponder/transceiver  20  and camera head transponder/transceiver  24  may be one of any type of relatively short-range devices well known to those of ordinary skill in the art. Endoscope transponder/transceiver  20  and camera head transponder/transceiver  24  are set so that each is capable of both sending and receiving wireless signals to and from the other. 
     In one advantageous embodiment, transponder/transceiver  20  and  24  are provided as Radio Frequency (RF) transceivers capable of generating, transmitting and receiving RF signals whether RFID High-Frequency (HF) or Ultra-High Frequency (UHF). 
     In another advantageous embodiment, transponder/transceiver  20  and  24  may be provided to generate, transmit and receive wireless signals via a standard called IEEE 1902.1, which is also known as the “RuBee” format. Where traditional RFID tags are backscattered transponders, RuBee operates as an active transceiver. RuBee is a bidirectional, on-demand, peer-to-peer, radiating, transceiver protocol operating at wavelengths below 450 KHz. This protocol is advantageous in harsh environments with networks of many thousands of tags and may have an area range of from 10 to about 50 feet. 
     RuBee offers a real-time, tag-searchable protocol using IPv4 addresses and subnet addresses linked to asset taxonomies that run at speeds of 300 to 9,600 Baud. RuBee Visibility Networks may also be managed by a low-cost Ethernet enabled router. Individual tags and tag data may be viewed as a stand-alone, web server from anywhere in the world. Each RuBee tag, if properly enabled, can be discovered and monitored over the World Wide Web using popular search engines (e.g., Google) or via the Visible Asset&#39;s .tag Tag Name Server. 
     Where a network connection  29  is utilized, it is contemplated that the network may be or include any one or more of, for instance, the Internet, an intranet, a LAN (Local Area Network), a WAN (Wide Area Network) or a MAN (Metropolitan Area Network), a frame relay connection, an Advanced Intelligent Network (AIN) connection, a synchronous optical network (SONET) connection, a digital T1, T3 or E1 line, Digital Data Service (DDS) connection, DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) connection, an Ethernet connection, an ATM (Asynchronous Transfer Mode) connection, FDDI (Fiber Distributed Data Interface) or CDDI (Copper Distributed Data Interface) connections and so forth. In this manner, the camera control unit  16  may be coupled to, for example, a remote computer  31  via the network connection  29  for remote access to the data and/or information transmitted to and from endoscope  12 . 
     Another advantage of RuBee is that it can work well through liquids and metals and consumes less power. From a price perspective, RuBee and traditional RFID are similar in cost. 
     Endoscope transponder/transceiver  20  is coupled to a memory device  22 . Memory device  22  is capable of storing and providing electronic representations of parameters of endoscope  12  to endoscope transponder/transceiver  20 . Memory device  22  may be of any type that is programmable by such means as electrically, magnetically, by light frequencies or any type that is commonly known to those of ordinary skill in the art. 
     Also shown positioned in or on endoscope  12  is endoscope light source  21 , endoscope electronics  23  and imager  25 . In one embodiment, the endoscope light source  21  comprises an LED to provide illuminating light, for example, ahead of the distal end of the endoscope  12 . Endoscope transponder/transceiver  20  receives electrical power via a wireless connection from camera transponder/transceiver  24 . It is contemplated that the wireless coupling for transmission of the electrical power may comprise, for example, a resonate coupling arrangement, to function without need of any type of electrical storage device positioned on the medical instrument. In another embodiment, a reduced weight electrical storage device  19  may by positioned on the medical device to store a limited amount of electrical power in the event of a momentary disconnection from the wireless power coupling. In the second embodiment, the medical device would automatically start recharging when it enters the vicinity of a wireless power sending unit. 
     In one advantageous embodiment, camera transponder/transceiver (transmitter/receiver)  24  and endoscope transponder/transceiver (transmitter/receiver)  20  may comprise resonant transmitters and receivers. For example, a resonant transmitter may generate a resonant magnetic field. The transponder/transceivers may be “tuned” to the same frequency such that a strong resonant coupling occurs between camera transponder/transceiver  24  and endoscope transponder/transceiver  20 . The resonant coupling in one advantageous embodiment, comprises evanescent stationary near-field. While the transponder/transceiver may comprise virtually any type of resonant structure, it is contemplated that in an advantageous embodiment, the electromagnetic resonant system may comprise dielectric disks and capacitively-loaded conducting-wire loops. This arrangement provides the advantages of a strong coupling for relatively large and efficient power transfer as well as relatively weak interaction with other off-resonant environmental objects in the vicinity. 
     Accordingly, in the resonant coupling embodiment, camera transponder/transceiver  24  generates a resonant magnetic field that is received by endoscope transponder/transceiver  20 . Endoscope transponder/transceiver  20  then transmits electrical power to endoscope light source  21  and may further transmit electrical power to endoscope electronics  23  that may include imager  25 . It is further noted that the endoscope comprises a shaft  27 , either rigid or flexible that is inserted into a body cavity in which a medical procedure is to be performed. In one embodiment, the endoscope light source  21  is located in the handle portion of the endoscope (as illustrated in  FIG. 1 ) and illuminating light is transmitted down a light path (in the shaft  27 ) to a distal end of shaft  27  to illuminate an area ahead of the shaft. The imager  25  may be positioned in the handle portion of the endoscope (as illustrated in  FIG. 1 ) or at the distal end of the shaft  27  to receive or pick up reflected light to generate image data. The image data may then be transmitted to a camera control unit (“CCU”)  16 . 
     It should be noted that the image data is provided as a video image data stream comprising from about 30 to about 60 frames of data per second. This is possible as the resonant coupling allows for sufficient electrical power to be transmitted to the endoscope transceiver  208 . 
     As mentioned above, camera head  14  is detachable from endoscope  12  and may be attached to other endoscopes. Camera head  14  is coupled to CCU  16  by cable  18 . However, camera head  14  can be coupled to CCU  16  by, for instance; a cable connection, including analog, digital or optical; or a wireless connection. Cable  18  couples CCU  16  to camera head  14  and therefore with camera head transponder/transceiver  24 . An annunciator  28  may be incorporated into CCU  16  for the purpose of communicating endoscope parameters to personnel operating the endoscope system  10 . Annunciator  28  provides a means by which information concerning the endoscope is communicated to personnel operating the equipment. The annunciator may be a lamp, audible signal, alphanumeric display or other such communication device. Preferably, applicable endoscope parameters received by CCU  16  will subsequently be decoded and displayed on a video monitor for viewing by the endoscope system  10  operator. It is contemplated that memory device  22  may be queried through the present invention by an external computer (not shown) and stored data in memory device  22  retrieved for compilation and analysis. Power for the endoscope mounted circuitry, transponder/transceiver  20  and memory device  22  may be supplied by a power signal from camera head transponder/transceiver  24  derived from a signal from camera head  14 , or from an external computer. 
     Components such as endoscope transponder/transceiver  20 , camera head transponder/transceiver  24  and memory device  22 , are selected and protected such that they will not be damaged during sterilization of either endoscope  12  or camera head  14 . The sterilization may comprise any or all methods of high temperature, chemical or irradiation commonly used in the field. Components employed in endoscope transponder/transceiver  20 , memory device  22  and camera head transponder/transceiver  24  must not be degraded by temperatures commonly employed in autoclaves, chemicals such as gluteraldehyde or ethylene oxide, gamma radiation, or any other such sterilization techniques known to those of ordinary skill in the art. 
     It is also contemplated that various sensors mounted in endoscope  22  will record on memory device  22  peak values that the endoscope  22  is exposed to. This will enable manufacturers and maintenance personnel to determine reasons for endoscope failures and periods for necessary maintenance based upon usage. 
     It is further contemplated that the endoscope system  10  user will be able to manually “mark” a particular endoscope with a “maintenance required” signal if it is determined by the user that maintenance of the particular endoscope is required. The “marking” can be facilitated by a button or switch locally mounted to the system. Alternatively, the “marking” may take place automatically by the system based upon predetermined criteria. The criteria may include, but is not limited to, elapsed time of use, a certain number of actuations upon receipt of exceeded peak value measurements, or an extended period of time since last maintenance. This “mark” will be transmitted by the endoscope to the CCU and may conspicuously appear on the video screen for future users to see. 
     The memory device  22  is write-protected such that only factory personnel and/or equipment can remove the “maintenance required” indication. This may be accomplished, for instance, by requiring specific equipment to erase the “maintenance required” indication or by means of a predetermined code that first must be input to enable the removal of the “maintenance required” indication. This will ensure that users of the endoscope system  10  utilize only factory-authorized personnel to repair and maintain the endoscope system  10 , which will help to ensure a higher standard of service. 
     Referring to  FIG. 2 , memory device  22  stores and supplies electronic representations of endoscope parameters and endoscope use history data. These parameters and data provide a variety of information concerning the endoscope. Information stored in the endoscope would provide all required data for optimal use of the endoscope. In this way, the CCU  16 , or other connected medical equipment, would not have to locally or remotely store and access data related to a vast array of different endoscopes. Moreover, as endoscopes are modified and/or improved, corresponding parameters and data are immediately accessible at the time of endoscope use. 
     The endoscope parameters are broadly classified as fixed or unchanging information. Examples of fixed or unchanging endoscope parameters may include endoscope model and serial number, image relay optics type (e.g., rod lens, fused quartz, fiber optic), endoscope size, optical properties such a field of view, signal processing data for use by the CCU  16  for video signal optimization, maintenance requirements and interval, settings information for other medical equipment (such as high intensity light sources or insufflators) which are connected and/or controlled by the CCU  16  via a communication bus or any variety of characteristics that may be useful in endoscope, video camera system and other medical equipment usage. 
     The endoscope use history data is broadly classified as variable or updateable. Examples of variable or updateable endoscope use history data may include, for instance, number of endoscope usages, time of each endoscope use, total time of endoscope operation, number of actuations and medical equipment (used with the endoscope) identification and settings information. 
     Memory device  22  locations are broadly classified as write-enabled  54  and write-protected  56 . Memory device  22  can be capable of disallowing changes to memory locations until specified conditions are met. These conditions may be electrical such as requiring injection of a known signal or series of signals, or programmatic such as a password or any similar such method to prevent unauthorized alteration of the memory device locations. Write-protected locations store parameters that may be altered only during factory programming  52 , or by factory authorized personnel/equipment  50 . These endoscope parameters are generally, but not necessarily, fixed or unchanging as enumerated above. Write-enabled locations may be altered during factory programming  52 , by factory authorized personnel/equipment  50 , or with electronic representations of data received from the endoscope transponder/transceiver  20 . 
     Endoscope transponder/transceiver  20  communicates with camera head transponder/transceiver  24  once the camera head transponder/transceiver  24  comes into close proximity. As previously described, power for the endoscope transponder/transceiver  20  is supplied from the camera head transponder/transceiver  24 . Transceivers supplied with power in this manner typically have short ranges as compared to similar devices with their own power sources. It is anticipated that the effective range of transmission of the endoscope transponder/transceiver  20  and the camera head transponder/transceiver  24  may advantageously be very short. This is beneficial since an extensive transmission area could disadvantageously result in an endoscope communicating with an unrelated camera head or cause other communication problems with other equipment in the operating room. For example, if the RuBee signal format is utilized, it is contemplated that the signal range will extend from approximately 10 feet to approximately 50 feet. 
     Camera head transponder/transceiver  24  also exchanges signals with CCU  16  via cable  18 . CCU  16  may present the received signals on annunciator  28 . For example, data indicating that maintenance of the endoscope is required may be provided by endoscope transponder/transceiver  20  to camera head transponder/transceiver  24  which is forwarded to CCU  16  that, in turn, presents an alert to annunciator  28  that endoscope maintenance is required. 
       FIG. 3  illustrates another application of the present invention. At  100 , during manufacture of the endoscope, a memory device mounted in or on the endoscope is programmed with electronic representations of parameters and data specific to that particular endoscope  105 . These parameters may include the optical properties, serial number, model number, maintenance schedule, required camera settings, required equipment settings, malfunction codes and other such characteristics and parameters. The memory device will have sufficient additional memory locations to store other data as described below. 
     Once a camera head is energized, that is, “powered on,” a short-range wireless signal is radiated from the camera head transponder/transceiver. Upon the energized camera head being attached to a particular endoscope  110 , the wireless signal radiating from the camera head transponder/transceiver powers the endoscope transponder/transceiver. Consequently, the endoscope transponder/transceiver energizes the endoscope memory device, which provides the electronic representation of the endoscope parameters to the endoscope transponder/transceiver with the camera head transponder/transceiver receiving the wireless signal containing the electronic representation of the endoscope parameters from the endoscope transponder/transceiver  115 . The CCU, connected to the camera head, decodes the electronic representations of the endoscope parameters and thus “identifies” the endoscope in use. Specific information can then be communicated to the system user  120 , such as, but not limited to, endoscope type/model or serial number. The communication may be a visual indicator, an alphanumeric display or printout, an audio signal or any such communication technique. Preferably, the information is displayed on the system video monitor. If the endoscope attached to the camera head does not have a transponder/transceiver and programmed memory device, the video system configuration will remain unchanged. 
     Once the endoscope is identified and the endoscope parameters are loaded to the CCU, the CCU analysis and increments a “times used” counter (data)  125  for tracking and updating the count of how many times the endoscope was used with an endoscope reader compatible video system. The updated use count data is then written to the endoscope memory device as modified endoscope use history data by means of the camera head transponder/transceiver and the endoscope transponder/transceiver  130 . 
     The amount of time that an endoscope is in use determines the necessity for maintenance, as well as providing statistical data for factory use in design and marketing. Concurrent with the incrementing of the “times used” counter, the CCU also starts an elapsed time (“time in use”) clock  135 . The elapsed time continues to accumulate as long as the camera head is attached to the endoscope. Periodically, throughout the current use of the endoscope, the CCU, by means of the camera head transponder/transceiver and endoscope transponder/transceiver, updates the endoscope memory device  130  with modified endoscope use history data containing new accumulated “time in use” data  135 . In this way, the total “time in use” corresponding to a particular use of the endoscope is stored in the endoscope memory device. 
     Based upon endoscope parameters extracted from the endoscope memory device, the maintenance status of the endoscope  140  is determined by the CCU. The maintenance requirements criteria, endoscope use history data and any other datum items required for the CCU to determine the current status of the endoscope was previously received by the CCU from the endoscope memory device at  115 . If the CCU determines that endoscope maintenance is required  145 , the maintenance related information is communicated to the user  150 . The communication may be a visual indicator, an alphanumeric display or printout, an audio signal or any such communication technique. Preferably, the information is displayed on the system video monitor. 
     Depending upon the type of endoscope maintenance required, the user may, be provided the option to continue using the endoscope  160 . If the user opts to continue, information pertaining to the continuation is then written to the endoscope memory device by means of the camera head transponder/transceiver and the endoscope transponder/transceiver  130 . If the user opts not to continue endoscope use  165  or the continuation option  155  is not provided to the user, it is anticipated that the endoscope will be sent for factory authorized maintenance  170 . When the maintenance is completed, the memory device is updated  105  so that the routine maintenance requirements are reset and the video system no longer reports that maintenance is required. The endoscope is again ready for camera head attachment  110  and use. 
     If endoscope maintenance is not required  175  at  140  or the user opts to continue using the endoscope  160  at  155 , the CCU adjusts video processing settings  180  in order to optimize the video system according to endoscope parameters previously retrieved at  115 . Additionally, other medical equipment, such as light sources or insufflators settings, may be optimized  180  according to endoscope parameters, as previously described. 
     Further information gathered, analyzed and compiled may be included in the endoscope use history data by the CCU for storage in the endoscope memory device  130 . Endoscope use history data may include data on what camera head, CCU and other medical equipment was used with the endoscope (to include equipment serial numbers, model numbers, software revision numbers, etc.). Any information, which may be useful in determining how well an endoscope functioned, or under what conditions the endoscope functioned, could be included in the endoscope use history data. The endoscope use history data could later be retrieved for demographic or performance analysis purposes. An example is as follows. If a particular endoscope causes numerous CCUs to set exposure levels above a nominal value, this may indicate that the endoscope is not properly relaying images to the camera head. This CCU exposure level data would be included in the endoscope use history data and stored in the endoscope memory device. A review of the stored data would reveal this operational “trend,” the endoscope could be inspected and, if necessary, repaired before a catastrophic failure occurs. 
     As previously described, periodically, the CCU updates the endoscope memory device  130  with modified endoscope use history data containing new accumulated “time in use” data  135 . When the camera head is detached from the endoscope  190 , the last accumulated “time in use” data will already have been stored in the endoscope memory device. The interval at which the “time in use” data is updated in the endoscope memory device would be frequent enough (i.e., every few minutes or every minute) to ensure the accuracy of the data prior to the camera head being detached from the endoscope. 
     Although the invention has been described with reference to a particular arrangement of parts, features and the like, these are not intended to exhaust all possible arrangements or features, and indeed many other modifications and variations will be ascertainable to those of skill in the art.