Scalar v. Oasis Scientific

8/2/2019 Scalar v. Oasis Scientific

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SHAWN J. KOLITCH, OSB No. 063980E-mail: [email protected] J. ROMANO, OSB No. 053661E-mail: [email protected] C. BOURGEAU III, OSB No. 103476E-mail: [email protected] HARTWELL, P.C.520 S.W. Yamhill Street, Suite 200 PI EP'-' N A ~ ' -. '-C . r::' C.' 1.5:0::'t/.SDC-ORPPortland, Oregon 97204Telephone: (503) 224-6655Facsimile: (503) 295-6679

Attorneys for Plaintiff

UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURTDISTRICT OF OREGONPORTLAND DIVISION

SCALAR CORPORATION, a Japanesecorporation,Plaintiff,v.

OASIS SCIENTIFIC, INC., a SouthCarolina corporation,

Defendant.

3'12 - CV-51 6 -Case No.COMPLAINT FOR PATENT

INFRINGEMENT

DEMAND FOR JURY TRIAL

F or its complaint, Plaintiff Scalar Corporation ("Scalar") alleges against Defendant OasisScientific, Inc. ("Oasis") as follows:

NATURE OF THE CASE

1. This is a civil suit for patent infringement under the patent laws of the UnitedStates, 35 U.S.C. 1 et seq., and specifically under 35 U.S.C. 271 and 281.

Page 1 - COMPLAINT FOR PATENT INFRINGEMENT
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THE PARTIES

2. Scalar is a Japanese corporation, with a principal place of business and a mailingaddress at San-Ei Building 1-22-2, 2nd Floor, Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-Ku, Tokyo 160-0023,Japan.

3. Upon information and belief, Oasis is a South Carolina corporation with a mailingaddress of P.O. Box 25574, Greenville, South Carolina 29616 and a registered agent located at320 Ascot Ridge Lane, Greer, South Carolina 29650.

JURISDICTION AND VENUE

4. This Court has federal question jurisdiction under 28 U.S.c. 1331 and 1338(a),because ofthe claim under 35 U.S.C. 271 for patent infringement.

5. This Court has personal jurisdiction in this action because Oasis conductsbusiness in the state of Oregon in connection with the allegations of this lawsuit.

6. Venue is proper in this judicial district under 28 U.S.c. 1391 and 1400.THE ASSERTED PATENT

7. Plaintiff Scalar owns U.S. Patent No. 5,442,489 ("the '489 patent"), issuedAugust 15, 1995.

8. The '489 patent covers handheld portable magnifiers. These magnifiers may beused, for example, for educational, scientific, or law enforcement purposes, and may displayimages on a display such as a computer monitor. The '489 patent is derived from a patentapplication that was filed in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office ("USPTO") on September 23,1994. USPTO examined the application, determined that the claimed invention was novel andnonobvious, and awarded the '489 patent on August 15, 1995. A copy of this patent, asoriginally issued, is attached as Exhibit A.

Page 2 COMPLAINT FOR PATENT IN FRINGEMENT


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9. On August 6, 2007, Scalar requested reexamination of various claims of the'489

patent from USPTO, based on prior art references uncovered during prosecution of the Koreanand Japanese counterparts to the '489 patent. Specifically, Scalar requested reexamination ofclaims 1,6, 7, 11, 16,23 and 28 of the '489 patent in view of the newly uncovered references.

10. On March 30, 2010, USPTO issued an Ex Parte Reexamination Certificate,confirming the patentability of original claim 6, amended claims 1, 7, 11, 16, 19,23 and 28, andnewly presented claims 33-50. A copy of the Ex Parte Reexamination Certificate is attached asExhibit B.

11. The reexamined '489 patent gives Scalar the right to exclude others from making,using, offering for sale, and selling the claimed invention within the United States, and fromimporting the claimed invention into the United States.

12. Since at least as early as September 12, 2006, Scalar has caused products coveredby the '489 patent to be marked with U.S. Pat. No. 5,442,489, in compliance with 35 U.S.C. 287.

THE INFRINGING PRODUCTS

13. Oasis is making, using, offering for sale, selling, repamng and/or importinghandheld portable magnifiers and teaching the use of such magnifiers, including, but notnecessarily limited to, the ViTiny UM02 Handheld USB Digital Microscope, the Vi Tiny UM05Handheld USB Digital Autofocus Microscope, the ViTiny Pro 10 Portable Digital Microscope,the ViTiny Pro 10 Plus Portable Digital Microscope, the Vi Tiny VT -300 Portable DigitalMicroscope, the ViTiny VT-101 Portable Digital Microscope, the MANIOll Handheld USBDigital Microscope, the Firefly DE300 Polarized Handheld USB DigitalMicroscopelDermatoscope, the Firefly DE350 Wireless Polarized Handheld Digital

Page 3 COMPLAINT FOR PATENT INFRINGEMENT


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MicroscopelDermatoscope, the Firefly GT800 Handheld USB Digital Microscope, the FireflyGT600 Wireless Handheld Digital Microscope, and the Firefly GT200 Handheld USB DigitalMicroscope, all of which are covered by one or more claims of the reexamined '489 patent.These products each include, among other features, an imaging system and a light sourceenclosed within a one-handed graspable case and configured to display an image on anassociated monitor display. Copies of web pages indicating that Oasis otfers the infringingproducts for sale are attached as Exhibit C.

CAUSE OF ACTION - INFRINGEMENT OF THE '489 PATENT14. Oasis has infringed and is infringing the '489 patent by making, using, selling,

offering to sell, repairing and/or importing handheld portable magnifiers including, but notnecessarily limited to, the ViTiny UM02 Handheld USB Digital Microscope, the ViTiny UM05Handheld USB Digital Autofocus Microscope, the ViTiny Pro 10 Portable Digital Microscope,the ViTiny Pro10 Plus Portable Digital Microscope, the ViTiny VT -300 Portable DigitalMicroscope, the ViTiny VT-101 Portable Digital Microscope, the MANlO11 Handheld USBDigital Microscope, the Firefly DE300 Polarized Handheld USB DigitalMicroscopelDermatoscope, the Firefly DE350 Wireless Polarized Handheld DigitalMicroscopelDermatoscope, the Firefly GT800 Handheld USB Digital Microscope, the FireflyGT600 Wireless Handheld Digital Microscope, and the Firefly GT200 Handheld USB DigitalMicroscope, which are covered by one or more claims of the '489 patent, without authorizationfrom Scalar.

15. Infringement by Oasis has been and continues to be willful, with knowledge ofthe '489 patent and Oasis's infringement thereof, entitling plaintiffs to increased damages under35 U.S.C. 284 and to attorneys' fees incurred in prosecuting this action under 35 U.S.C. 285.



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e e. 16. Scalar has suffered, and will continue to suffer, substantial damages in an amount

to be proven at trial, through lost profits, lost sales and/or lost royalties, due to infringement ofthe'489 patent by Oasis.

17. Scalar has suffered, and will continue to suffer, permanent and irreparable injury,for which Scalar has no adequate remedy at law.

18. Scalar is entitled to relief provided by 35 U.S.C. 281, 283, 284, and 285.PRAYER FOR RELIEF

WHEREFORE, Plaintiff Scalar Corporation prays for judgment as follows:A. That Oasis has infringed, and is infringing, the '489 patent in violation of 35

U.S.C. 271;B. That Oasis's infringement of the '489 patent is willful;C. That Oasis be preliminarily and permanently enjoined against all acts of

infringement of the '489 patent pursuant to 35 U.S.C. 283;D. That Oasis be required to deliver to Scalar for destruction any and all articles in

its possession and/or under its control that infringe the '489 patent, including, but not limited to,the ViTiny UM02 Handheld USB Digital Microscope, the ViTiny UM05 Handheld USB DigitalAutofocus Microscope, the ViTiny ProlO Portable Digital Microscope, the Vi Tiny ProtO PlusPortable Digital Microscope, the ViTiny VT-300 Portable Digital Microscope, the ViTiny VT101 Portable Digital Microscope, the MANlOll Handheld USB Digital Microscope, the FireflyDE300 Polarized Handheld USB Digital MicroscopelDermatoscope, the Firefly DE350 WirelessPolarized Handheld Digital Microscope/Dermatoscope, the Firefly GT800 Handheld USBDigital Microscope, the Firefly GT600 Wireless Handheld Digital Microscope, and the Firefly



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GT200 Handheld USB Digital Microscope, along with any associated packaging andadvertisements;

E. That Oasis be ordered to pay Scalar the damages that Scalar has suffered due toinfringement of the '489 patent by Oasis, together with interest thereon and costs pursuant to 35U.S.C. 284, including profits lost by plaintiffs as a result of infringement of the '489 patent; inany event Scalar shall be awarded no less than a reasonable royalty for the unauthorized sale ofthe patented inventions by Oasis;

F. That this case be declared exceptional pursuant to 35 U.S.C. 285, due to willfulinfringement of the '489 patent by Oasis, and that Scalar be awarded trebled damages andreasonable attorneys' fees; and

G. That Scalar be awarded such other and further relief as the Court deems just andproper.

DEMAND FOR JURY TRIAL

Plaintiff Scalar Corporation hereby demands a trial by jury.

DATED this 22nd day ofMarch, 2012. Respectfully submitted, KOLISCH HARTWELL, P.C.

B y / ~ __ __ ~ ~ ___________________OLITCH, OSB No. 063980E-mail: [email protected] S.W. Yamhill Street, Suite 200Portland, Oregon 97204Telephone: (503) 224-6655Facsimile: (503) 295-6679OfAttorneys for Plaint(ff

Page 6 - COMPLAINT FOR PATENT INFRINGEMENT
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1 1 1 I 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 I 1 1 1 1 1 1 ! ! t l m ~ 1 1 I 1 1 1 1 I 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 I I I I I United States Patent [19] [11] Patent Number: 5,442,489Yamamoto et at. [45] Date of Patent: Aug. 15, 1995[54] MAGNIFYING OBSERVATION APPARATUS[75] Inventors: Kiyokazu Yamamoto; MasaoYamamoto, both of Tokyo, Japan[73] Assignees: Scalar Corporation; MitsubishiChemical Corporation, both of Japan[21] AppL No.: 311,724[22] Filed: Sep. 23, t994

Related U.s. Application Data[63] Continuation of Ser.' No. 983,848, filed asPCT/JP92/00836" July 2, 1992; abandoned.[30] Foreign Application Priority Data

Jul. 4, 1991 [JP] Japan .................................. 3-059616 Jui. 4, 1991 [JP] Japan .................................. 3-0596n Jul. 4, 1991 [JP] Japan .................................. 3189569 [51] Int. Cl.6 ...: ........................................ G02B 27/00 [52] U.S. Cl .................................... 359/810; 3591798;359/800; 359/802; 359/385[58] Field of Searclt ............... 3591798, 799. 800, 801,

3 5 9 / 8 0 ~ 8 0 3 . 8 0 6 . 8 0 9 , 810.385.386.388,389.390; 385/33. 119[56] References Cited

U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS3,621,1,31 11/1911 Wolff .................................. 358/104 3,625,607 1211911 Bravenec .............................. 355/56 3,8n,193 4/1915 Nakagawa ........................... 359nOO 4,116,,923 12/1919 Young et at. ....................... 348/320 4,881,128 11/1989 Yamada ......:,..,.. ............. 348/310 4,930,851 6/1990 Yamamoto .......................... 385/119 4,988,158 1/1991 Yamamoto ......... ................ 385/33 5,126,812 6/1992 Birkle .................................. 385/119

FOREIGN PAlENT DOCUMENTS61296869 1211986 Japan.6213811 4/1981 Japan.63246131 10/1988 Japan.

1308521 12/1989 Japan.4101411 4/1992 Japan.OTIlER PUBLICATIONS

Edited by Minoru Shoji "Photographic lens Handbook" Feb. 15, 1978 Shashin Kogyo Shuppan-sha K.K.{fokyo).Primary Examiner-Georgia Y. EppsAssistant Examiner-Thomas RobbinsAttorney, Agent, or Firm-Michael D. Bednarek; Marks& Murase .[57] ABSTRACTThe present invention relates to a magnifying observation apparatus of a video type in which an image of anobject to be ob.served which has been picked up by animage pickup apparatus incorporating an imaging device therein is reproduced on a monitor display andobserved. It is an object of the invention to attain acompact structure of the entire system so as to permiteasy observation in a simple manner. According to thepresent invention, in order to achieve such object, notonly the imaging device but also a control circuit unitfor the imaging device. an optical system for focusingthe image of the object to be observed on the imagingdevice. and a lightsource lamp for lighting the object tobe o b s ~ r v e d . are incorporated in the image pickupapparatus.

32 Claims, 11 Drawing Sheets

Exhibit A to Complaint, Page 1 of 20


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PRIOR ART

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5.442.4891 2The magnifying and observing system disclosed inMAGNIFYING OBSERVATION APPARATUSThis application is a continuation-in'part, continuation of application Ser. No. 07/983,848, (iled asPCT/JP92100836, Ju ly 2, 1992 now abandoned.

[FIELD OF ART]The present invention relates to a magnifying observation apparatus suitable for magnifying and observingvarious objects in various fields, including the fields ofbeauty, medical care, science, and industry.

[BACKGROUND ART]Heretofore, as magnifying and observing instruments

or devices there have been used, for example, microscopes and magnifiers. But in the case of a microscope,it is necessary to process an Object to be observed andthen take it to the microscope side. On the other hand,in the case of a magnifier, it is possible to take the magnifier itself to an object side to be observed and observethe object without applying any processing thereto;however, the magnification is low.With such circumstances as background, the applicant in the present case has previously developed amagnifying and observing system having both the meritof high magnification of the microscope and the meritof handiness of the magnifier (Japanese Patent LaidOpen No. 308527/89, Japanese Patent Application Nos.26462189 and 273419189, U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,930,851 and4,988,158).

The magnifying and observing system comprises asystem body (not shown) composed of a monitor display and a controller. and an image pick-up apparatus (alens barrel and a light condensing guide which are referred to in Japanese Patent Laid Open No. 308527189)100 shown in FIG. 13. The image pick-up apparatus 100contains a magnifying and focusing optical system 102and also incorporates therein optical fibers 103 for conducting into the apparatus an illuminating light to illuminate an object M to be observed from a light sourceprovided on the system body side. The image pick-upapparatus 100 is further provided at a front end thereofwith a light condensing guide lOS. While the imagepick-up apparatus is held by hand, the light condensingguide lOS is brought into abutment with the object M oris drawn close thereto, then an image obtained by animaging device (a solid-state image sensing device) 104incorporated in the image pick-up apparatus 100 is reproduced on the display and observed. The image pickup apparatus 100 is constructed so that the focus is sureto be taken automatically when a front end of the lightcondensing guide lOS is brought into abutment with theobject M or drawn close to the object up to a predetermined distance. Anybody can make observation at amagnification of fifty to several thousand diameterswithout the need of any skill or practice.In such magnifying and observing system, however, alight source is disposed within the controller for obtain-.ing a stronger illuminating light, which is conductedfrom the light source to the image pick-up apparatusthrough optical fibers. A control circuit unit interposedbetween the imaging device and the display for repro. duction is also provided within the Controller. Thus, thecontroller is needed in addition to the image pick-upapparatus and the display, resulting in increase in size asa whole. This point causes dissatisfaction in the casewhere a greater importance is attached to handiness.

the foregoing Japanese Patent Laid Open No.308527/89or No. 26462/89 or Japanese Patent Application No. 273419/89, the image pick-up apparatus isprovided with an illuminating means, as noted previously, and an image of an object observed is taken inwhile the object is lighted by the illuminating means,then it is reproduced on the display provided on thesystem body side and is observed. Therefore, it is possible to make a stand-free observation, that is, carryingthe image pick-up apparatus by hand up to an object tobe observed and then making observation while keepingthe object in place.

In such observation system, however, the lightsource for illuminating an object to be observed isformed by optical fibers, as mentioned above. Moreparticularly, light is conducted through a bundle ofoptical fibers from the external light source, and frontends of the optical fibers of the bundle are arrangedannu1arly to form an internal light source. The formation of such an internal light source can afford a stronger and uniform illuminating light, but requires theexternal light source, or the construction of the imagepick-up apparatus becomes complicated. Besides, sinceexpensive optical fibers are used, an increase of cost isunavoidable. Further, a very strong external lightsource is needed because there occurs propagation loss.Also in Japanese Patent Application No. 224327/90(Laid Open No. 107411/92) there is shown an exampleof a magnifying observation apparatus. This system hasbeen developed for making the magnifying observationapparatus disclosed in the foregoing Japanese PatentLaid Open No. 308527/89. or Japanese Patent Application No. 26462189 or No. 273419/89 smaller in size andeasier to handle. To this end, several improvements aremade therein.

One of the improvements resides in a constructionwherein not only an imaging device but also a controlcircuit unit for controlling the imaging device is incorporated in an image pick-up apparatus of the observation system in question. Another improvement residesin that a front end portion of the image pick-up apparatus is bent sideways with respect to the body portion sothat it can be handled in a direction which permits easyobservation. At the same time, a reflecting mirror isused to change the direction of image light from anobjec t observed. This is owing to the circumstances thatsince the imaging device is integrally connected withthe control circuit unit, a light sensing surface of theunaging device cannot be made directly perpendicu1arto the direction of image light incident from the side-ways-bent front end portion of the image pick-up apparatus. Thus, the structure using a reflecting mirror is notalways desirable. The use of a reflecting mirror resultsin increase in the number of parts and a more complicated structure. Moreover, for example, in the case ofusing a polarized light, the polarized light is disturbedby the reflecting mirror, so that an accurate observationis impaired.

Further, all of the observation apparatus referred toabove involve troublesomeness such that the replacement of optical system is necessary each time the magnification is to be changed.The use of a magnification-variable optical systemhaving a fixed focal plane is a solution to avoiding suchtroublesomeness, but those known heretofore as suchmagnification-variable structure are not suitable forstand-free observation systems. In more particu1ar



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,442,4893 4terms, a zoom lens is a typical example of such magnification-variable structure, but the principle thereof issuch that a focal length is changed continuously bychanging a mutual spacing of plural cons tituent lenses.Its design and structure are complicated and an increasein size of the optical system used therein is unavoidable.Thus, the zoom lens is not suitable to an observationsystem for stand-free observation in which simple structure and small size are ideal. In the present invention, the light-source lamp isconstituted as a lamp unit comprising plural lamps arranged in a predetermined state on a board. The wholeof the lamp unit can be mounted and removed. That is,S by using a plurality of small lamps in a predeterminedstate of arrangements it is made possible to accommodate in a narrow space a light source which can supplya required illuminative force, and obtain illuminationwhich is uniformand does not give rise to unevenness inThe present invention which has been accomplished 10 luminance for an object to .be observed. Besides, sinceunder the above-mentioned background aims at attaining a reduction in size and handiness to a greater extentthan in the conventional magnifying observation apparatus having such basic structure as referred to above.I t is another object of the present invention to pro- 1Svide a magnifying observation apparatus having a structure which does not require the use of optical fibers.It is a further object of the present invention to provide a structure of an image pick-up apparatus having a

the w h ~ l e . of t h ~ lamp umt can be mounted and remo:ved, It IS poss1ble to effect the replacement of lampseasily. , .In the p r ~ n t I n V ~ b o n , moreover',a front c:nd portic:m of the unage pick-up al?paratus IS bent S 1 d ~ w a y s ;-vtth ~ e c : t the body IX;'l'tlon !hereof,.and the unagmg .devlce IS mcorporated the ~ pick-up appara!US such a , ~ e r that a,light recetvmg ~ u r f a c c : of the~ g m ~ deVice ~ ~ e n ~ c u l a r to the optical aXIS of anfront end portion bent sideways with respect to a body 20 t m a ~ e hght which IS m ~ d . e n t the bent front endportion thereof which structure does not require the use X:0l'tl?n. ~ n s e q u e n t l y , ,I t IS pOSSIble to o ~ r v a -of a reflecting mirror for focusing an image light inci- tion In a S 1 d e w ~ y s fac.mg state of, t h ~ 1 m a ~ e pick-up. .., pparatus, that IS, while the longttudinal Side of thedent from the bent front end portion onto a light reCetv- . . k t . laced' araIl I 'th th. f" d . Image pIC -up appara us IS p e WI emg s ~ r f a ~ 0 an l M a ~ n g eV I c e . . . .. I t IS a still o b J e ~ t of the Invention to p r o V 1 ~ e asunple ~ g m f i c a t i o n - ~ I e structure, n a m ~ l y , a sunpIe zoommg structure , ~ w t a b l e to an observatlon systemfor stand-free observation.[DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION]

According to the present invention, in a magnifyingobservation apparatus wherein an image of an objectpicked up by an image pick-up apparatus is reproduced

m p2S surface of an object to be observed. Fo r example, inobserving skin of user's face, observation can be donemore easily. Moreover, since the light receiving surfaceof the imaging device is positioned perpendicularly tothe optical axis of an image light which is incident from30 the bent front end portion, it is not necessary to changethe optical axis of the light and hence it is not necessaryto use a reflecting mirror.

Further, in the present invention. a simple zoomingstructure is formed by allowing an objective lens and anon a display and observed, at least an imaging device, a 3S imaging device to slide interlocked1y while forming acontrol circuit unit for the imaging device, an optical predetermined relation between the two.system for focusing the image of the object on the imag- This simple zooming st ructure utilizes the fact that aing d ~ v i c e , and a lamp as a l i ~ t source for . i l l ~ a t i n g magnification, m, obtained by an optical system has thean object to be observed, are mcorporated m the unage relation of m=b/a (a: distance between an object to bepick-up. a p p a r a ~ u s . . . . 40 observed and the objective lens, b: distance between theIn ~ Y l l ~ g o ~ t l o n apparatus accordingto the m ~ e n ~ o n , .sm.ce t h ~ ! l g h t - S O u r ~ I ~ p and .thecontrol c:rrCtDt umt, m.addlbc:m to t h ~ IMagtng deVice,are also mcorporated m the unage pick-up apparatus,the controller which is needed in the foregoing conven- 4Stional systems is no longer necessary, so that the systemis reduced in size as a whole. Besides, since the lamp asa light source incorporated in the image pick-up apparatus illuminates an object to be observed directly in closeproximity thereto, there is no propagation loss which SOoccurs in the use of optical fibers. and therefore it ispossible to use a lamp of a smaller output. Thus, theincorporation of a light-source lamp into the imagepick-up apparatus leads to the possibility of a markedreduction in size of the lamp itself.Also as to the control SScircuit unit, since it is closer to the imaging device, it ispossible to use a control circuit unit of a far smallercapacity tl1an in the conventional systetns. and thus theincorporation of a control circuit unit into the image

objective lens and the imaging device). Th e value ofm= b/ a is changed continuously by allowing the objective lens and the imaging device to slide in an interlocked state which satisfies' the relation of1/a+ l /b= IIf (f: focal length ofthe objective lens). Asa result, it is possible to change magnification whilemaintaining the image pick-up apparatus at a predetermined certain distance from the object to be observed.A preferred structure of such interlocked sliding ofthe opt ical system and the'imaging device utilizes a camstructure. More specifically, the objective lens is held ina fixed state by an optical system holding cylinder having a rolIer projection on the periphery thereof. whilethe imaging device is held also in a fixed state by animaging device holding cylinder having a roller projection on the periphery thereof. Th e holding cylinders areboth held slidably by an intermediate cyJinder having arectilinear gtlide slot formed on the periphery thereof.Further, the intermediate cylinder is held for relativepick-up apparatus leads to the possibility of a great 60 rotation by a cam cylinder having cam slots for thereduction in size of the same unit. That is, these reductions in size permit their incorporation to a still furtherextent, and such an organic correlation brings about thereduction in size of the whole. The term "light-sourcelamp" or "lamp" as used herein and also in the ap- 6Spended claims is used in a broad concept which covers

not only incandescent lamps and fluorescent lamps butalso light etnitting diode and the like.

optical system and the imaging device, respectively,which cam slots are formed in the periphery of the camcylinder. Upon rotation of the cam cyJinder, the rollerprojections which are engaged through the gtlide slot ofthe intermediate cyJinder with the cam slots for theoptical system and the imaging device, respectively, ofthe cam cylinder, are all individually restricted theirmovement by the cam slots each formed in a predeter-



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,442,4895 6mined curvilinear shape. Consequently, the objective The polarizing unit 16 comprises a second polarizerlens and the imaging device slide interlockedly under a 18 and a polarization plane rotating means 19. Polarizedpredetermined relationship while their rotation is pre light obtained by a first polarizer 22 which will be devented by the guide slot of the intennediate cylinder. scribed later can be shut of f by turning ON a non-reflection image switch 21 provided on the outer surface of[BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS] is the case 5. More specifically, in this embodiment, aFIG. 1 is a construction diagram of an image pick-Up liquid crystal is used as the polarization plane rotatingapparatus according to a first embodiment of the inven- means 19. As shown in the circuit diagram of FIG. 4,oon; upon turning ON of the non-reflection image switch 21,FIG. 2 is a partial perspective view of the image 10 lamps 23, 23 . . . of the l ight source means 4 which willpick-up apparatus of the first embodiment; be descnoed later go on and an oscillatOr 24 operates, so.FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing a relation be- that the polarization plane rotating means 19 causes thetween a lamp unit and connecting terminals in the image polarization plane of polarized light to rotate 9( t andpick-Up apparatus of the first embodiment; hence the polarized light obtained by the first polarizerFIG. 4 is an electric circuit diagram of the image IS 22 is cut of f by the second polarizer 18. Conversely,pick-up apparatus of the first embodiment; when the non-reflection image switch 21 is OFF, theFIG. 5 is a construction diagram of an image pick-up polarized light can pass through the second polarizerapparatus according to a second embodiment of the 18.invention; It is a reflection image switch 25 that is disposed inFIG. 6 is a partial perspective view of the image 20 paIa1lel with the non-reflection image switch 21. Whenpick-up apparatus of the second embodiment; the switch 25 is turned ON, only the lamps 23, 23, . . . ofFIG. 7 is a perspective view showing a relation be- the light source means 4 go on.tween a lamp unit and connecting terminals in the image Thus, by utilizing the polarized light, it is made pOssi-pick-Up apparatus of the second embodiment; ble to select an image light and perfonn more versatileFIG. 8 is an electric circuit diagram of the image 25 observations. The light from the object M to be obpick-up apparatus of the second embodiment; served is classified into a surface reflected light re-FIG. 9 is a construction diagram of an image pick-up flected directly by the surface of the object M and aapparatus according to a third embodiment of the in- non-surface reflected light which has once passedvention; through the surface layer of the object M. The surfaceFIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of a slide 30 reflected l ight retains the polarizability obtained by themechanism; first polar izer 22, whereas the non-surface reflectedFIG. 11 is a construction diagram of an observation light loses polarizability and becomes a natural light.system using the image pick-up apparatus of the third Therefore, an image containing such surface reflectedembodiment; light and an image not containing it can be observedFIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram showing a relation 3S selectively according to whether the polarized light isamong an object to be observed, an objective lens and allowed to pass or cut off. By such a selective observaan imaging device; and tion it is made possible to observe a surface state orFIG. 13 is a construction diagram ofan image pick-up structure of an object which can be seen more clearlyapparatus in conventional magnifying system. by the use of a surface reflected light, as wen as a sur

[FORMS FOR PRACTICING TH E INVENTION] 40 face state or structure of an object which can be. more clearly by the use of a non-surface reflected light,Embodiments of the present invention will be de- both in a state easier to see. Thus, the versatility orscribed hereinunder. observation is attainedThe reason why the polarizing unit 16 is disposed jus tFirst Embodiment (FIG. 1 to FIG. 4) 45 in front of the optical lens 14 is that the maximum oper-.

An image pick-up apparatus 1 according to this em- ating temperature of the polarization plane rotatingbodiment includes an imaging means 2, an optical means means 19 using liquid crystal is about 4 0 ~ C., but the3 and a l ight source means 4, which are enclosed within temperature near the light source means 4 which will bea case 5. It is of a size which permits the apparatus to be described la ter sometimes exceeds the maximum operatgrasped easily by one hand. Its front end portion is bent SO ing temperature, so at such a higher temperature thein an inclined state so as to be suitable for observing the polarization plane rotating means 19 may not operateface skin while the apparatus is held by one hand. accurately. ..The imaging means 2 comprises an imaging device 10 The reflecting mirror 17 is provided for changing theusing a CCD and a control circuit unit 13 for control- optical path in accordance with the inclination of theling the imaging device 10 and for amplifying an image SS front end portion mentioned previously. I t is a surfacesignal. reflection type. More specifically, a reflective surface ofThe optical means 3 comprises an optical lens 14 and the reflecting mirror 17 is exposed and light is reflectedplural flare stops 15, 15, . . . . The flare stops IS, IS, . . directly by the exposed reflective surface, unlike an. are provided projectingly in an annular form to fonn a ordinary type of mirror in wh ich a reflective surface isminimum optical path T required. The fonnation of 60 formed at the back of a transparent material (e.g. glass)such optical path T by the flare stops 15, 15, . . . is and light passes through the transparent material at theextremely useful in obtaining a clear image. time of reflection.In association with the optical means 3, a polarizing The use of such a surface reflection type reflectingunit 16 is disposed just in front of the optical lens 14. mirror is related to the foregoing polarization. MoreFurther, in the optical path between the optical lens 14 65 particularly, since the polarizing unit 16 must be dis-and an object M to be observed there is disposed a posed in a position rearer than the reflecting mirror 17reflecting mirror p in a front position with respect to for the reason stated above, the passage of polarizedthe polarizing unit 16. light through a transparent material will result in the



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,442,4897 8polarizability thereof being disturbed, thus making it rays from the light emitted from the lamps 23, 23, . . . Jimpossible to effect accUIately such observation using thereby preventing the rise of the internal temperaturepolarized light as mentioned above. The light source of the case 5. The first polarizer 22 functions to polarizemeans 4 comprises a lamp unit 26, a diffusion preventing the light emitted from the lamps 23, 23, . . . . The light-mirror 27 and a lighting/processing unit 28. 5 ing using the resulting polarized light is utilized as exAs shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the lamp unit 26 com plained previously.prises a plurality (four in this embodiment) of lamps 23,23, . . . arranged side by side on a board 29. It can be Second Embodiment (FIG. 5 to FIG. 8)mounted and removed through the board 29 with re- An image pick-up apparatus 201 according to thisspect to a mounting hole 30 formed in the case 5. 10 embodiment is basically the same as in the flI'St embodi-As shown in FIG. 4, the four lamps 23,23, . . . are ment, as shown in FIG. 5, and it comprises an imagingconnected in series, and assuming that a rated vol tage of means 202, an optical means 203, and a light source

each lamp 23 is 2.5 V, a voltage of 12 V is applied to the means 204, which are enclosed in a case 2OS. The imageseries-connected lamps. This is because by applying a pick-up apparatus 201 has a body portion of a sizevoltage 20% higher than the total rated voltage of 10 V 15 which permits the user to grasp the body portion easilyof the four lamps 23, 23, . . . there is obtained brightness by one hand. On the other hand, a front end portion ofwhich is twice the brightness obtained at such rated the apparatus 201 is bent in an inclined state with re-voltage. On the other hand, the service life is reduced to spect to the body portion to suit the observation of, forabout one tenth. example. the face skin while the body portion is held byThe reason why such strong brightness is to be ob- 20 one hand.tained at the sacrifice of the service life is that it is in- The imaging means 202. like the imaging means 2 intended to realize in a narrow space a lighting force the first embodiment. comprises an imaging device 210which can afford a sufficient brightness even if there using a CC D and a control circuit unit 213 for control-occurs extinction due to the first and second polarizers ling the imaging device 210 and for amplifying an image22, 18. 25 signal. But a difference from the imaging means 2 in theFurther, the reason why the lamps 23, 23, ... are first embodiment is recognized in tha t the imaging de-connected in series is that it is intended to reduce the vice 210 is connected to the control circuit unit 213size of the lamp unit 26 and simplify the structure of an through a flexible cable 214, that is, the imaging deviceelectric system, for mounting in a narrow space. More 210 is rendered movable freely with respect to the con-specifically, the size of each lamp is reduced by using a 30 trol circuit unit 213.lamp of 2.5 V in rated voltage to thereby attain the Utilizing such free movability, the imaging devicereduction in sizeof the lamp unit 26, and a power supply 210 is disposed in such a manner that a light receiving

of 12 V necessary for the oscillator 24 can be used also surface 210!of the imaging device 210 is oJ;thogonal tofor the lamp unit 26 without using a transformer to an optical axis A of an image light which is incidentthereby simplify the structure of the electric system. 35 front the bent front portion of the image pick-up appa-On the board 29 is formed a partial power-supply ralUS, that is, in such a manner as to eliminate the necescircuit 31 for the lamps 23, for example by printing, sity of changing the optical axis of the image light.with terminal receiving holes 32, 32 being formed in I t is a color filter 215 that is disposed in front of the

both end portions of the circuit 31. When the lamp unit imaging device 210. The color filter 215 functions to26 is mounted into the mounting hole 30 as mentioned 40 adjust the wavelength characteristics of light whichpreviously, terminal pins 33p of connecting terminals 33 enters the imaging device 210, in accordance with colorare fitted in the terminal receiving holes 32, 32 to make characteristics of the imaging device.connection with a power-supply circuit 31 in FIG. 4. As other components there are used optical meansThe reason why the lamp 26 is constituted as above 203, optical lens 216, flare stops 217, polarizing unit 218,and made detachable wholly as one unit is that the 45 second polarizer no, polarization plane rotating meansreplacement thereof should be done in a simple manner 221, non-reflection image switch 223, first polarizer 224,

to further facilitate the use thereof since the service life light source means 204, lamp 225, oscillator 226, reflecof the lamp 23 is sacrificed for attaining a s tronger tion image switch 227, lamp unit 228, diffusion prevent-brightness as noted previously. In this connection, it is ing mirror 229, lighting/processing unit 230, partialmost preferable in mounting and removing operations SO power-supply circuit 231, terminal receiving hole 234,to utilize the mounting hole 30 formed in the case 5, mounting hole 232, connecting terminal 235, terminalprovided that a complicated structure results. There- pin 235p, diffuser panel 237, and heat rays abSorbingfore, instead of this structure there may be adopted a plate 238. Since these components are the same as in thestructure wherein a suitable receptacle portion for the first embodiment, explanations thereof are here omitted.: n o ~ t i n g and removal of the lamp unit is formed in the 55 Third Embodi (FIG 9 FIG . "")mtenor of the case 5. ment . to .......

Th e diffusion preventing mirror 27 is for preventing . As shown in FIG.-9, the image pick-up apparatus 302the light from the lamps 23, 23, . . . from entering the according to this embodiment contains an optical sysoptical path of the optical means 3 direcdy and for tem unit 310 and an imaging unit 311, and is also pro-directing the light efficiendy to the object M to be 60 vided with a lighting unit 311. The image pick-up appaobserved. The mirror 27 is provided so as to cover the ratus 302 is used as in FIG. 11. An image picked up bylamps 23, 23, . . . from above like eaves. the apparatus 302 is reproduced on a display 304 of aThe lighting/processing unit 28 comprises a diffuser display apparatus 303 and is observed. The image pick-panel 35, a heat rays absorbing plate 36 and the flI'St up apparatus 302and the display apparatus 303 combinepolarizer 22, which are arranged in this order succes- 65 as a set and constitute a magnifying observation apparasively from the side closer to the lamp unit 26 so as to tus 301.intersect the radiation of light from the lamp unit. Th e The optical unit 310 comprises an ob jective lens 313heat rays absorbing plate 36 functions to remove heat and plural flare stops 314,314, . . . . Since the flare stops



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,442,4899 10 314, 314, . . , are formed projectingly in an annularshape to form a minimum optical path T required, the.formation of such optical path T by those flare stops isextremely useful in obtaining a clear image,The imaging unit 311 comprises an imaging device S315 and a control circuit unit 318 for controlling theimaging device 315 and for amplifying an image signal,the imaging device 315 and the control circuit unit 318being connected with each other through a flexible

The lighting unit 3U comprises a light source 327 anda light condensing guide 328 for radiating light from thelight source 327 efficiently to a portion to be observed.In the light source 327, light from an external light-source lamp (not shown) is conducted up to the imagepick-up apparatus, using a bundle of optical fibers extending through a cable 329, and front ends for irradiation of optical fibers 329J, 329J, . . , of such optical fiberbundle are implanted in an annu1ar holding member 330.cable 319. 10 Light radiated from the irradiating front ends of theThe objective lens 313, flare stops 314, 314, . . . andimaging device 315 of both optical system 310 and imaging unit 311 are adapted to slide like arrow X in interlock with each other by means of a slide mechanismwhich utilizes a cam structure. 15More specifically, as shown in FIG. 10, the slidemechanism comprises a plurality of holding cylinders

321 (321a, 321h, 321e, 321d) for the optical system andfor the imaging device, with roller projections 320(320a, 320h, 320e, 32Od) being formed on the periphery 20of the cylinders 321; an intermediate cylinder 323 having rectilinear guide slots 322 formed in the peripherythereof, and a cam c linder 325 having cam slots 324, y . l'( 3 ~ , 3 ~ h , 3 ~ , 324d) for the opt1cal ~ y s t e m and lor 2Sthe u n a g m ~ d e V 1 ~ , formed on penphery thereof.

~ ~ r a n g e d optical fibers 329J, 329J, . . reache: anIncident,end 330 f ~ e d a base e n ~ of the lightc o n d e n ~ g gwde 32,8 w h i ~ h will ?e descnb,ed below.hgI;t condensmg gUIde ~ 2 8 1.S formed m a hc:>lIowsenusphencal shape or a cylmdrical shape havmg ahollo,":" semispherical ,front. portion, using a ~ p a r e n t material, e.g. an acrybc resm. A base end of Its rear endportion is f o r m ~ as the incident end .face 330, athrou;lSh hole .331 IS formed ~ t r a 1 I Y ofIts front pot"bon.light radiated from the l ight source 327 ~ o ~ g hmcdent end face travels ~ o u g h the solid mtenorunder total reflect10n and. IS c o n d u c t ~ up to thethrough hole 33.1, then. radtates the J?Ot"bon to be observed of the object M m a nearly honzontal state fromthe inside surface of the hole. At the same time, lightwhich has leaked inside the Ii ht condensin 'de32BThese holding cylmders are combined together so that . ". g.gm .the hId' lind 321a 321h 321 d 321dare h ld WIthout .entenng the mCIdent end 330 Illummates. 0 mg cy. ers . ' .' e an , . e the portion to be observed as a drop light from above.~ I d a b l y by the mterm


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,442,48911 124. A magnifying observation apparatus according to 9. A magnifying observation apparatus according toclaim 1 wherein an objective lens of said optical system claim 7, wherein an objective lens of said optical systemand said imaging device slide in interlock with each and said imaging device slide in interlock with eachother while satisfying the relation of lIa+ Ilb= II f (a: other while satisfying the relation of l/a+ 11b= 1/f,distance between the object to be observed and the 5 where a is the distance between the object to be obobjective lens, b: distance between the objective lens served and the objective lens, b is the distance betweenand the imaging device, f: focal length of the objective the objective lens and the imaging device, and f is thelens). . " . focal length of the objective lens,A magmf>;ng ~ b s e r : ' a t i ~ n a p p a r ~ t u s acc:ording to 10. A magnifying observation apparatus according toclaun 4, w h e r ~ SlUd objective ,lens IS !teld 10 a ,fixed 10 claim 9, wherein said objective lens is held in a fixedstate by ~ P b c a l system hold1Og, cylinder haVlng. a state by an optical system holding cylinder having a

~ o l l e ~ p r o J e c ~ o n , formed, on the penphery t h e r ~ o f , s:ud roller projection formed on the periphery thereof, saidunapng d e ~ c e IS h ~ d m a fl:'.ed state by an ~ ~ g imaging device is held in a fixed state by an imagingdeVIce holding c y ~ n d e r havmg a roller , p r o j e c ~ o n device holding cylinder having a roller projectionformed on the penphery thereof, both Said holding 15 formed on the periphery thereof both said holdingcylinde:s being ~ ~ I d slida?ly by an intermediate c ~ l i n - cylinders being held slidably by intermediate cylinder havmg a r e : ' ~ n e a r slot ~ o r m e d the penph- der having a rectilinear guide slot formed on the periphthereof, wd m t e r m e d i a t ~ c y l 1 O d e ~ bang held rela- ery thereof, said intermediate cylinder being held relabvely t?tatably by a cam cylinder haVlng a ~ l o t for tively rotatably by a cam cylinder having a cam slot fort ~ e o p ~ c a 1 system an? a cam s l ~ t for the ,wagIng de- 20 the optical system and a cam slot for the ima' de-Vlce, SlUd cam slots bemg formed 10 the penphery ofthe . . , . , gm g. t ed' te li d d'd b' ti I d'd VIce, w d cam slots bemg formed 10 the penphery ofthee.:nng lad .cy n ealr'lan edSlUt s l i ~ d e c . tensI an ~ t h intermediate cylinder, and said objective lens and saidwagI eVlce are ow 0 e 10 10 er ock W1 ' d ' all d s1'd" I k 'theach other while forming a predetermined distance tmagIng eVlce ,are o ~ e to I e 10 ~ t e r oc. W1relation in response to rotation of said cam cylinder 25 e a c ~ o t ~ e r while fOtmlng predete:rmned d i s ~ c e through the roller projections which are engaged with rela on 10 response r'?tabon SlUd cam c y l 1 O ~ e r the cam slots of the cam cylinder through the guide slot through the roller p r o J e c b ~ n s which are e n g a g ~ WIthof said intermediate cylinder, the slots of cam,cylmder through the gwde slot6, A magnifying observation apparatus for reproduc- of Said 1 O t e r m ~ t e cylinder: ,ing, on to a monitor display, an image of an object to be 30 ~ 1 . A m ~ g n i f y i n g observabon a p p a r a t ~ that ,Includesobserv.ed which has been picked up by an image pick-up an lnu;ge PIck-up appar,atus for r e ? r o d u C l ~ g an tmage ofapparatus said image pick-up apparatus having incorpo- an object l o c a ~ p ~ o x t m a t e wage.pIck-up appararated therein at least an imaging device, a control cir- tus o n t ~ , a mowto; d i s p l a ~ , wd pIck-up appara,tuscuit unit for the imaging device, an optical system for c o m p ~ m g a casmg ~ v m ? a V l e ~ n g hole, the c : w n ~ focusing the image of the object to be observed on the 35 e n ~ l o s 1 O g at I ~ t an ~ g I D g d ~ V l c e , a c o n t r o ~ cm::wtimaging device, and a light source means for lighting UnIt, for p r o ~ g a S 1 ~ ~ e c e 1 v e d fra:n the unagIDgthe object to be observed, the optical system including deVl'7 and en;uttmg a Vldeo s ~ g n a l , an optlcal srstem foran objective lens and wherein the objective lens of said f ~ ~ 1 O g the tmage an ,object ~ o c a t e d pr,?X1mate theoptical system and said imaging device slide in interlock V l ~ g .hole on lh:e imagIng deVlce, and a l i g h t ~ s o u r c e with each other while satisfying the relation of 40 for lightmg :>bject to be ~ b s e r v e d . .l /a+ Ilb= I l f where a is the distance between the 12, A magnifymg observation apparatus accord1Og toobject to be observed and the objective lens, b is the claim ~ 1 , wherein said light-source is a lamp unit thatdistance between the objective lens and the imaging compnses at least one lamp arranged on a board suchdevice, and f is the focal length of the objective lens, ~ h e l a m ~ unit can be mounted to and removed from7, A magnifying observation apparatus that includes 45 SlUd wage pIck-up apparatus,and image pick-up apparatus for reproducing, onto a 13. A magnifying observation apparatus according tomonitor display, an image of an object located proxi- claim 11, wherein a front end portion of said imagemate the image pick-up apparatus which has been p i c k ~ u p apparatus is bent sideways,picked up by an image pick-up apparatus the image 14, A magnifying observation apparatus according topick-up apparatus including a casing having a viewing SO claim 11, wherein an objective lens of said optical s y s ~ hole formed therein and further including at least an tem and said imaging device slide in interlock with eachimaging device, a control circuit unit for the imaging other,device, an optical system for focusing the image of an IS, A magnifying observation apparatus according toobject to located proximate the viewing hole on the claim 11, wherein the image pick-up apparatus is con-imaging device, and a light-source lamp for lighting the 55 nected to the monitor by a wire that transmits infoOllaobject to be observed, wherein said light-source lamp is tion from the imaging device to the monitor,formed as a lamp unit comprising a plurality of lamps 16. A magnifying observation apparatus that includesarranged in a predetermined state on a board in such a an image pick.up apparatus for reproducing an image ofmanner that the entire lamp unit can be mounted to and an object located proximate to image pick-Up apparatusremoved from said image pickup apparatus, 60 onto a monitor display, said image pick-up apparatus8. A magnifying observation apparatus according to comprising a casing, the casing enclosing at least anclaim 7, wherein a front end portion.of said image pick- imaging device, a control circuit unit for the imagingup apparatus is bent sideways, and said imaging device device, an optical system for focusing the image of anis incorporated in the image pick-up apparatus in such a object onto the imaging device, and a light,source lampmanner tI1at a light receiving surface of the imaging 65 means for lighting the object to be observed.device is orthogonal to an optical axis of an image light 17. A magnifying observation apparatus according towhich is incident from the thus-bent front end portion claim 16, wherein said light-source lamp means is aof the image pick-up apparatus. lamp unit that comprises at least one lamp arranged on

http:///reader/full/observ.edhttp:///reader/full/portion.ofhttp:///reader/full/observ.edhttp:///reader/full/portion.of


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,442,48913 14a board such that the lamp unit can be mounted to andremoved from said image pick-up apparatus.18. A magnifying observation apparatus according toclaim 16, wherein a front end portion of said imagepick-up apparatus is bent sideways.19. A magnifying observation apparatus according toclaim 16, further comprising a viewing hole formed inthe casing and wherein said optical system focuses theimage of an object located'proximate the viewing hole 10on the imaging device.20. A magnifying observation apparatus according toclaim 16, wherein an objective lens of said optical systern and said imaging device slide in interlock with eachth t a(fust 'ficati 15

25. A magnifying observation apparatus according toclaim 23, wherein a front end portion of said imagepick-up apparatus is bent sideways.26. A magnifying observation apparatus according to5 claim 23, wherein an objective lens of said optical sys. tem andwd imaging device slide in interlock with eachother to adjust magnification.27. A magnifying observation apparatus according to

claim 23, wherein the image pick-up apparatus is connected to the monitor by a wire that transmits information from the imaging device to the monitor,28. A magnifying observation apparatus that includesan pick-up appu:atus for r e p r o d u c ~ g an image ofan object 1 0 c a ~ e d p ~ o X l I l l a t e !h7 lmage.ptek-up apparatus onto a momtor display, 5ald lmage pick-up apparatuso er 0 J , ~ g r o ,comprising a casing having a viewing hole, an imaging~ 1 , A m a ~ g obse:va?on a p p a r a t ~ a c c o ~ g to clwm 16, wherem an objective lens of swd optical system is movable to adjust magnification. 22, A magnifying observation apparatus according to 20. claim 16. wherein the image pick-up apparatus is connected to the monitor by a wire that transmits a videosignal from the imaging device to the monitor.23. A magnifying observation apparatus that includes, . , , 25an 1 % l l ~ g e pick-up a p p ~ t u s for r ~ r o d u C 1 ~ g an lmage ofan object ] o c a ~ PX:OXlIllate : h ~ lmage,plck-up apparatus onto a momtor d1Splay. said lmage pIck-up apparatuscomprising a casing having a viewing hole, the casingenclosing at least an imaging device, a control circuit 30unit for the imaging device, an optical system for focusing the image of an object located proximate the viewing hole on the imaging device, the optical system com-

Prising an ob ective lens that is movable to adjust mag . 35nifi tca 10IL ,.. .A magnifying obse:-:ation a,pparatus accordmgc l ~ 23, further compnsmg a lIght-source lamp urutthat mcludes at least one lamp arranged on a board such

device that is movable in relation to the viewing hole,the observation apparatus further comprising a controlcircuit unit for the imaging device, an optical systemlocated in the image pick-up apparatus for focusing theimage of an object located proximate the viewing hole,the optical s y s ~ comp,risinl? an objective lens that ismovable to ~ J ~ t m a g r o f i c a ~ o n . .

A magnifying o b s e ~ a t i o n apparatus according l?claim 28. further compnsmg a light-source lamp urutthat includes at least one lamp arranged in the imagepick-up apparatus casing on a board such that the lampunit can be mounted to and removed from said imagepick-up apparatus.30, A magnifying observation apparatus according toclaim 28. wherein a front end portion of said imagepick-up a p p ~ ~ is bent s i d ~ a y s . .~ 1 , A m a ~ i o b s e ! " l 1 ~ o n a p p a r a t ~ ~ m toclwm 28, ~ h ~ r e t n , an obJ7cuv7 ,of SaId o p ~ c a l system and saJd Imagmg deVIce slide tn mterlock WIth eachth d' 'fi '0 er to a Just magro cation.32. A magnifying observation apparatus according toclaim 28, wherein the image pick-up apparatus is con

nected to the monitor by a wire that transmits informathat the lamp unit can be mounted to and removed from 40 tion from the imaging device to the monitor,said image pick-up apparatus,

45

so

55

60

6S



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UNI.TATES PATENT AND T R A D ~ F F I C E CERTIFICATE OF CORREC"T'ION

PATENT NO. : 5,442,489DATED : August 15, 1995INVENTOR(S) : Kiyokazu Yamamoto and Masso Yamamoto

It is certified that error appears in the above-identified patent and that said Letters Patent is herebycorrected as shown below:

Column 11, line 46, change "and" into --an-.

Signed and Sealed thisThirtieth Day ofJuly, 1996

Alte:sr:

Attesting Officer



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13

111111 I I I ~ 1 I I I I I m ~ l ~ ~ ~ I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I ~ IIII(12) EX PARTE REEXAMINATION CERTIFICATE (7427th)United States Patent (10) Number: US 5,442,489 ClYamamoto et al. (45) Certificate Issued: Mar. 3 0 ~ 2010

Exhibit B to Complaint, Page 1 of 4

(54) MAGNIFYING OBSERVATION APPARATUS(is) Inventors: KiyokllZll Yamamoto, Tokyo (JP);Masao Yamamoto, Tokyo (JP)(73) Assignee: Scalar Corporation, Shibuya-Ku, Tokyo

(lP)Reexamination Request:No. 901010,OO6,Aug. 6, 2007Reexamination Certificate for:Patent No.: 5,442,489Issued: Aug. 15, 1995Appl. No.: 08l3U,724Filed: Sep. 23, 1994Certificate of Correction issued Jui. 30, 1996.

Related U.s. Application Data(63) Continuation-in-part of application No. 07/983,848, filed asapplication No. PCT/JP92IOO836 on Jul. 2, 1992, nowabandoned.(30) Foreign Application Priority Data

Jul. 4, 1991 . (JP) ............................................. 3 ~ 5 9 6 7 6 Jul. 4, 1991 (JP) ............................................. 3 ~ 5 9 6 7 7 Jul. 4, 1991 '(JP) ............................................. 3-189569

(51) InL Ct.G02B 271(}(} (2006.01)(52) U.S. Cl. .................. 3591810; 3481E1.087; 359/385;359n98; 3591800; 359/802(58) Field of Classification Search ........................ None

See application file for complete search history.(56) References Cited

U.S. PATENTDOCUMENTS2.258,304 A 1011941 Stanton2,280,561 A 411942 Wappler3,279,460 A 10/1966 Sheldon

16

3.561,432 A 211971 Yamaki et aI ............... 60011673,582.181 A 611971 Doloresetal.3.638.643 A 211972 Hotchkiss3,884,222 A 511975 Moore4,157,216 A 611979 Plummer4,236,781 A 1211980 Arimura4,288,690 A 911981 Sanner

(Continued)FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS

JP 56-68870 611981JP 5 9 ~ 8 8 1 3 5 511984IP 60-81645 5/1985JP 61-296869 J2I1986JP 6 2 ~ 3 8 7 7 411987(Continued)

OTHER PUBUCATIONSArticle entitled "Analysis, Test And Measurement Issue" published in Photonics, International Journal of Optics. Lasers, Fiber Optics. Electro-Optics, Imaging and Optical Computing, Oct. 1990, pp. 4, 5, 76. Color Video Camera article published in The Dempa Shimbun,Jun. 25.1991 and English translation. (Continued)

Primary Examiner-Minh T Nguyen(57) ABSTRACTThe present invention relates to a magnifying observationapparatus of a video type in which an image of an object tobe observed which has been picked up by an image pick-upapparaWs incorporating an imaging device therein is reproduced on a monitor display and observed. It is an object ofthe invention to attain a compact structure of the entire system so as to pennit easy observation in a simple manner.According to the present invention, in order to achieve suchobject, not only the imaging device but also a control circuitunit for the imaging device. an optical system for focusingthe image of the object to be observed on the imagingdevice, and a light-source lamp for lighting the Object to beobserved, are incorporated in the image pick-up apparatus.

~ . - - 'If,.--


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S 5,442,489 Cl2

U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS4,310,228 A 111982 Terada4,324,466 A 411982 Takayama4,343,300 A 811982 Hattori4,413.278 A II I1983 Feinbloom4,414,608 A 1111983 Furihata4,461.558 A 7/1984 Tanikawa el aI.4,475.540 A 1011984 Takarnatsu et aI.4.561,429 A 1211985 Satoet aI.4.577.927 A 3/1986 Raney4,590,923 A 511986 Watanabe4.641.635 A 211987 Yabe4.682.586 A 7/1987 Matsuo4.727,416 A 211988 Cooper et aI.4,832,003 A 511989 Yabe4,846.155 A 7/1989 Kimura4,854,302 A 8/1989 Allred, m4,858,001 A 8/1989 Milbank et aI.4,870,950 A 1011989 Kanbara et aI.4.915,626 A 411990 Lernrney4.947.245 A 8/1990 OgawaetaI.4.989,083 A 111991 Elino4,989,582 A 211991 Sakiyama et aI.4.993,405 A 211991 Takarnura et aI.5 . 0 l ~ 0 9 8 A 511991 Cooper et aI.5,027,138 A 611991 Gandrud5.049,070 A 9/1991 Ademovic5,115,261 A 511992 NodaetaI.5,115,307 A 511992 Cooper et aI.5,159,380 A 1011992 Furuya et aI.5.191.369 A 3/1993 Furuya et aI.5.251,025 A 1011993 Cooper et aI.5,267.087 A 11/1993 Weidemann5,290.168 A 311994 Cooper et aI.5,429,502 A 711995 Cooper et aI.

IP 62-086322 411987IP 63-068807 3/1988IP 63-142239 611988IP 63-246731 1011988IP 2-36266 311990JP 2207401 811990JP 2282202 1111990IP 02282202 1111990JP 3135276 611991JP 5-006983 111993

OTHER PUBUCATIONSArticle entiUed "CCD-The Solid State Imaging Technology" published in Fairchild Catalog 1982-1983, by Frank H. Bower-3 pages. Hayashi. Toshihiko, et al. Article entitled "Industrial CCD Camera" Electronics, 1989-7, pp. 62-69 and English translarion. English translations of JP 61-296869. JP 63-246731, JP 2-36266, 2-282202, 05-6983,59-88135, 60-81645. 62-86322.63-68807,63-142239. English language Abstracts of JP 2-207401 and JP 3-135276. Article In The Dempa Shimbun, SonyTo Release Micromini Camera For Industrial Use (1/6 As Large As Before), Jun. 25,1991 ("Sony") (Exhibit 6). Catalog For Fairchild Charge Coupled Device ("Fairchild") (Exhibit 7). Article In Electronics, Industrial CCD Camera, Hayashi. Toshibiko. et 31.,1989-7 ("Hayashi") (Exhibit 8). Advertisement in Photonics, Philips CCD Imaging Modules, OcL 1990. p. 77 ("Philips") (Exhibit 9). cited by examiner

Exhibit B to Complaint, Page 2 of4


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US 5,442,489 Cl1 EX PARTE REEXAMINATION CERTIFICATE ISSUED UNDER 35 U.S.C. 307

THE PATENT IS HEREBY AMENDED AS INDICATED BELOW. Matter enclosed in heavy brackets [ ] appeared in thepatent, but has been deleted and is no longer a part of thepatent; matter printed in italics indicates addition s madeto the patent.

AS A RESULT OF REEXAMINATION, IT HAS BEENDETERMINED THAT:The patentability of claim 6 is con finned.aaims 1, 7, 11, 16, 19, 23 and 28 are detennined to bepatentable as amended.New claims 33-50 are added and detennined tobe patent

able.Claims 2-5, 8-10, 12-15, 17-18, 20-22, 24-27 and29-32 were not reexamined.1. A magnifying.observation apparatus for reproducing animage of an object to be observed which has been picked upby an image pick-up apparatus onto a monitor display andobserving it, said image pick-up apparatus having a structurewith a case of an essentially one-handed [grapsabIe] graspable size, said case having [a] an uncovered viewing holefonned therein and encasing therein at least an imagingdevice, a control circuit unit for the imaging device, an optical system for focusing the image of the object to beobserved on the imaging device, and a light-source lamp[encases] encased by the casing for lighting the object to be

observed through the viewing hole.7. A magnifying observation apparatus that includes animage pick-up apparatus for reproducing, onto a monitordisplay, an image of an object located proximate the imagepick-up apparatus which has been picked up by an imagepick-up apparatus the image pick-up apparatus including a

c ~ i n g having [a] an uncovered viewing hole formed thereinand further including at least an imaging device, a controlcircuit unit for the imaging device, an optical system forfocusing the image of [an] the object [to] located proximatethe viewing hole on the imaging device, and a light-sourcelamp for lighting the object to be observed, wherein saidlight-source lamp is fonned as a lamp unit comprising aplurality of lamps arranged in a predetermined state on aboard in such a manner that the entire lamp unit can bemounted to and removed from said image pick-up apparatus.

11. A magnifying observation apparatus that includes animage pick-up apparatus for reproducing an image of anobject located proximate the image. pick-up apparatus onto amonitor display, said image pick-up apparatus comprising acasing having [a] an uncovered viewing hole, the casingenclosing at least an imaging device, a control circuit unit forprocessing a signal received from the imaging device andemitting a video signal, an optical system for focusing theimage of [an] lhe object located proximate the viewing holeon the imaging device, and a light-source for lighting theobject to be observed.16. A magnifying observation apparatus that includes an

image pick-up apparatus for reproducing an image of anobject located proximate to lhe image pick-up apparatus

2onto a monitor display, said image pick-up apparatus comprising a casing having an uncovered viewing Iwle, the casing enclosing at least an imaging device, a control circuitunit for the imaging device, an optical system for focusingthe image of [an] Ihe object onto the imaging device, and alight-source lamp means for lighting the object to beobserved

19. A magnifying observation apparatus according toclaim 16, [further comprising a viewing hole formed in thecasing and] wherein said optical system focuses the imageofan object located proximate the viewing hole on the imagingdevice.23. A magnifying observation apparatus that includes animage pick-up apparatus for reproducing an image of anObject located proximate the image pick-up apparatus onto amonitor display, said image pick-up apparatus comprising acasing having [a] an uncovered viewing hole, the casingenclosing at least an imaging device, a control circuit unit forthe imaging device, an optical system for focusing the image

of[an] lhe object located proximate the viewing holeon theimaging device, the optical system comprising an objectivelens that is movable to adjus t magnification.28. A magnifying observation apparatus that includes animage pick-up apparatus for reproducting an image of anobject located proximate the image pick-up apparatus ontoamonitor display, said image pick-up apparatus comprising a

casing having [a] an uncovered viewing hole, an imagingdevice that is movable in relation to the viewing hole, theobservation apparatus further comprising a control circuitunit for the imaging device, an optical system located in theimage pick-up apparatus for focusing the imageof [an] lheobject located proximate the viewing hole, the optical system comprising an objective lens that is movable to adjustmagnification.

33. A magnifying observation apparatuS according 10claim 1. wherein lhe conlrol circuil unil controls Ihe imagingdevice, andwherein lhe optical syslemfocuses lhe image oflhe objecl

10 be observed on lhe imaging device and magnifies lheimage. while Ihe image pick-up apparatuS is mainlained al a predelennined ixed dislance from lhe objecl10 be observed.

34. A magnifying observation apparatus according 10claim 1. wherein lhe lighl-source lamp isfonned as a lampunil comprising a plurality of lamps a"anged in a predelermined stale on a board in such a manner lhal lhe whole oflhe lamp unil can be mounled 10 said image pick-up apparaIUS.35. A magnifying observation apparatus according 10claim 1. wherein lhe viewing hole defines a geomelric center.wherein Ihe oplical syslem defines an oplical axis, andwherein lhe geomelric cenler of lhe viewing hole and lheoptical axis of lhe optical sySlem are collinear.36. A magnifying observation apparalus according 10claim 1. wherein lhe imaging device captures color imagesand sends lhe color images 10 lhe monilor display.37. A magnifying observation apparatus according 10claim 1. wherein lhe light-source lamp isfonned as a lampunil comprising a plurality of lamps mounled on a commonboard. wherein lhe common board is fonned wilh a powersupply circuil fo r supplying power 10 Ihe plurality of lamps.and wherein each one of lhe plurality oflamps illuminales inresponse 10 eleclrical cu"ent.Exhibit B to Complaint, Page 3 of 4


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US 5,442,489 CI 338. A magnifying observation apparatus according toclaim 1, wherein the optical system includes a lens having a

diameter and wherein the lens is spaced apan from the viewing hole by a distance greater than the diameter of the lens.39. A magnifying observation apparatus according toclaim 1. wherein the optical system defines an optical axisand w ~ r e i n the light-source lamp comprises lamps mauntedat an angle to the optical axis.

40. A magnifying observation apparatus according toclaim 1. wherein the light-source lamp comprises a pluralityof light elements mounted on a single circuit board.41. A magnifying observation apparatus according toclaim I, wherein the optical system and the light-sourcelamp are exposed through the viewing hole to environmentalconditions outside ofthe casing.

42. A magnifying observation apparatus according toclaim 6, wherein the image pick-up apparatus has a caseconfigured to be held and used by one hand and defines aviewing hole.wherein the control circuit unit controls the imagingdevice. andwherein the optical systemfocuses the image afthe object

to be observed on the imaging device and magnifies theimage. while the image pick-up apparatus is maintained at a predetenninedfixed distancefrom the objectto be observed.43. A magnifying observation apparatus according toclaim 7, wherein the casing is configured to be held and usedby one Iwnd,wherein the control circuit unit controls the imaging

device. andwherein the optical system is configured to focus theimage of the object on the imaging device and magnifythe image. while the image pick-up apparatus is maintained at a predetemined ixed di:stance from the object.44. A magnifying observation apparatus according toclaim I I, wherein the casing is configured to be held and. used by one hand,

wherein the control circuit unit controls the imagingdevice, and

wherein the optical system focuses the image ofthe objecton the imaging device and magnifies the image, whilethe image pick-up apparatus is maintainedat a predeterminedfixed distance from the object.45. A magnifying observation apparatus according toclaim J6, wherein the casing is configured to be held andused by one hand,

4wherein the control circuit unit contois the imagingdevice, andwherein the optical system focuses the imageofthe object

onto the imaging device and magnifies the image, whilethe image pick-up apparatus is maintained at a predetennined fixed distance from the object.46, A magnifying observation apparatus according toclaim 23, wherein the casing is configured to be held andused by one hand,

wherein the control circuit unit comrols the imagingdevice, andwherein the optical system focuses the image of the objecton the imaging device and magnifies the image, whilethe image pick-up apparatus is maintained at a predetenninedf ixed distance from the object.47. A magnifying observation apparatus according to

claini 28, wherein the casing is configured to be held andused by one hand,wherein the control circuit unit controls the imaging

device. andwherein the optical systemfacuses the image ofthe objecton the imaging device and magnifies the image. whilethe image pick-up apparatus is maintained at a predetenninedfixed distance from the object'48. A magnifying observation apparatus according to

claim 33. wherein the predetennined fixed distance is thedistance between an outer edge of the viewing hole and theobject to be observed.

49. A magnifying observation apparatus according toclaim 1. wherein the viewing hole defines a plane andwherein the optical system is configured to focus on theplane so as to focus on the object when the object is abuttedagainst the viewing hole.50. A magnifying observation apparatus according toclaim 1, wherein the control circuit unit controls the imagingdevice, and

wherein the optical system focuses the image of the objectto be observed on the imaging device and magnifies theimage. while the imaging device is maintained at a predetermined fixed distance from the object to beobserved.

.. .. .. .. ..

Exhibit B to Complaint, Page 4 of 4


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,ViTiny UMOZ Handheld USB Digital Microscopelx to 320x magnification on 22" monitor. 2M pixels CMOS image sensor. Also used as a camera,video recorder as well as webcam. More details...$89.98 i.tiI,I'

ViTiny UM05 Handheld USB Digital Autofocus MicroscopeAuto-focus feature. 2MP lens & CMOS sensor. 320x magnification on 2:;>" monitor. Far distance control modeenables controlling all functions by software without a single touch. More details ..$189.98 hh""

MAN1011 Handheld USB Digital Microscope1) ( to 250x magnification on 19" monitor. 2M pixels CMOS image sensor. Also used as a camera,Video recorder as well as webcam. More detailS ..$89.98 'w,*,'

Z.OMP Handheld USB Digital Endoscope/Microscope with 8.Zmm Tube DiameterlOx to 200x magnification on 1r monitor. Multi-purpose USB digital video endoscope, microscope,otoscope, and webcam. More details ..$109.98 'm,-Short 2.0MP Handheld USB Digital Endoscope/Microscope with 8.2mm Tube DiameterlOx to 200x magnification on 17" monitor. Multi-purpose USB digital video endoscope, microscope,otoscope, and webcam. More detailS ..$109.98 'UMM'

Z.OMP Handheld USB Digital Endoscope/Microscope with 12.0mm Tube DiameterlOx to 200x magnification on 17" monitor. Multi-purpose USB digital video endoscope, microscope,otoscope, and webcam. More detailS ..$99.98 'Ml!.id"

1.3MP Handheld Telescopic USB digit al Borescope/Microscope1x to SOx magnification on 17" monitor. Multi-purpose USB digital video telescopic borescope,endoscope, microscope, and webcam. More details ..$109.98

I 4J fI_ DEJOO Po""' ' ' ' "",o... US, " ...' "_Nm,""'... 'dfmPU'2.0M pixels image resolution. Integrated Polarizer with 12 settings in 30 degree increments. Variablemagnification up to 150x (digitally) and up to SOx (optically). More details

. 1.6616%'Exhibit C to Complaint, Page 1 of 3


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279.98Firefly DEJ50 Wireless Polarized Handheld Digital Microscope/DermatoscopeWireless polarized digital microscope with image and video capture capabilities, and twelve distinctlevels of polarization. More details ..$299.98 WdII.'5ii;

Firefly GT800 Handheld USB DIgital Microscope2.0MP sensor resolution with up to 700x (digital) and 2JOx (OPtical) magnification. Comes withfireflyPro advanced Image capture and measurement software. More details ..$279.98 I.P.fi5H"

FIrefly GT600 Wireless Handheld Digital MicroscopeO.3SMP sensor resolution with up to 600x (digita l) and 200x (optical ) magnification. Wirelessly capturespictures and videos. More details ..$299.98 I.P.!,,;

Firefly GT200 Handheld USB Digital Microscope1.3MP sensor resolution with up to 230x optical magnification. Comes with FlreflyView image+vldeosoftware. More details ..$179.98 I.P.i".

U:'>B FleXible Inspection Camera Borescope Endoscope2.1ft long flexible cable and 14mm camera head outer diameter. Ideal fo r detailed visual inspection inhard-to-reach places. More details ...

$74.98 'tU";Mini 7mm USB Flexible Inspection Camera Borescope Endoscope1.7ft long flexible cable and 7mm camera head outer diameter. Ideal for detailed visual inspection In hard-to-reach places.$74.98 ,#"MIII

Oasis ScientifiC Inc 2009-2012

Exhibit C to Complaint, Page 2 of 3


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ViTlny Pro10 Portable Digital Microscope2.8" color TfT LCD screen with lOx to 200x magnification. Convenient to carry around in pocket.No monitor/PC needed. More details ..$289.98 IIbMB!!'

ViTlny ProW Plus Portable Digital Microscope2.8" color TFT LCD screen with lOx to 200x magnification. Portable. No monitor/PC needed.Supporters included to help examine soft and fragile materials. More details ..$299.98 I.mg'

ViTlny VT-300 Portable Digital Microscope2.S" color TfT LCD screen with lOx to 2.00x magnification. Portable. No monitor/PC needed. Includesupporter with height adjustment wheel and holding clips for flat objects. More details ..

$279.98 1P.flt.ifii'

VT-101 Portable Digital Microscope1.8" 262K color TFT LCD screen with 7x to 108x magnification. Convenient to carry around inpocket. No monitor/PC needed. More details ..$189.98 '.5f'5f!!'

Oasis ScientifiC Inc 2009-2012

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