CN101179982B - colposcope equipment - Google Patents

Abstract

A vaginal speculum device includes a disposable speculum and an illumination assembly capable of being releasable attached. A handle portion of the disposable speculum comprises a receiving cavity configured for interchangeably receiving a first or a second illumination assembly.

Description

colposcope equipment

Cross References to Related Applications

This application is based on the following two (2) provisional patent applications claiming priority based on 35 USC § 119(e): USSN 60/667,505 filed April 1, 2005 entitled: ILLUMINATED VAGINAL SPECULUM ASSEMBLY; and USSN 60/735,576, filed November 10, 2005, entitled: ILLUMINATED VAGINALSPECULUM ASSEMBLY. The entire contents of each of the above applications are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

technical field

Embodiments described in this application relate generally to the field of hand-held medical diagnostic devices, and more particularly, to a colposcopy device comprising a single-use or single-patient speculum that will come from an accessory Illumination of at least one lighting assembly connected to the receiving cavity of the handle portion of the scope is distributed.

Background technique

A colposcope is a generally known device currently used in the field of diagnostic medicine to examine the cervix of a female patient. A typical guiding speculum includes an upper flap member and a lower flap member, both of which operate to open and close with a coupling mechanism in order to enlarge the patient's vaginal cavity. According to one version of the colposcope device manufactured and sold by Welch Allyn Company of Skaneateles Falls, New York, the corded lighting assembly is received within the hollow handle portion of a disposable speculum made of molded plastic material. The lighting assembly includes a miniature light source, such as a halogen lamp or other miniature incandescent lamp, contained within an assembly housing and tethered by a cable run to a dedicated (eg, AC) power source. Upon receipt of the light source by the hollow handle portion, the light source is coupled to the proximal end of a curved light guide disposed within the lower fin portion, the light guide being formed of a material capable of transmitting light. Light from the light source is transmitted to the distal end by internal reflection along a light guide extending along the interior of the lower fin member. Light is transmitted from the distal end of the light guide towards the distal end of the lower fin member to the target (ie, the cervix), allowing the professional to perform an efficient patient examination.

One problem with the light guides described herein is the formation of so-called "hot" spots at the far light emitting end. The distal light-emitting end further produces a return reflection of light to the user's eye along the viewing aperture of the scope, which is formed at its proximal end between the upper and lower wing members. This back reflection produces a considerable amount of glare, impairing the effectiveness of the inspection. Additionally, current configurations of the distal end of the light guide provide a non-uniform light distribution at the target (eg, the cervix).

Another problem is that the body of the light guide extends into the lower field of view of the user (physician), thereby forming an obstruction to the target. In addition, the high beam guide ends cause shadows from the exterior lighting.

Another concern is the amount of plastic material used in the lower flap part of the molded disposable scope, including material taken up by the light pipe and hollow handle portion. Excess plastic material results in additional manufacturing costs. The molding of the lower fin part is further affected in that it creates stress concentrations at the distal end of the light guide based on its square discontinuity leading to weaker positioning and potential breakage. In addition, molding difficulties were created due to the sharp change in cross-section near the door.

Yet another problem is that the distal end of the light guide often collects bodily fluids expelled from the test, creating contamination problems and compromising the efficiency of the test if the light transmission from the fluid build-up affects the light-emitting surface of the light guide.

Yet another problem is that the industry has become content with utilizing the concept of tethered lighting assemblies. While effective and highly useful, there are situations where such an assembly makes the examination impractical to perform, such as when the patient is bedridden. In these situations, the corded portion of the speculum device can become an obstacle to examining the patient. Additionally, the use of corded lighting assemblies requires non-portable (eg, AC) power sources in the inspection area, making on-site inspections difficult. Additionally, corded assemblies can become tangled together, or become a source of dirt or other contamination, requiring frequent cleaning between inspections.

Additionally, the advent of alternative light sources, such as LEDs, has provided means for providing efficient lighting that has a longer lifetime than incandescent lamps. The incorporation of such light sources in portable lighting systems for colposcopes has so far been prevented in the art due to inefficiencies in power conversion and lighting output. Providing such light sources is desirable in at least some circumstances, but is currently not available in such devices.

Contents of the invention

According to one aspect of the present application, there is provided a colposcope apparatus comprising: a colposcope comprising an upper flap member and a lower flap member having a handle portion comprising a receiving cavity a first lighting assembly comprising a housing containing a light source, the housing being connected to an external non-portable power source; and a second lighting assembly comprising a housing containing a light source, the second lighting assembly The member further comprises means for receiving at least one portable power supply for powering the light source, each of the first and second lighting assemblies being interchangeably engageable with a receiving cavity of the scope handle so that lighting target.

In one version, the light guide is formed with its proximal end positioned at the upper end of the handle portion, the light guide being optically coupled to either of the interchangeable first and second lighting assemblies.

In one version, at least one of the first and second lighting assemblies may comprise an incandescent lamp as the light source, or the light source may comprise at least one LED, for example a white LED.

In one version, engaging at least one of the first and second lighting assemblies into the receiving cavity at least a predetermined distance causes the switching mechanism to automatically energize the contained light source (eg, at least one LED). Removal of the lighting assembly from the receiving cavity causes the light source to automatically de-energize.

The switch mechanism may comprise, according to one version, a mechanical switch member having a portion provided on the outside of the housing in which the switch member is biased in the off position. Engagement of the lighting assembly with the receiving cavity causes a feature within the scope to act on the biased switch member. The feature may comprise at least one protrusion, rib or groove, for example, formed within the receiving cavity. By way of example and according to a preferred version, a set of rails is provided to hold the assembly and allow automatic powering up of the contained light source.

In addition, the scope is configured to align with any lighting assembly for insertion therein. At least one feature for holding the lighting assembly there may be provided, wherein at least one of the first and second lighting assemblies may be disposed in at least one or more rotational orientations about a major axis of the lighting assembly. According to one aspect, for example, a lighting assembly may be positioned in a first rotational orientation and a second rotational orientation that is 180 degrees apart from the first rotational orientation. In another version, the lighting assembly may be positioned in either rotational orientation about the main axis of the lighting assembly.

At least one of the lighting assemblies may be powered by at least one battery held directly within the assembly housing, or located within the assembly housing via a connection assembly, such as via an attached power adapter. The power adapter may be tethered to the housing, or may include a body that is mechanically and electrically linked or engaged with the housing. Power adapters can contain main or auxiliary power, depending on the application. For example, a power adapter provides auxiliary power when the battery is low or depleted. The auxiliary power source in this power adapter can be at least one battery or a non-small (eg AC) power source.

In a preferred version, said at least one battery is rechargeable, wherein the lighting assembly containing said battery can be placed at a docking station or recharging station. The lighting assembly may include a low battery indicator to notify the user that recharging may be necessary. According to one version, the docking station may allow simultaneous recharging of multiple lighting assemblies. In another version and as described, the lighting assembly is separately attachable to a backup or auxiliary power source, such as an AC power source or at least one other battery.

According to one version, a scope adapter is operable to facilitate engagement of at least one of said lighting assemblies within the receiving cavity without specific alignment being required. The scope adapter provides this assistance by including a defined outer envelope that closely mates with an outer envelope of one of the lighting assemblies, wherein the adapter can be secured in generally tight contact with the interior of the receiving cavity of the scope, For example friction or snap fit. The scope adapter further includes an inner envelope for attachment of another lighting assembly therein.

In one version, the handle portion of the scope is shaped and configured to allow a user to hold at least one of the lighting assemblies. In a preferred version, the handle portion is defined by a generally rectangular cross-section, wherein the housing of the cordless lighting assembly includes a base portion extending therefrom. The remainder of the housing is in generally intimate contact with the interior of the receiving cavity and is sized to fit within the entire receiving cavity. A disposable sheath member is attachable to the extended base portion of the cordless lighting assembly, wherein the sheath member is made of a flexible material and includes an easy-separate tear strip to allow removal after inspection and from the scope Sheath parts.

According to another aspect claimed herein, a colposcope apparatus is described comprising: a colposcope comprising a handle portion having a receiving cavity; and an illumination assembly comprising a light source and comprising means for receiving at least one battery for powering a light source, the lighting assembly is engageable with a receiving cavity of the scope handle for illuminating an object.

According to one version, the light source contained in the lighting assembly comprises at least one LED, for example a white LED. According to another version, the light source is an incandescent lamp.

At least one battery may be contained within the assembly housing, or may be contained in an attached power adapter that is mechanically and electrically attached to the housing, or may be tethered or otherwise connected to the housing. In a preferred version, said at least one battery is rechargeable. In this regard and according to its version, the device comprises a docking station having a recharging circuit and a plurality of ports allowing multiple lighting assemblies to be recharged simultaneously for use. The docking station can include at least one charging indicator, and the lighting assembly can include a low battery indicator so that the user can know when recharging is required.

The lighting assembly preferably includes a switch mechanism to automatically energize the contained light source when placed in the receiving cavity at least a predetermined distance. Additionally, according to this release, removal of the lighting assembly automatically causes the light sources contained therein to be powered down.

The switch mechanism may comprise an external switch component that is acted upon by a corresponding feature of the sight glass to cause automatic power on/off of the contained light source. For example, the sight glass may include at least one protrusion, bump, groove or other suitable engagement feature that acts on the exterior switch member, or may effect a tight contact fit with the interior of the receiving cavity.

The lighting assembly can also be configured for manual operation, enabling the lighting assembly to also function as an inspection light without a sight glass if desired. The scope may include at least one feature that provides user access to an external switch component that enables the lighting assembly to be selectively de-energized without the need for removal from the receiving cavity even when the lighting assembly is inserted within the scope. . According to one version, the switch member is biased in the off position. The switch member can be manually positioned into a "locked" position in which it is initially energized prior to insertion of the light source containing it into the receiving cavity of the light source. In the "locked" position, the automatic power-on feature of the scope/assembly will be inactive, and the biasing feature will not be deactivated until the user moves the switch member out of this "locked" position.

The lighting assembly is held by at least one engagement/retention feature (e.g., groove, channel, rib, etc.) provided within the receiving cavity, wherein the at least one engagement/retention feature can also cooperate to allow the lighting assembly to specific alignment relative to the receiving cavity.

According to one version, the lighting assembly can utilize the alignment/retention features, but the assembly can be positioned within the receiving cavity in one or more rotational orientations about the main axis of the lighting assembly, while still allowing automatic operation of the switching mechanism.

According to yet another version, the middle part or the housing or the sight glass adapter can be attached to the lighting assembly, the sight glass adapter having the ability to assist the reception of the lighting assembly relative to the sight glass without requiring a specific alignment of the assembly during attachment. Cavity and attached components. According to one version the scope adapter is bounded by an outer envelope similar to that of a battery powered lighting assembly such that the adapter fits or engages the interior of the receiving cavity. The scope adapter further includes an inner envelope configured to receive a corded lighting assembly such that each of the corded lighting assembly and the battery-powered lighting assembly can be combined without modification. equipment for use. While the scope adapter facilitates attachment of the lighting assembly to the receiving cavity of the scope, the scope adapter is not required for the assembly.

In a preferred version, the receiving cavity of the handle portion is sized to integrally receive at least a portion of the lighting assembly such that a generally tight contact fit is defined between the interior of the receiving cavity and the lighting assembly. The extended base portion of the lighting assembly is configured to accept a disposable sheath member made of a flexible material that protects the reusable lighting assembly from contamination. According to one version, the sheath part is made as a frangible tear strip to allow release of the sheath part from the extended base part. The base portion extends a predetermined distance from the handle portion, wherein the total distance between the extended base portion of the lighting assembly and the closest bottom of the lower wing member contacting the patient is in the range of about 3 to 6 inches.

According to yet another aspect claimed herein, there is provided a colposcope apparatus comprising: an upper flap member; a lower flap member including a handle portion having a receiving cavity; and a lighting assembly passing through the receiving cavity attached to the sight glass. A lighting assembly according to this aspect includes a housing and contains a light source that includes at least one LED.

The lighting assembly may be tethered or otherwise connected to a dedicated (eg, AC) power source, or may include means for receiving at least one battery to power at least one LED (eg, a white LED).

The lighting assembly includes a power source and a switching mechanism for selectively energizing at least one contained LED either automatically through attachment to the scope and/or manually by a user.

Preferably, the receiving cavity contains features, such as ribs, protrusions or grooves, that allow the lighting assembly to be retained by the scope. The retention features can also be used to align the lighting assembly relative to the receiving cavity and with features that will allow automatic power on/off of at least one LED.

According to one version, the lighting assembly can be positioned within the receiving cavity in at least one or more rotational orientations relative to the main axis of the lighting assembly, wherein the light source can still be powered automatically.

The apparatus may include means for dissipating heat generated by the lighting assembly. In one instance, the handle portion is sized to direct heat from the lighting assembly. In another case, at least one air gap is formed in the receiving cavity.

Advantageously, the devices described herein provide greater versatility than previous speculum devices by allowing interchangeable interconnection with multiple illumination sources. Increased versatility is further achieved by the ability to use portable and non-portable power sources (eg, allowing connection to an auxiliary power source when battery power is too low).

Additionally, multiple illumination sources can be attached to the scope without modification.

The scope device further allows an existing lighting assembly to be adaptively attached to the handle portion of the scope.

These and other objects, features and advantages will be readily apparent from the detailed description, which should be read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

Description of drawings

Figure 1 is a perspective view of a colposcope device made according to the prior art;

Figure 2 is a front perspective view of a prior art disposable colposcope used in the apparatus of Figure 1;

Figure 3 is a rear view of the prior art disposable colposcope of Figure 2;

Figure 4 is a front perspective view of the prior art disposable colposcope of Figures 2-3;

Figure 5 is a partially disassembled rear perspective view of a colposcope device made in accordance with the first embodiment;

Figure 6 is a rear perspective view of the colposcope device of Figure 5 assembled;

Figure 7 is a partially disassembled front perspective view of the colposcope device of Figures 5 and 6;

7A is a perspective view of a disposable sheath component for covering a portion of the lighting assembly of the colposcope device of FIG. 7;

8 is a side perspective view of the lighting assembly used in the colposcopy device of FIGS. 5-7;

Figure 9 is a perspective bottom view of the colposcope of the apparatus depicted in Figures 5-7;

Figure 10 depicts a partial bottom end view of the colposcope of Figures 5-7;

11 is a bottom perspective view of the lighting assembly of FIG. 8;

12 is a perspective view of the lighting assembly of FIGS. 8 and 11 with the cover removed;

Figure 13A depicts the interchangeability of a corded lighting assembly relative to the colposcope of Figures 5-7;

Figure 13B depicts an enlarged view of a portion of the device depicted in Figure 13A;

Figure 14 is a bottom perspective view of an alternative colposcope design;

15 is a perspective view of a colposcope device including a cordless lighting assembly made in accordance with another embodiment;

Fig. 16 depicts a colposcope device according to Fig. 15 comprising a docking station;

Figure 17 is a perspective view of a corded lighting assembly made according to another embodiment;

Figure 18 is an exploded view of a colposcope device according to another embodiment;

19 is an exploded view of a light sleeve used in the lighting assembly of the colposcope device of FIG. 18;

Figure 20 is a rear perspective view of the colposcope device of Figure 18 in an assembled condition;

21 is a side view of the disposable scope and lighting assembly of FIGS. 18-20 in an unassembled condition;

Figure 22 is a functional electrical block diagram of the lighting assembly of Figures 11 and 12;

Figure 23 is a side view of a colposcope device similar to that of Figures 16 and 17, made according to another embodiment;

Figure 24 is a side view of a colposcope device made according to another embodiment;

25 is a perspective view of the distal end of the light guide of the colposcope depicted in FIGS. 5-7;

Figure 26 is an enlarged view of a cross-section of the bottom flap member of the colposcope depicted in Figures 5-7;

27 is a side cross-sectional view of the light guide of the colposcope of FIGS. 5-7;

Figure 28 is a partially disassembled view of a colposcope device made according to another embodiment;

29 is a top perspective view of the lighting assembly used in the colposcope assembly of FIG. 28;

Figure 30 is a side view of the colposcope device shown in Figures 28 and 29 in an assembled state;

Figure 31 is a rear perspective view of the colposcope device shown in Figures 28 and 29 in an alternative assembled position;

32 and 33 are perspective views of the sight glass adapter as used with a corded lighting assembly in unassembled and partially assembled states; and

34 is a diagrammatic view of an alternative version of a power adapter for use with the colposcope device of FIGS. 5-7.

Detailed ways

The following relates to the illuminated colposcopy device described herein and according to various embodiments of the present application and certain aspects of the device. However, as should be readily apparent from the following discussion, many changes and modifications will occur to those skilled in the art and are intended to be within the scope of the inventive concept. Additionally, certain terms such as "top", "upper", "bottom", "lower", "above", "below", "proximal" and "distal" are used throughout the discussion , each of which is used in order to provide a suitable frame of reference for the drawings. However, these terms are not intended to be unduly limiting unless expressly indicated as such.

Referring first to FIGS. 1-4 , there is shown a prior art colposcope device 100 comprising a disposable speculum 102 and a reusable lighting assembly 140 . The disposable speculum 102 comprises three (3) interconnected components, namely a lower or bottom flap member 104 , an upper or top flap member 108 , and a slide member 112 . Each of the two flap members 104, 108 is preferably made of a transparent durable plastic material such as acrylic or polystyrene, with each of the lower flap member 104 and upper flap member 108 comprising a slot Shaped distal fin 116. A handle portion 120 extends vertically downward from the proximal or rear end of the lower fin member 104, wherein the handle portion is integrally molded as part of the lower fin member.

The middle portion of the slide member 112 fits within a channel (not shown) provided on the rearwardly facing side of the handle portion 120, the slide member further has a forked upper end or yoke 124 which receives the upper flap member 108, an upper flap member 108 is pivotally attached to a forked upper end or yoke 124, said upper flap member 108 comprising a downwardly extending lever portion 128 extending from a proximal end of the flap member.

The lever portion 128 further includes an opening 135 (shown only in FIG. 3 ) that defines a user aperture between the yoke 124 and the upper and lower flap members 108 , 104 . The lever portion 128 terminates in a lug 137 which has an internal groove 139 . The internal groove 139 is engageable with a protrusion 123 provided on the flexible rear extension of the slide member 112 below the yoke 124, and more particularly with a set of axially disposed ratchet teeth 125 provided on a downwardly facing surface of said protrusion. engage. The ratchet teeth 125 of the flexible protrusion 123 are biased into the internal slots 139 of the lever portion 128 of the upper flap member 108 . Angular articulation between the upper flap member 108 and the lower flap member 104 is initiated by applying finger pressure inwardly to the tabs 137, causing the lever portion 128 to move along the ratchet tooth set 125 and provide positive engagement therewith.

In addition, the slide member 112 further comprises a lower tongue 129 having a single ratchet tooth 130 which engages with a set of corresponding teeth 131 provided on the rear outer side of the handle portion 120 for upper and lower contact as required. Relative vertical adjustment is provided between the lower fin members 104,108. Additional details related to the disposable speculum 100 are described herein, including adjustment of the upper and lower flap members 104, 108, which can be found in U.S. Patent No. 3,716,047, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety middle.

Referring to FIG. 1 , the handle portion 120 of the disposable scope 100 includes a receiving cavity 133 sized to receive a housing 144 of a reusable lighting assembly 140 . Housing 144 holds a miniature incandescent lamp, such as a halogen bulb, which is hermetically held within a distal portion 148 of housing 144 . A proximal portion of housing 144 extends from receiving cavity 133 when assembled to scope 100 , the proximal portion contains strain relief connector 152 which extends to cable 156 which further extends to switch assembly 160 . As shown in FIG. 1 , a cable 164 extends from the switch assembly 160 to a forked plug 168 which engages a corresponding receptacle 172 which is tethered by a corresponding cable 174 extending to a power transformer 176 . The switch assembly 160 is defined by an elastomeric housing having a depressible button 163 for selectively energizing a miniature incandescent lamp (not shown) contained within the distal portion 148 of the illuminator housing 144. . Specific details relating to lighting assembly 140 can be found in commonly assigned and co-pending U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2004/0184288A1 entitled: ILLUMINATION ASSEMBLY HAVING FLUID-TIGHT SEAL, which The entire content is incorporated herein by reference.

Referring to FIGS. 1-4, and in order to direct light from the lighting assembly 140 to the target of interest, a curved light pipe or conduit 146 is provided having a handle portion 120 mounted on the lower fin member 104 (FIG. 2). The proximal end of the upper end. When the housing 144 is inserted into the receiving cavity 133 of the handle portion 120 of the scope 100 , the contained miniature incandescent light is optically coupled to the proximal end of the light guide 146 . Then, by means of internal reflection, the emitted light is directed through the length of light pipe 146 to flat distal light emitting end 147 , where the light is then targeted generally along the longitudinal axis of lower fin member 104 . The light guide 146 is preferably molded directly into the lower flap member 104, wherein the proximal end of the guide is provided in the upper end of the receiving cavity 133 of the handle portion 120 as described. In operation, light from a coupled incandescent lamp is collected by a plastic lens (not shown in these figures, but one of which is depicted in FIG. 27 ), which is also preferably molded directly to the proximal end of light pipe 146 terminal. The lenses have an appropriate curvature to collect light from the lamps of the lighting assembly 140 and direct the light through the transmissive light pipe 146 .

Although light pipe 146 provides a coupling means for directing the miniature incandescent-containing illumination from illumination assembly 140, there are a number of problems associated with the instrument design of FIGS. 1-4. First, as clearly shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 , the design of the light pipe 146 creates an obstruction for the user when viewing through the defined proximal opening 135 of the disposable speculum 100 . More specifically, the reflective nature of the light guide 146 creates glare caused by light reflected from the guide's distal end 147 towards the user's proximal end, where loss of effective light transmission reduces illumination of the target. An additional inefficiency is created in that light pipe 146 creates shadows when external lighting is used. Additionally, the distal end 147 of the light pipe 146 is flat and perpendicular to the centerline of the light pipe, the distal end 147 forming a fluid collection area that also blocks light from the target. The distal end 147 of the light pipe 146 as provided herein is also difficult to manufacture with respect to injection molding.

Referring to Figures 5 to 7, there is shown a colposcope device 200 made according to a first embodiment. Vaginoscopic device 200 includes a disposable speculum 204 and an illumination assembly 230 releasably attached to a handle portion 216 of the speculum. In this embodiment, the handle portion 216 is hollow, comprising an open bottom end extending into an otherwise closed press cavity 217 . The handle portion 216 containing the receiving cavity 217 is defined by a generally rectangular cross-section, the importance of which is described in detail below.

Similar to the foregoing, the disposable speculum 204 according to this embodiment is generally bounded by an upper or top flap member 212 , a lower or bottom flap member 214 (which generally includes a handle portion 216 ), and a slide member 220 . Each of the upper flap member 212 and the lower flap member 214 are similarly constructed as described with respect to FIGS. formed, and wherein each tab member is further bounded by a channel-shaped elongated section or tab 215 ( FIG. 7 ). The upper fin member 212 further includes a lever portion 224 extending downwardly at its proximal end. The slide member 220 is also preferably made of a durable plastic material (though not necessarily transparent), the slide member 220 further comprising a forked upper portion or yoke 228 which pivotally receives the upper flap member 212 and a flexible protrusion 225 which Portion 225 is disposed directly below yoke 228 and extends rearwardly; ie, away from handle portion 216 . The flexible protrusion 225 curves upward into a convex configuration (as depicted in FIG. 5 ) and includes a set of ratchet teeth 226 disposed along its bottom surface.

Lever portion 224 is bounded by a frame-like structure containing opening 221 to define an aperture through which a user may examine a patient through upper and lower flap members 212 , 214 and bottom tab 227 . Finger pressure on the bottom tab 227 allows the user to articulate the speculum 200 at an angle in a manner similar to that previously described. According to this embodiment, the middle part of the slide part 220 is movably (axially) seated in a guide groove 223 which extends over the entire length of the rear side of the handle part 216 . Finger pressure on the lower tongue 229 of the slide member 220 allows engagement between a single tooth provided on the slide member 220 and a set of external teeth 222 provided on the proximal end or rear side of the handle portion 216, and through sliding Selective movement of member 220 and yoke 228 enables selective vertical articulation (spaced apart) of lower flap member 214 relative to upper flap member 212 . Channels 223 extend axially through the set of external teeth 222, improving moldability, as opposed to the version shown in FIG. 1 .

As described in more detail below, the receiving cavity 217 of the disposable scope 204 described herein is sized to interchangeably and releasably receive at least two lighting assemblies. As will be described in more detail below, the lighting assemblies that may be interchangeably received by the scope may vary based on at least one structural and/or functional aspect, including size, power source type, and light source type. In one variation, receiving cavity 217 of scope 204 may interchangeably receive corded lighting assembly 140 ( FIG. 1 ) and a similarly configured assembly or portable lighting assembly that utilizes a non-portable power source, such as AC power, such as Exemplary assembly 230, shown more fully in FIGS. 8, 11 and 12. Details related to this exemplary version are now provided.

For reference purposes, a cordless or portable lighting assembly 230 according to this embodiment is at least partially depicted in each of FIGS. 5-8 , 11 and 12 . Briefly, this lighting assembly 230 is bounded by a housing 236 having a generally hollow interior sized to hold several components, as described below.

More specifically, housing 236 is bounded by a lower base portion 260 and a narrower extending upper portion 245 . According to this embodiment, the two parts 245, 260 are integrally formed by molding the housing, which is made of a durable plastic material. Narrower extending upper portion 245 is sized to fit integrally within receiving cavity 217 of handle portion 216 and includes a short tubular open-ended extension 238 protruding from top surface 235 thereof.

As shown more clearly in FIGS. 8 and 11 , the upper portion 245 of the housing 236 also includes a set of parallel rails 249 (only one of which is shown in each of FIGS. 8 and 11 ) disposed along opposite sides of the housing, The parallel tracks 249 are used to align the assembly 230 relative to the receiving cavity 217 of the scope 204, allowing the assembly to fit within the cavity in two rotational orientations (180 degrees apart from each other), as described in more detail below .

As noted, the generally hollow interior of housing 236 is sized to hold several components. More specifically and referring to FIG. 12 , the tubular open-ended projection 238 includes a spacer tube 241 . Lens 259 is fitted to the distal end of spacer tube 241 . According to this embodiment, the lens 259 has a plano-convex configuration and is recessed within the tubular extension 238 . This lens 259 is used to more efficiently direct illumination from the coupled light source to the light pipe 254 (FIG. 27), described in more detail in a later section.

The upper portion of the light source is also held within the spacer tube 241 . According to this embodiment, the light source is a miniature white LED 232 (shown schematically in FIG. 22 ), such as a Model LXHL-PW01 white LED manufactured by Lumileds Corporation. LED 232 contains a hemispherical transparent envelope (not shown) at its upper end, which is aligned with lens 259 to provide optical coupling therewith. Additionally, the interior of spacer tube 241 provides a surface for directing stray light emitted from the envelope of LED 232 and directing this light towards lens 259. Alternatively, the light source may be a miniature incandescent lamp, such as a halogen bulb, arc lamp, or other suitable form of light source. Additionally and although a single light source is depicted herein, multiple sources, such as an array of LEDs of different colors (eg, blue, green, white), may be disposed within housing 236 to provide an additive effect without a "red" filter.

The lower portion of the LED 232 is held within a heat sink 244 made of a thermally conductive material such as aluminum into which the lower end of the spacer tube 241 and extended electrical contact wires (not shown) from the LED 232 extend. The fins 244 extend substantially across the width of the extended upper portion 245 of the housing 236 , except for the recessed portion 272 that accommodates the walled cavity 276 .

Still referring to FIG. 12, the lighting assembly further holds at least one battery 242, in this case a single rechargeable Lithium-ion battery such as the Model UF 812248P JFH battery manufactured by Sanyo Corporation, the battery housing In a compartment bounded by a pair of bumps 280 for holding the lower end of the battery. According to this embodiment, the upper end of the battery 242 is held against a portion of the inner wall defining the walled cavity 276, the latter being defined to receive a spring-loaded plunger 284 below the cooling fin 244, which is passed through the Alignment to move in a direction perpendicular to the main axis of the lighting assembly 230.

According to this embodiment, a printed circuit board 240 containing components and circuitry for powering the LED 232 is seated within the base portion 260 of the assembly housing 236. Circuit board 240 contains circuitry for controlling the current required by LED 232. According to this embodiment, the circuit board 240 contains a buck or boost constant current LED driver 251, such as the Model LTC3453EUF used for this purpose. According to this embodiment, the circuit board 240 is retained and aligned within the housing 236 using a set of rails 285, although other suitable retention means may be used. A set of charging contacts 286 are disposed directly below the circuit board 240 , each protruding through a bottom surface 287 of the housing 236 . According to this embodiment, three (3) such contacts are provided, each of which are equally spaced apart from each other, the purpose of which is described in detail below. A wire extending from the lower portion of the LED 232 and through the heat sink passes behind the battery 242 to the circuit board 240 and is connected thereto in a conventional manner, while the wire extends from the circuit board 240 to the negative terminal of the battery 242.

According to a version described below, the battery 242 is rechargeable, wherein the housing 236 is sized and configured to allow recharging through attachment to a docking station. Details related to the attachment of the housing of the lighting assembly are described in subsequent embodiments, but for purposes of this discussion, and referring back to FIGS. 11 and 12 , when the base portion 260 of the housing 236 is The charging contacts 286 engage when inside the port, which is configured to hold it. Contacts 286 engage the lower surface of circuit board 240 to allow recharging of contained battery 242, which is electrically connected to the circuit board. In this case, the three charging contacts 286 allow the housing 236 to fit within the slot of the docking station in at least two orientations 180 degrees apart, and also allow recharging, so the contacts are not position sensitive. In a preferred version, and referring to FIG. 22 , the circuit board 240 further includes a short circuit/overcurrent protection device 247 to prevent short circuiting and overcharging of the battery 242 . According to this example, a Model UCC3952PW-1 manufactured by Texas Instruments was used, but other suitable devices may be substituted.

According to the present embodiment, the base portion 260 further includes a pair of clamping recesses 289 (FIG. 11) which are used in conjunction with the charging contacts 286 to allow a "clothespin" mechanism (not shown) to engage therewith for Used for charging or for auxiliary power when needed.

Incidentally, it should be noted that various other configurations may be used for the auxiliary or main power supply of the lighting assembly 230 described herein. For example, and as shown in FIG. 34, instead of charging the battery 242, or when the battery is near or completely depleted (as indicated by a low battery indicator 295 provided on the exterior of the housing 236), the housing 236 Alternatively configured to accommodate a plug-in cord 291 that connects to a non-portable (eg, AC) power source through a transformer 296 . According to this embodiment, a low battery indicator 295 is provided adjacent to the top of the upper portion 245 of the housing 236, but the low battery indicator 295 could be positioned in other ways, such as along the bottom surface 287 (FIG. 12), for example to indicate The circuit board 240 is connected to the circuit board 240 in a conventional manner, as shown schematically in FIG. 22 . Additionally, the battery 242 (FIG. 12) is not necessarily required to be housed within the housing 236, but may instead be housed in the power adapter. As also shown in FIG. 34, at least one battery 242 may alternatively and be separately contained within a power adapter 298, such as by means of a cable 293 insertable into a receptacle 297 in the base portion 260, or by means of a battery (not shown). shown), the power adapter 198 is tethered to the assembly housing 236, wherein the battery is mechanically engaged to the bottom surface 287 of the base portion 260, for example using a set of prongs 299 for engaging the charging contacts 286 ( Figure 12).

Referring to FIGS. 12 and 22 , and in accordance with the present embodiment, a conductive strip member 290 extends along the inner sidewall of the housing 236 , the strip member having a lower end 292 disposed adjacent to the conductive contacts 243 of the circuit board 240 . Conductive strip member 290 extends into upper extension 245 to switch contacts 294 disposed on the inside of mechanical slide switch 248 disposed on the exterior of housing 236 as best shown in FIGS. 11 and 12 . exhibit. According to this embodiment, the switch 248 is configured to seat the housing 236 at least a predetermined distance from the receiving cavity 217 of the handle portion 216, for example, by engagement between internal features within the receiving cavity 217 and an outer surface of the switch 248 , automatic operation is allowed. In this case, a spring loaded plunger 284 is used in conjunction with the inner walls of the receiving cavity 217 to assist in engaging and retaining the lighting assembly 230 in the receiving cavity 217 .

According to this embodiment, the outer surface of the slide switch 248 includes a pair of outer protrusions 253, one on each upper and lower end of the slide switch, to aid in manual operation of the assembly. According to this embodiment, the engagement causes the switch 248 to move downwardly against the bias of a coil spring (not shown), thereby biasing the switch in the off position and urging the lower end 292 of the conductive strip member 290 to electrically contact the circuit board 240 The conductive contacts 243 of the LED 232 complete the circuit and energize the LED 232.

According to this embodiment, the lighting assembly 230 further allows the slide switch 248 to be manually preset to the locked position, wherein the LEDs can be activated prior to installing the assembly 230 into the receiving cavity 217 ( FIG. 5 ) of the scope 204 ( FIG. 5 ). 232 power up. In this configuration, the slide switch 248 remains in the locked position upon downward engagement of the switch 248 by finger pressure against one of the outer protrusions 253 . Or position the stopper pin 261 attached to the leaf spring 263 . Finger pressure of switch 248 allows de-energization of LED 232, but there is no automatic operation regardless of the position of housing 236 within receiving cavity 217 (FIG. 5) when lighting assembly 230 is locked.

Additionally and when not placed in the "locked" position, removal of the housing 236 from the receiving cavity 217 automatically de-energizes the switch 248 (e.g., by sliding the switch 248 up to the original position, thereby turning the lower end 292 of the conductive strip member 290 out of contact with the circuit board 240), and thereby de-energizes the contained light source (eg, LED) 232. It should be noted that other forms of switch assemblies may be utilized, such as, but not limited to, optical switches, magnetic/reed switches, and other mechanical switches such as ON/OFF throw switches that are activated by the sight glass when engaged. mirror enable to automatically or manually power on and off the included LED).

The cordless, self-contained and compact nature and operation of the lighting assembly 230 described herein, including the locking feature of the external slide switch 248, further enables the assembly described herein to be used independently as an inspection light. The positioning of the LEDs 232 within the spacer tube 241 and the positioning of the condenser lens 259 allows direct, efficient and uniform emission of illumination. The positioning of the contained LED 232 within the lighting assembly 230, and particularly within the heat sink 244, further provides a safety feature in that it allows the exposed end of the tubular portion 238 to be in general contact with the patient without a particular risk of injury. More specifically, because the coupled lens is inside the tubular extension 238, the lens 259 cannot be easily accessed by the patient or user. Lens 259 further insulates from impact loads should lighting assembly 230 be dropped.

Referring to FIGS. 13A and 13B , and as noted, the receiving cavity 217 of the colposcope 204 described herein further allows for releasable attachment of the corded lighting assembly 140 as previously depicted and shown with respect to FIG. 1 . As shown in FIG. 9 , the receiving cavity 217 includes a pair of opposing inner track-like portions 250 formed between two generally inner parallel side walls of the handle portion 216 , the track portions generally running the length of the receiving cavity 217 extension for supporting and aligning the corded lighting assembly 140 . Track-like portion 250 also serves to align with rail 249 ( FIG. 8 ) of cordless lighting assembly 230 according to this embodiment where the assembly is mountable in at least two orientations 180 degrees apart.

The upper portion of either lighting assembly housing 236, 144 is received in the receiving cavity 217, the upper portion comprising the extended tubular open-ended portion 238 of the housing 236, or the distal portion 148 (FIG. 1) of the lighting housing 144 (FIG. 1). 1). A pair of oppositely disposed inner centering fingers 246 form guides for positioning the distal portion 148 ( FIG. 1 ) of the corded lighting assembly 140 ( FIG. 1 ) in either of two 180 spaced orientations. In the center of the receiving cavity 217 . Transverse spring-like protrusions 136 ( FIG. 1 ) disposed on the exterior of lighting housing 144 ( FIG. 1 ) initially guide lighting assembly 140 ( FIG. 1 ) and orient it within receiving cavity 133 ( FIG. 1 ). The protrusion 136 (FIG. 1) also provides a fastening function by friction fit with the interior of the receiving cavity 133 (FIG. 1).

In either case, the corded lighting assembly 140 and the cordless or portable lighting assembly 230 can be mounted in the receiving cavity 217 of the handle portion 216, with the light sources contained in each assembly effectively cooperating with the light guide 254 (FIG. 27). proximal coupling to evenly illuminate the target. In the previously described cordless lighting assembly 230, using in part the reflective inner surface of the spacer tube 241, light is directed from the contained LED 232 to the lens 259, which collects the light and then directs it to the spotlight. Lens 262 (FIG. 27), as described below.

As previously described, the upper portion 245 of the housing 236 is sized to fit integrally within the receiving cavity 217, wherein the handle portion 216 is defined by an aspect ratio of about 2:1 that generally matches the aspect ratio (width x depth) of the upper portion 245. , thus defining a roughly close-contact mate. A range of 1.25:1 to 3:1 is suitable to provide sufficient stability and greater rigidity while allowing efficient hand-held operation. The extended base portion 260 of the lighting assembly 230 further defines an active length or working length, as measured from point P ( FIG. 6 ) to the bottom end of the base portion 260 of 5.50 inches, as shown by "A" in FIG. 6 . For purposes of this discussion, point P represents the contact of speculum 204 with the patient, typically for examination purposes, and is positioned outside lower flap member 214 along elongated flap portion 215 ( FIG. 7 ) of lower flap member 214 . The most proximal portion on the underside, as stated, this point is representative. More specifically, point P is generally located near the distal end of light guide 254 (FIG. 27). According to this embodiment, the preferred range for "A" is between about 3 inches and about 6 inches. In addition, the generally rectangular ends of the base portion 260 provide a stable base for the user and provide effective rigidity in which the device 200 ( FIG. 5 ) can be easily held.

Referring to FIGS. 25-27 , the scope 204 described herein includes a light pipe 254 having a proximal end 255 that is coupled to the light source of either of the interchangeably attachable illumination assemblies 140 and 230 . The proximal end 255 further includes a condenser lens 262 . Instead of only molding the lens into the proximal end as according to the previous version, the lens 262 according to this embodiment is molded as an insert in relation to the proximal end by means of a seat part 264 which Centrally located within the annular gap 265 formed between the set of inner center fingers 246 . Seat portion 264 is reinforced within annular gap 265 by at least one mesh (not shown) to prevent sagging. Thanks to this configuration, condenser lens 262 provides improved optical coupling to the light source of either lighting assembly 140 (FIG. 1), lighting assembly 230 (FIG. 7). This improved optical coupling is achieved by improved mechanical alignment of the illumination assembly with lens 262 ( FIG. 27 ), and by more efficient internal reflection at the cylindrical portion of light pipe 254 in annular gap 265 .

Unlike the prior art, the distal end 258 of the light pipe 254 is also different from the version of FIG. 2 . According to this embodiment, the distal end 258 is preferably molded into the lower flap member 214 and has a shaped configuration. By "shape" it is meant that the surface of the distal end 258 has a defined shape that is not a 90 degree cut relative to the axis of the light pipe 254 . Thus, it is intended that this term can encompass a range of both angled surfaces as well as curved surfaces (eg, spherical, parabolic, etc.). The profile at the distal end 258 is preferably scalloped, such as would be cut with an end mill or similar device. Alternatively, the modifications described above may be incorporated into the molding process of the lower flap member 214 of the speculum 204, for example, if the speculum is made of polystyrene, acrylic, or similar material. It will be readily apparent that the concept should not be limited to these materials, but should also apply to almost any material capable of transmitting light.

The profile provided in the distal light-emitting end 258 according to this particular embodiment is essentially a scallop that forms an inwardly (ie, concave) bend with a radius of about 1.5 to 3.5 inches. The center of the radius is provided from point Q (FIG. 27), which is about 2.6 inches when the radius is measured distally from the rear side of the handle portion 210, and is measured vertically from the top of the slot 215 (FIG. 7) of the lower fin portion 214. Radius, it is about 2.4 inches. These dimensions are shown in Figure 27. It should be noted that the two dimensions of anchor point Q can vary by about +/- 0.30 inches and still produce the desired effect. The distal end 258 as defined herein may alternatively be formed using an angled cut approximating the cut of the radially scalloped end described above. According to one version, a suitable angle of about 70 degrees (as measured clockwise from the proximal upper end of the cutout with respect to the vertical) is provided, forming a downwardly extending face. To provide improved spot quality of illumination while still reducing glare to the user, the angle may vary from about 55 degrees to about 80 degrees. Illumination passes through the entirety of the distal face such that fluid buildup does not significantly interfere with light transmission. This configuration further prevents glare from reflecting back to the user through the opening of the speculum, and the shape itself further assists the user by less encroaching on the field of view seen through the opening. Alternatively, and instead of providing a continuous shaped surface, distal end 258 may be provided with a series of stepped surfaces (not shown).

In operation, light emitted from coupled illumination assemblies 140, 230 is collected by lens 262 (FIG. 27), which is positioned on mount portion 264, the light is internally reflected within light guide 254, and then exits from the distal end. 258 launches. The emission of light is such that the light is directed toward the distal end of the elongated fin portion 215 (FIG. 7) with no significant reflection of light back to a user viewing through the aperture or opening 221 (FIG. 5).

In addition to the foregoing, the surface of the light pipe 254 proximate the upper and lower fin members 212, 214 may be treated (eg, by matting). Such processing helps reduce unwanted light (ie, light other than light received from the target) directed to the user when scope 204 is used with an external light source. Similarly, the distal end 258 of the light pipe 254 can be provided with (by treating it) a variety of different optical surfaces to smooth the light output and control the distribution of the illumination.

14 depicts an alternative design in which the receiving cavity 217A of the disposable speculum can be modified to accommodate a cordless lighting assembly (not shown) with a A case for AAAA batteries (not shown). According to this version, a set of rails 250A are sized to individually receive corded lighting housings, wherein the rails align with the assembly and retain the assembly in receiving cavity 217A. In this version as well as the previous embodiments, the handle portion 216 ( FIG. 5 ), 216A ( FIG. 14 ) may further comprise a series of parallel vertically arranged ribs 256 ( FIG. 7 ) disposed on the forward facing side of the handle portion Above, the ribs provide a means for dissipating heat generated by the held lighting assembly and provide a means for keeping the user's fingers away from "hot" surfaces. It has been determined that providing four (4) vertically extending outer ribs 256, each having a depth of about 0.160 inches, a thickness of about 0.055 inches, and an equal spacing of about 0.150 inches, providing these ribs will provide extra protection. Other shapes may also be utilized.

Also based on the size difference between the receiving cavity and the corded lighting assembly 140, at least one air gap is formed in the receiving cavity 217 (FIG. 13) for directing heat away from the lighting assembly 140. Or an alternative lighting assembly 140A (shown in FIG. 17 and described in more detail below), which may include LEDs as light sources instead of incandescent lamps. Other means for dissipating heat may be utilized. For example, housing 236 may at least partially contain a phase change material (PCM), such as those manufactured by TEAP Energy, in which residual heat formed or generated by the assembly is substantially stored during use and then After using the device, a period of time elapses after the lighting assembly has been deactivated.

In addition to the foregoing, and referring to FIGS. 32 and 33 , a scope adapter 281 may be used to facilitate attachment of corded lighting assembly 140B to receiving cavity 217 of scope 204 . The scope adapter 281 according to the described embodiment is a plastic molded body that includes an outer envelope 282 that is substantially similar in shape to the outer envelope of the housing 236 . Scope adapter 182 further includes an inner envelope 283, which in this case is adapted to accommodate housing 144B of corded lighting assembly 140B containing a light source, such as an incandescent lamp or at least one LED (not shown). The scope adapter 281 is for a friction or snap fit or other generally tight contact with the interior of the receiving cavity 217 . Inner envelope 283 of adapter 281 holds illumination assembly 140B without requiring predetermined alignment, and allows optical coupling with the proximal end of light guide 254 (FIG. 27). In operation, the scope adapter 281 is positioned within a receiving cavity (not shown in this view) in one of two 180-degree orientations, and the lighting assembly is placed either before or after placing the adapter 281 in the receiving cavity. 140B fits into inner envelope 283 . Adapter 281 is sized such that distal portion 148B of the assembly extends therethrough with the assembly, allowing optical coupling of the contained light source with a light guide (not shown in this view). The adapter body provides a means for dissipating heat generated by the contained lighting assembly, where at least a portion of the adapter 281 may further be made of a phase change material (PCM), such as those previously described.

Due to the portable and non-tethered (cordless) nature of the lighting assembly 230 (FIG. 7), according to this and other described embodiments below, the speculum device 200 described herein is more versatile and can ( For example) is used with bedridden patients based in part on the fact that there is no corded portion extending from the handle portion 216, 216A. As noted previously, the illuminators described herein have an effective working distance A (FIG. 6) of approximately 3 to 6 inches, which provides increased versatility and utility for patients in bed or on an examination table. Thereby, there are no problems such as previously encountered with cable presses or tie down assemblies. By removing any lighting assembly 140, 230 from the receiving cavity 217, 217A of the handle portion 216, 216A after inspection, and discarding the sight glass 204, any lighting assembly 140, 230 can be easily reused. Alternatively, corded lighting assembly 140 (FIG. 1) may be covered with a disposable sheath prior to use. Such sheaths are described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2004/0186355A1 entitled: PROTECTIVE SHEATH FOR ILLUMINATION ASSEMBLY OF A DISPOSABLE VAGINAL SPECULUM, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Also depicted in FIG. 23 is a portion of an exemplary sheath assembly 1624 for this purpose, which utilizes a prior art sight glass 102 that includes a slot 134 ( FIG. At receiving cavity 133 , the slot is sized to receive a disposable sheath assembly 1624 . The sheath assembly 1624 comprises a spool or ring member. This sheath assembly can be used in conjunction with a cordless lighting assembly, or alternative sheath assembly designs can be used. As shown in FIGS. 7 and 7A , in another aspect, a flexible sheath member 266 may be used to cover the extended base portion 260 of the lighting assembly 230 in a generally sealed relationship. The sheath member 266 according to this embodiment need only conform to the base portion 260, since the remainder of the lighting assembly 230 is contained within the receiving cavity 217, where a tab 268 that allows tearing of the seated frangible tear strip 270 can be used. to remove the sheath for cleaning.

As noted, alternative embodiments of cordless (eg, battery powered) lighting assemblies are contemplated. Referring to Figures 15 and 16, there is shown a colposcope device 378 made in accordance with another embodiment. According to this embodiment, the disposable speculum 102 of the device is identical in construction to that depicted with reference to FIG. 1 . For this reason, the same reference numerals are used for the same parts for the sake of clarity. The disposable scope 102 includes a lower flap member 104 having an integral handle portion 120 with a receiving cavity 133 formed therein. As previously mentioned, a lighting housing 144 (as shown in FIGS. 1-4 rather than in FIGS. 15 and 16 ) (such as Model 78810 Illuminator manufactured by Welch Allyn Company) releasably fits into the handle portion 120 for coupling to the distal end containing the light guide.

The cordless lighting assembly according to this embodiment can also be interchangeably attached to the receiving cavity 133 of the handle portion 120 of the scope 102 without requiring modification of the scope. In other words, according to this embodiment, the corded lighting assembly housing and the cordless lighting assembly can be interchangeably fitted into the receiving cavity 133 defined by the handle portion 120 of the scope 102 of FIGS. 15-16 .

Still referring to FIGS. 15 and 16 , a cordless lighting assembly 380 according to this embodiment is bounded by a housing 384 with at least one extremely compact battery 404 disposed in a lower or proximal end 388 of the housing. The at least one compact battery 404 may be a AAAA rechargeable battery, such as a battery commercially available from Sanyo Corporation (AAAA size, 1.2 Volt, 300 mAh NiMH rechargeable battery). It can also be replaced by other suitable micro batteries. A miniature light source (in this case a miniature LED (not shown, but similar to that previously described at 232 in FIG. In the distal end, adjacent to the condenser lens 392. If at least one battery 404 is of the NiMH type, then a circuit may be required external to the battery in order to provide the correct current to the LED 232 (FIG. 22). The circuit external to the battery 404 may be a constant current circuit set to deliver the current required by the LED 232 (FIG. 22), similar to the circuit previously depicted in FIG. 22. The NiMH batteries described herein typically operate at 1.2 volts, and the LED 232 (FIG. 22) operates at 3.7 volts. Therefore, if fewer than three (3) NiMH batteries are used, the circuit for battery 404 would be a boost circuit.

The lighting assembly 380 further includes a circuit 400 that allows the voltage of at least one contained battery 404 to be boosted to the voltage required by the LED 232 (FIG. 22) when needed. Typically, and as noted above, the voltage required to power LED 232 (FIG. 22) is about 3.7 volts. The LEDs described herein are rated at 1 Watt, have a light output of at least 20 lumens/Watt, and have a minimum lifetime of at least 1000 hours. The mechanism for performing this function of allowing electrical conditioning of the battery is more fully described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2004/0183482A1, filed March 20, 2003, and entitled ELECTRICAL ADAPTER FOR MEDICAL DIAGNOSTIC INSTRUMENTS USING LEDSAS ILLUMINATION SOURCES. Exemplary Circuitry, the contents of said US Patent Application Publication are incorporated herein by way of application. The heat sink 396 provided in the lighting assembly housing 384 allows efficient dissipation of heat generated by the LED 232 ( FIG. 22 ) and accompanying circuitry 400. As noted above, due to the size of at least one battery 404 and LEDs, the lighting assembly housing 384 is sized to fit within the receiving cavity of the handle portion 120 of the scope 102 without requiring any modifications thereto. 133, and wherein the assembly is arranged such that when the lighting assembly housing 384 is inserted in the handle portion 120, the proximal end 388 of the assembly housing 384 only extends laterally from the handle portion 120. The LEDs are optically coupled with respect to the proximal end of light pipe 254 (such as previously described) or with respect to existing light pipe 146 (FIG. 2) via lenses 392 (shown only in FIG. 16) and 262 (FIG. 27).

The compact battery 404 described herein has a relatively limited useful life. It is preferred that the device is configured such that the battery is designed to operate beyond a lifetime extending for a time at least equal to one inspection day. Referring to FIG. 16 , a recharging or docking station 408 is provided, which is connectable to an AC power source (not shown) and includes a number of receiving slots that define corresponding charging sockets 412 . Each of charging sockets 412 is sized to receive proximal end 388 of lighting assembly housing 384 . The lower or proximal end 388 of the lighting assembly housing 384 contains a sealed circuit for charging a sealed inductive charge circuit (not shown), or a contact that engages a recharging socket 412 via a pin or other suitable connection. , such as charging contacts 286 (FIG. 12). Multiple recharging sockets 412 are provided, allowing multiple lighting assemblies 380 to be stored and simultaneously charged for use in the colposcope device 378 described herein. The docking station 408 may further include at least one charge level indicator to indicate when charging is complete. As noted previously, a similar docking station may be configured for use with any of the cordless or portable lighting assemblies described herein, depending on, for example, its geometry.

Additionally and with reference to Figure 17, it will be appreciated that the corded lighting assembly 140 of Figure 1 can also be reconfigured to provide an alternative LED light source in place of an incandescent lamp. According to this embodiment, the general construction of the corded lighting assembly 140A is similar, and thus like reference numerals are used where appropriate. An LED 232 ( FIG. 22 ), such as a Model LXHL-PW01 white light LED manufactured by Lumileds Corporation, is housed in the distal portion 148A of the housing 144A. LED 232 (FIG. 22) comprises a hemispherical transparent envelope (not shown) extending from distal portion 148A to be optically aligned with the proximal end of a light guide (not shown in this figure) disposed within the handle of the colposcope. coupling, as previously described. Housing 144A is suitably sized to fit within receiving cavity 133 ( FIG. 1 ) defined by handle portion 120 ( FIG. 1 ) of scope 102 ( FIG. 1 ), in a manner similar to the assembly shown in FIG. 1 . . The inclusion of LEDs instead of incorporating incandescent lamps offers several advantages such as increased lifetime, reduced heat generation, improved color rendering and reduced power consumption. As shown in FIG. 17 and similar to FIG. 1 , the proximal portion of the lighting assembly housing 144A includes a strain relief connector 152 that extends to a cable 156 that further extends to a switch assembly 160 . A cable 164 extends from the switch assembly 160 to a forked plug which engages a corresponding receptacle 172 which is tethered by a corresponding cable 174 extending to a power source 176 . The switch assembly 160 is bounded by an elastomeric housing having a depressible button 163 for selectively energizing a built-in LED 232 ( FIG. 22 ) within the distal portion 148A of the lighting assembly housing 144A.

In operation, each of the corded or tethered lighting assemblies 140 , 140A or the cordless lighting assembly 380 may be interchangeably disposed within the receiving cavity 133 of the disposable scope 102 and connected to the light pipe 146 . Proximal coupling, where the illumination is internally reflected through the light guide to the distal end 147 and directed toward the target. Although not shown, the housing 384 may be configured with a switch member to enable the contained light source to automatically activate when the housing is seated at least a predetermined distance into the receiving cavity 133 by engaging at least one feature on the housing and/or the receiving cavity interior. power ups.

Referring to Figures 18-21, a colposcope device 1200 is shown according to another embodiment. Similar to the foregoing, speculum device 1200 includes a disposable speculum 1204 and an illumination assembly 1260 releasably attached to the speculum. Additionally and also similar to the foregoing, the sight glass 1204 is configured to allow interchangeable attachment of a corded lighting assembly (eg, 140 , FIG. 1 ) or a cordless (portable) lighting assembly 1260 . For the purposes of this embodiment, only cordless lighting assembly 1260 is discussed in detail herein.

The disposable speculum 1204 according to this embodiment is defined by an upper or top flap member 1212 , a lower flap member 1214 including an integral handle portion 1216 , and a slide member 1220 . Each of the top flap member 1212 and the lower flap member 1214 are of similar construction as shown in FIGS. The fins are defined as channel-shaped elongated members. The top flap member 1212 further includes a downwardly extending lever portion 1222 at its proximal end. The slide member 1220 , also made of plastic material, further comprises a forked upper portion or yoke 1226 which pivotally receives the lever portion 1222 of the top flap portion 1212 . According to this embodiment and unlike the foregoing, the handle portion 1216 does not include a condenser lens or light pipe (as previously required). Instead, the upper portion of the interior of the handle portion 1216 is open.

A generally cylindrical receptacle 1234 distally adjacent a portion of the handle portion 1216 and disposed below the lower fin member 1214 and extending substantially vertically therebelow, the receptacle 1234 has an open end 1238 and defines a hollow interior , the hollow interior is sized to hold the lighting assembly 1260 of the device 1200 described herein, as described in more detail below. However, it should be readily understood that other geometries could be substituted. Receptacle 1234 comprises: an upper portion 1242 (only shown in FIG. 21 ), which is opaque or black according to this embodiment, and a lower portion 1246, which is formed of a transparent material such as that of the lower flap member, the lower portion comprising an open end 1238. The receptacle 1234 is attached through an opening formed in the lower fin member 1214 through which the upper portion 1242 extends partially, or the receptacle may otherwise be integrally molded so as to form part of the lower fin member. According to another alternative version, handle portion 1216 may be modified (eg widened, not shown) in order to accept lighting assembly 1260 .

Referring to Figure 18, an exploded view of lighting assembly 1260 is provided. According to this particular embodiment, the lighting assembly 1260 is defined by a hollow enclosure or housing 1264 sized to accommodate several components, including a prism member 1286 mounted to an upper portion 1269 thereof. Enclosure 1264 holds a miniature light source, which according to this embodiment is a miniature LED 1272 (FIG. 19), such as the Model LXHL-PW01 white LED manufactured by Lumileds Corporation. Alternatively, the light source may be a miniature incandescent lamp, such as a halogen bulb, arc lamp, or other form of suitable light source. Still alternatively, different LEDs could be substituted, for example an array of LEDs of different colors (eg blue, green) could be provided in the housing and configured so as to combine to produce a "no red" filter.

18 and 19, the micro LED 1272 is retained within the sleeve 1276. A rechargeable or other battery 1280 is positioned within the housing 1264, below the bushing 1276, with a metal busbar member 1284 placed inside the housing along the exterior of the battery and bushing to complete the circuit. The battery 1280 is retained by a spring 1288 positioned at the lower or negative end of the battery and the case has end caps 1292 for releasably retaining the above described components. Between the prism member 1268 and the sleeve 1276, a condenser lens 1286 is provided according to this embodiment for collecting and evenly distributing the light output of the micro-LEDs 1272 through the prism member comprising a mirrored upper surface such that the light output is at Between the two fin parts 1212, 1214 is guided. The lens 1286 according to this embodiment is plano-convex.

Reference is now made to FIG. 19 to provide details regarding the sleeve 1276 of the lighting assembly 1260, which includes a cylindrical housing body 1304, which is made of Radel R, polyphenylsulfone, or other suitable polymer according to this embodiment. Alternatively, the body 1304 may be fabricated from virtually any electrically insulating material with the micro-LED 1272 (shown only partially in FIG. 19 ) disposed adjacent the distal end 1306 of the reflector cover portion 1310 attached in overlapping relationship thereto. A printed circuit board (PCB) 1314 containing suitable electronics 1318 thereon is used to drive (e.g., power) the micro LEDs 1272, and to enable power to the LEDs from a battery power source 1280 (FIG. 18). Circuitry for this purpose is described in commonly assigned and co-pending US Patent Application Publication No. 2004/0183482A1, which was previously incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. PCB 1314 according to this embodiment is positioned just below or near micro-LED 1272 and includes opening 1322 for receiving protrusion 1326 of heat sink 1330 held by housing body 1304 to dissipate heat The heat generated by the micro LED 1272, and also by the PCB 1314.

Heat sink 1330 includes an axial groove 1327 that extends throughout its axial length and is sized to hold one of a pair of electrical contacts. A first electrical contact 1329 extends from the proximal side of the printed circuit board 1314 and includes a lead and bar member 1334 . The strip member 1334 of this electrical contact 1329 is sandwiched between the ferrule collar 1333 and the exterior of the ferrule body 1304 in final assembly. A second electrical contact 1331 is formed by a lead extending axially from a battery contact plate 1335 held within the bottom of the bushing body 1304 . According to this embodiment, the first electrical contact 1329 is a negative electrical contact and the second electrical contact 1331 is a positive electrical contact, wherein the positive terminal of the battery 1280 ( FIG. The rivets 1337 in the holes 1339 of the slots make contact.

Still referring to FIG. 19 , the reflector cover portion 1310 is bounded by a port 1336 that fits around the lens envelope of the micro-LED 1272 and, according to one embodiment, has an inwardly tapering surface 1338 for displacing light from the micro-LED. Light emitted by 1272 is effectively focused on condenser lens 1286 (FIG. 18), which fits between prism assembly 1268 and LED 1272. According to this embodiment, reflector cover portion 1310 also recesses into the LED lens and protects the lens from damage, such as from dropping sleeve 1276 when removed from lighting assembly housing 1264 for cleaning.

Incidentally, it should be noted that sleeve 1276 is integrally portable and modular, and thus other LEDs or light sources may be included in the lighting assemblies described herein, for example, by simple replacement of another sleeve with a different light source. replace.

18 and 19, when the battery 1280 is pushed axially against the contact spring 1288 by means of a rotary switch assembly (not shown), a negative electrical contact is made. When the switch is engaged, strip 1334 of electrical contact 1329 contacts bushing collar 1333 with contact plate 1335 within bushing body 1304 contacting the positive battery terminal, completing the circuit and energizing LED 1272 .

It should be noted that other forms of switch assemblies may be utilized, such as optical switches, magnetic/reed switches, and/or other mechanical switches that automatically power on and off the contained LEDs, and/or other forms of assemblies. It should be further noted, incidentally, that each of the aforementioned handle portions may include features such as grooves or slots that allow manual engagement by the user via an external switch member (eg, 248, FIG. 12).

In operation, the lighting assembly 1260 is releasably attached to the cylindrical receptacle 1234 of the disposable scope 1204 such that the prism member 1268 is placed into the receptacle extending to the provided between the two tab members 1212,1214. In the upper portion 1242 (FIGS. 20, 21 ) of the opening, the upper portion of the lower tab member 1214 has a distally facing opening (not shown). In this orientation, the light emitting surface of the prism member 1268 is directed axially towards the opening between the top vane member 1212 and the lower vane member 1214 . The housing 1264 is received by means of a friction or interference fit with the inner walls of the receptacle 1234, but other suitable releasable retention schemes may be used, such as a snap fit.

Providing the present lighting assembly 1260 according to this embodiment does not require molding or otherwise providing light pipes or similar light coupling members (such as provided in FIGS. 2-4 ) in the lower fin member 1214 . Additionally, because the lighting assembly 1260 is powered by batteries, no connecting cables are required. Thus, the devices described herein become more versatile, eg allowing use on bedridden patients, preventing entanglement with clinicians or patients, and preventing the risk of cross-infection due to dirt accumulation on cables. As in the foregoing, the battery is rechargeable, and the lighting assembly can be placed within a docking station (such as depicted in FIG. 16 ) to allow recharging.

The embodiment shown in Figure 23 is similar to that of Figures 16 and 17, wherein like parts are labeled with the same reference numerals herein for the sake of clarity. The colposcope device 1600 includes a self-contained lighting assembly 1608 provided within the handle portion 120 of the disposable speculum 102 . In this embodiment, the lighting assembly 1608 includes a housing 1612 containing a miniature light source 1614, such as a white light or other LED (as previously described), the output of which is coupled to a condenser lens 1616 and to a sight glass Light pipe 1620 of 102 (similar to that of FIGS. 16 and 17 ). According to this embodiment, the handle portion 120 of the scope 102 includes a slot 134 ( FIG. 1 ) adjacent to the receiving cavity 133 that houses the disposable sheath assembly 1624 . The disposable sheath assembly 1624 includes a spool or ring member 1628 attached to the slot 134, the spool having an opening that allows the lighting assembly to pass therethrough. The spool or loop further holds a thin flexible transparent sheath 1632 that is folded over the outside of the spool to facilitate the unfolding of the part to cover the lighting assembly 1608 if desired. Each of an exemplary version of such a sheath assembly 1624 and its interconnection with a disposable speculum is described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2004/0186355 A1 , previously cited in its entirety as Incorporated herein by reference.

A further embodiment of a colposcope device 1700 is shown according to FIG. 24 . This particular apparatus 1700 includes an illumination assembly 1708 bounded by a housing 1712 sized to fit into a receiving cavity of the handle portion 1216 of the disposable scope 1204 . Housing 1712 according to this embodiment contains a power source, such as at least one internal battery, and circuitry for powering a light source, such as at least one LED 1716. However, in this embodiment, and instead of using a light pipe, the LED 1716 is positioned externally along the surface of the slot-shaped lower fin member 1214, the LED being positioned in the position of the light emitting surface of the light pipe at the far end, wherein the LED 1716 passes through a set of Leads 1720 and electrical contacts are coupled to housing 1712 , the latter assembly being covered by a fluid-tight enclosure 1724 formed by walls or partitions 1725 .

Another colposcope device 300 made in accordance with the present application is depicted in FIGS. 28-31 . As in the foregoing, the apparatus 300 includes a disposable speculum 304 and a lighting assembly 306 releasably attached to the speculum, the lighting assembly having a built-in light source (not shown).

Disposable speculum 304 illustrated herein is similar to the disposable speculum described in FIGS. An integral handle portion 316 is included having a bottom end opening extending into a receiving cavity 317 . Attached to the rear side of the scope 304 is a slide member 320 that fits into a slot formed on the rearwardly facing side of the handle portion 316 and includes a yoke 332 at its upper end that allows the upper flap member 308 to engage with it. Pivotable attachment. The upper fin member 308 further includes a lever portion 324 extending downwardly from the proximal end of the upper fin member, the lever portion having an opening 336 defining an aperture that allows the user to pass through the yoke 332 of the slide member 320 on the upper fin member. View between fin member 308 and lower fin member 312 . The bottom of the lever portion 324 includes a lug 340 having an internal groove 344 that engages a curved member 348 extending rearwardly from the slide member 320, the rearwardly extending member being flexible and having a A set of ratchet teeth 352 to allow selective articulation of the upper flap member 308 relative to the lower flap member 312 .

The slide member 320 further includes a lower tongue 356 having a single tooth at its bottom end that engages with a set of ratchet teeth 358 provided on the rearwardly facing side near the bottom of the handle portion 316 . The tongue 356 can be reflexed to release the teeth from the set of teeth 358 to allow vertical adjustment of the upper flap member 308 relative to the lower flap member 312 . Further details regarding the design and articulation of the disposable speculum 304 are provided in US Patent No. 3,716,047, which was previously incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

With this background, lighting assembly 306 will now be discussed in accordance with this particular embodiment. Still referring to FIGS. 28-31 , the lighting assembly 306 includes an illumination source housing 360 disposed in parallel relationship with a battery housing 364 , each of which housings is supported by a base portion 372 . The illumination source housing 360 is sized to fit within the receiving cavity 317 of the handle portion 316 of the disposable scope 304, while the battery housing 364 is shaped to fit in adjacent relationship relative to the exterior of the handle portion 316, the battery housing being parallel thereto. orientation. As shown in FIGS. 30 and 31 , the battery housing 364 may be provided either in front of or behind the handle portion 316 in terms of positioning.

Battery housing 364 is sized to hold at least one lithium-ion or other form of battery (not shown), allowing lighting assembly 306 to be used without being tethered or connected to an external (eg, AC) power source. Positioned at the top of the battery housing 364 is a rotatable switch 368 that is electrically connected to the contacts of the battery and the contained light source to allow energization of the contained light source (eg, a white LED) within the illumination source housing 360 . The electrical connection is effected by the metal tube moving vertically when the switch 368 is rotated, the vertical movement causing the tube to contact the metal contacts inside the housing 364 . Alternatively, other switches may be used with this embodiment of lighting assembly 360 . For example, a switch of the type shown in FIGS. 11 and 12 could be used which has the advantage of being automatically activated (by sliding down) when the lighting assembly 306 is inserted into the receiving cavity 317 of the handle portion 316, And automatically inhibited when removed from the receiving cavity 317 (by sliding up to the original position under the action of the spring in the housing 364).

According to this embodiment, the light source is preferably positioned about the distal end of the illumination source housing 360 so that the light source can interact with the light guide 254 at the distal end of the receiving cavity 317 of the handle portion 316 (FIG. ) coupling, the light guide preferably has a fan-shaped, curved or otherwise shaped distal light-emitting end 258, as previously described and shown in FIGS. 25-27.

Feature List for Figures 1 to 34

100 colposcope equipment

102 disposable speculum

104 Lower or bottom fin parts

108 Upper or top fin part

112 sliding parts

116 Slotted distal fins

120 handle part

123 rear flexible protrusion

124 Fork-shaped upper end or yoke

125 ratchet teeth

128 lever part

129 tongue

130 ratchet teeth

131 teeth

133 receiving cavity

134 slots

135 viewing hole

136 Transverse spring-like protrusions

137 bump

139 internal slot

140 lighting assembly, corded

140A Lighting Assembly, Corded

140B Lighting Assembly, Corded

144 Enclosure, lighting assembly

144A Enclosure, lighting assembly

144B Enclosure, lighting assembly

146 light guide

147 far light-emitting end

148 distal part

148A Distal section

148B distal part

152 Strain relief connector

156 cable

160 switch assembly

163 Pressable buttons

164 cable

168 Plugs with forked tips

172 sockets

174 cable

176 power transformer

200 colposcope equipment

204 disposable speculum

212 Upper or top fin parts

214 Lower or bottom fin parts

215 Elongated parts or fins

216 handle part

216A handle part

217 receiving cavity

217A receiving cavity

220 sliding parts

221 opening

222 external teeth

223 guide groove

224 lever part

225 flexible protrusion

226 ratchet teeth

227 bottom bump

228 Yoke or upper

229 lower tongue

230 lighting assembly

232 LEDs

235 upper surface

236 shell

238 Tubular open-ended extensions

240 circuit board

241 spacer tube

242 battery

243 Conductive contacts

244 heat sink

245 Upper

246 Internal centering finger

247 Short circuit/overcurrent protection device

248 slide switch

249 guide rail

250 track-like part

250A track

251 LED driver

253 protrusion

254 light guide

255 proximal

256 ribs, extending vertically

258 far end

259 lens

260 base part

261 pin, stop pin

262 condenser lens

263 leaf spring

264 Support part

265 Annular gap

266 sheath parts

268 bumps

270 easy to separate tear strip

272 recessed part

276 cavity with inner wall

280 bumps

281 Sightglass adapter

282 outer envelope

283 inner envelope

284 plunger, spring loaded

285 guide rail

286 Charging contacts

287 lower surface

288 power adapter

289 clamping recess

290 Conductive strip parts

291 plug-in rope

292 lower end

293 cable

294 switch contacts

295 Low battery indicator

296 Transformer

297 jack

298 power adapter

299 pins

300 colposcope equipment

304 disposable speculum

306 lighting assembly

308 upper or top fin parts

312 Lower or bottom fin parts

316 handle part

317 receiving cavity

320 sliding parts

324 lever part

332 Yoke

336 opening

340 bump

344 internal slot

348 curved parts

352 ratchet teeth

356 Tongue

358 teeth, ratchet

360 lighting source housing

364 battery case

368 rotatable switch

372 base part

378 equipment

380 lighting assembly

384 shell

388 lower or proximal

392 lens

396 heat sink

400 circuit

404 battery

408 docking station

412 charging socket

1200 Colposcope equipment

1204 Disposable speculum

1212 Upper or top fin parts

1214 Lower fin parts

1216 Integrated handle part

1220 sliding parts

1222 Leverage part

1226 Yoke or Upper

1234 jack

1238 open end

1242 upper part

1246 lower part

1260 lighting assembly

1264 Cases or shells, hollow

1268 Prism parts

1269 upper part

1272 Micro LED

1276 Casing

1280 battery

1284 Conductive strip parts

1286 Concentrating lens

1288 spring

1292 end cap

1304 shell, casing

1306 remote

1310 reflector cover part

1314 circuit board

1318 circuit

1322 opening

1326 overhang

1327 axial groove

1329 electrical contacts

1330 heat sink

1331 Electrical contacts

1333 casing bushing

1334 parts

1335 battery contact plate

1336 opening

1337 rivets

1338 tapered part

1339 Slotted holes

1600 Colposcope equipment

1608 lighting assembly

1612 shell

1614 light source

1616 Condenser lens

1620 light pipe

1624 Disposable sheath assembly

1628 Scroll-like parts

1632 Sheath

1700 Colposcope equipment

1708 lighting assembly

1712 shell

1716 light source

1720 lead wire

1724 inclusions

1725 partition/wall

It should be readily apparent that those skilled in the art will be able to make other changes and modifications which are considered to be within the scope of the invention described herein. For example, while each of the foregoing embodiments depicts a particular battery relationship, other configurations and orientations of electrically interconnectables may be used within the intended scope and breadth according to the appended claims. Additionally and although each of the described embodiments is directly related to a speculum having a closed receiving cavity, it is conceivable that the embodiments described herein may also be used, for example, with a speculum having a handle portion with an open wall use. Additionally, the lighting assembly discussed with respect to each of the embodiments may be a disposable version or (as described by several embodiments herein) a reusable assembly attachable to a disposable speculum .

Claims (66)

1. A colposcopy device comprising: a colposcope comprising a handle portion comprising a receiving cavity; a first lighting assembly containing a first light source, the first lighting assembly being attached to a non-portable power source; a second lighting assembly comprising a second light source, the second lighting assembly further comprising means for receiving at least one portable power source for powering the second light source, the first and second lighting assemblies each of which is axially interchangeably engageable with the receiving cavity for illuminating a target; and means for dissipating heat generated by at least one of the first and second light sources. 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first lighting assembly includes an incandescent lamp as the first light source. 3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first lighting assembly comprises at least one LED as the first light source. 4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the second lighting assembly includes an incandescent lamp as the second light source. 5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the second lighting assembly comprises at least one LED as the second light source. 6. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the at least one LED is a white LED. 7. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the at least one LED is a white LED. 8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first and second lighting assemblies includes a switch. 9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the switch enables the light source to be automatically energized when the lighting assembly is inserted into the receiving cavity. 10. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the switch allows at least one of manual and automatic operation. 11. The device of claim 1, wherein the portable power source comprises at least one battery. 12. The device of claim 11, wherein the at least one battery is rechargeable. 13. The apparatus of claim 12, comprising a docking station having a recharging circuit for recharging the at least one battery. 14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the docking station includes a plurality of ports to enable simultaneous recharging of a plurality of second lighting assemblies. 15. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the second lighting assembly includes a low battery indicator. 16. The device of claim 11, wherein the at least one battery is housed within a housing of the second lighting assembly. 17. The device of claim 11 , wherein the second lighting assembly is configured with the at least one battery, the at least one battery having a capability of continuous operation such that a user can operate the device for at least two a continuous check. 18. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the at least one battery is operable continuously for at least 20 minutes. 19. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the docking station includes at least one charge level indicator. 20. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the receiving cavity includes at least one feature for holding at least one of the first and second lighting assemblies. 21. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the receiving cavity includes at least one feature that aligns at least one of the lighting assemblies relative to the receiving cavity. 22. The apparatus of claim 21, wherein the receiving cavity is an integrally closed portion except for a bottom open end, and wherein the receiving cavity is defined by a generally uniform rectangular cross-section. 23. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the receiving cavity includes a pair of grooves disposed on opposing inner side walls. 24. The apparatus of claim 21 , wherein at least one of the first and second lighting assemblies is positionable in a plurality of rotational orientations about a major axis of the at least one lighting assembly, the axis passing through extending through the handle portion. 25. The apparatus of claim 24, wherein said at least one of said first and second lighting assemblies includes a switch that causes said at least one of said first and second light sources to or automatically energized when the at least one lighting assembly is inserted into the receiving cavity at least a predetermined distance, wherein the rotational orientation of the at least one lighting assembly does not affect automatic operation of the switch. 26. The apparatus of claim 1, comprising a light pipe formed in an upper end of the handle portion, the light pipe optically coupled to each of first and second lighting assemblies. 27. The apparatus of claim 26, wherein the light pipe comprises: a proximal end optically coupled to each of the first and second illumination assemblies; and a condenser lens that is the part of the proximal end. 28. The apparatus of claim 27, wherein the condenser lens is supported on a mount portion formed as part of the proximal end. 29. The apparatus of claim 26, wherein the light guide comprises a distal end disposed within a wing member of the colposcope through which light from an optically coupled illumination assembly passes. The distal end is launched toward a target, the distal end being shaped. 30. The apparatus of claim 29, wherein the distal end is formed with a curved surface. 31. The apparatus of claim 29, wherein the distal end is formed with an angled surface. 32. The apparatus of claim 27, comprising a guide disposed at an upper end of the receiving cavity such that at least one of the first and second lighting assemblies is positioned relative to the light guide The proximal end of the alignment. 33. The apparatus of claim 1, comprising means for controlling the quality of an illumination spot produced by said at least one of said first and second illumination assemblies. 34. The apparatus of claim 1, comprising means for controlling lighting output from at least one of the first and second lighting assemblies. 35. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the heat dissipation member comprises a heat sink disposed in at least one of the first and second lighting assemblies. 36. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the heat dissipation member includes at least one air gap disposed in the receiving cavity. 37. The apparatus of claim 36, wherein the scope includes at least one feature to hold at least one of the first and second lighting assemblies, the at least one feature includes defining the at least A pair of grooves for an air gap. 38. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of at least one of the first and second lighting assemblies contains a phase change material. 39. The apparatus of claim 1, comprising means for adjusting a color temperature of a light source of at least one of the first and second lighting assemblies. 40. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the second lighting assembly comprises an upper portion sized to fit integrally within the receiving cavity to provide a general tight fit with an inner wall of the receiving cavity. s contact. 41. The apparatus of claim 40, wherein the second lighting assembly comprises a base portion partially extending from the handle portion, wherein the apparatus is defined by a working length, the working length The length is measured between the farthest surface of the extended base portion and the point on the speculum associated with the handle portion which is the closest contact between the speculum and the patient, at a working distance of 3 inches to 6 inches. 42. The apparatus of claim 40, wherein the handle portion is defined by a generally uniform rectangular cross section, the handle portion having a width to depth aspect ratio in the range of 1.25:1 to 3:1. 43. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the second lighting assembly includes a housing, the switch includes an external switch member, a portion of the switch member being provided on the housing. 44. The apparatus of claim 43, wherein the second lighting assembly is independently usable as a single inspection light. 45. The apparatus of claim 44 including means for selectively locking the switch member in a predetermined position. 46. The apparatus of claim 1, comprising a scope adapter selectively connectable to at least one of said first and second lighting assemblies, said scope adapter comprising a A first envelope identical to one of the lighting assemblies and a second envelope sized to receive the other of the lighting assemblies thereby simplifying connection to the receiving cavity. 47. The apparatus of claim 46, wherein the first envelope of the scope adapter and the first envelope of the second lighting assembly are identical, and the second envelope of the scope adapter is adapted to receive the first lighting assembly. 48. The apparatus of claim 47, wherein the first sleeve of the scope adapter is sized to provide a generally tight contact fit with the interior of the receiving cavity. 49. The apparatus of claim 1, comprising a power adapter connected to the second lighting assembly, the power adapter comprising means for containing the at least one portable power source. 50. The apparatus of claim 11, comprising a power adapter connected to the second lighting assembly, the power adapter comprising an auxiliary power source for replacing the at least one battery. 51. The apparatus of claim 50, wherein the auxiliary power source is at least one other battery. 52. The device of claim 50, wherein the auxiliary power source is a non-portable power source. 53. The apparatus of claim 50, wherein the power adapter is tethered to the second lighting assembly. 54. The apparatus of claim 50, wherein the power adapter includes a body with one end connected to one end of the second lighting assembly. 55. The apparatus of claim 49, wherein the power adapter includes a body with one end connected to one end of the second lighting assembly. 56. The apparatus of claim 49, wherein the power adapter is tethered to the second lighting assembly. 57. The apparatus of claim 40, comprising a disposable sheath member covering at least a portion of the second lighting assembly. 58. The apparatus of claim 57, wherein the disposable sheath member comprises a frangible tear strip. 59. The apparatus of claim 43, wherein the external switch member is biased in an off position. 60. The apparatus of claim 59 including means for locking the switch member in a predetermined position. 61. The apparatus of claim 60, wherein the locking member inhibits automatic operation. 62. The apparatus of claim 36, wherein the receiving cavity of the handle portion is sized to provide the at least one air gap based on a size difference between the first and second lighting assemblies. 63. The apparatus of claim 34, wherein the illumination output control member comprises at least one optical element disposed at a distal end of at least one of the first and second illumination assemblies. 64. The apparatus according to claim 63, wherein said at least one optical element comprises a prism element for directing illumination from said light source toward a target, said first and second said illumination assemblies At least one of them is axially movable within the receiving cavity to provide control of the output. 65. The apparatus of claim 34, wherein the lighting output control means comprises a rheostat. 66. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the docking station includes at least one port sized to receive at least one of the second lighting assemblies.

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