BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Field of Invention

[0001] This application relates to the field of tele-medicine and, more particularly, to a system for capturing fluorescence-based imagery.

Background Information

[0002] Fluorescence emission technology (FET) has emerged as a new field of medical diagnosis that assists doctors, surgeons and dentists (i.e., practitioners) in determining healthy tissue from diseased tissue in a patient.

[0003] To support this emerging technology, practitioners may utilize fluorescence-based photography to view and highlight infectious conditions that may not be captured through conventional photography. The captured imagery may further allow for the documentation of the progress of treatment as it applied to a patient.

[0004] Portable camera technology, conventionally through the use of smart phones

(e.g., IPHONE) has emerged as a simple means for capturing images and has become a dominate form of in the field of image capturing.

[0005] In addition, in the ever-expanding medical fields, telemedicine has emerged as new means for providing care to patients by practitioners where the practitioner may communicate with their patients, wherein patients may provide photographic evidence of their condition to their doctor or dentist, through the use of through cellular telephones (IPHONE), and/or tablets (IPAD), etc.

[0006] However, conventional fluorescence-based photography used in medicine are large and expensive.

[0007] Hence, there is a need in the industry for methods and devices that are suitable for enabling conventional image capture devices the ability to capture and enhance fluorescence-based images that may be used to reveal conditions that may not be seen through conventional photography.

Summary of the invention

[0008] The device disclosed, herein, creates, in conjunction with a conventional image capture device, an easy to use portable fluorescent-based image capture system that may be used in dental and medical fields for the determination of a medical condition and the recordation of the progress of treatment of the medical condition.

[0009 The object of the invention is a device, which in conjunction with a conventional image capture devices, creates a system that allows a practitioner to capture fluorescent- based images that may be used in the diagnosis of a patient's condition through the filtering of light emitted by a target object illuminated by light of known wavelengths.

[0010] The object of the invention is a device, which in conjunction with a conventional image capture device, creates a system that allows for the capturing of fluorescent-based images by a conventional image capture devices wherein the light impinging upon the photo-sensitive elements of the image captured is filtered to enable desired wavelengths to be captured.

[0011] The object of the invention is a device, which in conjunction with a conventional image capture device, creates a system suitable capturing high resolution magnified images of light emitted by a target object illuminated by light of known wavelengths.

[0012] The object of the invention is a device that is removably attachable to a conventional image capture device that provides for the illumination of a target object by light of a known wavelength and capturing light of a second known wavelength wherein the second known wavelength is emitted by the target object when illuminated by the emitted known wavelength.

[0013] The object of the invention is a device employing a plurality of telescopic lens, filtering lens and working distance lens that creates, in conjunction with a conventional image capture device, a special purpose fluorescence-based image capturing system suitable for use in dental and medical procedures.

[0014] The explicitly recited objectives and objectives that are not explicitly recited but may be achieved from the description of the invention disclosed are considered within the scope of the invention as expressed in the set of claims attached, herewith.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS.

[0015] For a better understanding of exemplary embodiments and to show how the same may be carried into effect, reference is made to the accompanying drawings. It is stressed that the particulars shown are by way of example only and for purposes of illustrative discussion of the preferred embodiments of the present disclosure and are presented in the cause of providing what is believed to be the most useful and readily understood description of the principles and conceptual aspects of the invention. In this regard, no attempt is made to show structural details of the invention in more detail than is necessary for a fundamental understanding of the invention, the description taken with the drawings making apparent to those skilled in the art how the several forms of the invention may be embodied in practice. In the accompanying drawings:

[0016] FIG. 1A illustrates an exploded perspective view of a first exemplary embodiment of a fluorescent-based image capturing system in accordance with the principles of the invention.

[0017] FIG. IB illustrates a side view of the first exemplary embodiment of the fluorescent-based image capturing system shown in FIG. 1A.

[0018] FIG. 2 illustrates an exploded perspective view of a second exemplary embodiment of a fluorescent-based image capturing system in accordance with the principles of the invention.

[0019] FIG. 3 illustrates an exploded perspective view of a third exemplary embodiment of a fluorescent-based image capturing system in accordance with the principles of the invention.

FIG. 4 illustrates a side view of the third exemplary embodiment of the fluorescent based image capturing system shown in FIG. 3.

[0020] FIG. 5 illustrates an exploded perspective view of a fourth exemplary embodiment of a fluorescent-based image capturing system in accordance with the principles of the invention.

[0021] FIG. 6 illustrates an assembled view of the fourth exemplary embodiment of a fluorescent based image capturing system shown in FIG. 5.

[0022] FIG. 7 illustrates prospective view of an exemplary lighting component associated with the image capturing system disclosed herein.

[0023] FIGs. 8A-8D illustrate prospective views of exemplary telescopic components associated with the image capturing system disclosed herein.

[0024] FIGs. 9A-9B illustrate prospective views of exemplary filtering components associated with the image capturing system disclosed herein.

[0025] FIGs. 10A-10C illustrate prospective views of exemplary working distance lens associated with the image capture system disclosed herein.

[0026] FIG. 11 illustrates a view of the lens positioning in accordance with the fourth exemplary embodiment of an image capture system shown in FIGs. 5 and 6. [0027] FIGs. 11A-11F illustrate exemplary configurations associated with the exemplary embodiment of the fluorescent based image capture system shown in FIGs. 5 and 6.

[0028] FIG. 12A illustrates a side view of the assembled fluorescent-based image capture system shown in FIGs. 5 and 6.

[0029] FIG. 12B illustrates a view of the lens positioned of the assembled fluorescent-based image capture system shown in FIGs. 5 and 6.

[0030] FIGs. 13A-13C illustrate side views of exemplary configurations of lighting elements shown in FIGs. 7A-7C and working distance lens shown in FIG. 10A-10C.

[0031] It is to be understood that the figures and descriptions of the present invention described herein have been simplified to illustrate the elements that are relevant for a clear understanding of the present invention, while eliminating for purposes of clarity, many other elements. However, because these omitted elements are well-known in the art, and because they do not facilitate a better understanding of the present invention, a discussion of such elements is not provided herein. The disclosure herein is directed also to variations and modifications known to those skilled in the art.

DETAILED DECRIPTION OF THE INVENTION [0032] FIG. 1A illustrates an exploded perspective view of a first exemplary embodiment of a fluorescent-based image capturing system 100 in accordance with the principles of the invention.

[0033] In accordance with the principles of the invention, fluorescent-based image capturing system 100 comprises a fluorescent based image capture device 120 that is removably attachable to a conventional image capture device 110, wherein fluorescent-based image capture device 120 assists the conventional image capture device 110 in capturing and recording images comprising light emitted by a target object when illuminated by a known light wavelength. As used, herein, fluorescent- based image devicel20 may be removably attachable to that surface of the device 110 that includes lens for capturing images of a target object, which is herein after referred to as a "rear surface."

[0034] In this illustrated example, image capture device 110 is represented as an

IPHONE type device (IPHONE is a registered Trademark of Apple Inc. Cupertino CA.). Although an IPHONE type device is illustrated, it would be recognized that the fluorescent-based image device disclosed, herein, may be adapted to conform to other devices that may be utilized in capturing images, which is considered with the scope of the invention claimed. For example, other IPHONE models, IPads or image capture devices based on the Android operating systems from manufactures such as Samsung (i.e., Galaxy), Google (i.e., IPIX) and Motorola (i.e., Razor) that may be substituted for the illustrated device 110 and are considered within the scope of the invention claimed. Similarly, although cellular telephone devices are referred to, herein, it would be understood that other devices, such as laptop computers, conventional cameras (whether digital single lens reflex (DSLR) or snapshot) may employ the fluorescent based image capture system discussed, herein. IPAD is a registered trademark of Apple Co., Cupterino, CA.

[0035] Image capture device 110 comprises a plurality of lens 141, 142, 143 on the rear surface of image capture device 110. Lens 141, 142 and 143 are associated with image processing elements (e.g., charged coupled diodes) through which images of a target object may be captured and presented onto a display (not shown). In the illustrated aspect of device 110 shown, herein, comprises a plurality of lens 141, 142 and 143, which in a conventional 35-millimeter photograph may be referred as a normal lens of focal length 55 mm (millimeters), a portrait lens - focal length 85-105mm, and a wide- angle lens - 18-25 mm. However, with the advent of digital photography lens 141 may be referred to as a wide-angle lens, lens 142 may be referred to as zoom lens and lens 143 may be referred to an ultra-wide lens. For example, in an IPHONE 13 configuration, lens 141 may correspond to a f/1.6 aperture lens with a 90-degree field of view, lens 142 may correspond to a f/2.8 aperture lens suitable for zooming (or telescopic) operation and lens 143 may correspond to a f/2.4 aperture lens with a 120-degree field of view. [0036] Although three lens 141-143 are illustrated it would be understood that the number of lens associated with device 110 may be increased or may be decreased without altering the scope of the invention claimed.

[0037] FIG. 1A further illustrates a first exemplary embodiment fluorescent

Image capturing device 120 that may be removably attached or connected to the illustrated image capturing device 110. Fluorescent based image capture device 120, which is composed of material similar to materials that are used to provide a covering and/or protection to device 110, is removably attachable to device 110. For example, cases manufactured by Otter Box, LLC are well-known to be removably attachable to device 110 and provide extreme protection to device 110 to prevent damage if device 110 is dropped. Cases from other manufacturers, which may be made of different materials, are well-known in the art so as to be removably attachable to device 110. [0038] In accordance with the principles of the invention, fluorescent based

Image capture device 120, which is comparable to a case covering device 110, comprises lens attachment section 130 positioned on a rear surface of case 120, wherein section 130 is aligned to lens 140-143 and light 145 when case 120 is attached to Image capture device 110. Further illustrated is light source 135 positioned on the rear surface of device 120. Light 135 provides light a general white light that may be used to illuminate a target object.

[0039] In one aspect of the invention, light source 135 may comprise a light emitting diode suitable for projecting a laser (i.e., a coherent light) or a non-lasing (i.e., non-coherent light) at one or more wavelengths suitable for causing the generation of a fluorescent light by a target object when illuminated by the light emitted by light 135. Although the term "a light emitting diode" is used, herein, it would be recognized that the term "a light emitting diode" may be composed of a single light emitting diode or a plurality of light emitting diodes arranged in an array or circular pattern. Hence, the term "a light emitting diode" should be understood to be representative of "at least one light emitting diode." In addition, although a "light emitting diode" is discussed, it would be recognized that other forms of light generating devices may be utilized for light source 135 without altering the scope of the invention.

[0040] In one aspect of the invention, light source 135 may comprise one or more light emitting diodes that emit light at different wavelengths. For example, light source 135 may comprise a first light emitting diode 135a that may emit light in a first wavelength range and a second light emitting diode 135b that may emit light in a second wavelength range.

[0041] In another aspect of the invention, light source 135 (or light emitting diodes 135a, 135b) may further include transmission filters (not shown) that limit the wavelength range outputted by light emitting diode 135 (or light emitting diodes 135a, 135b).

[0042] For example, light emitting diode 135 (or light emitting diodes 135a,

135b) may comprise a light source that is configured to emit a white light (i.e., 380-760 nanometers (nm)), wherein a filter (not shown) may be selected to limit the wavelength range of the light emitted (hereinafter referred to as excitation light) by fluorescent- based image capture device 120 to a wavelength range that is suitable for the generation of a fluorescent light by a target object. For example, light source 135 may emit light in a white wavelength range and a transmissive filter (not shown) may limit the wavelength range of the excitation light to a wavelength band such as 380-410 nm. [0043] Alternatively, light source 135 may comprise a specialized light source that is configured to emit a light in a desired wavelength range, ( e.g., 400-450 nm). A transmissive filter (not shown) associated with light source 135 may further limit or specify the wavelength range of the excitation light to a wavelength range between 380- 410, for example. Accordingly, the light projected onto a target object (i.e., the excitation light) would be in the range of 400-410 nm.

[0044] Similarly, transmissive filters may be incorporated onto light emitting diodes 135a, 135b in a two-light configuration.

[0045] Further illustrated is filter 150 that may be incorporated into lens attachment section 130. Filter 150, when placed in front of at least one of lens 140-143 limits the wavelength range that lens 141-143 provides to the image processing section (not shown) of device 110.

[0046] In accordance with the principles of the invention, filter 150 provides for the capture of images by device 110 with emphasis on the florescence light generated by a target object when illuminated by the excitation light emitted by light source 135. [0047] For example, filter 150 may be constructed or formulated to limit

(attenuate) the observability (or viewability or recording) of light in a first wavelength range (e.g., an ultra-violet light wavelength range, a blue light wavelength range) while allowing the observability (or viewability or recording) of light in a second wavelength range (e.g., cyan wavelength range and greater (i.e., high pass filter) or selected wavelengths about a desired wavelength (i.e., passband filter).

[0048] Thus, light (or wavelengths) associated with the captured image of the target object may be limited to only those wavelengths that are desired while reducing the effect of light associated with unwanted wavelength bands.

[0049] In accordance with this first exemplary embodiment of a fluorescent

Image capturing device 120, connector 170 includes a first connector 171, insertable into Image capturing device 110 and a second connector 172, insertable into fluorescent Image capturing device 120. Connector 170 provides for the transfer of power from the internal battery (not shown) of image capturing device 110 to fluorescent Image capturing device 120. The transferred power may be used to power light source 135, for example. Further illustrated is switch 160 that may be used to control the transfer of power between image capture device 110 and fluorescent Image capturing device 120. [0050] FIG. IB illustrates a side view a section of the fluorescent-based image capture system 120 shown in FIG. 1A. [0051] In this illustrated view, light source 135 comprises light emitting diodes

135a and 135b, positioned on printed circuit board 121, and emit light in a known wavelength range. Further illustrated is transmissive filter 137a in optical communication with light emitting diode 135a, wherein light emitted by light emitting 135a is transmitted through filter 137a. Further illustrated is transmissive filter 137b in optical communication with light emitting diode 135b, wherein light emitted by light emitting diode 135b is transmitted through filter 137b. Transmissive filters 137a and 137b limit the wavelength ranges of the light emitted by light emitting diodes 135a and 135b.

[0052] FIG. 2 illustrates an exploded perspective view of a second exemplary embodiment of fluorescent-based image capture system 200 in accordance with the principles of the invention.

[0053] In this illustrated second exemplary embodiment, fluorescent-based image capture system 200 comprises image capture device 110 and a fluorescent-based image capture device 220, wherein device 220 similar to the image capture system 120 shown in FIG. 1A includes switch 160 and lens attachment section 130.

[0054] In this second exemplary embodiment, fluorescent-based image capture device 220 further includes battery element 240 that may be used to provide power to light emitting diode 135.

[0055] In this second embodiment, connector 170 is not needed as device 220 supplies its own power to light 135.

[0056] FIG. 3 illustrates an exploded perspective view of a third exemplary embodiment of a fluorescent based image capturing system 300 in accordance with the principles of the invention.

[0057] In this illustrated third exemplary embodiment, fluorescent-based image capture system 300 comprises image capture device 110 and a fluorescent-based image capture device 420, wherein device 420 similar to the image capture device 120 shown in FIG. 1A includes switch 160.

[0058] in this illustrated embodiment, an internal battery configuration, as shown in FIG. 2 may be utilized. However, it would be recognized that the power connector shown in FIG. 1A may be utilized without altering the scope of the invention, claimed.

[0059] In accordance with the principles of this third exemplary embodiment, lens section 430, which is similar to lens attachment section 130 shown in FIG. 1A, includes one or more (in this illustrated case, one) socket 450 that is aligned with one of lens 141-143. Socket 450 includes one of: a screw thread, a bayonet connector, a fitted connector, or other similar means to allow a connection of filtering system 460 to socket 450.

[0060] In this illustrated embodiment, filtering system 460 comprises at least one filter element suitable for limiting the wavelength range of light reaching a corresponding one of the at least one of lens 141-143. For example, filtering system 460 may be attached to socket 450 through a corresponding one of: a screw thread, a bayonet connector, a fitted connector, etc., with is attached one on of lens 141-143 and limits the wavelength range of light captured by the image capture device 110 through one of lens 141-143. That is, the wavelength band of light impinging upon the photo interpretation elements (e.g., CCD) of the image capture device 110 associated with the corresponding one of lens 141-143 is limited by the characteristics of filtering system 460.

[0061] Fluorescent based image capture device 420, when attached to Image capturing device 110, emits a light that may be in a range selected to cause the generation, by an illuminated target object of a fluorescent light. Filter system 460 may be selected to view the fluorescent light while limiting or blocking those light wavelengths emitted by light source 135 from being captured or detected.

[0062] FIG. 4 illustrates a side view, through section A-A, of the third exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 3.

[0063] In this illustrated example, image capturing device 110 comprises lens

141 and 143 Further illustrated is fluorescence image capturing device 420 comprising connector 450 including an internal screw thread 451 and filtering system 460 including a screw thread 461, which allows for the attachment of filtering system 460 to connector 450. [0064] Lighting source 135, in this illustrated embodiment, comprises lighting sources 135a and 135b, and corresponding transmissive filters 137a and 137b, as previously discussed.

[0065] In this exemplary embodiment, lighting source 135a (and 135b) comprises a semiconductor die 435 and a lens 439. Semiconductor die 435 represents that portion of a semiconductor lighting source that generates or emits a light (whether coherent light or non-coherent light). Lens 439 is positioned near die 435 such that die 435 lies at or within a focal length lens 439. More detailed information regarding the construction of lighting source 135 (or 135a and 135b) suitable for use as lighting sources 135a, 135b may be found, for example, in teachings of US Patent 10, 247,384, FIGs. 12 A, 12B.

[0066] FIG. 5 illustrates an exploded perspective view of a fourth exemplary embodiment of a fluorescent-based image capturing system 500 in accordance with the principles of the invention.

[0067] In this illustrated embodiment, fluorescent based image capture system

500 comprises image capture device 110, which includes lens 143-145 that capture images of a target object using one or more of an ultra-wide-angle lens 143, a wide angle lens 141 and/or a telescopic lens 142, as previously discussed, and fluorescent based image capture device 505, which removably attachable to image capture device 110. Device 505, in this illustrated embodiment, comprises a first case element 510, a second case element 520 and a cover element 550, which are removably attachable the rear surface of device 110.

[0068] First case element 510 is configured to engage and attach to image capture device 110 and includes an opening or window 514 that allows for the passage of lenses 141-143. In one aspect of the invention, first case element may be shaped to conform to the shape of image devcie 110 in a manner similar to conventional cases that are known in the art.

[0069] Second case element 530, which is configured to attach to first case element 510, includes printed circuit board (PCB) 535. PCB 535 includes a plurality of well-known electronic components (e.g., resistors, capacitors, switches, etc.) that control the operation of device 505. Further illustrated on second case element 520 is battery element 530. Battery element 530 provides electrical power to the electronic components included on PCB 535. In one aspect of the invention, PCB 535 includes switch 540, which controls the application of a voltage from battery 530 to lighting element 595.

[0070] Second case element 520, similar to first case element 510, includes a passthrough 521 that enable lens 141-143 to pass through.

[0071] Cover element 550, as illustrated, fits over or attaches to second element

520 forming a substantially completed unit 505, wherein the completed unit 505 may be removably attachable to image capture device 110. Alternatively, second element 520 and cover 550 may operate as a complete unit and be removably attachable to first case element 510 that may be removably attachable to image capture device 110.

[0072] Cover element 550 further includes a plurality of openings 541-543, that correspond in position to lens 141-143. Each of openings 541-543 includes a means for attaching a filtering system (similar to filter system 460 shown in FIG. 4) to align the filtering system with a corresponding one of lens 141-143.

[0073] In this illustrated embodiment, the means for attaching a filtering system comprises screw thread 541a-543a located along an inner circumference of each of corresponding ones of openings 541-543. Screw threads 541a-543a enable the attachment of a filtering system, which is represented as telescopic lens configuration 570, in a position aligned to a corresponding to one of lens 141-143. In this illustrated example, lens 570 is shown in a position attachable to opening 542 and, thus, aligned with lens 142.

[0074] Although a screw thread is illustrated, it would be recognized that the means for attaching a filtering system to a corresponding one of openings 541-543 may be a snap-fit connection, a bayonet connection, or other similar connection, without altering the scope of the invention claimed.

[0075] Cover element 550 further includes an external attachment tab 580 suitable for attaching lighting element 595. In this illustrated embodiment, attachment tab 580 comprises a "T" slot connector that may attach to an internal T-slot connect 582 positioned on a proximal end of lighting element 595. Although a "T"-slot connector is shown it would be recognized that lighting element 595 may be attachable to case 550 through one of snap-fit connection, a screw connection and other attachment connection that provide for the removable attachment of lighting element 595.

[0076] Further illustrated is connector 585 and cable 590 through which power to lighting source 595 is provided. Connector 585 may be one Universal Serial Bus (USB) or a mini-USB connector.

[0077] FIG. 6 illustrates an assembled view of the fourth exemplary embodiment of a fluorescent based image capturing system 500 shown in FIG. 5 showing the lens attachments 541-543 through which may be attached, through the illustrated screw threads 541a-543a, a filtering system.

[0077] FIG. 7 illustrates a prospective view of exemplary lighting component 595 that may be removably attachable to cover element 550 through attachment means 580.

[0078] In this illustrated aspect, lighting component 710, which is removably attached to case 505 at attachment tab 585, may comprise one or more lighting sources that are discussed in US 7,690,806, RE46463, US 10,247,384 or US 11,231.165.

[0079] In addition, although a single lighting component 710 is shown, it would be recognized that the lighting sources shown in US 11,231,165 may similarly be attachable to system 500. In one aspect of the invention, lighting source 710 may be configured to emit a light of a wavelength. Alternatively, lighting source 710 may emit light a plurality of light at different wavelengths. The plurality of light may be emitted separately or concurrently. The selected light to be emitted may be sufficient to cause generation of a fluorescent light by a target object illuminated by the emitted light. [0080] FIGs. 8A-8D illustrate prospective views of exemplary telescopic components associated with the fluorescent based image capturing system 500 disclosed herein.

[0081] FIG. 8A illustrates a telescopic (magnification) lens suitable for magnifying an image by 2.5 times (2.5X). FIG. 8B illustrates a telescopic lens suitable for magnifying an image by 3.5 times. FIG. 8C illustrates a telescopic lens suitable for magnifying an image by 4.5 times. FIG. 8D illustrates a telescopic lens suitable for magnifying an image by 6.0 times.

[0082] Each of the telescopic lens 810, 820, 830 and 840 may be removably attachable to one of openings 541-543 through corresponding screw threads 541a-543a. For example, telescopic lens 810 may be attached to system 500 through the mating of screw threads 541a and 841a shown on a proximal end of telescopic lens 810.

[0083] Although telescopic lens having four different magnification levels are shown, it would be recognized that other magnification levels may be removably attachable to openings 541-542 without altering the scope of the invention claimed. [0084] FIGs. 9A-9B illustrate prospective views of exemplary filtering components associated with the fluorescent based image capturing system 500 disclosed, herein.

[0085] In illustrated examples, filtering components 910, 920 may be removably attachable to each of telescopic lens 810-840, wherein filtering components 910, 920 may be selected based on the desired light wavelengths to be passed to corresponding one of lenses 141-143. For example, filter component 910 may represent a high pass filter that allows wavelengths greater than a known wavelength to pass substantially unattenuated while significantly attenuating wavelengths below the known wavelength. Filter component 920 may represent a bandpass filter that allows wavelengths within a known wavelength band about a known nominal wavelength value to pass while significantly attenuating wavelengths outside the known band.

[0086] Filtering components 910, 920 may be removably attachable to telescopic lens 810-840 through, in this illustrated case, screw thread 810a - 840a positioned on a distal end of telescopic lens 810-820. For example, filter 910 may be attached to telescopic lens 810 through the mating of screw threads 810a and 910a. Alternatively, filtering components 910, 920 may be directly attached to lens 141-143 through the attachment of screw thread 910a to screw thread 541a, for example.

[0087] FIGs. 10A-10C illustrate prospective views of exemplary working distance lens associated with the fluorescent based image capturing system 500 disclosed herein. [0088] Working distance lens 1010-1030 provide for a focusing of the image capture device 110 to a known distance. Working distance lens 1010-1030 provide for a parallel input of light into lens 141-143 at known distances. For example, lens 1010 may cause the light of images of a target object at 6 inches to be in focus. Similarly, lens 1020 may cause the images of target objects positioned at 18 inches from lens 1020 to be in focus. Lens 1030 may cause images of target objects positioned at 22 inches from lens 1030 to be in focus.

[0089] Working distance lens 1010-1030 may be removably attachable (or positionable) to one of telescopic lens 810-840 through, in this illustrated case, screw thread 810a - 840a positioned on a distal end of telescopic lens 810-820 or one of filter components 910, 920 through screw threads 910b, 920b positioned on a distal end of filter components 910, 920. For example, working distance lens 1010 may be removably attachable to filter 910 through the mating of screw threads 910b and 1010a and filter 910 may be removably attachable to telescopic lens 810 through the mating of screw threads 810b and 910a. Alternatively, working distance lens 1010 may be removably attachable to telescopic lens 830 through the mating of screw threads 830a and 1010a. [0090] FIG. 11 illustrates a view of the rear surface of the fourth exemplary embodiment of an image capture system 500 shown in FIGs. 5 and 6, showing openings 541-543 that allow for the alignment of the components shown in FIGs. 8A-10C with lenses 141-143 (not shown).

[0091] FIGs. 11A-11F illustrate exemplary configurations associated with the exemplary embodiments of components shown in FIGs. 8A-10C.

[0092] For example, FIG. 11A illustrates a configuration comprising telescopic lens 830, filter 910 and working distance lens 1020. FIG. 11B illustrates a configuration, comprising filter 920 and working distance lens 1030. FIG. 11C illustrates a configuration wherein only filter 920 is utilized.

[0093] Further illustrated in FIGs. 11A-11C is adaptor 1110. Adaptor 1110 provides for a standard interface to lens 141 and 142 through the mating of screw threads 541a and 1110a, for example. The use of adaptor 1110 is advantageous as it provides for attaching different telescopic/filter/working lens to system 500, while preventing damage to the screw threads 541a-543a. [0094] FIGs. 11D-11F, similar to FIGs. 11A-11C, illustrate different telescopic/filter/working distance lens configurations suitable for attachment to opening

543, which is associated with ultra-wide-angle lens 143.

[0095] in this illustrated example, adaptor 1140 provides a standard interface between the illustrated telescopic/filter/working distance lens as discussed with regard to FIGs. 11A-11C. Adaptor 1140 further compensates for the wide-angle field of view of ultra-wide lens 143.

[0096] FIG. 12A illustrates a side view of the assembled fluorescent-based image capture system 500 shown in FIGs. 5 and 6 comprising image capture device 110, case 505, lighting element 710 and lens system comprising a 2.5X magnification device (810), a high pass filter (910) and a working distance lens of 18 inches (1020). In this specific configuration, system 500 provides for a 2.5X magnification of images of target objects positioned 18 inches from lens 1020.

[0097] FIG. 12B illustrates the rear surface of the assembled fluorescent-based image capture system 500 shown in FIGs. 5 and 6 showing the electrical connection of between output port 585 and lighting source 710 through cable 590. In this illustrated example, a USB connector is shown.

[0098] FIGs. 13A-13C illustrate side views of exemplary lighting source positioning 710 with respect to the working distance lens 1010 (FIG. 13A), 1020 (FIG. 13B) and 1030 (FIG.13C) to focus light emitted by lighting source 710 to a target object a known distance from the working distance lens.

[0099] Although the system disclosed makes reference to telescopic or magnification devices that magnify the images being viewed, it would be understood that the invention disclosed, herein, may not include a telescopic lens (see FIG. 11C). However, the use of telescopic lens (e.g. 810) is advantageous as it provides for an image of greater resolution of the captured image than the image obtained using the telescopic lens of the image capture device 110. That is, the digital telescopic feature of the image capture device 110 spreads the screen electronically and, thus, enlarges the area of each pixel. With the increased size of pixels, the fixed number of photo-sensitive elements of the image capture device 110 capture information from a lesser number of pixels. For example, with a 250 mega-pixel photo-sensitive element and a magnification of 2x, then only 125 mega-pixels are used to capture the image since the pixel size has been essentially doubled by the 2x magnification.

[0100] However, with the attachment of a magnification device (e.g., 810) the image captured is magnified optically (i.e., angular magnification) and spread apart by the magnification of the telescopic lens. Thus, the size of each the pixels is essentially the same and the entire 250 mega-pixel photo-sensitive element captures the images provided by the telescopic lens.

[0101] In summary, a fluorescent based image capture device has been discussed that is suitable for converting a conventional image capture device into a system suitable for enabling users to capture images that assist in the diagnosis of patient's conditions through FET technology, wherein the filter and system may be adapted to the specific field of FET technology utilized by the practitioner. The fluorescent based image capture device may be fixed or removably attachable to the image capture device.

[0102] Although specific configurations of a fluorescent based image capture system have been discussed, it would be understood that other combinations of emitted light and filtered response may be incorporated into the disclosed system and the examples provided, herein. The disclosed embodiments are not the only configuration considered and contemplated by the inventors.

[0103] Although the invention disclosed herein discusses specific wavelengths that are produced with currently available LEDs (i.e., non-lasing light emitting diodes and laser diodes), it would be recognized that the specific wavelengths absorbed and/or reflected may be changed and/or added to without altering the scope of the invention. In addition, it would be known in the art that the specific wavelengths discussed, herein, represent a band of wavelengths centered on the wavelength values presented herein to account for divergence of the wavelength generated by the LED during the generation of the light and/or the operation of the LED, wherein the light generated is represented as a nominal value. [0104] The invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments.

One of ordinary skill in the art, however, appreciates that various modifications and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as set forth in the claims. Accordingly, the specification is to be regarded in an illustrative manner, rather than with a restrictive view, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the invention.

[0105] Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described above with regard to specific embodiments. The benefits, advantages, and solutions to problems, and any element(s) that may cause any benefits, advantages, or solutions to occur or become more pronounced, are not to be construed as a critical, required, or an essential feature or element of any or all of the claims.