Israeli medical device company Medigus Ltd. (TASE:MDGS), which develops and markets micro-cameras and minimally invasive endosurgical tools, has announced that the US National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has incorporated Medigus’ micro ScoutCam 1.2 into its Visual Inspection Poseable Invertebrate Robot (VIPIR) tool.
Micro ScoutCam 1.2 is the world's smallest camera, used for both medical and industrial applications, including gastroenterology, cardiology, urology, gynecology, dentistry, robotics, remote non-destructive testing (NDT) and micro-drilling inspection. Key features of the micro ScoutCam 1.2’s include its miniature size, high image quality, customizable optics, waterproof materials, and adaptability in extreme temperatures.
VIPIR is a robotic, maneuverable, borescope inspection tool that is being tested as part of the Robotic Refueling Mission, an experiment on the International Space Station that has been demonstrating tools, technologies, and techniques for on-orbit satellite servicing since 2011. Micro ScoutCam 1.2 is being utilized as the borescope camera on VIPIR, a tool designed to provide unique visual inspection capabilities in space. The use of micro ScoutCam 1.2 fits under the previously established contract with NASA.
“Our partnership with NASA is a powerful testament to the technological versatility of micro ScoutCam 1.2,” said Medigus CEO Chris Rowland.
VIPIR, incorporating the unique micro ScoutCam 1.2, launched to the International Space Station at the end of July, as part of second phase of NASA’s Robotic Refueling Mission. Phase 1 of the investigation was successfully completed in May 2013.
“NASA is steadily maturing a set of robotic technologies that could help prolong the lives of satellites on orbit, thereby providing new capabilities for the Agency,” said NASA’s Satellite Servicing Capabilities Office deputy project manager Benjamin Reed. “Medigus’ micro ScoutCam 1.2 met the requirements for VIPIR’s borescope camera, and will demonstrate inspection capabilities once Robotic Refueling Mission operations begin.”
Published by Globes [online], Israel business news - www.globes-online.com - on August 13, 2014
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