Patent attributes
An inspection apparatus adapted for use in motor vehicle maintenance and repair is disclosed. A sensor, such as a video camera, is coupled by an elongated, flexible shaft to a self-contained, handheld power source. A source of illumination is mounted near the sensor and directs light onto an object that is viewed by the sensor. Input power to the sensor and the illumination source, and an output signal from the sensor, are coupled through the shaft, which will maintain any desired flexed position. Optionally, one or more microphones are mounted near the sensor to receive sounds produced by the object. Connectors extend from a housing of the power source so that the sensor output signal and an output from the microphones may be coupled to an external device. A removable clamp may be affixed to the apparatus so that the apparatus can be temporarily attached to a motor vehicle. As a result, a technician may easily visualize parts of the motor vehicle safely, clearly, and without disassembling the parts.
