Spiral scanning photoacoustic-ultrasound endoscope

Abstract

The utility model relates to a kind of photoacoustic-ultrasonic endoscope device that can carry out three-dimensional spiral scanning, and provide a kind of spiral scanning photoacoustic-ultrasonic endoscope, it includes probe and drive unit, the drive unit provides rotating power and back pull translation movement to the probe, wherein the probe includes: catheter tube body, its inside is hollow state, extend towards a direction, one end is shielded, and the other end is open;Fastening nut, it is fastened in the other end of the catheter tube body, and it has through-hole relative to the inside of the catheter tube body;Back pull shaft, it extends to the inside of the catheter tube body by the through-hole of the fastening nut, and its inside is hollow;And shaft seal, it is between the fastening nut and the back pull shaft, and with the center axis of the through-hole of the fastening nut as center, it surrounds back pull shaft a week.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to a medical tomographic endoscope device, which is implemented in the form of a slender probe similar to the ultrasound endoscope currently used in clinical practice, and can provide tomographic images of the surrounding area by being inserted into the body being examined. Background Technology

[0002] This utility model relates to a so-called integrated photoacoustic and ultrasonic endoscopy (PAE-EUS) technology, which can provide photoacoustic imaging information while maintaining the functions of existing endoscopic ultrasound. Utility Model Content

[0003] Technical issues

[0004] In photoacoustic-ultrasonic endoscopes for gastrointestinal endoscopes implemented according to existing technology, 1) the probe contains a rotating body consisting of a torque coil for mechanical scanning, a sensor, and an optical system. This rotating body can only perform simple two-dimensional rotational movements to seal and match the fluid, based on two key components that must be present inside the probe: the catheter body (i.e., the outer shell) and the radial shaft seal. Therefore, it is limited to providing only two-dimensional tomographic images. Furthermore, 2) the separation and reassembly process between the probe and its drive unit is not easy. Therefore, when the user replaces the probe, there are considerable time-consuming issues in completing the complex optical alignment and connecting the electrical paths that allow electrical signals to pass through. In particular, when performing the optical alignment process in endoscopes based on single-mode fiber optics, even longer optical alignment times are required.

[0005] Technical solution In this invention, an embodiment has been obtained in which accurate "optical alignment" and "electrical channel connection" can be achieved instantly when the probe is connected to the drive unit via a standard 2.5 mm diameter ceramic ferrule, typically used for fixing and terminating the end of an optical fiber, and a matching FC / PC connector and associated dedicated adapter. These two elements are the most critical elements for the satisfactory implementation of this technology.

[0006] Furthermore, by placing the radial shaft seal and the pull-back shaft of a predetermined length on the probe side rather than the drive unit side, three-dimensional helical scanning can be achieved simultaneously with the rotational and pull-back translational movements of the torque coil and scanning tip rotating inside the probe, and the fluid filling it is completely leak-free. Moreover, this configuration yields the concept of a dedicated photoacoustic-ultrasonic endoscope probe in which the probe and drive unit are easily separated and secured, and a dedicated drive unit capable of driving it. The dedicated drive unit may include a rotary opto-electro-coupler and a mechanical module. The rotary opto-electro-coupler can transmit the electrical pulses required for ultrasound imaging and the laser beam required for photoacoustic imaging, and can transmit the photoacoustic-ultrasonic electrical signals generated with the emission of these electrical pulses and laser beams and detected by the ultrasonic transducer to the base side. The mechanical module provides the rotational and pull-back power required to achieve the aforementioned three-dimensional helical scanning within the connector.

[0007] Since each of these contents contains novel and progressive concepts that have not been demonstrated in prior art, they are described in a specification in order to more easily explain the effects that their combined use can provide.

[0008] According to one aspect of this utility model, a spiral scanning photoacoustic-ultrasound endoscope is provided, comprising a probe and a drive unit that provides rotational power and retractable translational motion to the probe. The probe comprises: a hollow catheter body extending in one direction, with one end shielded and the other end open; a fastening nut fastened to the other end of the catheter body and having a through hole relative to the interior of the catheter body; a retractable shaft extending through the through hole of the fastening nut into the interior of the catheter body, and having a hollow interior; and a shaft seal located between the fastening nut and the retractable shaft, and revolving around the retractable shaft with the central axis of the through hole of the fastening nut as its center.

[0009] The drive unit may have a linear stage and a rotary transformer that are mechanically connected to the pull-back shaft.

[0010] The shaft seal can shield the inside and outside of the conduit body.

[0011] The device may further include: a probe-side optical fiber that passes through the interior of the pull-back shaft and extends in the direction of one end of the catheter body; a torque coil that surrounds the probe-side optical fiber and extends through the interior of the pull-back shaft in the direction of one end of the catheter body; and a scanning tip connected to a portion of the torque coil in the direction of one end of the catheter body. The pull-back shaft, the probe-side optical fiber, the torque coil, and the scanning tip are all movable relative to the catheter body, the fastening nut, and the shaft seal in both the direction of extension of the catheter body and in the opposite direction. It may also further include a matching fluid that fills the interior of the catheter body.

[0012] It may further include a connector that is connected to the tail end of the pull-back shaft in a direction opposite to that of one end of the conduit body.

[0013] The connector may be positioned in a direction opposite to that of one end of the conduit body, based on the shaft seal.

[0014] The device may further include a miniature coaxial cable electrically connected to the scanning tip and extending through the interior of the torque coil to the connector, wherein the connector may include: a collar having a central hole through which the probe-side optical fiber can pass; a connector housing surrounding at least a portion of the collar and being conductive; a connector nut physically contacting the connector housing and being conductive; and a connector insulating member interposed between the collar and the connector housing to electrically insulate the collar from the connector housing, wherein the core of the miniature coaxial cable is electrically connected to the collar, and the shield of the miniature coaxial cable is electrically connected to the connector housing. The drive unit may have an adapter, which may include: an open-fit sleeve into which a portion of the collar is inserted; an adapter frame surrounding at least a portion of the collar and being conductive; and an adapter insulating member interposed between the open-fit sleeve and the adapter frame to electrically insulate the open-fit sleeve from the adapter frame.

[0015] Other aspects, features, and advantages beyond those described above will become apparent from the following specific details, claims, and drawings used to practice this invention.

[0016] Beneficial effects When a photoacoustic-ultrasound endoscope, based on a standard FC / PC or FC / APC connector using optical fiber, is implemented according to this invention, in which the probe and drive unit can be combined, it has a very lightweight and compact size. Even when using a single-mode optical fiber, highly stable and precise optical coupling can be quickly achieved at the optical coupling point. Therefore, related surgical procedures can be performed more conveniently and smoothly in the future, and the resulting three-dimensional images become more accurate and reliable. Furthermore, since the production cost of the connector part is very low when manufactured using the proposed method, and only this part can be replaced when the probe is damaged, patients requiring related examinations can obtain the benefits of this technology at a lower cost. The probe connector part is also made very small and lightweight, thus significantly reducing the possibility of it breaking due to drop during surgery.

[0017] The concept proposed in this utility model is mainly aimed at endoscopes used for diagnosing digestive tract diseases, but it can also be applied to the endoscopic areas of multiple fields, such as diagnosing cardiovascular diseases.

[0018] The scope of this invention is not limited by these effects. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the overall structure and operating principle of a spiral scanning photoacoustic-ultrasonic endoscope according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 2a and Figure 2b To show Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the internal state of the drive unit included in a spiral scanning photoacoustic-ultrasound endoscope before and after the pull-back motion.

[0021] Figure 3a and Figure 3b To demonstrate the actual implementation Figure 1 A perspective view of the probes included in a spiral scanning photoacoustic-ultrasound endoscope.

[0022] Figure 4a This is a perspective view to illustrate fiber optic components that can be used in the field of optical communication.

[0023] Figures 4b to 4g To show Figure 1 A schematic diagram illustrating the optical coupling and electrical path formation principle between the probe and drive unit in a spiral scanning photoacoustic-ultrasound endoscope.

[0024] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a method for achieving efficient optical coupling in a helical scanning photoacoustic-ultrasonic endoscope according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 6a and Figure 6b This is a schematic diagram illustrating a method for implementing a light input unit in a spiral scanning photoacoustic-ultrasonic endoscope according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the possibility of changing the position of the rotary transformer in a spiral scanning photoacoustic-ultrasonic endoscope according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Best mode This invention can be modified in various ways and has various embodiments, and specific embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings and described in detail in the detailed description. The effects, features, and methods of implementing this invention will become more apparent from the embodiments described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, this invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below and can be implemented in various forms.

[0028] In the following description, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. When describing with reference to the accompanying drawings, the same or corresponding parts are referred to by the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0029] In the following embodiments, the terms first, second, etc. are not used in a limiting sense, but are used to distinguish one component from another.

[0030] In the following embodiments, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, singular expressions include plural expressions.

[0031] In the following embodiments, terms such as including or having, etc., mean the presence of the features or components described in the specification, but do not preclude the possibility of adding one or more other features or components.

[0032] In the following embodiments, when a component is referred to as being “connected” to another component, this includes not only the case of being directly connected to the other component, but also the case of being indirectly connected through the other component.

[0033] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the overall structure and operating principle of a spiral scanning photoacoustic-ultrasonic endoscope according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Reference Figure 1According to one embodiment, a spiral scanning photoacoustic-ultrasound endoscope mainly consists of a probe 200 inserted into the subject for photoacoustic-ultrasound imaging and a drive unit 100. The drive unit 100 provides the probe 200 with the laser pulses and electrical pulses required for photoacoustic and ultrasonic imaging, and provides rotational power and pull-back translational motion to the probe 200. When performing photoacoustic-ultrasound imaging using the endoscope device according to this invention, the FC / PC connector 212 and the fastening nut 230 of the probe 200 must be sequentially tightened and fixed to the FC / PC adapter 117 inside the drive unit 100 and the fastening screw 101-1 located in the drive unit housing 101. The drive unit housing 101 houses a through-type shaft 115, a drive gear 112, a base frame 120, and a linear stage 140, as described later.

[0035] The overall operating principle is described by taking the state of the two parts being fastened in the above manner as a premise, and the function of each component is also described at the same time.

[0036] Typically, in this field, fusion photoacoustic-ultrasound endoscopes emit a predetermined number of ultrasonic and laser pulses alternately and very rapidly during the rotation of the scanning tip. Immediately after each pulse is emitted, a one-dimensional response signal (ultrasound or photoacoustic response signal) propagating from the subject, known as the "A-line," is detected, and all response signals are collected separately to form a two-dimensional ultrasound and photoacoustic image.

[0037] First, the process of obtaining a single A-line "ultrasonic signal" is described. A high-voltage electrical pulse with a very short duration, generated by an ultrasonic pulse generator / receiver (not shown) provided separately with this invention, flows into one side coil section of the rotary transformer 113, namely the second coil section 113-2. It then moves to the other side coil section of the rotary transformer 113, namely the first coil section 113-1, through a momentary electromagnetic induction phenomenon. Subsequently, it flows along the inner-shaft conductor 118 directly connected to the first coil section 113-1, through the electrical coupling path between the FC / PC adapter 117 and the FC / PC connector 212 (described later), and thus into the transducer 223 along the pull-back shaft 213 and the torque coil 214 on the probe 200 side via a miniature coaxial cable 215. The coaxial cable 215 includes a coaxial core 215-1 (see reference...). Figure 4b and Figure 4c ) and shielding part 215-2 (refer to Figure 4b and Figure 4c ), and for convenience, in Figure 1The diagram shows two wires. The inner conductor 118 is also shown as two wires, and it can also have a coaxial cable shape including a coaxial core and a shield. The transducer 223, which receives electrical pulses, converts the pulses into ultrasonic waves based on piezoelectric effects and transmits them to the subject. A portion of the ultrasonic waves reflected from the tissue of the subject is detected by the transducer 223 and flows into an ultrasonic pulse generator / receiver (not shown) through a process in reverse order, and is finally recorded by a data acquisition device independent of this invention.

[0038] In contrast to the above, and referring to the same accompanying drawing, when describing the process of obtaining a single A-line "photoacoustic signal," a light pulse with a very short duration generated by a pulse-type light source (not shown) with a nanosecond level, which is separately provided with this invention, is transmitted to the drive unit 100 via a separately provided optical fiber (not shown), and emitted through its internal light input device 102 toward the drive-side optical fiber 111 located in a through-shaft 115 extending in one direction. This causes the FC / PC adapter frame 117-1 to move along the central axis of the through-shaft 115 extending in one direction to the precisely fixed FC / PC adapter 117. Specifically, the adapter 117 is mechanically (directly or indirectly) connected to the tail end of the through-shaft 115 facing the probe 200 and has a through hole corresponding to the interior of the through-shaft 115. The light pulse then travels along the probe-side optical fiber 211, distributed from the entrance portion of the FC / PC connector 212 to the scanning tip 220, via a highly aligned optical path provided by the FC / PC adapter 117, and is finally emitted through the lens unit 221. The size of the emitted beam can be appropriately set by the lens unit 221, and it is reflected by the light reflector 222 and transmitted to the tissue under examination, thereby generating a photoacoustic wave. A portion of the photoacoustic wave generated in the tissue under examination propagates towards the transducer 223, and upon detection by the transducer 223, is converted into an electrical signal. This electrical signal also flows along the same path as the "detected ultrasonic signal" described above to the ultrasonic pulse generator / receiver (not shown), and is ultimately recorded by a data acquisition device independent of this invention.

[0039] The ultrasonic pulse generator / receiver (not shown) described above is a component that is obviously used in the relevant field and is therefore not included in the drawings of this utility model. Its location may include within the drive unit 100 or be disposed outside it as a separate component.

[0040] The process of obtaining ultrasonic and photoacoustic A-line signals was described above, and the mechanical operation principle will be described from now on.

[0041] The probe 200 may have a conduit body 250, a fastening nut 230, a pull-back shaft 213, and a shaft seal 240.

[0042] The interior of the catheter body 250 is hollow and extends in one direction (for convenience, in...). Figure 1 The middle refers to the left and right directions), and it has one end (for example, Figure 1 The right tail end (exemplarily shown in the image) is shielded, and the other end (e.g., Figure 1 The left end (exemplarily shown in the diagram) is an open structure. The conduit body 250 may be flexible. A fastening nut 230 is fastened to the other end of the conduit body 250 and has a through hole corresponding to the interior of the conduit body 250.

[0043] The pull-back shaft 213 extends into the interior of the catheter body 250 through a through-hole in the fastening nut 230 and has a through-hole extending along its central axis, thus having an overall hollow cylindrical shape. Therefore, the probe-side optical fiber 211 can extend through the interior of the pull-back shaft 213 toward one end of the catheter body. The torque coil 214 surrounding the probe-side optical fiber 211 can also extend through the interior of the pull-back shaft 213 toward one end of the catheter body 250. The scanning tip 220 can be connected to the portion of the probe-side optical fiber 211 and the torque coil 214 in the direction toward one end of the catheter body 250. For reference, in Figure 1 In the diagram, a portion of the torque coil 214 (in the direction of one end of the catheter body 250) is shown in cross-section, and the probe-side optical fiber 211 and coaxial cable 215, etc., surrounded by the torque coil 214 are schematically shown.

[0044] The shaft seal 240 is located between the fastening nut 230 and the pull-back shaft 213, and can surround the pull-back shaft 213 once with the central axis of the through hole of the fastening nut 230 as the center.

[0045] Each component of the probe 200 will be described in detail later. The probe 200 may also have other additional components.

[0046] With the probe 200 secured to the drive unit 100 as described above, the rotational power generated by the motor 130 is transmitted to the drive gear 112 via the pinion 131. This power is then transferred via the FC / PC adapter 117 to the through-type shaft 115, the FC / PC adapter seat 116 (directly / indirectly connected to the drive gear), and the FC / PC connector 212 (connected to the tail end of the pull-back shaft 213 in the opposite direction to one end of the catheter body 250). The power is then transmitted to the scanning tip 220 via the pull-back shaft 213 and torque coil 214 (connected to the FC / PC connector 2122). As a result, the above components are arranged according to... Figure 1 The arrows indicating the rotational motion rotate simultaneously, and during each rotation, a predetermined number of photoacoustic and ultrasonic A-line signals are obtained. These signals instantly form a tomographic image and are displayed on the screen (not shown).

[0047] A ball bearing module 114, consisting of multiple rows of ball bearings and simultaneously mounted on the base frame 120, provides the mechanical conditions for the through-type shaft 115 to rotate stably without wobbling during rotary scanning. The through-type shaft 115 engages with the inner wheel of the ball bearing module 114 and rotates smoothly therewith. In other words, the base frame 120 can be connected to the through-type shaft 115 via the ball bearing module 114, allowing the through-type shaft 115 to rotate. A first coil section 113-1 of a rotary transformer 113, configured as a pair of two sets of coil sections, is physically connected to the through-type shaft 115 and can rotate together with it. The second coil section 113-2 is connected to the base frame 120 and does not rotate. The first coil section 113-1, which can rotate with the through-type shaft 115, the inner shaft conductor 118 electrically connected to it, and the drive-side optical fiber 111, which is a separate element within the through-type shaft 115, can also rotate together during rotation. For reference, in the figures, for convenience, the inner conductor 118 is illustrated as two wires, and the inner conductor 118 may have, for example, a coaxial cable shape. One of the two wires may be electrically connected to one end of the coil of the first coil section 113-1, and the other of the two wires may be electrically connected to the other end of the coil of the first coil section 113-1. When the inner conductor 118 has a coaxial cable shape, either the coaxial core or the shield may be electrically connected to one end of the coil of the first coil section 113-1, and the other may be electrically connected to the other end of the coil of the first coil section 113-1.

[0048] Similarly, the pull-back shaft 213 connected to the FC / PC connector 212, the miniature coaxial cable 215 disposed in the torque coil 214, the probe-side optical fiber 211, and the epoxy resin filling part 216 filling the inside of the pull-back shaft 213 will also rotate together.

[0049] According to this utility model, when two components are connected to each other by using FC / PC connector 212 and FC / PC adapter 117, each component has a key and keyway inside, so that power can be transmitted without problems such as slippage between the two components during rotation.

[0050] According to this invention, when performing photoacoustic-ultrasound imaging, in addition to the aforementioned rotational scanning, a pullback motion can be added to the rotational scanning to achieve the acquisition of a three-dimensional image. The motorized linear stage 140 is a component for the above purpose. According to this invention, the upper end of the motorized linear stage 140 is connected to the base frame 120, thus allowing the scanning tip 220 within the probe 200 to rotate at a constant speed while simultaneously retracting at a constant speed (i.e., moving to the left along the arrow representing linear motion in the figure). In this case, the pullback force can be transmitted through the through-type shaft 115 and the FC / PC adapter 117 to the FC / PC connector 212, pullback shaft 213, torque coil 214, and scanning tip 220 fixed thereto. As a result, the scanning tip 220 can form a helical motion within the catheter body 250 to obtain a three-dimensional image. In other words, the through-shaft 115 can move relative to the drive unit housing 101 in the direction in which the through-shaft 115 extends or in the opposite direction via the linear stage 140, along with the drive-side fiber optic 111, drive gear 112, and base frame 120. Similarly, the pull-back shaft 213, probe-side fiber optic 211, torque coil 214, and scanning tip 220 are mechanically connected to the FC / PC adapter 117, allowing them to move relative to the catheter body 250, fastening nut 230, and shaft seal 240 by pull-back force in the direction in which the catheter body 250 extends or in the opposite direction. The FC / PC connector 212, located on the shaft seal 240 in a direction opposite to one end of the catheter body 250, also moves along with the pull-back shaft 213, probe-side fiber optic 211, torque coil 214, and scanning tip 220. This is because the FC / PC connector 212 is mechanically connected to the pull-back shaft 213.

[0051] On Figure 1 This invention only includes the core concepts derived from this invention. Commonly used pulse generators / receivers and other devices in this field can also be additionally included in the drive unit 100, and additional controllers and drive devices can be added as needed to control it. Detailed Implementation

[0052] Figure 2a and Figure 2b To show Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the internal structure of the drive unit included in a spiral scanning photoacoustic-ultrasound endoscope before and after the pull-back motion, wherein... Figure 2a This is a schematic diagram illustrating the internal state of the drive unit 100 before the pull-back motion is performed according to the method described above. Figure 2b This is a schematic diagram showing the internal state of the drive unit 100 after the pull-back motion is performed according to the above method. Figure 1 The names and functions of the components involved have already been described, therefore further descriptions are omitted. Figure 2b As shown, as the pull-back is completed, the base frame 120 attached to the upper end of the motorized linear stage 140 and the components fastened thereto all move to the left based on the drive unit housing 101 shown in the figure. As shown in Figure 2, the optical input device 102, which can be implemented as being connected to the base frame 120, is preferably implemented to move together with the base frame 120 during the pull-back movement, but does not rotate together with the drive gear 112 and the drive-side optical fiber 111.

[0053] After attaching the entire probe of a photoacoustic-ultrasound endoscope to a motorized linear stage (which can be provided separately with the device), a three-dimensional image can be obtained by retracting the entire probe at a constant speed. However, in this case, the catheter may rub against the tissue being examined, causing physical distortion of the tissue's shape. Furthermore, when scanning sensitive objects such as cancerous tissue, this could lead to serious problems such as inducing damage to the cancerous tissue and causing cancer cells to spread to other sites. Additionally, because this device typically uses the narrow, curved tool channels of video endoscopes or electronic endoscopes commonly used in the field of gastrointestinal endoscopy, the physical resistance and friction generated between the probe's outer sheath (the catheter body) and the video endoscope tool channel during related procedures makes it difficult to retract the probe at a constant speed. As a result, this results in the inability to obtain accurate three-dimensional images.

[0054] However, in the case of the photoacoustic-ultrasonic endoscope according to the present invention, since the position of the catheter body 250 is fixed, and the FC / PC connector 212, pull-back shaft 213, torque coil 214 and scanning tip 220 perform pull-back motion in the catheter body 250, that is, when the catheter body 250 is stationary relative to the tissue being examined, only the internal components such as the torque coil 214 and the sensor perform rotational motion and helical motion based on the sliding of the radial shaft seal to obtain the desired three-dimensional image. Therefore, the physical deformation of the tissue being examined can be minimized to minimize damage to the tissue being examined, and at the same time, accurate three-dimensional images can be obtained.

[0055] Another approach is to slightly modify the existing probe's catheter body to open a certain space at the end of the catheter, and then additionally attach another tube, one end of which is blocked, to this open space in a so-called covering manner, thereby performing three-dimensional scanning. However, in this case, the fluid used for acoustic matching filled inside the catheter may not be stably sealed, leading to leakage of the matching fluid during the actual procedure, hindering the acquisition of a stable signal, and resulting in the very unfavorable problem of prolonged procedure time. However, in the case of the photoacoustic-ultrasound endoscope according to this invention, as will be discussed later... Figure 3a and Figure 3b This problem can be effectively prevented by utilizing the radial shaft seal 240.

[0056] In this regard, reference will be made to Figure 3a and Figure 3b Please describe in detail. Figure 3a and Figure 3b To show the actual implementation respectively Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the probe 200 included in a spiral scanning photoacoustic-ultrasound endoscope, and the probe's position before and after retraction. Detailed descriptions of the name and function of each component will be omitted, and it should be understood that the numerical symbols indicated in the two figures are not identical. Figure 1 The components with the same numbers shown in the image correspond to each other.

[0057] If the probe 200 is fastened to the drive unit 100 and used in actual related procedures, it is initially located in Figure 3a The components at the indicated positions were moved to their respective locations after rotation and pullback scan. Figure 3b The location shown. Figure 3b The two enlarged views shown together illustrate the condition of the fastening nut 230 and the scanning tip 220, respectively. A radial shaft seal 240, positioned on the central axis of the fastening nut 230, prevents leakage of the matching fluid 260 filled inside the conduit body 250 during the rotation and pull-back movements of the pull-back shaft 213, torque coil 214, and scanning tip 220. In other words, the shaft seal 240 serves to shield the interior of the conduit body 250 from the exterior.

[0058] Referring to one embodiment shown in Figures 2 and 3, it can be seen that the stroke of the motorized linear stage 140 and the length (L) of the pull-back shaft 213 determine the pull-back distance of the relevant probe, and this pull-back distance can be appropriately set and implemented according to the desired application.

[0059] The endoscopic procedures of the same type pursued by this invention are usually completed within 10 minutes, but this shows that the efficient and high-precision optical coupling process required for photoacoustic imaging must be achieved in a shorter time. However, considering these combined requirements, it can be seen how challenging it is to realize a helical scanning photoacoustic-ultrasonic endoscope with replaceable drive units and probes.

[0060] According to this invention, when the spiral scanning photoacoustic-ultrasonic endoscope device is implemented based on the FC / PC connector 212 and the pull-back shaft 213 connected thereto, the FC / PC connector 212 can be easily placed into or pulled out of the fastening nut 230 when the probe 200 is fastened to the drive unit 100, thus providing convenience and speed in the installation process, and as a result, ensuring more time is available for the procedure.

[0061] Furthermore, when the photoacoustic-ultrasonic endoscope capable of spiral scanning and whose probe and drive unit can be connected and separated is realized according to the present invention, the connecting part of the probe can be made lighter and more compact than that in the previous document 4, so that even if it falls during the operation, the probability of damage can be greatly reduced, and the probe replacement time is also shortened, so that the related operation can be performed more smoothly, and it is also expected that the unit cost of probe production can be greatly reduced.

[0062] Figure 4a The perspective view is provided to schematically illustrate fiber optic components that can be used in the field of optical communication, showing how a fast electrical and optical connection path is ensured between the probe 200 and the drive unit 100.

[0063] Consider using, for example Figure 4a The first and second rows show various types of FC / PC adapters, as well as ceramic ferrules and related connectors that can be easily applied when properly securing and terminating the fiber at its end. For example... Figure 4a The FC / PC connector shown in the fourth row is capable of being fastened to, for example... Figure 4a The first and second rows show examples of relevant components of the FC / PC adapter, including at the end such as Figure 4a The third row shows a precision-machined ceramic ferrule, thus ensuring that the optical fiber mounted on it is precisely positioned at the center of the ferrule. In other words, the ceramic ferrule ( Figure 4c 212-1) has a central hole, which allows the probe-side optical fiber 211 to pass through the central hole.

[0064] These fiber optic ferrules, through the use of, such as Figure 4a The first line, showing the "FC / PC to FC / PC Adapter," provides great convenience when connecting two different fiber optic cables terminated by an FC / PC connector. This is because, once a portion of the precision-machined ferrule is passed through the FC / PC adapter, such as... Figure 4a The last row shows that when the open-fit sleeves are inserted, they fit together very tightly immediately. The open-fit sleeves, which play a key role in this alignment process, are made of bronze or ceramic and have a saw-like shape on one side. When the two different rings are inserted into the sleeve facing each other, the sleeve itself forms a tight physical contact with the two rings due to its elastic force, and the central axes of the two rings are aligned very well.

[0065] Figures 4b to 4g To show Figure 1A schematic diagram illustrating the optical coupling and electrical path formation principle between the probe and drive unit in a spiral scanning photoacoustic-ultrasound endoscope.

[0066] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a photoacoustic-ultrasonic endoscope may include an FC / PC to an FC / PC adapter (such as an opening-fitting sleeve) containing the aforementioned opening-fitting sleeve. Figure 4a The first row shows the adapter, the ceramic ferrule, and the FC / PC connector including the ceramic ferrule. Figure 4b and Figure 4c The figures illustrate a method for forming based on the above-described elements according to an embodiment. Figure 1 This diagram illustrates the optical coupling and electrical path coupling method between the probe 200 and the drive unit 100.

[0067] First, regarding the connection principle of the optical path, such as Figure 4b As shown, Figure 1 The drive-side fiber 111 described herein is inserted into the through-hole of the FC / PC adapter 117, and, as it passes through the center hole of the drive-side ceramic ferrule 111-1 with a central hole, the probe-side fiber 211 of the ceramic ferrule 212-1 of the FC / PC connector 212 included in the probe 200 can be coupled and aligned very precisely in the FC / PC adapter 117. In other words, by simply inserting and securing the FC / PC connector 212 to the FC / PC adapter 117, a portion of the drive-side ferrule 111-1 and a portion of the ceramic ferrule 212-1 of the probe 200 can also be inserted into the open-fit sleeve 117-2 (see reference 117-2). Figure 4c In this process, the probe-side fiber 211 is optically aligned very precisely with the drive-side fiber 111 in the center hole of the drive-side ceramic ferrule 111-1. In fact, this method is typically used for connecting two single-mode fibers, and only through... Figure 4b The method shown is very simple and can achieve a high level of optical coupling. In this figure, the part represented by the reference numeral "212-3" refers to the nut portion of the FC / PC connector 212, which is only visible when the FC / PC connector 212 is fastened to the FC / PC adapter 117.

[0068] For methods of forming electrical paths using FC / PC connectors and adapters, such as Figure 4c As shown, this can be achieved by slightly modifying or processing conventional FC / PC connectors and adapters, as well as ceramic ferrules, from their existing state. Figure 4c It can be understood as Figure 4bA cross-sectional view taken along its central axis shows that the FC / PC adapter 117 may include an open-fit sleeve 117-2, which is conductive and in which a portion of the drive-side collar 111-1 is inserted; an adapter frame 117-1, which is conductive and surrounds at least a portion of the drive-side collar 111-1; and an adapter insulation member 117-3, which is located between the open-fit sleeve 117-2 and the adapter frame 117-1 to electrically insulate the open-fit sleeve 117-2 from the adapter frame 117-1. The FC / PC adapter 117 may also include an internal FC / PC adapter wire 117-4, etc. Either the core or the shield of the aforementioned internal wire 118 may be electrically connected to the adapter frame 117-1, and the other may be electrically connected to the open-fit sleeve 117-2 via the internal FC / PC adapter wire 117-4.

[0069] Continue to refer to Figure 4c To describe the function of each component. The coaxial cable 215 includes a core 215-1 and a shield 215-2 that are coaxial, in ( Figure 4b and) Figure 4c For simplicity, only two wires are shown in the diagram. The surface of the ceramic ferrule 212-1 in the FC / PC connector 212, which is included inside the probe 200 and is electrically connected to the core 215-1 of the coaxial cable 215, is made conductive by methods such as electroplating, deposition, or sputtering. When the ferrule is inserted into the open-fit sleeve 117-2, which is also made conductive and located inside the FC / PC adapter 117, an electrical connection is automatically formed between them. The FC / PC adapter wire 117-4, which is soldered to the surface of the open-fit sleeve 117-2, is electrically connected to the core-side wire of the conductor 118 inside the through-shaft 115.

[0070] The shield 215-2 of the miniature coaxial cable 215 is a component of the FC / PC connector 212, is conductive, and is connected to at least a portion of the FC / PC connector housing 212-2 surrounding the ceramic ferrule 212-1. It is also physically fastened to the FC / PC connector housing 212-2 by a conductive FC / PC connector nut 212-3 that is in physical contact with the FC / PC connector housing 212-2 and extends to at least a portion of the FC / PC adapter frame 117-1 surrounding the ceramic ferrule 212-1. The FC / PC adapter frame 117-1 is connected to the shielded side of the inner conductor 118, ultimately achieving electrical connection with an external device.

[0071] In other words, the FC / PC connector according to this invention differs from existing connectors in that it includes a ceramic ferrule with conductive properties. This allows for simultaneous precise optical coupling (optical alignment) and electrical coupling. Therefore, in use, simply tightening the fastening nut 212-3 of the FC / PC connector 212 to the FC / PC adapter frame 117-1 quickly connects the two paths, further ensuring the time required for related procedures. Furthermore, the FC / PC connector 212 has a fastening nut 212-3 and a keyway, preventing delays or loss of rotational power or the fastening part from coming loose during pull-back when tightened to the FC / PC adapter frame 117-1. To ensure electrical insulation between the ferrule 212-1 and the housing 212-2, an insulating member 212-4 is preferably included internally between the ferrule 212-1 and the housing 212-2. For the FC / PC adapter 117, since electrical insulation is required inside, it is preferable to include an insulating member 117-3 that is located between the open-fit sleeve 117-2 and the adapter frame 117-1 and electrically insulates the open-fit sleeve 117-2 from the adapter frame 117-1.

[0072] Regarding the electrical connection method between FC / PC adapter 117 and FC / PC connector 212, in addition to Figure 4c In addition to the method shown using the conductive ceramic ferrule 212-1, this can be achieved by including an electrically insulating tube 212-2 or an additional conductive element with a ring shape on or around a portion of the surface of the ceramic ferrule 212-1. In this case, to ensure a tighter contact at the connection point, elements such as springs can also be added to provide elasticity around the connection point. This tube or conductive element with a ring shape is the element that must be electrically connected to the core 215-1 of the miniature coaxial cable 215.

[0073] Figure 4d Example based on actual implementation Figure 4c The outline of each unit of the key component shown. Figure 4e To illustrate the actual interlocking relationship between these components during tightening, Figure 4f To illustrate the appearance including the FC / PC adapter 117, and to be understood as an actual implementation Figure 4c The form factor. In this case, as described above, the FC / PC adapter 117 is similar to a conventional FC / PC adapter (see reference). Figure 4a The difference (in the example) is that it includes an open-fit sleeve 117-2 with conductivity (see example). Figure 4g ).

[0074] The foregoing describes a method for forming an optically coupled and electrical path when the probe 200 is secured to the drive unit 100, based on FC / PC connectors, adapters, ceramic ferrules, etc. The basic forms of FC / PC connectors, adapters, ceramic ferrules, etc., applicable to this invention are more diverse than those exemplified in this specification. In any case, this invention discloses a simple method for realizing two connection channels based on these conventional components, thus featuring a significant reduction in the size of the relevant portions.

[0075] The ceramic ferrule applicable to this invention may include, for example, the Thorlabs CF270-10 with a diameter of φ2.5 mm, and does not necessarily have to be made of ceramic material. Furthermore, the diameter of the ceramic ferrule is not limited to 2.5 mm, and its diameter can be changed as needed.

[0076] According to another embodiment, a piezoelectric positioner 111-2 may be additionally provided in the through-type shaft 115 of a spiral scanning photoacoustic-ultrasonic endoscope. Figure 4 discloses a method for achieving optical coupling based on conventional FC / PC connectors and adapters; however, when the core thickness of the optical fiber used in the probe is very small, it may be difficult to achieve a very high level of optical coupling efficiency at the fastening point using only the proposed method. In this case, a schematic diagram showing a method for achieving efficient optical coupling in a spiral scanning photoacoustic-ultrasonic endoscope according to an embodiment of the present invention is provided. Figure 5 As shown, by adding a piezoelectric positioner 111-2 to the through-shaft 115, and based on this, performing an automatic optical alignment process between the drive-side fiber 111 and the probe-side fiber 211 before using a photoacoustic-ultrasonic endoscope, the optical coupling efficiency between the two can be further improved.

[0077] Generally, ceramic ferrules are made of light-scattering materials, so light scattering occurs when light enters from their periphery rather than the central aperture. Therefore, by measuring the intensity of this scattered light (i.e., backscattered light that does not proceed as expected to the probe-side fiber 211) using a separate light sensor (not shown) positioned around the piezoelectric positioner 111-2, and simultaneously adjusting the light emission direction of the drive-side fiber 111 inserted into the central axis of the piezoelectric positioner 111-2, higher optical coupling can be achieved. The laser beam emitted from the drive-side fiber 111 can be more effectively focused to the entrance of the probe-side fiber 211 by attaching an additional light-focusing component (not shown), such as a GRIN or a ball lens, to the end of the drive-side fiber 111.

[0078] Thus, the automatic optical alignment process using the piezoelectric positioner 111-2 can be performed before the device is used by automatically connecting and disconnecting the necessary components (not shown) to the piezoelectric positioner 111-2 via a predetermined electrical path. The electrical signals and power required in this process can also be transmitted using a rotary transformer.

[0079] Figure 6a and Figure 6b This is a schematic diagram illustrating a method for implementing a light input unit in a spiral scanning photoacoustic-ultrasonic endoscope according to an embodiment of the present invention. Another embodiment of a spiral scanning photoacoustic-ultrasonic endoscope (in...) Figure 1 , Figure 2a and Figure 2b In the image, the rotating optical coupling unit (indicated by dashed lines near the optical input device 102) is... Figure 6a and Figure 6b The dashed line indicates the form and can be changed to various forms as shown in the provided examples.

[0080] Reference Figure 6a A rotating optical coupling unit can be implemented by using a fiber optic optical input device 103. This fiber optic optical input device 103 is located very close to the rotatable drive-side optical fiber 111, and simultaneously transmits light to the drive-side optical fiber 111 in a non-rotating manner, unlike the drive-side optical fiber 111. In this case, as described above, a GRIN or ball lens, etc., can be added to the tail end of the fiber optic optical input device 103.

[0081] In addition, such as Figure 6b As shown, the interior of the through-type shaft 115 can be made hollow, allowing light to travel freely, thus enabling long-distance transmission. This is because the base frame 120, which can be implemented according to this invention, can be made quite short, thus achieving the desired numerical aperture without difficulty. When implementing this method, the beam diameter at the focal point can be made larger than the core diameter of the probe-side fiber 211, thereby achieving the desired optical coupling (or optical transmission) even if the probe-side fiber 211 is not precisely placed on the rotation center axis. Furthermore, when implementing the rotating optical coupling section... Figure 6b In the form of, it can also be achieved by adding the above-described method to the optical input device 102. Figure 5 The piezoelectric positioner is used to improve the accuracy of light input. Since the light input device 102 does not rotate at all during the use of the endoscope, it has the additional advantage of being able to freely control the direction of light emission during image acquisition (i.e., during probe rotation or translation).

[0082] Figure 7This is a schematic diagram illustrating the possibility of changing the position of the rotary transformer in a spiral scanning photoacoustic-ultrasonic endoscope according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7 As shown, the position of the rotary transformer 113 of the spiral scanning photoacoustic-ultrasound endoscope according to another embodiment can be changed depending on the application.

[0083] Reference Figure 7 According to one embodiment, the rotary transformer 113 of the helical scanning photoacoustic-ultrasonic endoscope can be positioned to the right of the ball bearing module 114, in which case only the 113-1 side in the figure rotates. Alternatively, it can be moved to the outside of the drive gear 112 as in previous document 4, i.e. Figure 7 On the upper left side of the drive gear 112.

[0084] As described above, the present invention has been described with reference to the embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings; however, these are merely exemplary, and those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and equivalent embodiments are possible. Therefore, the true scope of protection of the present invention should be determined by the technical concept of the appended claims.

[0085] Industrial applicability It has a very light and compact size, and can quickly achieve highly stable and accurate optical coupling at the optical coupling point even when using single-mode fiber. Therefore, it will be easier and smoother to carry out related procedures in the future, and the resulting three-dimensional images will be more accurate and reliable.

Claims

1. A spiral scanning photoacoustic-ultrasonic endoscope, characterized in that, The device includes a probe and a drive unit, wherein the drive unit provides rotational power and pull-back translational motion to the probe, and the probe includes: The catheter body is hollow inside, extends in one direction, with one end shielded and the other end open; A fastening nut, which is fastened to the other end of the conduit body, and has a through hole corresponding to the interior of the conduit body; A pull-back shaft, which extends through the through-hole of the fastening nut into the interior of the conduit body, and whose interior is hollow; and A shaft seal is located between the fastening nut and the pull-back shaft, and surrounds the pull-back shaft once with the central axis of the through hole of the fastening nut as its center.

2. The spiral scanning photoacoustic-ultrasonic endoscope according to claim 1, characterized in that, The drive unit has a linear stage and a rotary transformer that are mechanically connected to the pull-back shaft.

3. The spiral scanning photoacoustic-ultrasonic endoscope according to claim 1, characterized in that, The shaft seal shields the interior of the conduit body from the outside.

4. The spiral scanning photoacoustic-ultrasonic endoscope according to claim 1, characterized in that, Further includes: The probe-side optical fiber passes through the interior of the pull-back shaft and extends in the direction of one end of the conduit body; A torque coil, which surrounds the probe-side optical fiber and extends through the interior of the pull-back shaft in the direction of one end of the catheter body; as well as The scanning tip is connected to the portion of the torque coil in the direction of one end of the conduit body.

5. The spiral scanning photoacoustic-ultrasonic endoscope according to claim 4, characterized in that, The pull-back shaft, the probe-side optical fiber, the torque coil, and the scanning tip all move relative to the catheter body, the fastening nut, and the shaft seal in the direction in which the catheter body extends and in the opposite direction.

6. The spiral scanning photoacoustic-ultrasonic endoscope according to claim 4, characterized in that, It further includes a matching liquid that fills the interior of the conduit body.

7. The spiral scanning photoacoustic-ultrasonic endoscope according to claim 4, characterized in that, It further includes a connector that is connected to the tail end of the pull-back shaft in a direction opposite to that of one end of the conduit body.

8. The spiral scanning photoacoustic-ultrasonic endoscope according to claim 7, characterized in that, The connector is located in a direction opposite to that of one end of the conduit body, based on the shaft seal.

9. The spiral scanning photoacoustic-ultrasonic endoscope according to claim 7, characterized in that, It further includes a miniature coaxial cable electrically connected to the scanning tip and extending through the interior of the torque coil to the connector. The connector includes: A collar having a central hole through which the probe-side optical fiber can pass; A connector housing that surrounds at least a portion of the ferrule and is conductive; A connector nut that is in physical contact with the connector housing and is conductive; and A connector insulating component, located between the ferrule and the connector housing, electrically insulates the ferrule from the connector housing. The core of the miniature coaxial cable is electrically connected to the ferrule, and the shield of the miniature coaxial cable is electrically connected to the connector housing.

10. The spiral scanning photoacoustic-ultrasonic endoscope according to claim 9, characterized in that, The drive unit has an adapter, the adapter comprising: An open-ended sleeve in which a portion of the collar is inserted; An adapter frame that surrounds at least a portion of the collar and is conductive; and An adapter insulating component is located between the open-fit sleeve and the adapter frame to electrically insulate the open-fit sleeve from the adapter frame.

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