Systems, devices, and methods for optical fiber data transmission in medical devices

Abstract

The medical device comprises a shaft having a distal end and a proximal end; an image sensor located at the distal end of the shaft; a distal transformer located at the distal end and communicating with the image sensor; a proximal optical receiver; and an optical fiber extending between the distal transformer and the proximal optical receiver. The image sensor is configured to generate a first electrical signal based on the acquisition of one or more images, the first electrical signal including image data or video data associated with the acquisition. The distal transformer is configured to convert the first electrical signal into an optical signal. The optical fiber is configured to facilitate the transmission of the optical signal between the distal transformer and the proximal optical receiver, and the proximal optical receiver is configured to convert the optical signal into a second electrical signal.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] Various embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to systems, devices and methods for fiber optic data transmission in medical devices. More specifically, various embodiments of the present disclosure relate to systems, devices and methods for using optical fibers to transmit image and / or video data as optical signals from a distal end of a medical device to an image processing unit at a proximal end of the medical device. BACKGROUND ART

[0002] Various medical devices include one or more image sensors at the distal end of the medical device, and the image sensors may rely on copper wires for data transmission between the image sensors and a video processor at the proximal end of the medical device. Accordingly, the transmitted image and / or video data may be susceptible to interference from electromagnetic interference (EMI). Alternatively or additionally, the transmitted image and / or video data would need to be carefully designed and / or planned to avoid unacceptable radiation from the medical device to other nearby equipment, for example for proper electromagnetic compatibility (EMC). EMI and potential signal loss that may occur during video transmission may lead to image artifacts and / or defects, such as noise, color shift, or even loss of visualization.

[0003] Various aspects of the present disclosure are directed to overcoming one or more of the problems referenced above. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a medical device comprising: a shaft having a distal end and a proximal end; an image sensor located at the distal end of the shaft, the image sensor configured to generate a first electrical signal based on the acquisition of one or more images, the first electrical signal including image data or video data associated with the acquisition of the one or more images; a distal transforming device located at the distal end and communicating with the image sensor, the distal transforming device configured to convert the first electrical signal into an optical signal; a proximal optical receiver; and an optical fiber extending between the distal transforming device and the proximal optical receiver, wherein the optical fiber is configured to facilitate the transmission of the optical signal between the distal transforming device and the proximal optical receiver, the proximal optical receiver is configured to receive the optical signal via the optical fiber and convert the optical signal into a second electrical signal, the second electrical signal including the transmission of image data or video data associated with the acquisition of the one or more images.

[0005] In some embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to a medical device in which the transmission of the image data or video data includes a one-to-one transfer of the image data or video data associated with the acquisition of one or more images.

[0006] In some embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to a medical device further comprising a handle connected to the proximal end of the shaft, the handle including an image processing unit communicatively coupled to the proximal optical receiver.

[0007] In some embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to a medical device in which the image processing unit is configured to process the second electrical signal to generate video signals of the one or more images for a connectable display.

[0008] In some embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to a medical device in which the image processing unit is further configured to receive user input or algorithmic input to adjust one or more settings for the image sensor, and to generate a third electrical signal for the image sensor based on the user input or algorithmic input.

[0009] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a medical device in which the optical fiber is a first optical fiber, the optical signal is a first optical signal, and the medical device further comprises a proximal transposition device communicating with the image processing unit, and a distal optical receiver, wherein the proximal transposition device is configured to receive the third electrical signal and to convert the third electrical signal into a second optical signal, and the medical device further comprises a second optical fiber extending between the proximal transposition device and the distal optical receiver, configured to facilitate the transmission of the second optical signal between the proximal transposition device and the distal optical receiver, wherein the distal optical receiver is configured to receive the second optical signal via the second optical fiber and to convert the second optical signal into a fourth electrical signal for transmission to the image sensor to adjust the one or more settings.

[0010] In some embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to a medical device further comprising: a first lens positioned between the distal transposition device and the first optical fiber, configured to transmit the first optical signal to the first optical fiber; and a second lens positioned between the proximal transposition device and the second optical fiber, configured to transmit the second optical signal from the proximal transposition device to the second optical fiber.

[0011] In some embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to a medical device in which the first lens is positioned proximal to the distal conversion device than the first optical fiber, and the second lens is positioned proximal to the proximal conversion device than the second optical fiber.

[0012] In some embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to a medical device in which the first and second lenses include at least one of a ball lens, a distributed refractive index (GRIN) lens, or an aspherical lens.

[0013] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a medical device in which the optical signal is a first optical signal, the medical device is configured to receive the third electrical signal, and the medical device further comprises a distal beam splitter located at the distal end of the optical fiber, a proximal beam splitter located at the proximal end of the optical fiber, a distal optical receiver located on the distal beam splitter, and a proximal conversion device located on the proximal beam splitter and communicating with the image processing unit, wherein the proximal conversion device is configured to convert the third electrical signal into a second optical signal, the proximal beam splitter is configured to receive the second optical signal and to couple the second optical signal to the optical fiber, the distal beam splitter is configured to receive the second optical signal via the optical fiber and to couple the second optical signal to the distal optical receiver, and the distal optical receiver is configured to convert the second optical signal into a fourth electrical signal for processing by the image sensor to adjust the one or more settings.

[0014] In some embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to medical devices in which the distal conversion device includes a light-emitting device. In some embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to medical devices in which the first electrical signal includes an analog signal or a digital signal.

[0015] In some embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to medical devices in which the first electrical signal is an analog electrical signal, the optical signal comprises a plurality of pulsed optical signals, and the conversion of the analog electrical signal to the plurality of pulsed optical signals involves modulating the analog electrical signal based on pulse width modulation (PWM) techniques or pulse position modulation (PPM) techniques.

[0016] In some embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to medical devices in which the first electrical signal is an analog electrical signal, the optical signal comprises one or more on or off pulsed optical signals, and the conversion of the analog electrical signal to the one or more on or off pulsed optical signals comprises modulating the analog electrical signal based on a pulse carrier technique or pulse amplitude modulation (PAM) technique.

[0017] In some embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to a medical device in which the first electrical signal is a digital electrical signal, and the conversion of the digital electrical signal to the optical signal involves determining whether the digital electrical signal is transmitting a binary one or a binary zero by using a comparator circuit, the transmission of a binary one turning on a light-emitting device, and the transmission of a binary zero turning off the light-emitting device, thereby generating the optical signal.

[0018] In some aspects, the technology described herein comprises a shaft having a distal end and a proximal end; an image sensor located at the distal end of the shaft, the image sensor configured to generate a first electrical signal based on the acquisition of one or more images, the first electrical signal comprising image data or video data associated with the acquisition of the one or more images; a distal transforming device located at the distal end and communicating with the image sensor, the distal transforming device configured to convert the first electrical signal into an optical signal; a proximal optical receiver; and an optical fiber extending between the distal transforming device and the proximal optical receiver, wherein the distal A medical system comprising a medical device including an optical fiber configured to facilitate the transmission of the optical signal between a conversion device and the proximal optical receiver, and an image processing unit, wherein the proximal optical receiver is configured to receive the optical signal via the optical fiber and to convert the optical signal into a second electrical signal, the second electrical signal including the transmission of the image data or video data associated with the acquisition of one or more images, and the image processing unit is configured to process the second electrical signal to generate an image signal or video signal of the one or more images for a connectable display.

[0019] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a medical system in which the image processing unit is located on the handle of the medical device. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a medical system in which the image processing unit is located separately from the medical device.

[0020] In some aspects, the technology described herein comprises a shaft having a distal end and a proximal end, an image sensor located at the distal end of the shaft, the image sensor configured to generate a first electrical signal based on the acquisition of one or more images, the first electrical signal comprising image data or video data associated with the acquisition of the one or more images, a distal transformer located at the distal end and communicating with the image sensor, the distal transformer configured to convert the first electrical signal into an optical signal, a proximal optical receiver, and an optical fiber extending between the distal transformer and the proximal optical receiver, the optical fiber configured to facilitate the transmission of the optical signal between the distal transformer and the proximal optical receiver, the proximal optical receiver The medical system comprises a medical device comprising: an optical fiber configured to receive the optical signal via the fiber and convert the optical signal into a second electrical signal, the second electrical signal including the transmission of the image data or video data associated with the acquisition of the one or more images; and an image processing unit configured to process the second electrical signal to generate a video signal of the one or more images for a connectable display, the image processing unit further configured to receive user input or algorithmic input to adjust one or more settings for the image sensor, and to generate a third electrical signal for the image sensor based on the user input or algorithmic input.

[0021] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a medical system in which the optical fiber is a first optical fiber, the optical signal is a first optical signal, the medical device is configured to receive the third electrical signal, the medical device further comprises a proximal transposition device communicating with the image processing unit, a second optical fiber, and a distal optical receiver, the proximal transposition device is configured to receive the third electrical signal and to convert the third electrical signal into a second optical signal, the second optical fiber extends between the proximal transposition device and the distal optical receiver, the second optical fiber is configured to facilitate the transmission of the second optical signal between the proximal transposition device and the distal optical receiver, and the distal optical receiver is configured to receive the second optical signal via the second optical fiber and to convert the second optical signal into a fourth electrical signal for transmission to the image sensor to adjust the one or more settings.

[0022] It should be understood that both the general description above and the detailed description below are illustrative and descriptive, and do not limit the embodiments of the claimed disclosure. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0023] The accompanying drawings incorporated herein and constituting part thereof illustrate various exemplary embodiments and, together with the description, help to illustrate the principles of the embodiments of this disclosure. [Figure 1] This document illustrates an exemplary medical system in one or more embodiments. [Figure 2] This document describes an exemplary upstream process for communication between an image sensor and an image processing unit for a medical device, according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 3] The following are illustrative schematic diagrams of circuits that can be used to convert analog signals to optical signals in a distal conversion device according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 4]shows an exemplary schematic diagram of a circuit used to convert one or more optical signals into one or more second electrical signals for a proximal optical receiver according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 5] shows exemplary waveforms for modulating an analog signal output based on a pulse width modulation (PWM) method and / or a pulse position modulation (PPM) method according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 6] shows exemplary waveforms for modulating an analog signal output based on a pulse amplitude modulation (PAM) technique and / or a pulse carrier modulation technique according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 7] shows an exemplary schematic diagram of a circuit that may be used to convert a digital signal into an optical signal in a distal conversion device according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 8] shows coupling elements or methods, such as various coupling lenses, that may be used to couple one or more optical signals to an optical fiber according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 9] shows coupling elements or methods, such as various coupling lenses, that may be used to couple one or more optical signals to an optical fiber according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 10] shows coupling elements or methods, such as various coupling lenses, that may be used to couple one or more optical signals to an optical fiber according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 11] shows coupling elements or methods, such as various coupling lenses, that may be used to couple one or more optical signals to an optical fiber according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 12] shows coupling elements or methods, such as various coupling lenses, that may be used to couple one or more optical signals to an optical fiber according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 13] shows coupling elements or methods, such as various coupling lenses, that may be used to couple one or more optical signals to an optical fiber according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 14]The diagrams show two or more exemplary communication paths for a medical device incorporating a beam splitter for bidirectional communication, according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 15] The diagrams show two or more exemplary communication paths for a medical device incorporating a first optical fiber and a second optical fiber for bidirectional communication, according to one or more embodiments. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0024] It will be understood that both the general description above and the detailed description below are illustrative and descriptive only and do not limit the claimed features. As used herein, the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “has,” “having,” “includes,” “including,” or any other variation thereof are intended to encompass non-exclusive inclusion, and therefore a process, method, article, or device comprising a list of elements may include not only those elements but also other elements not expressly enumerated, or other elements specific to such process, method, article, or device. Unless otherwise stated in this disclosure, relative terms such as, for example, “about,” “substantially,” and “approximately” are used to indicate a ±10% variability of the stated value. Unless otherwise stated in this disclosure, any numerical value may include a ±10% variability of the stated value.

[0025] As described herein, wireless communication protocols used for wireless communication between any two or more components may include one or more wireless communication protocols, such as cellular communication, Wi-Fi®, Bluetooth®, Z-Wave®, ZigBee®, near-field communication (NFC), or other wireless communication protocols.

[0026] The various embodiments of this disclosure generally relate to systems, devices, and methods for optical fiber data transmission in medical devices, and more specifically, to systems, devices, and methods for using optical fibers to transmit image and / or video data as optical signals from the distal end of a medical device to an image processing unit at the proximal end of the medical device.

[0027] The terms used herein, even when used in conjunction with the detailed description of a particular embodiment of this disclosure, may be interpreted in their broadest reasonable mode. In fact, certain terms may even be emphasized below, but any term intended to be interpreted in any limited mode is expressed and specifically as such in the section on embodiments for carrying out the invention.

[0028] As mentioned above, some medical devices (e.g., video endoscopes, or other medical devices with imaging or video capabilities) that have one or more image sensors at the distal end of the medical device rely on copper wires for data transmission between the image sensor and the video processing unit. Therefore, the transmitted video data will require careful design and / or planning to avoid unacceptable radiation from the medical device to other nearby equipment, for example, for proper electromagnetic compatibility (EMC). EMI, and potential signal loss that may occur during video transmission, can lead to image artifacts and / or defects, such as noise, color shift, or even loss of visualization.

[0029] To address the above issues, one or more embodiments describe a data transmission solution that does not rely on electronic or electrical signals for video data transmission, but rather uses photons in various ways to transmit video data in a medical device. Thus, video data transmitted in a medical device may be less susceptible to EMI and EMC may be less of a concern. To achieve this, one or more embodiments may include a medical device that includes an image sensor configured to generate an electrical signal based on the acquisition of one or more images. The electrical signal may be converted into an optical signal by using a light-emitting diode ("LED") or a laser. The LED or laser may be coupled to one or more optical fibers for transmission through at least a portion of the length of the medical device. The optical fibers may also be coupled to an optical receiver at the proximal end of the medical device. The optical receiver can be used to convert the optical signal from the optical fiber back into an electrical form for processing by a video processing unit. Using the same optical fiber, light may be transmitted from the proximal end to the distal end of the medical device for power or other communication with the image sensor.

[0030] The embodiments described above may not require the use of an electrical conductor path to support the image sensor (e.g., a camera) for operations such as lighting, clocking, and data transfer, thereby helping to reduce interference and / or signal loss that may occur during video data transmission. Furthermore, the data generated by the image sensor may be transmitted to the image processing unit at a one-to-one ratio.

[0031] Referring here to the drawings, Figure 1 shows an exemplary medical system 100 according to one or more embodiments. The exemplary medical system 100 may comprise a medical device 110 and an image processing unit 180. In some embodiments, the image processing unit 180 is separate from the medical device 110, and the medical device 110 and the image processing unit 180 may be communicably coupled (e.g., wired or wirelessly) via an umbilicus 109. In other embodiments, the image processing unit 180, not shown, may be incorporated into one or more parts of the medical device 110. The distal components of the medical device 110 will be outlined first, and then the image processing unit 180 will be outlined below.

[0032] The medical device 110 may comprise any type of medical device, such as an endoscope, duodenoscope, gastroscopy, colonoscope, ureteroscope, bronchoscope, catheter delivery or insertion system, and may comprise a handle 112, one or more operating mechanisms 114, at least one port 116, and a shaft 120. The handle 112 of the medical device 110 may have one or more lumens (not shown) that communicate with lumens of one or more other components of the medical system 100. The handle 112 further comprises at least one port 116 that opens into one or more lumens. As described in more detail herein, the at least one port 116 may have dimensions and shape such that it can receive one or more instruments that can be used during a procedure, such as a catheter, retrieval basket, electrosurgical knife, gripper, stapler, etc. The shaft 120 may further comprise one or more lumens or work channels, which may terminate at one or more work channel openings 130 at the distal end of the shaft 120.

[0033] Medical device 110 is not illustrated in any particular size or scale, and the shape and dimensions of medical device 110 described herein may differ from those shown. Medical device 110 is also not comprehensively illustrated in Figure 1, and medical device 110 may include other components not shown. Alternatively, one or more components of medical device 100 may be omitted in some cases.

[0034] The image sensor 140 may be located near the distal tip 122 or at the distal end of the shaft 120 above the distal tip 122. The image sensor 140 may represent one or more image sensors as understood. The image sensor 140 may include, for example, one or more color image sensors and / or monochrome image sensors. The image sensor 140 may be configured to generate one or more analog signals and / or one or more digital signals, which are represented herein as one or more first electrical signals, that carry image and / or video data based on the acquisition of one or more images during a procedure (e.g., a diagnostic procedure, preoperative imaging). For example, the image sensor 140 may be configured and operable to acquire raw images (e.g., digital and / or analog images) of the environment surrounding the distal tip 122 of the shaft 120.

[0035] In some embodiments, the image sensor 140 may include a photosensor array (not shown) configured and operable to convert a light beam received by the photosensor array into an electric current. For example, an electric current may be generated by the photosensor array on the image sensor 140 when photons from the received light are absorbed by a plurality of photosites (not shown) arranged on the photosensor array. Furthermore, each of the plurality of photosites may be operable to receive, capture, and absorb different wavelengths of incident light at the photosite location along the surface of the photosensor array. Thus, the plurality of photosites can capture incident light and generate an electrical signal. The electrical signal may be quantified and stored as a numerical value in the resulting processed image file. It should be understood that the photosensor array may have various appropriate shapes, dimensions, and / or configurations.

[0036] The image sensor 140 may be communicably coupled (e.g., wired or wirelessly) to a distal conversion device 143 located at or near the distal end of the shaft 120. The distal conversion device 143 may include a circuit capable of converting one or more first electrical signals generated by the image sensor 140 into one or more first optical signals (e.g., photons). The distal conversion device 143 may include one or more LEDs or lasers for generating one or more first optical signals.

[0037] One or more LEDs or lasers can be communicatively coupled to the first optical fiber 146 to transmit one or more first optical signals through a length portion of the medical device 110 to a proximal optical receiver 149, which may be located inside or near the handle 112, among other locations. The proximal optical receiver 149 can be coupled to the proximal end of the first optical fiber 146 to receive one or more first optical signals and may convert one or more first optical signals back into one or more second electrical signals for further processing by the image processing unit 180.

[0038] However, the position and arrangement of the proximal optical receiver 149 are not limited thereto and may be modified in particular depending on its proximity to the image processing unit 180 and the location of the proximal end of the first optical fiber 146. For example, in some embodiments, the image processing unit 180 may be separate from the medical device 110, and the medical device 110 and the image processing unit 180 may be communicably coupled via an umbilicus 109. In such cases, the proximal optical receiver 149 may be located within the image processing unit 180, taking into consideration that the umbilicus 109 enables the transmission of light to the proximal optical receiver 149. In other embodiments, the image processing unit 180 may be incorporated into one or more parts of the medical device 110, although not shown.

[0039] The first optical fiber 146 may extend between the distal transposition device 143 and the proximal optical receiver 149. The first optical fiber 146 may help facilitate the transmission of one or more first optical signals between the distal transposition device 143 and the proximal optical receiver 149.

[0040] The image processing unit 180 may be a computer system incorporating multiple hardware components. The multiple hardware components may help the image processing unit 180 to receive data (e.g., image sensor data), process information (e.g., intensity, motion, spectral data), and / or generate processed images or video image streams for output to the user of the medical system 100 (e.g., via a display such as a user interface).

[0041] The image processing unit 180 may include any computing device capable of executing machine-readable instructions, which may be stored, for example, on a non-temporary computer-readable medium of the image processing unit 180. Furthermore, the image processing unit 180 may include a user interface, which may be operable to receive user input. The image processing unit 180 may also be configured to process one or more second electrical signals generated by the proximal light receiver 149, thereby generating one or more image and / or video signals of the image or video initially acquired by the image sensor 140 for a connectable display. The connectable display may be a component of the image processing unit 180, or a separate display connected to the image processing unit 180 via a wired or wireless connection.

[0042] In some embodiments, the medical system 100 can be operated to support and / or provide bidirectional communication between the image sensor 140 and the image processing unit 180 using a first optical fiber 146 or a second optical fiber. For example, bidirectional communication may be initiated when the image processing unit 180 receives user input via a user interface for adjusting one or more settings for the image sensor 140. A further explanation of this bidirectional communication will be discussed below in relation to later figures.

[0043] The image processing unit 180 is illustrated as being located within or near the handle 112, but the image processing unit 180 may be located separately from the medical device 110. For example, the image processing unit 180 may be a separate computing device communicably coupled to the medical device 110 via a wired or wireless connection. As described above, the image processing unit 180 may be located within or near the handle 112 by being operably coupled to the handle 112, for example, via an umbilicus 109. Further explanation of the operation and arrangement of the image processing unit 140, the first optical fiber 146, the proximal optical receiver 149, and the image processing unit 180 will be discussed in relation to later figures.

[0044] Figure 2 shows an exemplary upstream process 200 for communication between an image sensor 140 and an image processing unit 180 for a medical device, according to one or more embodiments. For example, the upstream process 200 may illustrate the communication flow between the image sensor 140, a distal conversion device 143, a first optical fiber 146, a proximal optical receiver 149, and an image processing unit 180 for a medical device such as a medical device 110.

[0045] As described above, the image sensor 140 may represent one or more image sensors located near the distal tip 122 of the medical device 110 or at the distal end of the shaft 120 on the distal tip 122. The image sensor 140 may be configured to generate one or more analog signals and / or one or more digital signals, which are represented herein as one or more first electrical signals, that carry image and / or video data based on the acquisition of one or more images during a procedure (e.g., a diagnostic procedure, preoperative imaging). For example, one or more image sensors 140 may be configured and operable to acquire raw images (e.g., digital and / or analog images) of the environment surrounding the distal tip 122 of the shaft 120. The image sensor 140 can be communicatively coupled to the distal conversion device 143.

[0046] As described above, the distal conversion device 143 may be located at or near the distal end of the shaft 120. The distal conversion device 143 may include a circuit capable of converting one or more first electrical signals generated by the image sensor 140 into one or more first optical signals or first light signals (e.g., photons). The distal conversion device 143 may further include one or more LEDs or lasers for generating one or more first light signals. One or more LEDs or lasers can be coupled to the first optical fiber 146 to transmit one or more first light signals through a length portion of the medical device 110 to the proximal light receiver 149.

[0047] The first optical fiber 146 may extend between the distal transformer 143 and the proximal optical receiver 149, thereby helping to facilitate the transmission of one or more first optical signals between the distal transformer 143 and the proximal optical receiver 149. The first optical fiber 146 may extend from or near the distal end of the shaft 120 (for example, coupled to the distal transformer 103), and the first optical fiber 146 may be coupled to the proximal optical receiver 149. The first optical fiber 146 may, among other things, be used as a transmission medium for transferring image and / or video data acquired by the image sensor 140 to the image processing unit 180 in a manner that reduces signal loss, image artifacts and / or defects, and loss of visualization.

[0048] The proximal optical receiver 149 may be coupled to the proximal end of the first optical fiber 146, and the proximal optical receiver 149 may transmit data to the image processing unit 180. The proximal optical receiver 149 may be located in or near the handle 112, among other things. However, the location and arrangement of the proximal optical receiver 149 are not limited thereto and may be changed depending on the proximity to the image processing unit 180, among other things, and the location of the proximal end of the first optical fiber 146. For example, in some embodiments the image processing unit 180 may be separate from the medical device 110, and the medical device 110 and the image processing unit 180 may be communicatively coupled via an umbilicus 109. In other embodiments, the image processing unit 180 may be incorporated into one or more parts of the medical device 110, although not shown.

[0049] The proximal optical receiver 149 may be configured to receive one or more first optical signals from the first optical fiber 146 for processing by, for example, the image processing unit 180, and to convert one or more first optical signals into one or more second electrical signals. The one or more second electrical signals may include a one-to-one transfer of data contained in one or more first electrical signals generated by the image sensor 140.

[0050] The image processing unit 180 may be a computer system incorporating multiple hardware components. The multiple hardware components may help the image processing unit 180 receive data (e.g., image sensor data), process information (e.g., intensity, motion, spectral data), and / or generate processed images or video image streams for output to the user of the medical system 100 (e.g., via a display such as a user interface).

[0051] The image processing unit 180 may include any computing device capable of executing machine-readable instructions, which may be stored, for example, on a non-temporary computer-readable medium of the image processing unit 180. Furthermore, the image processing unit 180 may include a user interface that can operate to receive user input. The image processing unit 180 may also be configured to process one or more second electrical signals generated by the proximal light receiver 149, thereby generating one or more image or video signals of the image or video initially acquired by the image sensor 140, for example, for a display. The display may be a component of the image processing unit 180, or it may be a separate display connected to the image processing unit 180 via a wired or wireless connection.

[0052] Figure 3 shows an exemplary schematic circuit diagram 300 that may be used in one or more embodiments to convert analog signals to optical signals in a distal conversion device. For example, schematic circuit diagram 300 may be used in a distal conversion device 143 for a medical device 110 to convert one or more first analog electrical signals to one or more first optical signals at the distal end of a shaft 120. Schematic circuit diagram 300 may include, among other components not specifically named, an amplifier 306, a first resistor 312, a parallel RC circuit 309, a semiconductor device 315, a second resistor 318, and a light source 321. The light source 321 may include an LED, a laser, or one or more other light sources, as understood.

[0053] In schematic circuit diagram 300, the amplitude of one or more analog electrical signals 303 generated by the image sensor 140 (Figures 1 and 2) may be converted into one or more first optical signals 330 (e.g., light intensity signals), which may be transmitted through the first optical fiber 146 as shown. It should be noted that the distal conversion device 143 is not limited to that which uses schematic circuit diagram 300. For example, the distal conversion device may convert one or more first analog electrical signals from the image sensor 140 into one or more first optical signals for transmission through the first optical fiber 146 in one or more ways different from those described in relation to the upstream process 200 in Figure 2. Schematic circuit diagram 300 is provided as an example only, and the distal conversion device 143 may be configured to use any circuit suitable for converting analog electrical signals to optical signals in order to convert one or more analog electrical signals 303 into one or more first optical signals 330, as understood.

[0054] One or more analog electrical signals 303 may be connected to the positive input (channel 3) of amplifier 306. A second resistor 318 may be connected to ground 380 and semiconductor device 315. The second resistor 318 may be connected to the negative input (channel 2) of amplifier 306 and parallel RC circuit 309. The parallel RC circuit 309 may be connected to the negative input of amplifier 306 and to the first resistor 312 and semiconductor device 315. The negative power supply V- of amplifier 306 may be connected to ground 380. The positive power supply V+ of amplifier 306 may be connected to a power supply (not shown). The semiconductor device 315 may include a metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET) or other types of transistors.

[0055] In some cases, one or more electrical signals 303 may be transmitted and / or converted using light of a tunable wavelength. For example, the laser frequency of the light source (e.g., light source 321) of the distal conversion device 143 may be shifted based on the amplitude of one or more electrical signals 303. A spectrometer or interferometer at the proximal end of the first optical fiber 146 may be configured to decode the frequency shift back to the amplitude modulation of one or more electrical signals 303.

[0056] Figure 4 shows an exemplary schematic circuit diagram 400 used in one or more embodiments to convert one or more optical signals into one or more second electrical signals for a proximal optical receiver. For example, schematic circuit diagram 400 may be used for a proximal optical receiver 149 for a medical device 110 to convert one or more first optical signals, such as one or more first optical signals 330, into one or more second electrical signals at or near the proximal end of a first optical fiber 146. Schematic circuit diagram 400 may also include an amplifier 406 and a first resistor 412, among other components that are not specifically named.

[0057] One or more first optical signals 330 may be transmitted to a nearby optical receiver 149. The nearby optical receiver 149 may be connected to the negative input (channel 2) of amplifier 406 and to the first resistor 412. The positive input (channel 3) and negative power supply (V-) of amplifier 406 may be connected to ground 480. The positive power supply (V+) of the amplifier may be connected to a power supply (not shown).

[0058] In schematic diagram 400, one or more first optical signals 330 may be converted to one or more second electrical signals 430 using, for example, an amplifier 406 as shown. One or more second electrical signals 430 may include analog and / or digital signals. One or more second electrical signals 430 may be transmitted to an image processing unit 180 for further processing. It should be noted that the proximal optical receiver 149 is not limited to using schematic diagram 400 when converting one or more first optical signals 330 from the first optical fiber 146 to one or more second electrical signals 430 for processing by, for example, an image processing unit 180, as will be further described in relation to the upstream process 200 in Figure 2. Schematic diagram 400 is provided only as an example, and the proximal optical receiver 149 may be configured to use any circuit suitable for converting optical signals to electrical signals, as can be understood.

[0059] Figure 5 shows exemplary waveforms 500 for modulating an analog signal output based on pulse width modulation (PWM) and / or pulse position modulation (PPM) techniques according to one or more embodiments. Individual calibration may be required due to component variations to better define the full range (e.g., maximum amplitude) of the analog signal (e.g., corresponding to one or more electrical signals 303) in relation to one or more first optical signals (e.g., corresponding to one or more first optical signals 330). Calibration may be performed at the end of the manufacturing line. Alternatively or in addition, calibration may be performed when the value (e.g., optical signal) is dim or low. In several further embodiments, calibration may be performed when an optical signal corresponding to a fully saturated image sensor is stored on or with a particular medical device 110 and / or measured.

[0060] In addition and / or alternatively, one or more first electrical signals (e.g., one or more electrical signals 303) generated by the image sensor 140 may be modulated based on PWM and / or PPM techniques. In these embodiments, one or more first optical signals generated by the distal conversion device 143 may include optical pulses whose pulse width, position, and / or frequency vary. For example, an analog signal waveform 503 that may correspond to one or more analog electrical signals 303 may be modulated based on PWM and / or PPM techniques to generate a PWM signal 505 and / or a PPM signal 507. The PWM signal 505 and the PPM signal 507 may include optical pulses whose pulse width, position, and / or frequency vary. One or more first optical signals 330 may include the PWM signal 505 and / or the PPM signal 507.

[0061] Figure 6 shows an exemplary waveform 600 for modulating an analog signal output based on pulse amplitude modulation (PAM) and / or pulse carrier modulation techniques according to one or more embodiments. One or more first electrical signals (e.g., one or more electrical signals 303) generated by the image sensor 140 may be modulated based on PAM and / or pulse carrier modulation techniques. In these embodiments, one or more first optical signals generated by the distal conversion device 143 may include one or more on or off pulsed optical signals with varying amplitudes. For example, an analog signal waveform 603 that may correspond to one or more analog electrical signals 303 may be modulated based on PAM and / or pulse carrier modulation techniques to generate a pulse carrier signal 605 and / or a PAM signal 607. The pulse carrier signal 605 and / or PAM signal 607 may include one or more on or off pulsed optical signals with varying amplitudes. One or more first optical signals 330 may include the pulse carrier signal 605 and / or the PAM signal 607.

[0062] Figure 7 shows an exemplary schematic circuit diagram 700 that may be used in one or more embodiments to convert digital signals to optical signals in a distal conversion device. For example, schematic circuit diagram 700 may be used in a distal conversion device 143 for a medical device 110 to convert one or more first digital electrical signals to one or more first optical signals at the distal end of a shaft 120. Schematic circuit diagram 700 may also include a comparator 706, a first resistor 709, and a light source 721, among other components that are not specifically named. The light source 721 may include an LED, a laser, or one or more other light sources, as understood.

[0063] In the schematic circuit diagram 700, one or more digital electrical signals 703 generated by the image sensor 140 can be converted into one or more first optical signals 730 as shown. Using the bit information (high / low) of one or more first digital electrical signals 703, one or more "on" or "off" optical signals of the first optical signals 730 can be generated, respectively. A comparator 706 can be used to determine whether the serial digital input signal (e.g., one or more digital electrical signals 703) is transmitting a binary "1" or "0". A transmitted binary "1" raises the digital signal above the reference voltage, resulting in the output of the comparator 706 being able to output a voltage sufficient to light up the light source 721, while a transmitted binary "0" can turn off the light source 721. In the light source 721, the received "zero" can correspond to a ground reference or another reference level which may be selected or determined by the user or an algorithm. In these embodiments, upon receiving a binary "1", the light source 721 may generate one or more first optical signals 730. One or more first optical signals 730 can be transmitted through the first optical fiber 146, as described in relation to the upstream process 200 in Figure 2.

[0064] The schematic circuit diagram 700 is provided as an example only, and the distal conversion device 143 may be configured to use any circuit suitable for converting digital electrical signals to optical signals in order to convert one or more digital electrical signals 703 to one or more first optical signals 730, as understood.

[0065] Figure 8-13 illustrates the use of various lenses (e.g., coupling lenses) or other methods that may be used to transmit one or more optical signals into an optical fiber, according to one or more embodiments. In Figure 8, the light source 821 may be configured to generate one or more optical signals 830 for transmission into the optical fiber 846 without the use of lenses. The light source 821 may be similar to, or interchangeable with, the light sources 321 and 721 shown in Figures 3 and 7, respectively, and may be used in conjunction with the distal conversion device 143. For example, the light source 821 may be configured to generate one or more optical signals 830 based on one or more electrical signals (e.g., one or more analog electrical signals 303 and / or one or more digital electrical signals 703) generated by the image sensor 140. The light source 821 may include LEDs configured to generate one or more optical signals 830. One or more optical signals 830 may be transmitted at least partially into the optical fiber 846, which may support the waveguide mode among other modes. One or more optical signals 830 can be transmitted directly to the optical fiber 846 depending on the appropriate characteristics of the optical fiber 846 (e.g., diameter, length, multimode, wavelength range, polarization characteristics, etc.).

[0066] In the illustrated example, a portion of one or more optical signals 830 may not be transmitted into the central core of the optical fiber 846 due to light diffusion that may occur when the one or more optical signals 830 are emitted from the light source 821. For example, a portion of the optical signals of one or more optical signals 830 may diffuse into the core or cladding of the optical fiber 846, or it may leave the optical fiber 846 entirely. This diffusion can lead to signal loss, increased noise, and / or increased image / video artifacts, depending on factors such as the length of the optical fiber 846. With respect to various embodiments of this disclosure, the length of the optical fiber 846 implemented in the medical device 110 may include a relatively short length such that the diffusion of a portion of the optical signal will not cause problems for the transmitted image and / or video signal.

[0067] The following description explains the use of various lenses that can more effectively guide light into optical fibers for signal transmission. Among other advantages, the use of lenses can help reduce the loss of light emitted by a light source, increase signal intensity, reduce noise, and / or reduce image / video artifacts.

[0068] Figure 9 shows a light source 921 which may be configured to generate one or more optical signals 930 for transmission through the optical fiber 946. The light source 921 may be similar to, or interchangeable with, the light sources 321 and 721 shown in Figures 3 and 7, respectively, and may be used in conjunction with the distal conversion device 143. For example, the light source 921 may comprise a laser configured to generate one or more optical signals 930 based on one or more electrical signals (e.g., one or more analog electrical signals 303 and / or one or more digital electrical signals 703) generated by the image sensor 140. The optical fiber 946 may further be joined by solder 903. The optical fiber 946 can support the waveguide mode among other modes. The optical fiber 946 may be shaped to be curved as shown at the proximal end. The curved shape of the optical fiber 946 will allow more of the one or more optical signals 930 to be directed towards the central portion (e.g., the core) of the optical fiber 946.

[0069] Figure 10 shows a light source 1021 that may be configured to generate one or more optical signals 1030. The light source 1021 may be similar to, or interchangeable with, the light sources 321 and 721 shown in Figures 3 and 7, respectively, and may be used in conjunction with the distal conversion device 143. For example, the light source 1021 may be configured to generate one or more optical signals 1030 based on one or more electrical signals (e.g., one or more analog electrical signals 303 and / or one or more digital electrical signals 703) generated by the image sensor 140. The ball lens 1006 may be positioned close to the light source 121 along the optical path of the one or more optical signals 1030. That is, the ball lens 1006 may be positioned between the proximal end of the light source 1021 and the distal end of the optical fiber 1046. In some embodiments, the ball lens 1006 may be coupled to the light source 1021 via, for example, one or more coupling arms 1009. In some embodiments, the ball lens 1006 may be positioned closer to the light source 1021 than to the optical fiber 1046. The ball lens 1006 may be used to help transmit one or more optical signals 1030 emitted by the light source 1021 into the optical fiber 1046, as shown in the figure. The ball lens 1006 will allow more of the one or more optical signals 930 to be directed towards the central portion (e.g., the core) of the optical fiber 1046. The optical fiber 1046 can support the waveguide mode among other modes.

[0070] Figure 11 shows a light source 1121 that may be configured to generate one or more optical signals 1130. The light source 1121 may be similar to, or interchangeable with, the light sources 321 and 721 shown in Figures 3 and 7, respectively, and may be used in conjunction with a distal conversion device 143. For example, the light source 1121 may be configured to generate one or more optical signals 1130 based on one or more electrical signals (e.g., one or more analog electrical signals 303 and / or one or more digital electrical signals 703) generated by the image sensor 140. A distributed refractive index (GRIN) lens 1106 may be positioned close to the light source 1121 along the optical path of one or more optical signals. That is, the GRIN lens 1106 may be positioned between the proximal end of the light source 1121 and the distal end of the optical fiber 1146. In some embodiments, the GRIN lens 1106 may be coupled to the light source 1121 via, for example, one or more coupling arms 1109. In some embodiments, the GRIN lens 1106 may be positioned closer to the light source 1121 than to the optical fiber 1146. The GRIN lens 1106 may be used to help transmit one or more optical signals 1130 emitted by the light source 1121 to the optical fiber 1146, as shown in the figure. The GRIN lens 1106 would allow more of the one or more optical signals 1130 to be directed towards the central portion (e.g., the core) of the optical fiber 1146. The optical fiber 1146 can support the waveguide mode among other modes.

[0071] Figure 12 shows a light source 1221 that may be configured to generate one or more optical signals 1230. The light source 1221 may be similar to, or interchangeable with, the light sources 321 and 721 shown in Figures 3 and 7, respectively, and may be used in conjunction with the distal conversion device 143. For example, the light source 1221 may be configured to generate one or more optical signals 1130 based on one or more electrical signals (e.g., one or more analog electrical signals 303 and / or one or more digital electrical signals 703) generated by the image sensor 140. The aspherical lens 1206 may be positioned close to the light source 1121 along the optical path of the one or more optical signals 1230. That is, the aspherical lens 1206 may be positioned between the proximal end of the light source 1221 and the distal end of the optical fiber 1246. In some embodiments, the aspherical lens 1206 may be coupled to the light source 1221 via, for example, one or more coupling arms 1209. In some embodiments, the aspherical lens 1206 may be positioned closer to the light source 1221 than to the optical fiber 1246. The aspherical lens 1206 may be used, as shown in the figure, to help transmit one or more optical signals 1230 emitted by the light source 1221 to the optical fiber 1246. The aspherical lens 1206 would allow more of the one or more optical signals 1230 to be directed towards the central portion (e.g., the core) of the optical fiber 1246. The optical fiber 1246 can support the waveguide mode among other modes.

[0072] Figure 13 shows a light source 1321 which may be configured to generate one or more optical signals 1330. The light source 1321 may be similar to, or interchangeable with, the light sources 321 and 721 shown in Figures 3 and 7, respectively, and may be used in conjunction with the distal conversion device 143. For example, the light source 1321 may be configured to generate one or more optical signals 1330 based on one or more electrical signals (e.g., one or more analog electrical signals 303 and / or one or more digital electrical signals 703) generated by the image sensor 140. The lens 1306 may be fused to the distal end of the fiber 1346 as shown. The lens 1306 may be used to help transmit one or more optical signals 1330 emitted by the light source 1321 to the optical fiber 1346, or to provide collimation to the optical fiber 136. The lens 1306 will allow more of one or more optical signals 1330 to be directed towards the central portion (e.g., the core) of the optical fiber 1346. The lens 1306 may include one or more molded lenses or grin lenses. The optical fiber 1346 can support the waveguide mode among other modes.

[0073] Figure 14 shows an illustrative schematic diagram 1400 of two or more communication paths of a medical device 110 incorporating a beam splitter, according to one or more embodiments. Schematic diagram 1400 shows one or more bidirectional communication paths between an image processing unit 180 and an image sensor 140. For example, bidirectional communication may be initiated when the image processing unit 180 receives user input via a user interface for adjusting one or more settings for the image sensor 140. To enable bidirectional communication, the medical device 110 can lead bidirectional communication between the image processing unit 180 and the image sensor 140 by using a single optical fiber and a pair of beam splitters.

[0074] Schematic Figure 1400 includes a proximal beam converter 1443, a proximal beam splitter 1446, a proximal optical receiver 149, a distal beam splitter 1449, a distal optical receiver 1452, a distal beam converter 143, and an optical fiber 1447. The proximal beam converter 1443, the proximal beam splitter 1446, and the proximal optical receiver 149 may be located in or near the handle 112 (Figure 1). The proximal beam splitter 1446 may be located between the proximal beam converter 1443 and the optical fiber 1447. The proximal beam splitter 1446 may be coupled to the proximal end of the optical fiber 1447. Furthermore, the proximal beam splitter 1446 may be coupled to the proximal beam converter 1443 and the proximal optical receiver 149. However, the positions of the proximal conversion device 1443, the proximal beam splitter 1446, and the proximal optical receiver 149 may vary depending on other factors, among others, particularly the position of the image processing unit 180 and the position of the proximal end of the optical fiber 1447.

[0075] The distal beam splitter 1449, distal optical receiver 1452, and distal conversion device 143 may be located at or near the distal end of the shaft 120 (Figure 1). The distal beam splitter 1449 may be located between the optical fiber 1447 and the distal conversion device 143. The distal beam splitter 1449 may be coupled to the distal end of the optical fiber 1447. Furthermore, the distal beam splitter may be coupled to the distal optical receiver 1452 and the distal conversion device 143. The optical fiber 1447 may extend between the proximal beam splitter 1446 and the distal beam splitter 1449. Further explanation of the location and function of the above-described proximal and distal components is provided below with respect to facilitating bidirectional communication between the image processing unit 180 and the image sensor 140.

[0076] To initiate the upstream process of the communication flow from the image sensor 140 to the image processing unit 180 (similar to the upstream process 200 associated with Figure 2, for example), the image sensor 140 may be configured to generate one or more analog signals and / or one or more digital signals, which are represented herein as one or more first electrical signals. One or more first electrical signals transmit image and / or video data based on the acquisition of one or more images (e.g., by the image sensor 140) during a procedure (e.g., a diagnostic procedure, preoperative imaging). The image sensor 140 can transmit one or more first electrical signals to a distal transformer 143. The distal transformer 143 may be configured to convert one or more first electrical signals into one or more first optical signals and to transmit one or more first optical signals to a distal beam splitter 1449.

[0077] The distal beam splitter 1449 may be configured to couple one or more first optical signals into the optical fiber 1447. For example, depending on the light source and the distal beam splitter 1449, the distal beam splitter 1449 may be configured to split one or more first optical signals into multiple paths and to guide a portion of one or more first optical signals into the transmission optical fiber 1447. In other cases, the distal beam splitter 1449 may not need to split one or more first optical signals into multiple paths, and the majority of one or more first optical signals may be transmitted into the optical fiber 1447.

[0078] A proximal beam splitter 1446 (located, for example, near the proximal end of the optical fiber 1447) may be configured to receive one or more first optical signals, or a portion of one or more first optical signals, via the optical fiber 1447. The proximal beam splitter 1446 may couple one or more first optical signals, or a portion of one or more first optical signals, to a proximal optical receiver 149. The proximal optical receiver 149 may be configured to convert one or more first optical signals into one or more second electrical signals (for example, analog and / or digital signals) for processing by the image processing unit 180. For example, the image processing unit 180 may, by receiving and processing one or more second electrical signals, generate one or more image and / or video signals of the image and / or video initially acquired by the image sensor 140 for display.

[0079] To initiate a downstream process in the communication flow from the image processing unit 180 to the image sensor 140, the image processing unit 180 may receive a user input or determine an algorithmic input to adjust one or more settings for the image sensor 140, as described above. Based on the user input or algorithmic input, the image processing unit 180 may generate one or more third electrical signals (e.g., analog and / or digital signals). One or more third electrical signals may include data related to adjusting one or more settings for the image sensor 140. The image processing unit 180 may be communicatively coupled to a proximal conversion device 1443, and the image processing unit 180 may transmit one or more third electrical signals to the proximal conversion device 1443.

[0080] The proximal conversion device 1443 may include many of the same components as the distal conversion device 143, such as a light source. In addition, the proximal conversion device 1443 may be configured to convert one or more third electrical signals into one or more second optical signals. To transmit one or more second optical signals over the optical fiber 1447, the proximal beam splitter 1446 may transmit one or more second optical signals, or a portion of one or more second optical signals, into the optical fiber 1447. For example, depending on the light source and the proximal beam splitter 1446, the proximal beam splitter 1446 may be able to split one or more second optical signals into multiple paths and guide a portion of one or more second optical signals into the transmission optical fiber 1447. In other cases, the proximal beam splitter 1446 may not be able to split one or more second optical signals into multiple paths and may transmit most of one or more second optical signals into the optical fiber 1447.

[0081] A distal beam splitter 1449 (for example, located distal to the distal end of the optical fiber 1447) may be configured to receive one or more second optical signals, or a portion of one or more second optical signals, via the optical fiber 1447. The distal beam splitter 1449 may transmit one or more second optical signals to a distal optical receiver 1452. The distal optical receiver 1452 may be configured to convert one or more second optical signals into one or more fourth electrical signals (for example, analog and / or digital signals) for processing by the image sensor 140. For example, the image sensor 140 can adjust one or more settings specified by the user of the medical system 100 by receiving and processing one or more fourth electrical signals.

[0082] For either the upstream or downstream communication process described above, a coupling lens (as described, for example, in relation to Figures 9-13) may be positioned along the optical transmission path between the light source and the optical fiber. The coupling lens will allow a larger amount of emitted optical signal to enter the optical fiber. For example, the coupling lens may be positioned between the distal beam splitter 1449 and the optical fiber 1447. In addition, the coupling lens may be positioned between the proximal beam splitter 1446 and the optical fiber 1447.

[0083] Figure 15 shows an illustrative schematic diagram 1500 of two or more communication paths for a medical device 110 incorporating a first optical fiber and a second optical fiber, according to one or more embodiments. Schematic diagram 1500 shows one or more bidirectional communication paths between an image processing unit 180 and an image sensor 140. For example, bidirectional communication may be initiated when the image processing unit 180 receives user input via a user interface for adjusting one or more settings for the image sensor 140. To enable bidirectional communication, the medical device 110 can use the first and second optical fibers to facilitate bidirectional communication between the image processing unit 180 and the image sensor 140.

[0084] Schematic Figure 1500 comprises a proximal conversion device 1543, a proximal optical receiver 149, a distal optical receiver 1552, a distal conversion device 143, a first optical fiber 1547, and a second optical fiber 1550. The proximal conversion device 1543 and the proximal optical receiver 149 may be located within or near the handle 112. However, the positions of the proximal conversion device 1543 and the proximal optical receiver 149 may vary depending on the position of the image processing unit 180, among other factors.

[0085] The distal optical receiver 1552 and the distal conversion device 143 may be located at or near the distal end of the shaft 120. The first optical fiber 1547 may extend between the distal conversion device 143 and the proximal optical receiver 149. The second optical fiber 1550 may extend between the proximal conversion device 1543 and the distal optical receiver 1552. Further explanation of the location and function of the above-described proximal and distal components is provided below with respect to facilitating bidirectional communication between the image processing unit 180 and the image sensor 140.

[0086] To initiate an upstream process in the communication flow from the image sensor 140 to the image processing unit 180 (similar to the upstream process 200 associated with Figure 2, for example), the image sensor 140 may be configured to generate one or more analog signals and / or one or more digital signals. One or more analog signals and / or one or more digital signals are represented herein as one or more first electrical signals. One or more electrical signals may transmit image and / or video data based on the acquisition of one or more images during a procedure (e.g., a diagnostic procedure, preoperative imaging). The image sensor 140 can transmit one or more first electrical signals to a distal transposition device 143. The distal transposition device 143 may be configured to convert one or more first electrical signals into one or more first optical signals and to transmit one or more first optical signals to a first optical fiber 1547.

[0087] The proximal optical receiver 149 may be configured to receive one or more first optical signals via the first optical fiber 1547 and to convert one or more first optical signals into one or more second electrical signals (e.g., analog and / or digital signals) for processing by the image processing unit 180. For example, the image processing unit 180 may receive and process one or more second electrical signals to generate one or more image and / or video signals of the image and / or video initially acquired by the image sensor 140 for a connectable display.

[0088] To initiate a downstream process in the communication flow from the image processing unit 180 to the image sensor 140, the image processing unit 180 may receive user input for adjusting one or more settings for the image sensor 140, as described above. Based on the user input, the image processing unit 180 may generate one or more third electrical signals (e.g., analog and / or digital signals) which include data related to adjusting one or more settings for the image sensor 140. The image processing unit 180 may be communicatively coupled to a proximal conversion device 1543, and the image processing unit 180 may transmit one or more third electrical signals to the proximal conversion device 1543.

[0089] The proximal conversion device 1543 may include many of the same components as the distal conversion device 143, such as a light source. In addition, the proximal conversion device 1543 may be configured to convert one or more third electrical signals into one or more second optical signals. The proximal conversion device 1543 may be coupled to the second optical fiber 1550 and transmit one or more second optical signals to the second optical fiber 1550.

[0090] At the distal end of the second optical fiber 1550, the distal optical receiver 1552 may be configured to receive one or more second optical signals via the second optical fiber 1550. The distal optical receiver 1552 may be configured to convert one or more second optical signals into one or more fourth electrical signals (e.g., analog and / or digital signals) for processing by the image sensor 140. Similar to the proximal optical receiver 149 (e.g., Figure 4), the distal optical receiver 1552 may be connected to various electronic devices and / or components (e.g., amplifiers, attenuators) that can modulate the output signal level to a level suitable for processing by the image sensor 140. By receiving and processing one or more fourth electrical signals, the image sensor 140 can adjust one or more settings specified by the user of the medical system 100.

[0091] For either the upstream or downstream communication process described above, a coupling lens (as described, for example, in relation to Figures 8-13) may be positioned along the optical transmission path between the light source and the optical fiber. The coupling lens will allow a larger amount of emitted optical signal to enter the optical fiber. For example, the coupling lens may be positioned between the distal conversion device 143 and the first optical fiber 1547. In addition, the coupling lens may be positioned between the proximal conversion device 1543 and the second optical fiber 1550.

[0092] In the various embodiments described above, the image sensor 140 may be powered based on light sent by a light source (e.g., a laser) and transmitted through an optical fiber (e.g., optical fibers 1447, 1550, 1547, etc.). A distal light receiver (e.g., distal light receivers 1452, 1552, etc.) may convert the energy contained in the photons of the optical signal into electrical energy, which may be used to power the image sensor 140.

[0093] The embodiments described above may not require the use of an electrical conductor path to support the image sensor 140 (e.g., a camera) for operations such as illumination, clocking, and data transfer, thereby helping to reduce interference and / or signal loss that may occur during video data and / or image data transmission. Furthermore, the data generated by the image sensor 140 may be transmitted to the image processing unit 180 in a one-to-one ratio, and vice versa. In addition, the use of one or more optical fibers may help to reduce the overall footprint of the shaft 120 and / or help to increase the dimensions of one or more working channels or lumens within the shaft 120.

[0094] With respect to schematic diagram 1400 in Figure 14, the incorporation of a proximal beam splitter 1446 and a distal beam splitter 1449 to facilitate bidirectional communication would enable the use of a single optical fiber (e.g., optical fiber 1447). Using a single optical fiber could help enable the use of a shaft 120 of the medical device 110 that occupies less space (e.g., circumference, volume) compared to what would be required in modifications that otherwise require two or more optical fibers. With respect to schematic diagram 1500 in Figure 15, the incorporation of a second optical fiber 1550 without a beam splitter would require a shaft 120 with a larger occupancy space, while the occupancy space at the distal and proximal ends of the first optical fiber 1547 and the second optical fiber 1550 could be reduced.

[0095] Other embodiments of this disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art by considering this specification and by practicing the invention disclosed herein. This specification and the examples are intended to be considered illustrative only, and the true scope and spirit of the invention are set forth by the following claims.

Claims

1. A shaft having a distal end and a proximal end, An image sensor located at the distal end of the shaft, wherein the image sensor is configured to generate a first electrical signal based on the acquisition of one or more images, and the first electrical signal includes image data or video data associated with the acquisition of the one or more images, A distal conversion device located at the distal end and communicating with the image sensor, wherein the distal conversion device is configured to convert the first electrical signal into an optical signal, Proximal light receiver and, An optical fiber extending between the distal conversion device and the proximal optical receiver, A medical device equipped with, The optical fiber is configured to facilitate the transmission of the optical signal between the distal conversion device and the proximal optical receiver. The proximal optical receiver is configured to receive the optical signal via the optical fiber and convert the optical signal into a second electrical signal, the second electrical signal including the transmission of the image data or video data associated with the acquisition of one or more images, in a medical device.

2. The medical device according to claim 1, wherein the transmission of the image data or video data includes a one-to-one transfer of the image data or video data associated with the acquisition of one or more images.

3. The medical device according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a handle connected to the proximal end of the shaft, wherein the handle includes an image processing unit communicatively coupled to the proximal light receiver.

4. The medical device according to claim 3, wherein the image processing unit is configured to process the second electrical signal to generate video signals of one or more images for a connectable display.

5. The aforementioned image processing unit further, Receiving user input or algorithmic input to adjust one or more settings for the aforementioned image sensor, To generate a third electrical signal for the image sensor based on the user input or the algorithm input, A medical device according to claim 3 or 4, configured to perform the following:

6. The optical fiber is a first optical fiber, the optical signal is a first optical signal, and the medical device is A proximal conversion device that communicates with the aforementioned image processing unit, It further includes a distal light receiver, The proximal conversion device is configured to receive the third electrical signal and convert the third electrical signal into a second optical signal. The medical device further comprises a second optical fiber extending between the proximal conversion device and the distal optical receiver, the second optical fiber configured to facilitate the transmission of the second optical signal between the proximal conversion device and the distal optical receiver, The medical device according to claim 5, wherein the distal light receiver is configured to receive the second optical signal via the second optical fiber and to convert the second optical signal into a fourth electrical signal for transmission to the image sensor in order to adjust the one or more settings.

7. A first lens positioned between the distal conversion device and the first optical fiber, the first lens configured to transmit the first optical signal to the first optical fiber, A second lens positioned between the proximal conversion device and the second optical fiber, the second lens configured to transmit the second optical signal from the proximal conversion device to the second optical fiber, The medical device according to claim 6, further comprising:

8. The medical device according to claim 7, wherein the first lens is positioned closer to the distal conversion device than the first optical fiber, and the second lens is positioned closer to the proximal conversion device than the second optical fiber.

9. The medical device according to claim 7, wherein the first lens and the second lens include at least one of a ball lens, a distributed refractive index (GRIN) lens, or an aspherical lens.

10. The optical signal is a first optical signal, the medical device is configured to receive the third electrical signal, and the medical device is configured to receive the third electrical signal. A distal beam splitter positioned at the distal end of the optical fiber, A proximal beam splitter positioned at the proximal end of the optical fiber, A distal light receiver positioned in the distal beam splitter, The system further comprises a proximal beam splitter and a proximal conversion device that communicates with the image processing unit, The proximal conversion device is configured to convert the third electrical signal into a second optical signal. The proximal beam splitter is configured to receive the second optical signal and to couple the second optical signal to the optical fiber. The distal beam splitter is configured to receive the second optical signal via the optical fiber and to couple the second optical signal to the distal optical receiver. The medical device according to claim 5, wherein the distal light receiver is configured to convert the second optical signal into a fourth electrical signal for processing by the image sensor to adjust the one or more settings.

11. The distal conversion device includes a light-emitting device, according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. The medical device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the first electrical signal includes an analog signal or a digital signal.

13. The medical device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the first electrical signal is an analog electrical signal, the optical signal comprises a plurality of pulsed optical signals, and the conversion of the analog electrical signal to the plurality of pulsed optical signals includes modulating the analog electrical signal based on a pulse width modulation (PWM) technique or a pulse position modulation (PPM) technique.

14. A medical device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the first electrical signal is an analog electrical signal, the optical signal comprises one or more on-off pulsed optical signals, and the conversion of the analog electrical signal to the one or more on-off pulsed optical signals comprises modulating the analog electrical signal based on a pulse carrier technique or a pulse amplitude modulation (PAM) technique.

15. The medical device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the first electrical signal is a digital electrical signal, and the conversion of the digital electrical signal to the optical signal includes determining whether the digital electrical signal transmits a binary 1 or a binary 0 by using a comparator circuit, the transmission of a binary 1 causes the light-emitting device to light up, and the transmission of a binary 0 causes the light-emitting device to turn off, thereby generating the optical signal.

Images