Optical detection with controllable detector integration time

Abstract

In an optical detection device, such as an endoscope, a detector having a controllable detector integration time can generate a detector signal from light that is reflected or emitted by a sample and collected by a user-replaceable optical fiber. A spectrum analyzer can measure a. spectrum of the detector signal. A controller can receive fiber parameter data that corresponds to at least one value of at least one physical parameter, such as core diameter, of the user-replaceable optical fiber. In response to receiving the fiber parameter data, the controller can establish or adjust the controllable detector integration time to have a value that corresponds to the at least one value of the at least one physical parameter of the user-replaceable optical fiber. For example, the controller can decrease the controllable detector integration time value with increasing diameter of the core of the user-replaceable optical fiber.

Description

OPTICAL DETECTION WITH CONTROLLABLE DETECTOR INTEGRATION TIME CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 569,907, filed March 26, 2024, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0002] This document relates generally to optical detection devices, and more specifically relates to endoscopic systems. BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0003] An operator, such as a physician, practitioner, or user, can use an endoscope to provide visual access to an internal location of a patient. The operator can insert an endoscope into a patient’s body. The endoscope can deliver light to a target being examined, such as a target anatomy or object. The endoscope can collect light that is reflected from the object. The reflected light can carry information about the target being examined. SUMMARY

[0004] In an example, an optical detection device can comprise: a detector having a controllable detector integration time, the detector configured to receive, from a user-replaceable optical fiber, collected light that is reflected or emitted by a sample and, in response to receiving the collected light, generate a detector signal; a spectrum analyzer configured to measure a spectrum of the detector signal; and a controller configured to: receive fiber parameter data that corresponds to at least one value of at least one physical parameter of the user- replaceable optical fiber; and in response to receiving the fiber parameter data, establish or adjust the controllable detector integration time to have a value that corresponds to the at least one value of the at least one physical parameter of the user-replaceable optical fiber. Attorney Docket No.: 5409.868WO1 Client Ref. No.: GAP24014-URKT-WO1

[0005] In an example, a method for operating an optical detection device can comprise: receiving, from a user-replaceable optical fiber, with a detector having a controllable detector integration time, collected light that is reflected or emitted by a sample; generating, with the detector, a detector signal in response to receiving the collected light; measuring, with a spectrum analyzer, a spectrum of the detector signal; receiving, with a controller, fiber parameter data that corresponds to at least one value of at least one physical parameter of the user- replaceable optical fiber; and in response to receiving the fiber parameter data, with the controller, establishing or adjusting the controllable detector integration time to have a value that corresponds to the at least one value of the at least one physical parameter of the user-replaceable optical fiber.

[0006] In an example, a spectroscopic detection system can comprise: an illuminator disposed at a distal end of an endoscope and configured to illuminate a sample with illumination; a user-replaceable optical fiber having a distal portion coupled to the endoscope and having a distal end configured to accept, as collected light, at least some of the illumination that is reflected or emitted by the sample; a spectrometer detector having a controllable detector integration time, the spectrometer detector configured to receive, from the user-replaceable optical fiber, the collected light and, in response to receiving the collected light, generate a detector signal; a spectrometer spectrum analyzer configured to measure a spectrum of the detector signal; a spectrometer controller configured to: receive fiber parameter data that corresponds to at least one value of a diameter of a core of the user-replaceable optical fiber, the fiber parameter data being encoded as machine-readable data in or on the user-replaceable optical fiber; and in response to receiving the fiber parameter data, establish or adjust the controllable detector integration time to have a value that decreases with increasing diameter of the core of the user-replaceable optical fiber; and processing circuitry configured to determine a composition of the sample at least in part from the spectrum of the collected light. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Attorney Docket No.: 5409.868WO1 Client Ref. No.: GAP24014-URKT-WO1

[0007] Various embodiments are illustrated by way of example in the figures of the accompanying drawings. Such embodiments are demonstrative and not intended to be exhaustive or exclusive embodiments of the present subject matter.

[0008] FIG. 1 shows a side-view schematic drawing of an example of an optical detection device.

[0009] FIG. 2 shows a flow chart of an example of a method for operating an optical detection device.

[0010] FIG. 3 shows a schematic diagram of an example of a computer- based clinical decision support system that is configured to control an integration time of the detector in response to one or more physical parameters of the fiber. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0011] In an optical detection device, an optical fiber can deliver light from a sample to a detector. For example, the optical detection device may include or may be included with an endoscope. The endoscope can include an illuminator disposed at a distal end of the endoscope. The illuminator can illuminate a sample with illumination. The optical fiber can have a distal portion coupled to the endoscope and a distal end that can accept, as collected light, at least some of the illumination that is reflected or emitted by the sample, such as via reflectance spectroscopy, fluorescence, Raman scattering, and the like.

[0012] The illuminator can be integrated with the endoscope, so that the illuminator can provide similar illumination conditions from procedure to procedure. The optical fiber, however, can be user-replaceable, such as for use with a single procedure. For configurations in which the optical fiber is a multimode fiber, one or more physical parameter values of the optical fiber can affect how much collected light is delivered from the sample to the detector. For example, an optical fiber having a relatively large core diameter may deliver more collected light to the detector than an optical fiber having a relatively small core diameter, for comparable illumination conditions. If an optical fiber with a small core diameter is used for a first procedure and is replaced with an optical fiber having a large core diameter for a second procedure, the detector may Attorney Docket No.: 5409.868WO1 Client Ref. No.: GAP24014-URKT-WO1experience an increase in the amount of light, from the first procedure to the second procedure. If the optical detection device does not compensate for the increase in the amount of light at the detector, the detector may experience saturation, which may lead to inaccuracies in the optical detection device.

[0013] To at least partially compensate for fiber-to-fiber variations in the amount of light delivered to the detector, the optical detection device can control an integration time of the detector in response to one or more physical parameters of the fiber. For example, in an optical detection device, such as an endoscope, a detector having a controllable detector integration time can generate a detector signal from light that is reflected or emitted by a sample and collected by a user-replaceable optical fiber. A spectrum analyzer can measure a spectrum of the detector signal. A controller can receive fiber parameter data that corresponds to at least one value of at least one physical parameter, such as core diameter, of the user-replaceable optical fiber. In response to receiving the fiber parameter data, the controller can establish or adjust the controllable detector integration time to have a value that corresponds to the at least one value of the at least one physical parameter of the user-replaceable optical fiber. For example, the controller can decrease the controllable detector integration time value with increasing diameter of the core of the user-replaceable optical fiber.

[0014] FIG. 1 shows a side-view schematic drawing of an example of an optical detection device 100. The optical detection device 100 can be a spectrometer, or another suitable device.

[0015] During a procedure, a user-replaceable optical fiber 120 can deliver therapeutic light to a sample 130, such as a kidney stone. The therapeutic light can be absorbed by the sample 130 and cause thermal stresses in the sample 130 that can break the sample 130 into smaller fragments. During times at which the user-replaceable optical fiber 120 is not directing therapeutic light to the sample 130, and the sample 130 is being illuminated by an illuminator 170, a portion of light reflected or emitted by the sample 130 may be collected by the user-replaceable optical fiber 120 and directed proximally away from the sample 130. A detector 110 disposed at or near a proximal end of the Attorney Docket No.: 5409.868WO1 Client Ref. No.: GAP24014-URKT-WO1user-replaceable optical fiber 120 can detect the light reflected or emitted by the sample 130 and collected by the user-replaceable optical fiber 120.

[0016] The detector 110 can have a controllable detector integration time. The detector 110 can be a spectrometer detector. The detector 110 can include a photosensitive element 112, such as a sensor, that can produce an electrical current or voltage in response to receiving incident light. The photosensitive element 112 can be a multi-pixel sensor, such as an imaging sensor, or can be a non-imaging sensor (e.g., one big pixel). The detector 110 can include detector electronics 114, which can controllably store charge from the photosensitive element 112 and can produce an electrical signal that can be read by another circuit, such as a spectrum analyzer 140 or a controller 150. Detector saturation can occur when the detector electronics 114 receive more charge than the detector electronics 114 can storage, over the duration of the detector integration time. The detector electronics 114 can control the detector integration time, such as by controlling at least one of a start time and an end time, with the detector integration time corresponding to a time interval or duration between the start time and the end time.

[0017] The detector 110 can receive, from a user-replaceable optical fiber 120, collected light that is reflected or emitted by a sample 130. The detector 110 can, in response to receiving the collected light, generate a detector signal 116. The detector signal can correspond to the detector integration time, multiplied by an average power level of the collected light that arrives at the detector 110 during the detector integration time.

[0018] The optical detection device 100 can include a spectrum analyzer 140 that can measure a spectrum of the detector signal 116. The spectrum analyzer 140 can be a spectrometer spectrum analyzer. The spectrum analyzer 140 can produce a spectrum analysis electrical signal 142 that can be read by another electrical device, such as a controller 150. An example of a suitable configuration for the spectrum analyzer 140 can include a wavelength-separating element (such as a grating) and multiple detectors, with each detector corresponding to a specified wavelength or wavelength range. An example of a suitable configuration for the spectrum analyzer 140 can include a spectrometer. Attorney Docket No.: 5409.868WO1 Client Ref. No.: GAP24014-URKT-WO1An example of a suitable configuration for the spectrum analyzer 140 can include a series of wavelength-separating elements, such as multiple dichroic filters, one or more of which can optionally be arranged in sequence or in series, one or more of which can optionally be arranged in parallel, and multiple detectors, with each detector corresponding to a specified wavelength or wavelength range. An example of a suitable configuration for the spectrum analyzer 140 can include multiple detectors, each with an associated wavelength-sensitive filter, such as a bandpass filter or a notch filter. Other configurations can be used. The spectrum analysis electrical signal 142 can be analog, digital, or a combination of analog and digital.

[0019] The optical detection device 100 can include a controller 150. The controller 150 can be a spectrometer controller. The controller 150 may be referred to as processing circuitry. The controller 150 may be implemented purely in software, purely in hardware, or as a combination of software and hardware. The controller 150 may be implemented on a single processor or on multiple processors. For controller configurations that utilize multiple processors, the processors may be housed in a common housing 155, or at least two of the multiple processors may be spaced apart in different housings. The controller 150 can include one or more processors, and memory containing instructions that are executable by the one or more processors to cause the one or more processors to perform operations. Examples of such operations are detailed below.

[0020] The controller 150 can receive fiber parameter data that corresponds to at least one value of at least one physical parameter of the user- replaceable optical fiber 120. The controller 150 can, in response to receiving the fiber parameter data, establish or adjust the controllable detector integration time to have a value that corresponds to the at least one value of the at least one physical parameter of the user-replaceable optical fiber 120. Three examples follow that describe suitable physical parameters.

[0021] In a first example, the at least one physical parameter can include a diameter of a core of the user-replaceable optical fiber 120. For example, the user-replaceable optical fiber 120 can include a core, having a circular cross- Attorney Docket No.: 5409.868WO1 Client Ref. No.: GAP24014-URKT-WO1section, and a cladding, formed from a material having a refractive index that is less that a refractive index of the core, that surrounds the core. Light propagates along a length of the user-replaceable optical fiber 120 within the core and remains in the core via total internal reflection at the (generally cylindrical) interface between the core and the cladding. An optional protective jacket may surround the cladding. In the first example, the controller 150 can adjust the controllable detector integration time to have a value that decreases with increasing diameter of the core of the user-replaceable optical fiber 120. For example, the controller 150 can adjust the controllable detector integration time to have a value that is inversely proportional to a square of the diameter of the core of the user-replaceable optical fiber 120 at a distal end of the user- replaceable optical fiber 120.

[0022] In a second example, the at least one physical parameter can include a surface area of a core of the user-replaceable optical fiber 120 at a distal end of the user-replaceable optical fiber 120. For example, the core may have a cross-section that is non-circular, such as by being elongated, irregular, polygonal, having one or more corners, and so forth. The non-circular cross- section may occur in fibers that are polarization preserving, in fibers that include multiple cores, and other cases. In the second example, the controller 150 can adjust the controllable detector integration time to have a value that decreases with increasing surface area of the core of the user-replaceable optical fiber 120 at the distal end of the user-replaceable optical fiber 120. For example, the controller 150 can adjust the controllable detector integration time to have a value that is inversely proportional to the surface area of the core of the user- replaceable optical fiber 120 at the distal end of the user-replaceable optical fiber 120.

[0023] In a third example, the at least one physical parameter can include a numerical aperture of the user-replaceable optical fiber 120. The numerical aperture of the of the user-replaceable optical fiber 120 is a measure of the size of the acceptance angle for light that can enter the user-replaceable optical fiber 120 and can propagate along a length of the user-replaceable optical fiber 120. In general, the numerical aperture can be determined by the refractive indices of 7 Attorney Docket No.: 5409.868WO1 Client Ref. No.: GAP24014-URKT-WO1the core and the cladding materials. In the third example, the controller 150 can adjust the controllable detector integration time to have a value that decreases with increasing numerical aperture.

[0024] The three examples described above are but mere examples of physical parameters. Other suitable physical parameters can also be used. Four examples follow that describe how the controller 150 receives the fiber parameter data.

[0025] In a first example, the fiber parameter data can be encoded as machine-readable data in or on the user-replaceable optical fiber 120. For example, the user-replaceable optical fiber 120 can include a radiofrequency identification (RFID) tag 122. The optical detection device 100 can include an RFID tag reader 124 that can read data from the RFID tag 122. The data read from the RFID tag 122 can include the fiber parameter data directly, can include data can form a query from a suitable database that can provide the fiber parameter data, or can include a combination of both. As another example, the user-replaceable optical fiber 120 can include a bar code, such as a QR code. The optical detection device 100 can include a bar code reader that can read data from the bar code. As another example, the user-replaceable optical fiber 120 can include an electrical circuit. The optical detection device 100 can include a circuit reader that can read data from the electrical circuit. Other suitable machine-readable data can also be used.

[0026] In a second example, a user can select a fiber type from a specified or predetermined list of fiber types. The list can include part names or other suitable identifiers that may be familiar to the user. As a specific example, if the user-replaceable optical fiber 120 is commercially available in three different configurations, then the specified or predetermined list can include the corresponding three part names. In the second example, the controller 150 can cause a user interface 158 to prompt a user to select one of a specified plurality of optical fiber types. The user interface 158 can include a computer monitor, a display, a touch-sensitive display, or other suitable device for displaying information to a user and receiving input from the user. The controller 150 can receive, from the user interface 158, a selection of a selected optical fiber type Attorney Docket No.: 5409.868WO1 Client Ref. No.: GAP24014-URKT-WO1from the specified plurality of optical fiber types. The controller 150 can submit, to a fiber type database that associates optical fiber types with corresponding physical parameter values, a query that provides the selected optical fiber type. The controller 150 can retrieve, from the fiber type database, a retrieved physical parameter value in response to the query. The controller 150 can form the fiber parameter data at least in part from the retrieved physical parameter value.

[0027] In a third example, a user can select a physical parameter value, such as core diameter, from a specified or predetermined list of physical parameter values, such as a list of core diameters. The list can include physical parameter values that correspond to various configurations of the user- replaceable optical fiber 120. As a specific example, if the user-replaceable optical fiber 120 is commercially available in three different configurations, each with a different core diameter value, then the specified or predetermined list can include the three core diameter values. In the third example, the controller 150 can cause a user interface 158 to prompt a user to select one of a specified plurality of physical parameter values. The controller 150 can receive, from the user interface 158, a selection of a selected physical parameter value from the specified plurality of physical parameter values. The controller 150 can form the fiber parameter data at least in part from the selected physical parameter value.

[0028] In a fourth example, a user can directly enter a physical parameter value, such as core diameter, into a specified field of a user interface 158. In the third example, the controller 150 can cause a user interface 158 to prompt a user to directly enter a physical parameter value. The controller 150 can receive, from the user interface 158, an entered physical parameter value. The controller 150 can form the fiber parameter data at least in part from the entered physical parameter value.

[0029] The optical detection device 100 can include or can be included in an endoscope 160, such as to aid in spectroscopically identifying a composition of a sample 130 or a target, such as a kidney stone. For example, a distal portion of the user-replaceable optical fiber 120 can be coupled to the endoscope 160. A distal end 162 of the endoscope 160 can include an Attorney Docket No.: 5409.868WO1 Client Ref. No.: GAP24014-URKT-WO1illuminator 170 that can illuminate the sample 130 with illumination. The illuminator 170 can deliver broadband light, such as white light, to the sample 130. The illuminator 170 can include a light source that produces the broadband light. For example, the light source can include one or more white light-emitting diodes disposed on a distal end of the endoscope 160. As another example, the light source can include an arc lamp, such as a xenon arc lamp, disposed away from the endoscope 160, and tethered to the endoscope 160 by an optical fiber that delivers the broadband light from the arc lamp to the endoscope 160. A distal end of the user-replaceable optical fiber 120 can accept, as the collected light, at least some of the illumination that is reflected or emitted by the sample 130. The optical detection device 100 can further include processing circuitry 180 that can determine a composition of the sample 130 at least in part from the spectrum of the collected light. For example, the processing circuitry 180 can select one or more materials from a database of materials to have a spectrum that most closely matches the spectrum of the collected light.

[0030] In some examples, the optical detection device 100 can control integration time based on an intensity of the measured signal in comparison to a predefined threshold. Controlling the integration time in this manner can provide an additional input into the surgical fiber physical property integration time control process.

[0031] FIG. 2 shows a flow chart of an example of a method 200 for operating an optical detection device, such as optical detection device 100. The method of FIG. 2 is but one example of a method for operating an optical detection device; other suitable methods can also be used.

[0032] At operation 202, the method 200 can comprise receiving, from a user-replaceable optical fiber such as user-replaceable optical fiber 120, with a detector having a controllable detector integration time such as detector 110, collected light that is reflected or emitted by a sample such as sample 130.

[0033] At operation 204, the method 200 can comprise generating, with the detector, a detector signal in response to receiving the collected light. Attorney Docket No.: 5409.868WO1 Client Ref. No.: GAP24014-URKT-WO1

[0034] At operation 206, the method 200 can comprise measuring, with a spectrum analyzer such as spectrum analyzer 140, a spectrum of the detector signal.

[0035] At operation 208, the method 200 can comprise receiving, with a controller such as controller 150, fiber parameter data that corresponds to at least one value of at least one physical parameter of the user-replaceable optical fiber.

[0036] In a first example, the fiber parameter data can be encoded as machine-readable data in or on the user-replaceable optical fiber.

[0037] In a second example, the controller can receive the fiber parameter data by: causing a user interface to prompt a user to select one of a specified plurality of optical fiber types, receiving, from the user interface, a selection of a selected optical fiber type from the specified plurality of optical fiber types, submitting, to a fiber type database that associates optical fiber types with corresponding physical parameter values, a query that provides the selected optical fiber type, retrieving, from the fiber type database, a retrieved physical parameter value in response to the query, and forming the fiber parameter data at least in part from the retrieved physical parameter value.

[0038] In a third example, the controller can receive the fiber parameter data by: causing a user interface to prompt a user to select one of a specified plurality of physical parameter values, receiving, from the user interface, a selection of a selected physical parameter value from the specified plurality of physical parameter values, and forming the fiber parameter data at least in part from the selected physical parameter value.

[0039] At operation 210, the method 200 can comprise in response to receiving the fiber parameter data, with the controller, establishing or adjusting the controllable detector integration time to have a value that corresponds to the at least one value of the at least one physical parameter of the user-replaceable optical fiber.

[0040] A distal portion of the user-replaceable optical fiber can be coupled to an endoscope, such as endoscope 160. A distal end of the endoscope can include an illuminator, such as illuminator 170, that can illuminate the sample with illumination. A distal end of the user-replaceable optical fiber can 11 Attorney Docket No.: 5409.868WO1 Client Ref. No.: GAP24014-URKT-WO1accept, as the collected light, at least some of the illumination that is reflected or emitted by the sample. The method 200 can optionally further comprise determining, with processing circuitry, a composition of the sample at least in part from the spectrum of the collected light.

[0041] FIG. 3 shows a schematic diagram of an example of a computer- based clinical decision support system (CDSS) 300 that can control an integration time of the detector in response to fiber parameter data that corresponds to at least one value of at least one physical parameter of the user- replaceable optical fiber. In various embodiments, the CDSS 300 includes an input interface 302 through which the one or more physical parameters of the fiber is provided as input features to an artificial intelligence (AI) model 304, a processor which performs an inference operation in which the one or more physical parameters of the fiber is applied to the AI model to determine whether the parameter value satisfies a specified condition, and a user interface (UI) or output interface 308 through which a determination may be communicated to a user, e.g., a clinician.

[0042] In some embodiments, the input interface 302 may be a direct data link between the CDSS 300 and one or more medical devices, such as the optical detection device 100 or endoscope 160, which generate at least some of the fiber parameter data. For example, the input interface 302 may transmit the fiber parameter data directly to the CDSS during a therapeutic and / or diagnostic medical procedure. Additionally, or alternatively, the input interface 302 may be a classical user interface that facilitates interaction between a user and the CDSS 300. For example, the input interface 302 may facilitate a user interface through which the user may manually enter the at least one physical parameter of the user-replaceable optical fiber. Additionally, or alternatively, the input interface 302 may provide the CDSS 300 with access to an electronic patient record from which one or more input features may be extracted. In any of these cases, the input interface 302 is configured to collect the parameter value in association with a specific patient on or before a time at which the CDSS 300 is used to assess the medical condition addressed by the optical detection device 100 or endoscope 160, such as a kidney stone. Attorney Docket No.: 5409.868WO1 Client Ref. No.: GAP24014-URKT-WO1

[0043] Based on one or more of the above input features, the processor, such as controller 150, performs an inference operation using the AI model to generate the determination. For example, input interface 302 may deliver the at least one physical parameter of the user-replaceable optical fiber into an input layer of the AI model which propagates this input feature through the AI model to an output layer. The AI model can provide a computer system the ability to perform tasks, without explicitly being programmed, by making inferences based on patterns found in the analysis of data. AI model explores the study and construction of algorithms (e.g., machine-learning algorithms) that may learn from existing data and make predictions about new data. Such algorithms operate by building an AI model from example training data in order to make data-driven predictions or decisions expressed as outputs or assessments.

[0044] There are two modes for machine learning (ML): supervised ML and unsupervised ML. Supervised ML uses prior knowledge (e.g., examples that correlate inputs to outputs or outcomes) to learn the relationships between the inputs and the outputs. The goal of supervised ML is to learn a function that, given some training data, best approximates the relationship between the training inputs and outputs so that the ML model can implement the same relationships when given inputs to generate the corresponding outputs. Unsupervised ML is the training of an ML algorithm using information that is neither classified nor labeled and allowing the algorithm to act on that information without guidance. Unsupervised ML is useful in exploratory analysis because it can automatically identify structure in data.

[0045] Common tasks for supervised ML are classification problems and regression problems. Classification problems, also referred to as categorization problems, aim at classifying items into one of several category values (for example, is this object an apple or an orange?). Regression algorithms aim at quantifying some items (for example, by providing a score to the value of some input). Some examples of commonly used supervised-ML algorithms are Logistic Regression (LR), Naive-Bayes, Random Forest (RF), neural networks (NN), deep neural networks (DNN), matrix factorization, and Support Vector Machines (SVM). Attorney Docket No.: 5409.868WO1 Client Ref. No.: GAP24014-URKT-WO1

[0046] Some common tasks for unsupervised ML include clustering, representation learning, and density estimation. Some examples of commonly used unsupervised-ML algorithms are K-means clustering, principal component analysis, and autoencoders.

[0047] Another type of ML is federated learning (also known as collaborative learning) that trains an algorithm across multiple decentralized devices holding local data, without exchanging the data. This approach stands in contrast to traditional centralized machine-learning techniques where all the local datasets are uploaded to one server, as well as to more classical decentralized approaches which often assume that local data samples are identically distributed. Federated learning enables multiple actors to build a common, robust machine learning model without sharing data, thus allowing to address critical issues such as data privacy, data security, data access rights and access to heterogeneous data.

[0048] The AI model may be trained continuously or periodically prior to performance of the inference operation by the processor, such as controller 150. Then, during the inference operation, the patient specific input features provided to the AI model may be propagated from an input layer, through one or more hidden layers, and ultimately to an output layer that corresponds to the determination.

[0049] The AI model can include a database, which can include data corresponding to a patient. The database can provide a patient record to the CDSS 300. The AI model can receive a parameter value from a sensor.

[0050] During and / or subsequent to the inference operation, the value of distance (Z) may be communicated to the user via the user interface (UI) and / or automatically cause an actuator or an alarm connected to the processor to perform a desired action. For example, the processor can cause the actuator to move the optical fiber with respect to the endoscope. Alternatively, the processor can cause the alarm to alert the practitioner.

[0051] The CDSS 300 can optionally be used to determine the action taken in response to a parameter value. Attorney Docket No.: 5409.868WO1 Client Ref. No.: GAP24014-URKT-WO1

[0052] In the foregoing detailed description, the method and apparatus of the present disclosure have been described with reference to specific embodiments thereof. It will, however, be evident that various modifications and changes may be made thereto without departing from the broader spirit and scope of the present disclosure. The present specification and figures are accordingly to be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive.

[0053] To further illustrate the device and related method disclosed herein, a non-limiting list of examples is provided below. Each of the following non limiting examples can stand on its own or can be combined in any permutation or combination with any one or more of the other examples.

[0054] In Example 1, an optical detection device can comprise: a detector having a controllable detector integration time, the detector configured to receive, from a user-replaceable optical fiber, collected light that is reflected or emitted by a sample and, in response to receiving the collected light, generate a detector signal; a spectrum analyzer configured to measure a spectrum of the detector signal; and a controller configured to: receive fiber parameter data that corresponds to at least one value of at least one physical parameter of the user- replaceable optical fiber; and in response to receiving the fiber parameter data, establish or adjust the controllable detector integration time to have a value that corresponds to the at least one value of the at least one physical parameter of the user-replaceable optical fiber.

[0055] In Example 2, the optical detection device of Example 1 can optionally be configured such that: the optical detection device is a spectrometer; the detector is a spectrometer detector; the spectrum analyzer is a spectrometer spectrum analyzer; and the controller is a spectrometer controller.

[0056] In Example 3, the optical detection device of any one of Examples 1-2 can optionally be configured such that: the at least one physical parameter includes a diameter of a core of the user-replaceable optical fiber; and the controller is configured to adjust the controllable detector integration time to have a value that decreases with increasing diameter of the core of the user- replaceable optical fiber. Attorney Docket No.: 5409.868WO1 Client Ref. No.: GAP24014-URKT-WO1

[0057] In Example 4, the optical detection device of any one of Examples 1-3 can optionally be configured such that the controller is configured to adjust the controllable detector integration time to have a value that is inversely proportional to a square of the diameter of the core of the user- replaceable optical fiber at a distal end of the user-replaceable optical fiber.

[0058] In Example 5, the optical detection device of any one of Examples 1-4 can optionally be configured such that: the at least one physical parameter includes a surface area of a core of the user-replaceable optical fiber at a distal end of the user-replaceable optical fiber; and the controller is configured to adjust the controllable detector integration time to have a value that decreases with increasing surface area of the core of the user-replaceable optical fiber at the distal end of the user-replaceable optical fiber.

[0059] In Example 6, the optical detection device of any one of Examples 1-5 can optionally be configured such that the controller is configured to adjust the controllable detector integration time to have a value that is inversely proportional to the surface area of the core of the user-replaceable optical fiber at the distal end of the user-replaceable optical fiber.

[0060] In Example 7, the optical detection device of any one of Examples 1-6 can optionally be configured such that: the at least one physical parameter includes a numerical aperture of the user-replaceable optical fiber; and the controller is configured to adjust the controllable detector integration time to have a value that decreases with increasing numerical aperture.

[0061] In Example 8, the optical detection device of any one of Examples 1-7 can optionally be configured such that the fiber parameter data is encoded as machine-readable data in or on the user-replaceable optical fiber.

[0062] In Example 9, the optical detection device of any one of Examples 1-8 can optionally be configured such that the controller is configured to receive the fiber parameter data by: causing a user interface to prompt a user to select one of a specified plurality of optical fiber types; receiving, from the user interface, a selection of a selected optical fiber type from the specified plurality of optical fiber types; submitting, to a fiber type database that associates optical fiber types with corresponding physical parameter values, a Attorney Docket No.: 5409.868WO1 Client Ref. No.: GAP24014-URKT-WO1query that provides the selected optical fiber type; retrieving, from the fiber type database, a retrieved physical parameter value in response to the query; and forming the fiber parameter data at least in part from the retrieved physical parameter value.

[0063] In Example 10, the optical detection device of any one of Examples 1-9 can optionally be configured such that the controller is configured to receive the fiber parameter data by: causing a user interface to prompt a user to select one of a specified plurality of physical parameter values; receiving, from the user interface, a selection of a selected physical parameter value from the specified plurality of physical parameter values; and forming the fiber parameter data at least in part from the selected physical parameter value.

[0064] In Example 11, the optical detection device of any one of Examples 1-10 can optionally be configured such that the controller is configured to receive the fiber parameter data by: causing a user interface to prompt a user to directly enter a physical parameter value; receiving, from the user interface, an entered physical parameter value; and forming the fiber parameter data at least in part from the entered physical parameter value.

[0065] In Example 12, the optical detection device of any one of Examples 1-11 can optionally be configured such that a distal portion of the user-replaceable optical fiber is coupled to an endoscope.

[0066] In Example 13, the optical detection device of any one of Examples 1-12 can optionally be configured such that: a distal end of the endoscope includes an illuminator configured to illuminate the sample with illumination; and a distal end of the user-replaceable optical fiber is configured to accept, as the collected light, at least some of the illumination that is reflected or emitted by the sample.

[0067] In Example 14, the optical detection device of any one of Examples 1-13 can optionally further comprise: processing circuitry configured to determine a composition of the sample at least in part from the spectrum of the collected light.

[0068] In Example 15, a method for operating an optical detection device can comprise: receiving, from a user-replaceable optical fiber, with a detector Attorney Docket No.: 5409.868WO1 Client Ref. No.: GAP24014-URKT-WO1having a controllable detector integration time, collected light that is reflected or emitted by a sample; generating, with the detector, a detector signal in response to receiving the collected light; measuring, with a spectrum analyzer, a spectrum of the detector signal; receiving, with a controller, fiber parameter data that corresponds to at least one value of at least one physical parameter of the user- replaceable optical fiber; and in response to receiving the fiber parameter data, with the controller, establishing or adjusting the controllable detector integration time to have a value that corresponds to the at least one value of the at least one physical parameter of the user-replaceable optical fiber.

[0069] In Example 16, the method of Example 15 can optionally be configured such that the fiber parameter data is encoded as machine-readable data in or on the user-replaceable optical fiber.

[0070] In Example 17, the method of any one of Examples 15-16 can optionally be configured such that the controller receives the fiber parameter data by: causing a user interface to prompt a user to select one of a specified plurality of optical fiber types; receiving, from the user interface, a selection of a selected optical fiber type from the specified plurality of optical fiber types; submitting, to a fiber type database that associates optical fiber types with corresponding physical parameter values, a query that provides the selected optical fiber type; retrieving, from the fiber type database, a retrieved physical parameter value in response to the query; and forming the fiber parameter data at least in part from the retrieved physical parameter value.

[0071] In Example 18, the method of any one of Examples 15-17 can optionally be configured such that the controller receives the fiber parameter data by: causing a user interface to prompt a user to select one of a specified plurality of physical parameter values; receiving, from the user interface, a selection of a selected physical parameter value from the specified plurality of physical parameter values; and forming the fiber parameter data at least in part from the selected physical parameter value.

[0072] In Example 19, the method of any one of Examples 15-18 can optionally be configured such that: a distal portion of the user-replaceable optical fiber is coupled to an endoscope; a distal end of the endoscope includes Attorney Docket No.: 5409.868WO1 Client Ref. No.: GAP24014-URKT-WO1an illuminator configured to illuminate the sample with illumination; a distal end of the user-replaceable optical fiber is configured to accept, as the collected light, at least some of the illumination that is reflected or emitted by the sample; and the method further comprises: determining, with processing circuitry, a composition of the sample at least in part from the spectrum of the collected light.

[0073] In Example 20, a spectroscopic detection system can comprise: an illuminator disposed at a distal end of an endoscope and configured to illuminate a sample with illumination; a user-replaceable optical fiber having a distal portion coupled to the endoscope and having a distal end configured to accept, as collected light, at least some of the illumination that is reflected or emitted by the sample; a spectrometer detector having a controllable detector integration time, the spectrometer detector configured to receive, from the user-replaceable optical fiber, the collected light and, in response to receiving the collected light, generate a detector signal; a spectrometer spectrum analyzer configured to measure a spectrum of the detector signal; a spectrometer controller configured to: receive fiber parameter data that corresponds to at least one value of a diameter of a core of the user-replaceable optical fiber, the fiber parameter data being encoded as machine-readable data in or on the user-replaceable optical fiber; and in response to receiving the fiber parameter data, establish or adjust the controllable detector integration time to have a value that decreases with increasing diameter of the core of the user-replaceable optical fiber; and processing circuitry configured to determine a composition of the sample at least in part from the spectrum of the collected light. Attorney Docket No.: 5409.868WO1 Client Ref. No.: GAP24014-URKT-WO1

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. An optical detection device, comprising: a detector having a controllable detector integration time, the detector configured to receive, from a user-replaceable optical fiber, collected light that is reflected or emitted by a sample and, in response to receiving the collected light, generate a detector signal; a spectrum analyzer configured to measure a spectrum of the detector signal; and a controller configured to: receive fiber parameter data that corresponds to at least one value of at least one physical parameter of the user-replaceable optical fiber; and in response to receiving the fiber parameter data, establish or adjust the controllable detector integration time to have a value that corresponds to the at least one value of the at least one physical parameter of the user-replaceable optical fiber.

2. The optical detection device of claim 1, wherein: the optical detection device is a spectrometer; the detector is a spectrometer detector; the spectrum analyzer is a spectrometer spectrum analyzer; and the controller is a spectrometer controller.

3. The optical detection device of claim 1, wherein: the at least one physical parameter includes a diameter of a core of the user-replaceable optical fiber; and the controller is configured to adjust the controllable detector integration time to have a value that decreases with increasing diameter of the core of the user-replaceable optical fiber. Attorney Docket No.: 5409.868WO1 Client Ref. No.: GAP24014-URKT-WO14. The optical detection device of claim 3, wherein the controller is configured to adjust the controllable detector integration time to have a value that is inversely proportional to a square of the diameter of the core of the user- replaceable optical fiber at a distal end of the user-replaceable optical fiber.

5. The optical detection device of claim 1, wherein: the at least one physical parameter includes a surface area of a core of the user-replaceable optical fiber at a distal end of the user-replaceable optical fiber; and the controller is configured to adjust the controllable detector integration time to have a value that decreases with increasing surface area of the core of the user-replaceable optical fiber at the distal end of the user-replaceable optical fiber.

6. The optical detection device of claim 5, wherein the controller is configured to adjust the controllable detector integration time to have a value that is inversely proportional to the surface area of the core of the user- replaceable optical fiber at the distal end of the user-replaceable optical fiber.

7. The optical detection device of claim 1, wherein: the at least one physical parameter includes a numerical aperture of the user-replaceable optical fiber; and the controller is configured to adjust the controllable detector integration time to have a value that decreases with increasing numerical aperture.

8. The optical detection device of claim 1, wherein the fiber parameter data is encoded as machine-readable data in or on the user-replaceable optical fiber.

9. The optical detection device of claim 1, wherein the controller is configured to receive the fiber parameter data by: causing a user interface to prompt a user to select one of a specified plurality of optical fiber types; Attorney Docket No.: 5409.868WO1 Client Ref. No.: GAP24014-URKT-WO1receiving, from the user interface, a selection of a selected optical fiber type from the specified plurality of optical fiber types; submitting, to a fiber type database that associates optical fiber types with corresponding physical parameter values, a query that provides the selected optical fiber type; retrieving, from the fiber type database, a retrieved physical parameter value in response to the query; and forming the fiber parameter data at least in part from the retrieved physical parameter value.

10. The optical detection device of claim 1, wherein the controller is configured to receive the fiber parameter data by: causing a user interface to prompt a user to select one of a specified plurality of physical parameter values; receiving, from the user interface, a selection of a selected physical parameter value from the specified plurality of physical parameter values; and forming the fiber parameter data at least in part from the selected physical parameter value.

11. The optical detection device of claim 1, wherein the controller is configured to receive the fiber parameter data by: causing a user interface to prompt a user to directly enter a physical parameter value; receiving, from the user interface, an entered physical parameter value; and forming the fiber parameter data at least in part from the entered physical parameter value.

12. The optical detection device of claim 1, wherein a distal portion of the user-replaceable optical fiber is coupled to an endoscope. The optical detection device of claim 12, wherein: Attorney Docket No.: 5409.868WO1 Client Ref. No.: GAP24014-URKT-WO1a distal end of the endoscope includes an illuminator configured to illuminate the sample with illumination; and a distal end of the user-replaceable optical fiber is configured to accept, as the collected light, at least some of the illumination that is reflected or emitted by the sample.

14. The optical detection device of claim 13, further comprising: processing circuitry configured to determine a composition of the sample at least in part from the spectrum of the collected light.

15. A method for operating an optical detection device, the method comprising: receiving, from a user-replaceable optical fiber, with a detector having a controllable detector integration time, collected light that is reflected or emitted by a sample; generating, with the detector, a detector signal in response to receiving the collected light; measuring, with a spectrum analyzer, a spectrum of the detector signal; receiving, with a controller, fiber parameter data that corresponds to at least one value of at least one physical parameter of the user-replaceable optical fiber; and in response to receiving the fiber parameter data, with the controller, establishing or adjusting the controllable detector integration time to have a value that corresponds to the at least one value of the at least one physical parameter of the user-replaceable optical fiber.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the fiber parameter data is encoded as machine-readable data in or on the user-replaceable optical fiber.

17. The method of claim 15, wherein the controller receives the fiber parameter data by: Attorney Docket No.: 5409.868WO1 Client Ref. No.: GAP24014-URKT-WO1causing a user interface to prompt a user to select one of a specified plurality of optical fiber types; receiving, from the user interface, a selection of a selected optical fiber type from the specified plurality of optical fiber types; submitting, to a fiber type database that associates optical fiber types with corresponding physical parameter values, a query that provides the selected optical fiber type; retrieving, from the fiber type database, a retrieved physical parameter value in response to the query; and forming the fiber parameter data at least in part from the retrieved physical parameter value.

18. The method of claim 15, wherein the controller receives the fiber parameter data by: causing a user interface to prompt a user to select one of a specified plurality of physical parameter values; receiving, from the user interface, a selection of a selected physical parameter value from the specified plurality of physical parameter values; and forming the fiber parameter data at least in part from the selected physical parameter value.

19. The method of claim 15, wherein: a distal portion of the user-replaceable optical fiber is coupled to an endoscope; a distal end of the endoscope includes an illuminator configured to illuminate the sample with illumination; a distal end of the user-replaceable optical fiber is configured to accept, as the collected light, at least some of the illumination that is reflected or emitted by the sample; and the method further comprises: determining, with processing circuitry, a composition of the sample at least in part from the spectrum of the collected light. Attorney Docket No.: 5409.868WO1 Client Ref. No.: GAP24014-URKT-WO120. A spectroscopic detection system, comprising: an illuminator disposed at a distal end of an endoscope and configured to illuminate a sample with illumination; a user-replaceable optical fiber having a distal portion coupled to the endoscope and having a distal end configured to accept, as collected light, at least some of the illumination that is reflected or emitted by the sample; a spectrometer detector having a controllable detector integration time, the spectrometer detector configured to receive, from the user-replaceable optical fiber, the collected light and, in response to receiving the collected light, generate a detector signal; a spectrometer spectrum analyzer configured to measure a spectrum of the detector signal; a spectrometer controller configured to: receive fiber parameter data that corresponds to at least one value of a diameter of a core of the user-replaceable optical fiber, the fiber parameter data being encoded as machine- readable data in or on the user-replaceable optical fiber; and in response to receiving the fiber parameter data, establish or adjust the controllable detector integration time to have a value that decreases with increasing diameter of the core of the user-replaceable optical fiber; and processing circuitry configured to determine a composition of the sample at least in part from the spectrum of the collected light. Attorney Docket No.: 5409.868WO1 Client Ref. No.: GAP24014-URKT-WO1

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