Common-Path Optical Waveguide Probe for OCT Imaging

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing optical coherence tomography (OCT) endoscopic probes face challenges with polarization state mismatch between sample and reference signals, leading to reduced axial resolution and signal-to-noise ratio, particularly in common path designs that lack control over focal distance and require separate reflectors for circumferential imaging.

Innovation Solution

A common-path optical waveguide probe is developed, featuring an optical waveguide with a lens and a reference reflector positioned between the waveguide and the lens, allowing independent setting of reference signal power and focal distance without affecting focusing properties, eliminating the need for a separate reflector for circumferential scanning.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If GRIN fiber or ball lens common path probes are used to control focal properties, then focal distance control is improved, but reference power and focal distance become interdependent

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefocal distance controlVSAvoidinterdependence of reference power and focal distance

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The probe is divided into functionally independent segments: the optical waveguide for light delivery, the reference reflector for reference signal generation, and the lens for focusing. This segmentation allows independent optimization and adjustment of reference power (via reflector positioning) and focal distance (via lens positioning) without mutual interference.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A separate reference reflector is introduced as an intermediary element between the optical waveguide and the lens. This reflector serves as a dedicated component for generating the reference signal, decoupling the reference power control from the focal properties controlled by the lens, thereby eliminating the interdependence issue.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If separate reflector is added for circumferential imaging, then imaging capability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecircumferential imaging capabilityVSAvoidnumber of components

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The reference reflector is designed to serve multiple functions: it generates the reference signal for OCT interference and simultaneously acts as the reflector for circumferential imaging when used with rotational scanning. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for a separate dedicated reflector, reducing device complexity while maintaining imaging versatility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The functions of reference signal generation and circumferential imaging reflection are merged into a single reference reflector component. By combining these functions, the probe design is simplified, reducing the number of parts and assembly complexity while achieving both OCT imaging and circumferential scanning capabilities.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If fiber movements and bending occur during rotational scanning, then circumferential imaging is achieved, but polarization state mismatch increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecircumferential imagingVSAvoidaxial resolution

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses polarization-maintaining optical fibers that inherently preserve the polarization state of light during bending and rotation. The fibers' special structure provides built-in polarization protection, eliminating the need for external polarization control mechanisms and maintaining axial resolution despite mechanical movements during scanning.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This design enhances axial resolution and signal-to-noise ratio by maintaining independent control over reference power and focal distance, improving imaging quality and simplifying the probe's design, while being cost-effective and applicable in various medical imaging scenarios.

Implementation Method 1

reflection from GRIN fiber air interface is used as reference signal

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Implementation Method 2

lens coupled to the distal end

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFocusing: Focusing

Implementation Method 3

optical waveguide includes a proximal end and a distal end

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectOptical waveguide transmission: Waveguide (optics)

Data Source

PatentEP3482155B1Common-path optical waveguide probe and method of manufacturing

Publication Date: 2023.09.06 THE GENERAL HOSPITAL CORP

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AI summary

The present disclosure provides a common-path optical waveguide probe. The common-path optical waveguide probe includes an optical waveguide, a lens, and a reference reflector. The optical waveguide includes a proximal end and a distal end. The lens is coupled to the distal end. The reference reflector is positioned between the optical waveguide and the lens. The disclosure also provides a catheter and an optical coherence tomography system utilizing the common-path optical waveguide probe. The disclosure also provides methods of making and using the common-path optical waveguide probe.