Dual Comb Ranging for Endoscopic Fiber Distance Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current endoscopic systems face challenges in dynamically monitoring and controlling the distance between the distal end of an endoscope's optical fiber and a target during laser therapy, leading to inefficiencies and potential damage due to improper positioning.
Innovation Solution
The system employs dual comb ranging techniques using light that returns through the optical fiber, allowing for real-time determination of the separation between the optical fiber's distal end and the target, and provides user feedback or takes corrective actions to maintain optimal positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the operator manually monitors and adjusts the distance between the optical fiber and target during laser therapy, then the system complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision and reliability of distance control deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical distance monitoring with an optical-based dual comb interferometry system. Light pulses are sent through the optical fiber to the target, and the reflected light is analyzed using dual frequency combs to precisely measure the distance. This substitution of mechanical/manual methods with optical measurement enables automated, high-precision distance control without increasing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the existing optical fiber that is already in place for laser therapy delivery to also serve as the measurement path for distance monitoring. The same optical fiber that delivers therapeutic laser light is used to send measurement light pulses to the target and collect reflected light. This self-service approach allows the system to perform both therapy and measurement functions through a single component, avoiding additional complex positioning mechanisms.
2Reliability
If the optical fiber is positioned too close to the target during laser therapy, then the therapeutic effect is improved, but the optical fiber may be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements real-time feedback by continuously measuring the distance between the optical fiber distal end and the target using dual comb interferometry. The measured distance information is fed back to the control system, which can then adjust the optical fiber position or laser power to maintain optimal therapeutic conditions while preventing the fiber from getting too close to the target and suffering damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary distance measurement and monitoring before therapeutic laser delivery begins. By establishing the correct distance baseline in advance and continuously monitoring throughout the procedure, the system prevents the optical fiber from approaching distances that would cause damage, while still allowing close positioning needed for effective therapy.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the optical fiber is positioned too far from the target during laser therapy, then the optical fiber is protected from damage, but the therapeutic efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic distance control where the optical fiber position or laser parameters are continuously adjusted based on real-time distance measurements. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to maintain the optimal balance between keeping the fiber close enough for high therapeutic efficiency while preventing it from getting too close and causing damage. The system adapts throughout the procedure rather than using fixed positioning.
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 approach enhances the efficiency of laser therapy by preventing damage to the optical fiber and ensuring that therapeutic laser light is effectively delivered to the target, improving treatment outcomes and reducing procedure duration.
Implementation Method 1
an interferometer configured to: receive first light pulses from a first frequency comb having a first repetition rate; form reference arm light pulses and measurement arm light pulses from the first light pulses
Implementation Method 2
directing the measurement arm light pulses to and from the target via the optical fiber to form return light pulses
Implementation Method 3
a beamsplitter configured to interfere the interferometer output pulses with second light pulses from a second frequency comb having a second repetition rate different from the first repetition rate to form system output pulses
Implementation Method 4
an optical detector configured to sense the system output pulses
Data Source
AI summary
An optical fiber having a distal end extending from a distal end of an endoscope can direct light to and from a target. An interferometer can receive first light pulses from a first frequency comb having a first repetition rate, form reference arm light pulses and measurement arm light pulses from the first light pulses, direct the measurement arm light pulses to and from the target via the optical fiber to form return light pulses, and interfere the return light pulses with the reference arm light pulses to form interferometer output pulses. A beamsplitter can interfere the interferometer output pulses with second light pulses from a second frequency comb having a second repetition rate to form system output pulses. Processor circuitry can determine, from a time duration between consecutive system output pulses, a spacing between the optical fiber and the target, and can take an action in response.