Multi-Port Fiber Connector Panel With Laser Safety Interlocks
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing light therapy systems, particularly those using lasers for photodynamic therapy (PDT), pose safety risks to medical professionals and require improvements for safe and effective use.
Innovation Solution
A multi-port connector panel with a base, lid, and cable support system that includes optical fiber connectors, photodetectors, and safety mechanisms to ensure secure enclosure and controlled operation of laser light sources, integrated with a PDT instrument for safe handling and delivery of therapeutic light.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If laser light sources are used for photodynamic therapy, then therapeutic effectiveness is improved, but safety risks to medical professionals increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary enclosure system between the laser light source and the medical professional. This includes a removable cable assembly that acts as a physical barrier, preventing direct exposure to laser light while allowing therapeutic delivery through optical fibers. The enclosure with interlocking lids creates a controlled intermediate zone that mediates the interaction between the harmful laser radiation and the user.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the harmful laser light transmission path from the direct connection between the light source and the user. By separating the laser source from the optical fiber cable through a controlled enclosure with removable cables, the system takes out the dangerous direct exposure pathway while maintaining the therapeutic function through indirect optical fiber delivery.
2Ease of operation
If optical fiber connectors are exposed for easy connection, then ease of operation is improved, but risk of accidental laser exposure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary safety actions by requiring the enclosure to be closed and locked before the laser can be activated. The interlocking lid mechanism and cable position switches ensure that connectors are properly enclosed and secured before therapeutic operation begins, preventing accidental exposure while maintaining ease of connection through standardized interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms through interlock switches that monitor the enclosure state and cable position. These switches provide real-time feedback to the control system, preventing laser activation unless the enclosure is properly closed and cables are securely positioned, thus ensuring safety while allowing easy operation when conditions are met.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If cable is securely enclosed for safety, then protection from laser exposure is improved, but accessibility for cable replacement decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic design elements including removable cable assemblies and hinged lids that can transition between open and closed states. This allows the enclosure to be dynamically opened for cable replacement or inspection, then securely closed for protective operation, balancing safety with operational accessibility through controlled state changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the cable assembly into removable sections that can be independently accessed and replaced. The cable can be disconnected at the connector interface while the main enclosure remains intact, allowing easy cable replacement without compromising the overall safety enclosure structure.
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
The system provides a safe and controlled environment for medical professionals by ensuring proper enclosure and operation of laser light sources, reducing the risk of accidental exposure and enhancing the effectiveness of PDT treatments.
Implementation Method 1
configured to be selectively coupled to a plurality of optical fibers
Implementation Method 2
configured to produce an electrical signal based on a detected light transmitted from a respective one of the plurality of optical fibers
Data Source
AI summary
In some implementations, a PDT delivery device may include a housing having a front panel, a plurality of therapy light sources positioned within the housing and a multi-port connector panel positioned on a front portion of the housing. The multi-port connector panel having a lid pivotably mounted to a portion of a top wall to selectively close the interior, a plurality of optical fiber connectors positioned in a plurality of fiber connector apertures formed in a back wall coupled to a respective one of the plurality of therapy light sources and coupled to a plurality of optical fibers, a cable support tray to receive a cable containing the plurality of optical fibers, and at least one cable clamp to cooperate with the cable support tray to releasably capture the cable therebetween.