Optical Fiber Connector State Detection via Reflected Light
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies fail to effectively determine the state of connection between detachable optical fibers used in laser devices and catheters, leading to potential insufficient laser light delivery during medical procedures.
Innovation Solution
An optical fiber connection state determination system that measures the intensity of reflected light to differentiate between disconnected, detached, poorly connected, and normally connected optical fibers using a measurement and determination unit, with thresholds for each state.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If existing disconnection sensing techniques are used, then disconnection can be detected, but poor connection states cannot be identified
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter being measured from simple light presence/absence to the intensity of reflected light. By measuring the intensity parameter and comparing it against threshold values, the system can distinguish between different connection states (disconnected, poor connection, normal connection), thereby improving both measurement precision and reliability of laser light delivery
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a test light as an intermediary to probe the connection state. This test light reflects off the optical fiber interface, and the reflected light intensity serves as a mediator to indirectly assess the connection quality without interfering with the main laser treatment function
2Adaptability or versatility
If detachable connector configuration is used, then catheter can be replaced for each operation, but connection state cannot be verified
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary detection of the connection state by sending test light through the optical fiber connector before the actual laser treatment begins. This preliminary action verifies the connection quality in advance, allowing the system to detect poor connections or disconnections before they affect the treatment, thus maintaining reliability while preserving catheter replaceability
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
Enables accurate assessment of optical fiber connection states, ensuring reliable laser light delivery by identifying poor connections or breaks, and preventing insufficient treatment.
Implementation Method 1
a measurement unit configured to measure an intensity of a reflected light reflected and propagating thorough the first optical fiber in the test light
Data Source
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AI summary
An optical fiber connection state determination system is a system that determines a state of connection between a first optical fiber that propagates a test light that is input from a light source and a second optical fiber in a connector that detachably connects an output side from which the test light is output in the first optical fiber and an input side of the second optical fiber to which the test light that is propagated by the first optical fiber and that is output from the first optical fiber is input, the system including a measurement unit that measures an intensity of a reflected light that is reflected and that propagates thorough the first optical fiber in the test light; and a determination unit that, based on the intensity that is measured by the measurement unit, determines the state of connection between the first optical fiber and the second optical fiber in the connector.