Integrated Fiber Optic Probe with Bonded Photodetectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
The implementation of diffuse reflectance spectroscopy for tissue diagnostics is limited by the bulky and expensive nature of existing light sources and detectors, which hinder their practical use in clinical settings.
Innovation Solution
The development of fiber optic probes with integrated thin, flexible photodetectors bonded to optical fibers, allowing for compact, cost-effective local light detection and enabling insertion into biopsy needles for in vivo tissue analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If existing light sources and detectors are used for diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, then measurement capability is provided, but the system becomes bulky and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the light source and detector functions into a single integrated fiber optic probe. The optical fiber serves dual purposes: transmitting light from the source and collecting reflected light for detection. This integration eliminates the need for separate, bulky components and enables compact in vivo tissue analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical fiber performs multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as both the light delivery medium and the light collection medium. This multi-functionality reduces the overall system complexity and enables portable, cost-effective spectroscopic devices for clinical use.
2Measurement precision
If existing light sources and detectors are used for diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, then measurement capability is provided, but the system becomes expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs standard, commercially available optical fibers and off-the-shelf photodetectors rather than custom-built expensive components. This approach significantly reduces manufacturing costs and makes the device economically viable for widespread clinical adoption.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the optical fiber itself as both the light source conduit and the detection antenna, eliminating the need for separate expensive components. The fiber optic probe structure inherently provides both illumination and detection capabilities, reducing overall system cost.
3Length of moving object
If photodetectors are placed close to the optical fiber distal end, then local light detection is enabled, but the photodetector must conform to the fiber surface
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses thin-film photodetector structures that can flex and conform to the curved surface of the optical fiber. This thin-film approach allows the photodetector to maintain close proximity to the light-emitting location while adapting to the fiber's geometry, enabling compact integration without complex mounting structures.
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 fiber optic probes facilitate practical, cost-effective in vivo tissue analysis by providing close proximity light detection, enabling the measurement of wavelength-dependent absorbance characteristics of hemoglobin and other tissue components, distinguishing between normal and abnormal tissues.
Implementation Method 1
The optical fiber can be configured to emit light from its distal end
Implementation Method 2
at least one photodetector having a device layer bonded to and conforming to the optical fiber
Implementation Method 3
diffuse reflectance spectroscopy is sensitive to the absorption and scattering properties of biological molecules in tissue
Implementation Method 4
Light scattering in tissue is sensitive to the size, density, and refractive indices of cellular structures
Data Source
AI summary
A fiber optic probe having one or more photodetectors bound thereto is provided. By directly integrating thin, flexible photodetectors with an optical fiber, the probes provide a compact structure that increases throughput and decreases cost, making it practical for a clinical use. In some embodiments, the fiber optic probes are small enough for insertion into the shaft of a needle, such as a biopsy needle.