Galvanometric Mirror Beam Steering for Corneal Laser Surgery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current corneal laser surgery systems face reduced optical efficiency and surgical precision due to cumulative movements of laser beam paths, causing deviations from the central path of optical components during x, y, and z movements, which complicates precise focal point steering.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing three galvanometric mirrors and a z-scanning apparatus, with a computer controller, to steer a laser beam to a focal point while maintaining the beam path centered on optical components, minimizing deviations and ensuring precise control over x-y-z movements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a dual-mirror combination is used to move and direct the laser beam in x and y directions, then the focal point can be positioned at predetermined locations in the target tissue, but the beam path deviates from the center of downstream optical components, reducing optical efficiency and surgical precision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the beam steering function into three separate scanning mechanisms (first, second, and third galvanometric mirrors) that operate sequentially along the beam path. Each mirror handles a portion of the steering task, with the second mirror specifically compensating for beam displacement caused by the first mirror. This segmentation allows precise focal point positioning while maintaining beam centering on optical components.
Solution Approach 2:
The second galvanometric mirror acts as an intermediary that compensates for beam path deviations introduced by the first mirror. By rotating the second mirror through an angle of 2θ to counteract the θ rotation of the first mirror, the system maintains the beam centered on downstream optical components while still achieving the desired focal point movement.
2Measurement precision
If multiple scanning mechanisms are used to achieve precise focal point control in x-y plane, then surgical precision is improved, but the system complexity increases with additional optical components
Solution Approach 1:
Each galvanometric mirror in the three-mirror system serves multiple functions: the first mirror provides primary x-direction steering, the second mirror both compensates for beam displacement and provides additional steering capability, and the third mirror handles y-direction steering. This multi-functionality allows precise focal point control while minimizing the number of components needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a z-scanning apparatus (voice coil or active mirror) that operates in the z-direction, perpendicular to the x-y plane. This adds a third dimension to the beam steering capability, enabling complete three-dimensional focal point control within the target tissue while keeping the x-y steering mechanisms relatively simple.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the laser beam is moved to effectuate x and y movements for a surgical pattern, then the focal point can be steered to different locations, but the center of the beam path moves away from the center of downstream optical components
Solution Approach 1:
The second galvanometric mirror is positioned and configured to preemptively counteract the beam path displacement caused by the first mirror. By rotating the second mirror through an angle of 2θ in opposition to the first mirror's θ rotation, the system预先 compensates for the displacement, keeping the beam centered on downstream optical components throughout the steering operation.
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 effectively maintains the laser beam centered on optical components, enhancing optical efficiency and surgical precision by compensating for beam path deviations, thus improving the accuracy and ease of use in corneal laser surgery.
Implementation Method 1
one mirror is moved to effect movements of the laser beam's focal point in an x-direction... The other mirror is then moved to effect movements of the focal point in a y-direction
Implementation Method 2
the apparatus is a voice coil subassembly
Data Source
AI summary
A device and method for steering a laser beam to a focal point in target tissue requires generating a laser beam. Diversions of the laser beam from a central beam path are minimized by a sequential arrangement of optical steering components. In order, the beam is first directed to the center of a z-scanning apparatus which will move the focal point in the medium in a z-direction. The beam is then passed to the center of a first galvanometric mirror which introduces focal point movements in the x-direction. A second galvanometric mirror then compensates for the x-direction movement by redirecting the beam to the center of a third galvanometric mirror where focal point movements in the y-direction are introduced.