Laser Catheter Coupler With Flared Capillary Fiber Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current laser catheter devices face inefficiencies in aligning optical fibers with the laser beam due to the circular nature of the sonic wave generated, leading to energy bypass and potential damage to adjacent components.
Innovation Solution
The use of a flared end on a capillary tube or a plate/disk to secure optical fibers, combined with a malleable clamp, ensures proper alignment and protection, replacing traditional capillary tubes and clamps with materials like plastic or rubber.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If a circular capillary tube is used to align optical fibers with the laser beam, then the laser energy can be transmitted to the catheter tip, but a large portion of the generated sonic wave energy bypasses the targeted calcium due to the circular nature of the wave
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an asymmetric element (the clamp positioned off-center relative to the capillary tube) that breaks the circular symmetry of the system. This asymmetric positioning allows the sonic wave energy to be directed more effectively toward the targeted calcium while reducing energy loss through the circular path.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a stainless steel clamp is used to hold the capillary tube in place, then the capillary tube can be secured within the proximal coupler assembly, but the clamp may damage adjacent components due to its rigid nature
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter of the clamp from rigid stainless steel to flexible plastic or rubber. This material substitution maintains the clamp's ability to hold the capillary tube in place while eliminating the risk of damage to adjacent components through its flexible, compliant nature.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the capillary tube surface is treated to prevent laser transmission, then adjacent components are protected from laser damage, but the alignment precision may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing a laser-reflective or laser-absorbing coating only on the outer surface of the capillary tube where laser damage protection is needed, while maintaining the internal clarity and alignment properties of the capillary tube. This localized treatment protects adjacent components without compromising the fiber alignment precision.
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
Enhances manufacturability, reduces fiber damage, and improves energy transmission efficiency by aligning fibers effectively with the laser beam.
Implementation Method 1
a flared end opposite the light input end
Implementation Method 2
The capillary tube is sized to absorb the laser beam and made from materials that withstand the laser energy to protect the adjacent coupler components
Implementation Method 3
using a malleable clamp to hold optical fibers in place
Data Source
AI summary
A laser catheter assembly (10) includes a laser catheter (12) including a bundle of optical fibers (14); and a coupler (16) attached to a proximal end of the laser catheter. The coupler includes a connector (18) configured to mate with an associated light source; and a holding member (22) secured within the connector and having a through hole (24) positioned at an end of the channel, an end of the proximal portion of the bundle of optical fibers being disposed in the through hole, the through hole having a light input end (26) arranged to receive light from the associated light source when the connector is mated with the associated light source and a flared end (28) opposite the light input end.