Multi-Axis Scanning System for Balloon Catheter Wall Thickness
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current optical probe-based measurement systems struggle to perform full scans along the length and around the circumference of axially symmetric products, such as balloon catheters, especially those with varying diameters and internal cavities, while ensuring non-destructive, non-contact, and precise measurements.
Innovation Solution
A scanning system comprising a multi-axis drive module with a first linear drive, a second linear drive, and a rotary drive, equipped with interferometric optical probes, that allows for linear and rotational scanning by gripping the object and pressurizing its internal cavity to stabilize the flexible wall, enabling precise measurements of wall thickness, diameter, and layer thicknesses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If optical probe-based measurement is used, then measurement precision and non-contact capability are improved, but the ability to perform full scans along length and circumference of axially symmetric products deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The scanning system divides the measurement task into two independent scanning motions: linear scanning along the object length and rotational scanning around the circumference. This segmentation allows each scanning dimension to be independently controlled and optimized, enabling complete surface coverage of axially symmetric products while maintaining measurement precision through the optical probe.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from single-axis linear scanning to multi-dimensional scanning by adding rotational motion around the object circumference. This dimensional expansion allows the optical probe to access and measure the entire surface of axially symmetric products, including varying diameters and internal cavities, while preserving measurement precision through the non-contact optical method.
2Reliability
If internal cavity is pressurized to stabilize flexible wall, then measurement reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses pneumatic pressure applied to the internal cavity of the object to stabilize flexible walls during measurement. This pneumatic stabilization eliminates wall flexing and positioning instability, ensuring reliable measurements of wall thickness and diameter. The pneumatic system is integrated into the measurement apparatus, adding controlled complexity only where needed for stabilization.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multi-axis drive module with rotary drive is added, then full scan capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges linear scanning motion and rotational scanning motion into a single integrated multi-axis drive module. This combination allows both scanning dimensions to be coordinated through one unified control system, reducing overall device complexity compared to separate independent scanning systems. The merged module enables complete surface coverage of axially symmetric products while maintaining manageable system complexity.
4Measurement precision
If interferometric optical probe is used, then measurement precision is improved, but measurement time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements continuous scanning motion along the object length and around the circumference without stopping or repositioning the optical probe. This continuous multi-axis scanning maintains the high precision of interferometric measurement while minimizing measurement time by eliminating idle movements and enabling uninterrupted data acquisition across the entire object surface.
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 reliable, non-destructive, and fast scanning of axially symmetric products, ensuring accurate compliance with specifications and minimizing the risk of defective products being misclassified, thus enhancing manufacturing throughput and safety.
Implementation Method 1
One particular optical probe-based measurement uses the principles of low coherence interferometry, wherein an optical probe directs low coherence light through a transparent, translucent or colored object. Reflected light is received back by the probe and transmitted to a signal converter and a computer.
Data Source
AI summary
A scanning system comprised of a multi-axis drive module comprised of a first linear drive operable along a first axis, a second linear drive joined to the first linear drive and operable along a second axis non-parallel to the first axis, and a first rotary drive mounted on the second linear drive, operable around an axis parallel to the first axis, and comprised of a rotary fixture for holding the object. A first optical probe is provided for scanning the object. The rotary fixture for holding the object may include a central object-receiving port. A first fluid circuit may be provided, which is in communication with the central object-receiving port. In that manner, an internal cavity of the object may be pressurized through a passageway in the portion of the object that is disposed in the central object-receiving port, thereby stabilizing a region of the object to be scanned.