Multi-fiber Laser Probe with Articulating Beam Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Multi-fiber, multi-spot laser probes face challenges in compatibility with conventional laser sources due to the need for complex optical systems and high costs, particularly in distributing laser beams to multiple fibers while maintaining small-gauge compatibility and efficient coupling.
Innovation Solution
The use of movable fiber ends and adjustable optics, such as GRIN lenses and diffractive beam splitters, allows for relative motion of fibers and optical elements to achieve multi-spot beam delivery without requiring changes to the laser source interconnect, enabling efficient coupling and angular separation of laser beams.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a multi-fiber, multi-spot laser probe uses multiple fibers to drive multiple spots, then the photocoagulation procedure becomes faster, but the laser source interconnect becomes expensive and cumbersome to adapt
Solution Approach 1:
The probe is divided into multiple independent optical fibers, each capable of delivering laser energy to separate retinal spots. This segmentation allows parallel treatment of multiple locations simultaneously, increasing productivity without requiring changes to the laser source interconnect, as each fiber can be independently coupled to the standardized interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-fiber sequential approach to a multi-fiber parallel approach by adding the dimension of spatial multiplexing. Multiple fibers are arranged to emit beams at different angles or positions, enabling simultaneous multi-spot photocoagulation while maintaining compatibility with conventional single-fiber laser sources through standardized interconnects.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the laser waist is focused for single-fiber coupling, then efficient coupling is achieved, but the focused beam cannot be coupled into multiple fibers
Solution Approach 1:
The laser beam is focused onto a beam shaping element (such as a diffractive optical element or lens array) positioned before the multi-fiber array. This preliminary beam shaping action distributes the focused energy into multiple separate beams that correspond to the positions and angular orientations of the individual fibers, enabling efficient coupling into each fiber while maintaining the original focused beam characteristics from the laser source.
Solution Approach 2:
A beam shaping element acts as an intermediary between the focused laser beam and the multi-fiber array. This intermediary component (such as a diffractive beam splitter or lens system) converts the single focused beam into multiple separated beams that match the spatial and angular requirements of the individual fibers, enabling efficient energy transfer without requiring changes to the laser source or fiber coupling mechanism.
3Shape
If distal fiber ends are bent into angular directions to distribute beams, then multi-spot pattern is achieved, but the structure becomes cumbersome and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical approach of bending individual fiber ends into angular directions with an optical beam shaping approach. Instead of mechanically positioning bent fibers, a beam shaping element (such as a diffractive optical element or lens array) is used to angularly separate the laser beams. This substitution achieves the same multi-spot beam distribution pattern while eliminating the need for complex mechanical fiber bending and positioning 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
This solution preserves small-gauge compatibility, reduces costs, and enhances the efficiency of laser beam delivery to the retina, allowing for faster and more effective photocoagulation procedures while maintaining compatibility with standard laser source interconnects.
Implementation Method 1
The laser source includes a gradient index (GRIN) lens for coupling to a proximal end of the multi-fiber array
Implementation Method 2
The resulting optics within the handpiece increase costs because it is desirable that the laser probe be disposable to limit contamination from patient to patient. For example, the optics include a diffractive beam splitter to split the beam from the single fiber into multiple beams
Implementation Method 3
Laser photocoagulation therapy addresses ocular conditions such as retinal detachments and tears as well as proliferative retinopathy
Data Source
AI summary
Multi-fiber laser probes utilize relative motion of fibers and other laser probe elements to preserve small-gauge compatibility while providing for multi-spot beam deliver, or to provide for the selectively delivery of single-spot or multi-spot beam patterns. An example probe includes fibers having distal ends that are movable as a group onto a distal ramp element affixed to a distal end of a cannula, so that the distal ends of the fibers can be moved between a retracted position, in which the distal ends of the fibers are within the cannula or ramp element, and an extended position, in which distal ends of the fibers are guided by grooves or channels of the ramp so as to extend at least partially through external openings in the distal end of the laser probe and so as to be pointed angularly away from a longitudinal axis of the cannula.