Multi-Mode Optical Fiber Shape Sensing and Light Control

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional endoscopic imaging systems using CCD cameras or fiber bundles are cumbersome, expensive, and fail to maintain the desired image pattern when optical fibers are bent or twisted during procedures, leading to scrambled images due to unknown transfer functions.

Innovation Solution

A system that calculates and compensates for the transfer function of multi-mode optical fibers based on their refractive index profile, twist, and bend, using distributed sensors and Fiber Bragg Gratings, allowing for dynamic adjustment of light input to maintain a stable desired output pattern without moving parts.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If conventional imaging devices use CCD cameras or fiber bundles to transmit images, then image transmission is achieved, but the devices become cumbersome, large, and expensive

Engineering Contradiction:

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of moving objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the imaging function from bulky mechanical components (CCD cameras, fiber bundles, scanners) and concentrates it into a miniaturized probe tip using a single multi-mode optical fiber with digital processing at the base, eliminating the need for large imaging components within the probe body

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces mechanical scanning systems (drive shafts, scanners) with a digitally controlled optical system using a spatial light modulator to scan light beams through the optical fiber, substituting mechanical motion with electronic control and optical manipulation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Adaptability or versatility

If optical fibers are bent or twisted during endoscopic procedures, then flexibility and accessibility are improved, but the transfer function becomes unknown causing scrambled images

Engineering Contradiction:

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback by continuously measuring the actual shape of the optical fiber using shape sensing fibers and using this information to dynamically calculate and update the transfer function, allowing the system to compensate for bending and twisting in real-time and maintain reliable image quality

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from a static transfer function assumption to a dynamic approach where the transfer function is continuously updated based on real-time shape measurements of the fiber, allowing the system to adapt to changing fiber configurations during procedures

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Volume of moving object

If devices are miniaturized to improve accessibility, then probe size is reduced, but mechanical scanning mechanisms become difficult to implement

Engineering Contradiction:

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of moving objectVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces mechanical scanning mechanisms with a digitally controlled optical scanning system using a spatial light modulator that directs light beams through the optical fiber, eliminating the need for mechanical scanners and drive shafts that would be too large for miniaturized probes

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a spatial light modulator as an intermediary device that converts electrical control signals into scanned light beam patterns, enabling scanning functionality without requiring mechanical components within the miniaturized probe structure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 precise control of light patterns and image reconstruction even with dynamically changing fiber shapes, facilitating miniaturized endoscopic probes and faster imaging with improved accessibility and disease diagnosis.

Implementation Method 1

using distributed sensors and Fiber Bragg Gratings

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFiber Bragg Grating: Bragg Diffraction

Implementation Method 2

multi-mode optical fiber system... transmitting the light or other electromagnetic radiation

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectTotal internal reflection: Total Internal Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS10228556B2Apparatus and method for controlling propagation and/or transmission of electromagnetic radiation in flexible waveguide(s)

Publication Date: 2019.03.12

AI summary

According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, apparatus and process for providing at least one radiation can be provided. For example, with at least one multi-mode waveguide, it is possible to transmit the radiation(s). In addition, with a shape sensing arrangement, it is possible To dynamically measure a shape of the multi-mode waveguide(s). Further, with a specifically programmed computer arrangement, it is possible to control a light modulator arrangement based on the dynamically-measured shape to cause the radiation(s) transmitted through the multi-mode waveguide(s) to have at least one pattern.