OCT Probe Bowing Flexor for Lateral Fiber Displacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional OCT probes face challenges in obtaining clear images of tissue due to diffusely scattered light, which obscures the image, and the need to laterally displace optical fibers within a small cannula to achieve scanning without compromising the optical path length.
Innovation Solution
The use of a flexor mechanism within the OCT probe that elastically bows to laterally displace the optical fiber relative to a lens, allowing for angular scanning and minimizing changes in the optical path length, enabling effective scanning of tissue with reduced image distortion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the optical fiber is laterally displaced within the cannula to achieve scanning, then the scanning capability is improved, but the cannula size must be increased or the optical path length is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The optical fiber is made selectively displaceable rather than fixed, allowing it to move laterally when actuated by the flexor mechanism. This dynamic configuration enables scanning capability while maintaining a compact cannula structure, as the fiber only displaces when needed rather than requiring constant lateral space.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexor mechanism uses a flexible structure that can be axially compressed to generate lateral displacement of the optical fiber. This flexible mechanism allows efficient lateral movement of the fiber within a small cannula volume, converting axial motion into lateral scanning motion without requiring a larger cannula.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a flexor mechanism is used to laterally displace the optical fiber, then scanning is enabled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The complex multi-actuator mechanical scanning systems are replaced with a simple flexor mechanism that uses elastic deformation and geometric conversion. The flexor converts simple axial compression into lateral fiber displacement, achieving scanning with minimal mechanical complexity and fewer moving parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexor mechanism changes the mechanical parameters of the optical fiber system by converting axial displacement into lateral displacement through elastic bowing. This parameter transformation allows scanning capability to be achieved through a simple actuation mode (axial compression) rather than requiring complex lateral actuation mechanisms.
3Area of stationary object
If the optical fiber is laterally displaced, then scanning coverage is improved, but the optical path length changes causing image distortion
Solution Approach 1:
The optical fiber is configured to be selectively displaceable, allowing lateral movement for scanning while maintaining optical path integrity. The dynamic displacement is controlled to achieve scanning coverage without excessive changes in optical path length, and the system can return to its original position to maintain consistent optical measurements.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexor mechanism is designed to convert axial displacement into lateral displacement with minimal impact on the optical path length. By changing the displacement direction from axial to lateral through the flexor's elastic bowing, the system achieves scanning coverage while maintaining relatively constant optical path length, reducing image distortion.
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 enables clear and detailed imaging of tissue by effectively managing light scattering and allowing for precise lateral displacement of the optical fiber within the cannula, improving the quality of OCT images while maintaining a small cannula size.
Implementation Method 1
A driver may be configured to axially displace the second segment such that the optical fiber is laterally displaced. The second segment is configured to bow when the driver displaces the second segment
Data Source
AI summary
An OCT probe includes a cannula and includes a selectively displaceable light-carrying optical fiber disposed within the cannula. The optical fiber may be arranged to emit light from a distal end thereof. A flexor may be bent to divide the flexor into a first segment and a second segment extending along a lumen of the cannula. The first segment may be coupled to the optical fiber. A driver may be configured to push or pull the second segment in the axial direction to elastically bow the second segment and laterally displace the optical fiber to perform an OCT scan.