Optical Fiber Spatial Switching for Radial Light Redirection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fiber optic devices for light-based surgical procedures, such as laser interstitial thermal therapy and endovenous laser ablation, are limited in their ability to optimize light distribution for treating intracorporeal diseases like endovenous and peripheral artery diseases. They lack the capability to selectively switch between axial and radial light output, which is crucial for effective treatment and minimizing collateral damage.
Innovation Solution
The development of a fiber optic device that incorporates a radial-redirection optical element, allowing for the modification of light output from a conventional axially-emitting optical fiber. This element is designed to maintain the light output's cross-sectional dimension below the fiber core diameter, enabling selective redirection of light from axial to radial or vice versa, depending on the position of the fiber output facet relative to the optical element.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional axially-emitting optical fiber is used, then the light output is directed along the axis, but the ability to selectively redirect light radially is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The optical fiber is made movable relative to the optical element, allowing dynamic switching between axial and radial light output by changing the position of the fiber output facet. This enables the system to adapt between different treatment modes without requiring multiple fixed optical paths.
Solution Approach 2:
A single optical element serves multiple functions: it can redirect light radially when the fiber is positioned at a certain distance, while allowing axial transmission when the fiber is positioned closer. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate optical components for different emission patterns.
2Shape
If the fiber output facet is positioned far from the optical element, then radial light redirection is achieved, but axial light transmission is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses dynamic positioning of the fiber output facet to switch between two operational states: close positioning for axial transmission and far positioning for radial redirection. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to maintain high efficiency in whichever mode is currently active.
3Shape
If light is scattered diffusely over significant lengths of fiber, then radial light emission is produced, but power handling capacity is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The light scattering function is extracted from the fiber body and concentrated at a specific location—the optical element positioned near the fiber output. This allows the majority of the fiber length to transmit light efficiently without scattering, while only a small region performs the radial redirection function.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical element is positioned to interact with only a small portion of the light output from the fiber, creating a localized region of radial emission while the rest of the light maintains its axial transmission path. This local modification preserves overall power handling capacity.
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
The device allows for precise control over light output direction, enabling effective treatment of intracorporeal diseases by selectively directing light axially for passing occlusions or radially for widening vessel openings. This control reduces the risk of collateral damage and improves treatment efficacy.
Implementation Method 1
The optical element is configured to maintain a cross-sectional dimension of the light output from the optical fiber at or below the value of a fiber core diameter to prevent redirection of the light output in a radial direction by the optical element
Data Source
AI summary
An optical-fiber-based optical switch arrangement configured to redirect light from axial propagation to off-axis propagation due to axial repositioning of the optical fiber within the optical termination element and internally reflecting light in an annular fashion off the axis in one state of the switch arrangement and not in the other.