Scanning Optical Probe Flexing Mechanism for OCT Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Handheld OCT scanning probes face challenges in microsurgical environments due to restricted movement of the optical fiber and lens assembly within the probe housing, which limits the ability to achieve high-resolution scans, particularly in ophthalmic applications where space is limited.
Innovation Solution
A scanning optical probe with a cannula, optical fiber, and an actuating mechanism that includes an elongate support member with a predefined flexing region and pull rods, allowing the distal end of the fiber to be deflected back and forth, enabling directional scanning without the need for significant movement of the fiber or lens assembly within the probe housing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the optical fiber and lens assembly are moved to achieve scanning, then high-resolution scans can be obtained, but the movement is restricted due to the long length, small diameter, and rigidity of the probe housing in microsurgical environments
Solution Approach 1:
The probe is divided into two functional segments: a rigid housing for structural stability and a flexible distal portion containing the optical fiber and lens assembly that can be actuated independently. This segmentation allows the distal components to move for scanning while the proximal housing remains stable and rigid.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical fiber and lens assembly are designed with dynamic actuation capability through a flexor mechanism that allows controlled movement of the distal components. This enables the system to transition from a static rigid structure to a dynamic scanning system where the optical elements can be positioned precisely for imaging.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the probe housing is made long and rigid for structural stability, then the probe maintains its shape, but the working space for actuating the fiber or fiber/lens assembly is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The probe structure is segmented into a rigid housing portion and a flexible distal portion. The rigid housing provides structural stability and houses the actuation mechanisms, while the flexible distal portion contains the optical fiber and lens assembly that require movement capability. This spatial separation resolves the conflict between rigidity and actuation space.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuation mechanism utilizes the radial dimension of the probe housing to accommodate the flexor and optical components. By arranging components in the radial direction rather than only along the longitudinal axis, the design creates sufficient working space for actuation while maintaining the long, thin profile necessary for microsurgical applications.
3Productivity
If the optical fiber is moved laterally to scan light across the target surface, then B-scans can be generated, but the lateral movement is prohibited due to lack of working space in the probe housing
Solution Approach 1:
A flexor element is introduced as an intermediary component between the actuation mechanism and the optical fiber/lens assembly. The flexor translates actuation forces into precise lateral movements of the optical components, enabling scanning functionality while isolating the complexity of the actuation mechanism from the optical path.
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 effective generation of high-resolution OCT scans by allowing the light beam to move across the target surface, overcoming the space constraints in microsurgical environments and improving the capability for detailed imaging in ophthalmic applications.
Implementation Method 1
an optical fiber extending through the flexible member
Implementation Method 2
a lens fixed or mounted distal to the end of the optical fiber
Implementation Method 3
an elongate flexible member... adapted to tilt back and forth... The elongate support member includes a discrete predefined flexing region
Data Source
Figure 1A~2
Figure 3~5
Figure 6~10
AI summary
A scanning optical probe includes a cannula, optical fiber, lens, and an actuating mechanism for tilting the optical fiber back and forth within the cannula. An actuator in the probe handle is coupled to various flexing and guide components extending through the cannula and towards the distal end of the scanning optical probe. Reciprocating motion from the actuator is transmitted to the components thereby causing the optical fiber at the distal end of the scanning optical probe to aim across target surfaces. The light emitted from the optical fiber is processed to generate a scan of the target area.