Radial Illumination Ferrule with Integrated Reflector
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing radial illumination systems for catheter cameras are complex and difficult to miniaturize due to the need for precise alignment of multiple optical components, which increases manufacturing costs and reduces accuracy in imaging the upper airway for obstructive sleep apnea diagnosis.
Innovation Solution
A radial illumination system using a ferrule with a reflector cap or internal reflector to redirect and collimate light, reducing the number of components and simplifying alignment, allowing for a compact design that projects a radial light pattern around the axis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If multiple optical components are used to achieve radial illumination, then the illumination quality is improved, but the device complexity and alignment difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the reflector and ferrule into a single integrated component. The ferrule serves dual purposes: mechanically securing the optical fiber and providing the reflective surface through its polished end face. This integration eliminates the need for separate reflector and ferrule components, reducing assembly steps and alignment requirements while maintaining the radial illumination function.
2Illumination intensity
If multiple optical components are used to achieve radial illumination, then the illumination quality is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integration of reflector and ferrule into one component reduces the total part count, which directly lowers manufacturing costs through fewer machining operations, less material waste, simplified quality control, and reduced assembly requirements. The single-component design maintains optical performance while improving ease of manufacture.
3Illumination intensity
If multiple optical components are used to achieve radial illumination, then the illumination quality is improved, but the alignment precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the reflector function into the ferrule itself, the patent eliminates the need for precise alignment between separate reflector and ferrule components. The polished end face of the ferrule provides the reflective surface at a fixed, predetermined position relative to the optical fiber, removing alignment degree of freedom and significantly reducing precision requirements.
4Volume of moving object
If the illumination system is miniaturized for catheter use, then the invasiveness is reduced, but the optical component alignment becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated ferrule-reflector design is particularly advantageous for miniaturized catheter applications because it reduces the number of components that must be precisely positioned in a confined space. The single-component construction simplifies the overall assembly, making it easier to fit within the limited diameter of a catheter while maintaining optical performance.
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 system achieves accurate and compact radial illumination, enabling effective imaging of the upper airway with reduced complexity and cost, improving the ability to detect obstructions in the airway without the need for invasive procedures.
Implementation Method 1
an optical fiber which is adapted to transmit the light output and to emit the light in a direction centered along an axis, from an end of the optical fiber
Implementation Method 2
a reflector coupled to or integral with the ferrule, for redirecting the emitted light to form a ring of generally radial light around the axis
Data Source
AI summary
A radial illumination system is for projecting a light pattern radially. A light source generates a light output to an optical fiber. A ferrule is provided around the end of the optical fiber, and a reflector is mounted over or in the ferrule or integral with the ferrule, for redirecting the light to form generally radial light. In this way, a simple design with low component count is able to perform the optical alignment and optical reflecting functions.