Split Surgical Laser Fiber Reuse Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional surgical laser systems face inefficiencies in resource utilization and waste management due to the need for entire laser fibers to be discarded after use, whereas the split laser fiber system allows for the reuse of an extension member with a removable output member, reducing waste and extending the life of the system.
Innovation Solution
The split laser fiber system consists of an extension member and an output member that are removably coupled, with an optical coupler connecting the extension laser fiber to the output laser fiber, enabling the reuse of the extension member and reducing waste by only discarding the shorter output member after use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of substance
If a conventional single-piece laser fiber is used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the entire fiber must be discarded after use resulting in waste and reduced resource utilization
Solution Approach 1:
The laser fiber is divided into two separate components: an extension member containing an extension laser fiber and an output member containing an output laser fiber. The extension member can be reused while only the output member is discarded after use, significantly reducing waste. The segmentation allows the reusable portion (extension member) to be separated from the disposable portion (output member), resolving the contradiction between waste reduction and structural simplicity.
2Productivity
If the entire laser fiber is discarded after use, then manufacturing and disposal processes are simple, but resource utilization is inefficient and waste is high
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a selective discarding and recovering strategy where only the output member (containing the output laser fiber) is discarded after use, while the extension member (containing the extension laser fiber) is recovered and reused with a new output member. This approach dramatically improves resource utilization efficiency by allowing the more complex and expensive extension member to be reused multiple times, while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through standardized disposable output members.
3Loss of substance
If a split laser fiber system with removable components is used, then waste is reduced and resource utilization is improved, but the device complexity and connection requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connection between the extension member and output member is designed to be dynamic and changeable, allowing the output member to be easily attached and detached from the extension member. This dynamic connection system enables quick replacement of output members without complex assembly procedures, maintaining ease of operation while enabling the waste-reducing split fiber architecture. The removable coupling mechanism ensures that users can quickly exchange output members without requiring specialized tools or complex procedures.
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 configuration reduces waste and extends the lifespan of the system by allowing the extension member to be reused multiple times, while ensuring efficient delivery of electromagnetic energy to the probe tip for various surgical treatments.
Implementation Method 1
An optical coupler optically connects a distal end of the extension laser fiber to a proximal end of the output laser fiber
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical laser tool comprises an output member that includes an output laser fiber, a probe tip, and electrical contacts. The probe tip is attached to a distal end of the output laser fiber. Electromagnetic energy transmitted through the output laser fiber is discharged through the probe tip. The electrical contacts are supported at a proximal end of the output member.