Steerable Laser Probe Shape Memory Sleeve Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current surgical laser probes lack the ability to be easily steered and controlled within the eye to effectively target multiple locations during ophthalmic procedures, such as laser photocoagulation for proliferative retinopathy, making precise and efficient treatment challenging.
Innovation Solution
A steerable laser probe is designed with a handle, a shape memory sleeve over an optic fiber, and a housing sleeve that allows for actuation to change the angle of the optic fiber by compressing or decompressing an actuation structure, enabling the optic fiber to be gradually extended or retracted and curved to various positions within the eye.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional fixed laser probe is used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the ability to target multiple locations within the eye is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The laser probe incorporates a shape memory alloy sleeve that can dynamically change the curvature of the optic fiber from straight to curved states. This dynamic transformation allows the probe to adapt its configuration for targeting multiple locations within the eye, resolving the contradiction between versatility and structural simplicity by introducing controlled variability without permanent complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The probe utilizes temperature-induced phase changes in the shape memory alloy to alter the physical state and curvature of the optic fiber. By changing the thermal parameter, the system transitions between different operational configurations (straight for insertion, curved for positioning), enabling multi-location targeting while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
2Ease of operation
If the optic fiber is made rigid for stable positioning, then positioning stability is improved, but the ability to steer and guide the laser to different positions is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The optic fiber's rigidity is dynamically adjusted through the shape memory alloy sleeve. When heated, the sleeve contracts to straighten the fiber for stable insertion and positioning. When cooled, the fiber becomes more flexible, allowing the surgeon to easily steer and guide it to different locations. This dynamic property resolution enables both ease of steering and positioning stability at different operational stages.
3Ease of operation
If the laser probe is designed to be easily steered, then ease of operation is improved, but the precision and control of laser positioning may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The probe transitions from a flexible state during insertion and steering to a rigid straight state when the shape memory alloy is activated at the target location. This dynamic transition ensures that the fiber can be easily guided to the desired position while maintaining precise positioning once arrived, as the activated sleeve locks the fiber in its intended configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The shape memory alloy sleeve is pre-programmed with the desired curvature configuration. Before reaching the target, the fiber remains flexible for easy steering. Upon reaching the approximate target location, activation of the sleeve causes it to assume its pre-programmed shape, automatically positioning the laser tip with precision at the intended location without requiring complex manual adjustment.
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 allows for precise control and targeting of multiple locations within the eye, enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of ophthalmic procedures like laser photocoagulation by enabling easy guidance and positioning of the laser beam.
Implementation Method 1
a shape memory sleeve disposed over a distal end of the optic fiber, wherein the shape memory sleeve is configured to hold the distal end of the optic fiber at a pre-bent angle
Implementation Method 2
a compression of an actuation structure of the handle actuates the housing sleeve relative to the shape memory sleeve and the optic fiber wherein the housing sleeve is gradually extended over the shape memory sleeve and the optic fiber
Data Source
AI summary
A steerable laser probe may include a handle having a handle distal end and a handle proximal end, a housing sleeve disposed in an inner bore of the handle configured to project a distance from the handle distal end, an optic fiber disposed in the housing sleeve, a shape memory sleeve disposed over a distal end of the optic fiber, and a light source configured to connect to a proximal end of the optic fiber. The shape memory sleeve may be configured to curve the distal end of the optic fiber at an angle, e.g., 90 degrees, when the shape memory sleeve is not contained within the housing sleeve.