Surgical Optical Switching for Dynamic Laser Pulse Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laser systems face challenges with power loss and complexity in controlling laser pulses, necessitating improved systems and methods for dynamic control.
Innovation Solution
A surgical system comprising a laser, an optical switching device, and a laser pulse controller, allowing operators to dynamically control laser pulses through adjustable input devices, enabling precise control of pulse emission and energy levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If existing laser pulse control systems are used, then laser pulses can be controlled, but power loss and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the pulse selection function from complex existing systems and implements it through a simplified optical switching device that selectively blocks or transmits laser pulses based on simple control signals, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining control capability
Solution Approach 2:
The optical switching device serves as an intermediary component between the laser source and the surgical handpiece, providing a simple binary control mechanism that avoids the need for complex modulation systems throughout the entire optical path, thereby reducing power loss and system complexity
2Ease of operation
If existing laser pulse control systems are used, then laser pulses can be controlled, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control function is segmented into a simple optical switching device that handles pulse selection and a separate controller that generates control signals based on surgical parameters, making the system easier to operate while reducing the complexity of individual components
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides dynamic control capability through a simple optical switching mechanism that can be rapidly actuated based on real-time surgical needs, allowing flexible pulse delivery without requiring complex analog modulation systems
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 real-time, dynamic control of laser pulses, optimizing power and energy output for various surgical procedures, reducing power loss and complexity.
Implementation Method 1
an optical switching device configured to switch between a first condition in which it allows laser pulses emitted from the laser to be output from the laser system and a second condition in which it prevents laser pulses emitted from the laser from being output from the laser system
Implementation Method 2
a laser configured to emit electromagnetic radiation in laser pulses
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are disclosed for dynamically controlling laser pulses being output from a laser system. An example surgical system comprises a laser, an optical switching device, an adjustable input device such as a foot pedal, and a laser pulse controller. An operator actuates the adjustable input device over an operating range to control dynamically the laser pulses being output from the laser system. In one mode, the adjustable input device may dynamically control output laser energy. In another mode, the adjustable input device may dynamically control selection of laser pulses to be output from the system.