SWIR Imaging Endoscopy With Non-Parallel Fiber Bundles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fiber optic bundles struggle to perform imaging at shortwave infrared (SWIR) wavelengths due to inter-core crosstalk, which limits their ability to effectively capture images in environments with low density substances like soft tissue, such as within the human body or in closed machinery, where conventional systems require large incisions for access.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a fiber optic bundle with a non-parallel arrangement of fibers, achieved through a leaching process that allows fibers to move relative to each other, reducing crosstalk and enabling efficient SWIR wavelength imaging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a conventional fiber optic bundle with parallel fiber arrangement is used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but inter-core crosstalk occurs which degrades imaging quality at SWIR wavelengths
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by transitioning from a parallel fiber arrangement to a non-parallel fiber arrangement within the bundle. This asymmetric configuration reduces the optical coupling between adjacent cores, thereby minimizing inter-core crosstalk and improving imaging quality at SWIR wavelengths without significantly complicating the manufacturing process
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic flexibility by allowing the fiber bundle to be configurable in different non-parallel arrangements. This enables the system to adapt the fiber geometry to optimize performance for different imaging conditions while maintaining a relatively simple manufacturing approach
2Manufacturing precision
If a non-parallel fiber arrangement is implemented to reduce crosstalk, then imaging quality at SWIR wavelengths improves, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring the fiber bundle with a non-parallel arrangement during the manufacturing process. This upfront configuration eliminates the need for complex real-time adjustments during operation, and while manufacturing becomes slightly more complex, it enables high-quality SWIR imaging without requiring post-manufacturing complexity
3Reliability
If conventional imaging systems with large detectors are used, then imaging capability is sufficient, but large incisions are required for access to the imaging site
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical constraint of large detector size with an optical solution. By using a flexible fiber optic bundle with non-parallel fiber arrangement that enables SWIR imaging, the system achieves reliable imaging capability through optical wavelength selection rather than mechanical detector size, allowing delivery through small catheters without large incisions
4Ease of manufacture
If fiber optic bundles operate at visible wavelengths, then the technology is well-established and easy to implement, but penetration through low density substances like soft tissue is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by transitioning the operational wavelength from visible to SWIR range. This parameter change exploits the different optical properties of tissues at SWIR wavelengths, where reduced scattering and absorption enable deeper penetration through soft tissue and other low density substances, achieving improved imaging depth while maintaining fiber optic bundle technology
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 enhances imaging penetration and quality by minimizing light scatter and blurring, allowing for high-quality imaging in confined spaces without the need for large incisions, particularly beneficial for medical and industrial applications.
Implementation Method 1
a distal lens optically coupled to the SWIR imaging sensor and disposed at the distal end of the flexible elongate member, the distal lens configured to focus light energy at the SWIR wavelength onto the SWIR imaging sensor
Implementation Method 2
SWIR anti-reflective coating disposed on the lens
Data Source
AI summary
An example imaging apparatus that can operate at shortwave infrared (SWIR) wavelengths are provided. An example imaging apparatus may include a flexible elongate member having a distal end and proximal end. The flexible elongate member may include a shortwave infrared (SWIR) imaging sensor disposed at the distal end and a lens optically coupled to the SWIR imaging sensor and disposed at the distal end of the flexible elongate member, the lens configured to focus light energy at the SWIR wavelength onto the SWIR imaging sensor. The member may also include an illumination source configured to provide light energy at the SWIR wavelength at the distal end of the flexible elongate member for output to illuminate an object.