Augmented accuracy using large diameter shape fiber
US11324393B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 15, 2017 |
| Grant date | May 10, 2022 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 16, 2038 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B2560/0266
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Where a flexible tool includes a tool body with a flexible portion, a distal end and a first optical fiber within the flexible portion, shape sensing can be achieved with increased accuracy by inserting or otherwise including a second optical fiber within the flexible portion. The increased accuracy can be achieved when the second optical fiber has a diameter larger than that of the first optical fiber. Once the shape of the flexible tool has been determined using at least the second optical fiber, the first optical fiber can be used for subsequent shape sensing. This may be particularly applicable where the tool includes an instrument such as an optical imaging device inserted in a channel of the tool, where not all of the width of the channel is occupied by functional components behind the operable end of the instrument.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.