Optical fiber probe protector

US5771327A · kind A · utility

Assignee

• Optical Biopsy · US

Inventors

• David Bar-Or · Englewood, US
• James S. Kimmel · Littleton, US
• Francis A. Roth · Arvada, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Nov 18, 1996
• Grant date: Jun 23, 1998
• Expiry date: Nov 18, 2016

Classification

• Technology area (CPC Y): Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
• CPC primary: Y10S385/902
• WIPO field: Optics
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

A fiber optic probe protector for protecting a fiber optic probe such that sterilization of the probe after each use is not necessary. The fiber optic probe protector includes a sheath, a window and a handle. The sheath defines a tubular configuration, a first end, and a second end and the window is mounted in the first end of the sheath. The handle defines a first end, a second end, an interior cavity and a locking means. The second end of the sheath is mounted to the first end of the handle and the interior cavity of the handle and the sheath provide a passage for a fiber optic probe therethrough such that the face of the probe abuts against the window. The locking means locks the fiber optic probe in position. The fiber optic probe protector also includes a vacuum assembly which when hooked to a vacuum removes secretions or fluid from the surface to be analyzed with the probe.