Device for Manufacturing Intravascular Probes

Brief Description

A means of precisely positioning and joining two cylindrical bodies used in the construction of side-viewing rotational endoscopic imaging probes.

Full Description

Within the realm of rotated endoscopic imaging probes, it is essential to ensure that probe sub-assemblies are precisely and reproducibly joined together to insure even circular rotation. Currently, imaging probe sub-components are bonded together using imprecise, toxic and expensive methods such as lead based soldering and laser welding. There exists a manufacturing need to precisely and reproducibly join miniature imaging probe subassemblies in a low-cost and efficient manner.

Researchers at the University of California, Irvine, have developed a precise, operationally simple and low cost means of press-fitting imaging probe sub-components together. The developed technology accurately joins two cylindrical imaging probe sub-assemblies to insure bond symmetry and downstream even circular rotation. By utilizing such a press fitting method, endoscopic rotational imaging probes will be subjected to less non-uniform rotational distortion and improve the probe’s imaging capability.

Suggested uses

• Precise press fit joining of two miniature concentric cylindrical geometries
• Manufacturing of miniature side viewing rotational probes used for intravascular ultrasound, optical coherence tomography, or fluorescence imaging.

Advantages

-Rapid bonding process requiring approximately 40 seconds

-A readily biocompatible process that does not involve the use of abrasive or toxic chemical

-Low-cost with respect to other expensive high power laser welding methods

Patent Status

Patent Pending

State Of Development

Computer simulation of device feasibility has been completed and a prototype has been manufactured. The prototype has been used to test the device’s capability of bonding two endoscopic imaging probe components together. The inventors plan on developing a manufacturing plan to lower costs of device fabrication as well as identify other applications for utilizing this precision, cylindrical press-fitting manufacturing device/method.