Feb. 7, 2023
Innovation/Technology

MedTech Imaging Solutions need Photonics Innovation

FISBA is a preferred supplier of optical components and systems to the endoscopy market. The need for constant innovation and exceptional imaging performance in endoscopy drives us to excel in the solutions created along every aspect of the development process, from our DFM (Design for manufacturing) philosophy, optical fabrication know-how, test and validation, to product delivery. Our engineers have a profound understanding and experience in the underlying optical technologies and manufacturing processes to bring your product to life.

Imaging innovations in endoscopic devices 

The endoscopy and robotic surgical markets rely on high precision optical components and complex assemblies to deliver the best possible image for surgeons. Endoscopic procedures require miniaturized optical components which must endure harsh conditions including sterilization processes. We take pride in our operational excellence and our ability to deliver high precision optical components and imaging systems tested to the highest quality standards in this industry.

Miniaturization driving chip on tip micro-optics to sensor assembly

The increase in minimally invasive clinical procedures and desire to improve patient outcomes drives the need for smaller endoscopic devices. Reducing the surgical access diameter for minimally invasive clinical applications creates challenges. Imaging technology continues to respond by developing miniaturized CMOS sensors that require higher precision optics to be assembled as integrated micro-vision chip on tip systems. Applications served by flexible endoscopic devices, may have to integrate 3 functions in parallel, illumination, imaging and working channel; whereas stereo vision in robotic surgery is generally separated from the other functions with different access tools.

Source: FISBA

Compact stereo-vision optics and designs tested to MTF performance 

High quality stereo vision integrated in endoscopic system with double chip on tip CMOS sensors in robotic surgery is becoming a widely adopted imaging modality. Compact high-quality micro-optics on dual sensor integrations enable the surgeon to experience distance, depth and geometry in the target application, often a key factor for fast orientation in complex organ environments. For best experience and use without eye-fatigue, it is a precondition to qualify the micro-optic systems for the two “eyes” to the highest quality standards, performed with modulation transfer function (MTF) imaging targets. Optimized endoscopic stereo-vision systems designed to be scalable, reliable, and meeting the demanding requirements for robotic surgery applications are key to this growth market.

Compact angled viewing with micro-prisms

Angled viewing is a long-standing function for optimized endoscopic imaging, especially when coupled with rigid endoscopes, allowing the surgeon to capture more visual information on the clinical application. FISBA provides key enabling imaging technology - coated micro-prism systems in combination with additional imaging optics and optimized mirror coatings - to achieve angled endoscopic viewing system designs. A main driver for efficiency is the miniaturized size of the micro-prism systems, not exceeding the overall diameter of the imaging optics.

Design and production of miniaturized glass aspheres for distortion control

Imaging with 4K resolution has become the standard in high-end endoscopy. To take full advantage of 4K resolution means reducing distortion for the benefit of equidistant resolution and location identification. Precision molded glass aspheres provide a solution space for optimizing the optical design and minimizing distortion. FISBA designs and produces high-end precision molded aspheres offering repeatable and consistent performance with industrial scalability. A driver for the scalability and precision in glass molding is our in-house knowledge, capacity and expertise in manufacturing the precision tools for molding.

Design and coatings optimized for NIR fluorescence imaging

Clinical endoscopy is being enhanced by fluorescence imaging, for the specific benefit of perfusion imaging and multifocal tumor identification. The design and realization of these dichroic functions has expanded into the near-infrared spectral domain (NIR). FISBA designs and implements micro-optic coatings that enhance the imaging capabilities and allow for greater image contrast. A driver for the effectiveness in fluorescence imaging is the knowledge and expertise on how to spectrally separate the signal amplitudes between visual and fluorescence channel.

Illumination LED solutions over fiber-bundles integrated to the tip 

Multispectral endoscopic imaging coupled with software and artificial intelligence modalities give the surgeon a valuable tool in the detection and identification of smaller early stage lesions. Structured illumination provides another layer to advanced endoscopic imaging systems. FISBA has expertise in the design and integration of fiber-optic flexible light bundles, optimized miniature LED illumination systems, and know how to efficiently couple sources to fiber to maximize brightness. Further requirements such as control of tightness and illumination fiber integrity over prolonged use-cycles are drivers for the system performance.

Source: FISBA

FISBA is a global leader in the design and manufacture of high precision micro optical and opto-mechanical systems for medical endoscopy and robotic surgery. Getting medical imaging devices to market with the right solution has never been more critical. The companies knowledge and long-standing expertise in building custom imaging systems is an advantage for customers:

FISBA AG, St. Gallen, Switzerland

https://www.fisba.com/en

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