SCANNING MECHANISMS FOR IMAGING PROBE

摘要

The present invention provides scanning mechanisms for imaging probes using for imaging mammalian tissues and structures using high resolution imaging, including high frequency ultrasound and/or optical coherence tomography. The imaging probes include adjustable rotational drive mechanism for imparting rotational motion to an imaging assembly containing either optical or ultrasound transducers which emit energy into the surrounding area. The imaging assembly includes a scanning mechanism having including a movable member configured to deliver the energy beam along a path out of said elongate hollow shaft at a variable angle with respect to said longitudinal axis to give forward and side viewing capability of the imaging assembly. The movable member is mounted in such a way that the variable angle is a function of the angular velocity of the imaging assembly.

主权项

1. An imaging probe comprising:
a hollow shaft; an imaging conduit at least partially residing within said hollow shaft; an imaging assembly connected to said imaging conduit at a location remote from a proximal end thereof, said imaging assembly comprising a tiltable member; said imaging assembly comprising an energy emitting device configured to emit an energy beam, and wherein said energy emitting device is located such that an imaging angle associated with said energy beam is dependent on a tilt angle of said tiltable member; wherein said imaging assembly is configured such the tilt angle of said tiltable member is controllable for scanning the imaging angle; and wherein said tiltable member is pivotally supported by a low-friction pivot mechanism comprising a pair of pivot pins received within respective indentations.