Bundled optical and fluid conduits

摘要

An optical conduit is bundled with one or more fluid carrying conduits such that the bundled conduits are axially aligned near their distal ends. Light and fluid emitted from orifices at the terminal ends of said conduits are emitted along substantially coaxial paths. A ferrule is preferably used to bundle the conduits together at the distal ends of the conduits, and elsewhere along their combined lengths if desired. The fluid conduit may comprise an outer tube and a smaller coaxial inner tube, one tube for delivering a first fluid and the other tube for delivering a second fluid. The optical conduit comprises optical fibers for delivering light through the end of the bundle. The bundled conduits are suitable for use in innumerable settings, and in a preferred embodiment the bundled conduits are incorporated into a dental tool such as an integrally molded appliance. Because the conduits are bundled near the distal ends of the aligned tubes prior to molding, the light and fluid delivered through the conduits are precisely aimed at the intended point.