Mechanical Design and Analysis for a Scanning Fiber Endoscope

There is a need for smaller, more flexible, optical imaging tools for use in minimally invasive diagnostic and therapeutic procedures [1]. Towards this end, a novel technique of image acquisition has been developed based upon the controlled vibration of a waveguide and detection of light backscattered from the waveguide onto an object [2]. The anticipated result of this research is the creation of an optical scanner capable of operating at high frequency, with a large field-of-view (FOV) in a 1 mm diameter enclosure. The mechanics of this system have been explored for use in near-field scanning optical microscopy applications [3], and are now examined for use in a scanning fiber endoscope. Discussed in this report are the vibration characteristics of two possible waveguide geometries: a cylindrical and a tapered optical fiber.