Abstract: The invention provides improved multi-fiber, fiber optic probe assemblies in which the component parts are adapted for rapid assembly with precise alignment. Some embodiments are adapted to illuminate and collect light from a sample at a particular depth while minimizing interference arising from within the probe assembly itself. Also provided are methods for manufacturing the probe assemblies and optical apparatuses including the probe assemblies.

Abstract: The invention provides improved fiber optic probe assemblies which utilize a configuration of gradient index (GRIN) lenses to deliver light to a focal point and collect light for analysis from the same focal point. Also provided are methods for manufacturing the probe assemblies and related methods of spatially precise spectroscopy using the probe assemblies.

Abstract: The invention provides improved multi-fiber, fiber optic probe assemblies in which the component parts are adapted for rapid assembly with precise alignment. Some embodiments are adapted to illuminate and collect light from a sample at a particular depth while minimizing interference arising from within the probe assembly itself. Also provided are methods for manufacturing the probe assemblies and optical apparatuses including the probe assemblies.

Abstract: The invention provides improved fiber optic probe assemblies which utilize a configuration of gradient index (GRIN) lenses to deliver light to a focal point and collect light for analysis from the same focal point. Also provided are methods for manufacturing the probe assemblies and related methods of spatially precise spectroscopy using the probe assemblies.

Abstract: A fiber optic probe assembly which incorporate a series of graduated shaped and nestable members, e.g. cylindrical annular members which enable uniform and repetitive construction and assembly of the probes resulting in a high degree of quality control.

Abstract: A fiber optic probe assembly which incorporate a series of graduated shaped and nestable members, e.g. cylindrical annular members which enable uniform and repetitive construction and assembly of the probes resulting in a high degree of quality control.

Abstract: The invention provides balloon-expandable intravascular basket-style catheters optimized for efficient interrogation of blood vessel walls. Related diagnostic systems and methods are also provided.

Abstract: The invention provides hybrid basket-type intravascular catheter probes designed to optimize blood vessel wall contact or close proximity while traversing tortuous curves. Related diagnostic systems and methods are also provided.

Abstract: An external mode size transformer includes a waveguide having an input section, an output section, and a tapered section disposed between the input and output sections. The cross sections between the input and output sections of the waveguide can vary smoothly throughout the length of the waveguide, similar to a waveguide shaped like a boat hull. By positioning the external mode size transformer between optical devices, coupling between optical devices is substantially improved compared to that of direct coupling. For example, by positioning the external mode size transformer between a laser and an optical fiber, laser to fiber coupling is significantly improved compared to that of direct coupling between these optical devices. The present invention can include a manufacturing method that employs multiple masks with predetermined shapes to fabricate the sections of the waveguide within a planar substrate via an exemplary ion exchange process.

Abstract: A light stabilizing interface operatively linked to a collection wave guides for combining and stabilizing reflected light into a substantially even spatial distribution of light energy with a substantially uniform light intensity. The stabilization and substantially even spatial distribution of reflected light can be accomplished by mixing and transmitting device in the form of a single optical fiber and optical junction wave guides in the form of optical fibers having a smaller diameter relative to the mixing and transmitting device. The stabilization and substantially even spatial distribution of reflected light also can be accomplished by a single, integral device that includes a collection wave guide matching section and a transition region. The transition region terminates in a shaped end region that is designed to substantially match the geometry of the input interface of the light processing unit.

Abstract: Optical assembly for controlling or limiting undesirable photon entrance, reflection, departure, or appearance. A material opaque to unwanted photons can be applied to an optical assembly that would otherwise allow penetration of the unwanted photons. For example, a filter can be applied to a waveguide member. A first face surface of the filter faces toward an end of the waveguide member and a second face surface of the filter faces away from that member end. A mask adheres to one of the filter surfaces. The mask is substantially opaque in at least some selected spectral region to impact the extent to which photons in that spectral region can pass through the filter and to the waveguide member.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for analyzing a test material by inducing and detecting light-matter interactions. Particles of matter are introduced into a volume bounded by reflective surfaces wherein light of discrete frequencies can set up a standing wave mode of low loss. Light transported over a waveguide is introduced to induce a state change in the particles of matter and to cause the release of quantitized energy from the matter. A portion of the quantitized energy is captured and transported over a waveguide to a detector. The detector records a portion of the quantitized energy. Characteristics of the particles of matter may then be determined based upon the recorded portion of the quantitized energy.