IR light source based on LED for endoscopy applications

Abstract

A specific endoscopy technology uses an InfraRed (IR) light to achieve specific imaging of the vascular system. This IR light is obtained by an IR laser source. The aim of this study is to find a new IR illumination built with LEDs to substitute the existing IR source. LEDs may contribute in the endoscopy application with their advantage: LEDs cost is lower than lasers, LEDs have a longer lifetime, LEDs are available in a wide range of wavelengths, and LEDs have a narrower bandwidth in comparison to halogen or incandescent lamps. Fiber pig tailing is explored as it is the less complex and highly scalable. The research includes a depth analytical study and laboratory measurements of the IR LED fiber pig tailing approach.