This proposed research aims at developing and commercializing a fiber- optic pressure microtransducer (O.3mm x O.3mm x l.Omm, lfrench) that can be integrated in a guide-wire for biomedical applications such as emergency balloon angioplasty. The microstransducer is fabricated using silicon microfabrication methods that allow a D-shaped or side-polished optical fiber to be positioned in close proximity to a silicon pressure- sensing diaphragm with a deposited thin-film optical waveguide. Optical modes supported by both waveguides interact via evanescent wave proximity coupling. Since optical power coupling efficiency from the D-fiber to the thin-film waveguide may decrease by 40dB as waveguide separation increases by lOmu m, the proposed sensor design offers exceptional displacement measurement sensitivity (4dB/mu m) for constructing a sensitive and accurate pressure microtransducer. In Phase I, we seek to demonstrate feasibility and high-sensitivity of the proposed proximity-coupling-based sensing approach. Theoretical models will be developed to predict sensor and waveguide design parameters. Bench tests will be conducted on microfabricated D-fiber and silicon pressure-sensing elements to demonstrate the high sensitivity and validate sensor design. Optimal silicon-fabrication processes, optical-waveguide designs, sensor mechanical parameters, and system optoelectronic parameters will be defined for Phase II prototype sensor-system development.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Type
Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Grants - Phase I (R41)
Project #
1R41HL053028-01
Application #
2230764
Study Section
Special Emphasis Panel (ZRG7-SSS-W (03))
Project Start
1994-08-01
Project End
1996-03-31
Budget Start
1994-08-01
Budget End
1996-03-31
Support Year
1
Fiscal Year
1994
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
Optrand, Inc.
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
Plymouth
State
MI
Country
United States
Zip Code
48170