| abstract |
The variable stiffness optical fiber shaft includes a plurality of coaxial layer (18-20) of heat shrink polymer encapsulating the optical fiber bundle (12), extending from the proximal end (14) of the optical fiber bundle (12) toward the distal end (16), the plurality of coaxial layer (18-20) having different lengths to provide said optical fiber shaft with varying stiffness over the length of the optical fiber shaft. The plurality of coaxial layers (18-20) can be arranged in successive progressively shorter coaxial layers, and can be formed of heat shrink polymeric material, such as PTFE, PEEK, PET or PPS. The variable stiffness optical fiber shaft can also include a coaxial strain relief member disposed over the outer coaxial polymer layers at the proximal end, and a connecting hub disposed over the strain relief member. |