Theia Imaging Internship
Abstract
Theia Imaging is a medical startup working on the world's first commercial handheld Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) imaging system. Compared to existing solutions, the T1 system can be easily transported and it's handheld swept-source OCT (SSOCT) device provides critical information with non-invasive imaging for neurological and optical diagnosis. As a mechanical engineering intern working on the T1 system, I had end-to-end ownership of a Motorized Fiber Polarization Controller (MPC) subassembly that worked to automate the process of enhancing OCT images through optical fiber polarization.
Primary
- Design a motorized fiber polarization controller.
- Undergo rapid prototyping for proof of concept.
- Source small-batch components for prototype deployment
- Incorporate a GUI to control and refine MPC.
Secondary
- Better understand VC funding and prototype marketing in the tech start-up market.
- Research compatible adhesives and materials for biomedical products.
- Work on test fixtures for complicated lens assemblies.
Project Features
Internship Overview
The T1 system is Theia Imaging's flagship and proprietary product, capable of swept-source OCT (SSOCT). The T1 system consists of a cart-mounted OCT engine, a long and flexible tether, and a lightweight handheld probe that accepts various interchangeable lenses for imaging different regions of the eye. As a medical healthcare expert uses the handheld probe to scan the eye, the images that appear on the screen undergo both optical and digital enhancement. To further enhance images, I was tasked with designing a mechanical device that physically manipulates looped optical fibers to increase sharpness and contrast.
I can't show much but here are some skills I utilized for the job:
- Designed the MPC in Solidworks with a top-down assembly approach.
- Utilized FEA and tolerance analysis to create cost-down models.
- Ran theoretical lifetime cycle analysis to spec motors.
- Created scheduled timelines for different vendors to produce small-batch prototypes.
- Explored different manufacturing methods including machining, 3D-printing, and injection molding.
- Created custom circuit boards to fit electronics for the MPC into a small form factor.
- Coded a Python GUI to control the MPC and detect various metrics like luminance, contrast, and frame rate.
- Conducted adhesive research for biocompatible, skin-safe epoxy that met medical ISO standards.
