3D Imaging System Using Acousto-Optical Deflectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current depth-resolved imaging techniques face challenges in efficiently capturing image light from multiple depths within a subject simultaneously, limiting their ability to form high-resolution, three-dimensional images and time-resolved imaging.
Innovation Solution
The use of a scanning and de-scanning system that projects a narrow or planar illumination beam through an objective lens, allowing light to be captured from multiple depths and redirected to a stationary light detector, enabling the formation of a stationary image or multiple images over time, using acousto-optical deflectors or spatial light modulators for flexible beam control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional depth-resolved imaging techniques are used to capture light from multiple depths, then imaging capability is provided, but imaging speed is slow and resolution is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the imaging process by using multiple detectors arranged in different orientations (e.g., vertical and horizontal arrays) to simultaneously capture light from different depth regions. This segmentation allows parallel acquisition of depth information without sacrificing resolution, thereby improving imaging speed while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from traditional single-plane detection to three-dimensional detector arrangements that capture light from multiple depths simultaneously. By adding the depth dimension to the detection architecture, the system achieves rapid volumetric imaging without compromising spatial resolution in any dimension.
2Productivity
If multiple detectors are used to capture light from multiple depths simultaneously, then imaging speed improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs detectors that serve multiple functions: they detect light from specific depth regions while also contributing to overall image formation. The same detector array is used for both rapid depth-resolved imaging and conventional imaging modes, reducing the need for separate specialized components and thereby managing device complexity while maintaining high imaging speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces beam redirectors and optical scanning mechanisms as intermediaries that coordinate the illumination and detection paths. These intermediary components manage the complexity by providing a unified control architecture that synchronizes multiple detectors and illumination sources, enabling simultaneous multi-depth capture without proportionally increasing system complexity.
3Manufacturing precision
If illumination beam scanning is used to cover multiple depths, then complete volumetric imaging is achieved, but imaging time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses preliminary beam shaping and pre-positioning of multiple detectors at anticipated depth locations to enable simultaneous capture of volumetric information. By preparing the detection architecture in advance with detectors strategically positioned to cover the entire volume of interest, the system achieves complete volumetric imaging without sequential scanning, thereby eliminating imaging time delays.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent maintains continuous illumination and simultaneous detection across all depth regions through a stationary multi-detector arrangement. Rather than sequentially scanning through depths, the system continuously captures light from all depths at once, ensuring uninterrupted volumetric imaging and eliminating the time loss associated with scanning operations.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach allows for rapid creation of two- and three-dimensional images, including moving images, with increased imaging speed and improved resolution by capturing light from multiple depths simultaneously, while simplifying subject positioning and alignment.
Implementation Method 1
A discontinuous scan pattern may be generated by aiming a beam by means of an acousto-optical deflector or spatial light modulator (SLM)
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, devices and systems for up to three-dimensional scanning of target regions at high magnification are disclosed.