Dual Illumination System for 3D Fluorescence Tomography
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fluorescence imaging systems face challenges in capturing 3D diffuse tomographic reconstructions of specimens due to the need for diverse fluorescent illumination options and the inability to simultaneously perform structured light imaging and fluorescent imaging effectively, especially in macroscopic applications where autofluorescence and light scattering are significant.
Innovation Solution
A dual illumination system is developed, incorporating both epi-illumination and trans-illumination capabilities within a single imaging apparatus, utilizing structured light for 3D surface topography and fluorescent excitation light for fluorescence imaging, allowing for 3D diffuse fluorescence tomographic reconstructions by directing light from different angles and using optical switches to selectively route excitation light between illumination modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single imaging apparatus is used for both structured light imaging and fluorescent imaging, then device complexity is reduced, but the ability to provide diverse illumination options (epi- and trans-illumination) deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single imaging apparatus that can perform both structured light imaging and fluorescent imaging with multiple illumination modes (epi- and trans-illumination). The system uses a switchable illumination architecture where a single light source can be routed to different illumination paths, and the imaging sensor can operate in different modes, making the device universal and multi-functional without requiring separate apparatus for each imaging type
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic switching between different illumination modes and imaging functions within the single apparatus. The illumination system can dynamically change between epi-illumination and trans-illumination configurations, and the imaging sensor can dynamically switch between structured light capture and fluorescent signal detection, allowing the device to adapt its function based on the required imaging mode
2Measurement precision
If trans-illumination is used to reduce autofluorescence, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity increases due to additional illumination routing components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a single light source that can serve multiple illumination functions through switching mechanisms. The same illumination system can be configured for both epi-illumination and trans-illumination modes, making the routing components multi-functional rather than requiring separate dedicated systems for each mode, thereby reducing the overall complexity increase
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an optical switch or beam routing element as an intermediary component that directs light between different paths (epi-illumination path and trans-illumination path). This intermediary enables precise control over illumination geometry without requiring complex mechanical reconfiguration, allowing the system to achieve trans-illumination for reduced autofluorescence while managing complexity through intelligent light routing
3Productivity
If epi-illumination is used for faster survey of the entire animal, then productivity improves, but measurement precision deteriorates due to higher autofluorescence
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic switching between epi-illumination and trans-illumination modes based on the imaging requirements. For rapid surveys where speed is prioritized, epi-illumination is used; for applications requiring higher precision and lower autofluorescence, the system dynamically switches to trans-illumination mode, allowing the device to optimize between productivity and measurement precision as needed
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
Enables accurate 3D localization and concentration determination of fluorescent probes in tissue by combining structured light imaging for surface topography with fluorescent imaging, reducing autofluorescence and improving sensitivity through trans-illumination geometry, thus enhancing the accuracy of fluorescence tomography.
Implementation Method 1
a first illumination assembly which is configured to direct structured light imaging onto a first side of the specimen to enable structured light and surface topography measurements
Implementation Method 2
a second illumination assembly which is configured to direct excitation light at the specimen wherein diffused fluorescent light emanates from a surface
Implementation Method 3
Trans-illumination, on the other hand, provides lower levels of autofluorescence and is useful for performing 3D tomographic reconstructions
Data Source
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AI summary
A dual illumination system is disclosed for use with an imaging apparatus. The imaging apparatus defines a light-tight imaging compartment with an interior wall having a view port extending into the imaging compartment. This view port enables data acquisition of a biological specimen contained in the imaging compartment. The dual illumination system includes a first illumination assembly configured to direct structured light onto a first side of the specimen to enable structured light and surface topography measurements thereof. A second illumination assembly then directs light at the specimen wherein diffused fluorescent light emanates from a surface thereof for receipt through the view port to acquire fluorescence data of the specimen. The combination of structured light imaging and fluorescence imaging enables 3D diffuse tomographic reconstructions of fluorescent probe location and concentration.