Dual Optical Path Imaging for Low Radiance Objects
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current optical imaging systems for low radiance objects face challenges in quickly capturing images due to the need for large aperture lenses, which result in shallow depth of field and complex zoom lens systems, making it difficult to adjust focus and field of view in clinical/surgical environments where time is critical.
Innovation Solution
A system with a fixed polychromatic imaging device and a high-sensitivity imaging device, where the optical path is defined by fixed sections and a focus controller adjusts the high-sensitivity imaging device's focus based on the polychromatic device's focus and optical path lengths, using motors and encoders to rapidly adjust the lens positions and maintain a light-tight seal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a large aperture lens is used to capture more photons from low luminosity samples, then the light collection efficiency is improved, but the depth of field decreases proportionally
Solution Approach 1:
The optical system is divided into two separate imaging paths: one optimized for high-sensitivity low-light imaging with large aperture, and another for white-light imaging with different focal requirements. Each path has its own imaging chip and optical components, allowing independent optimization without compromise.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a single optical path to a dual optical path architecture, adding a dimensional aspect to the imaging system. This allows simultaneous operation of different imaging modes by directing light to different chips through beam splitting or sequential switching.
2Measurement precision
If the integration time is increased to capture low light images with sufficient signal to noise ratio, then the image quality is improved, but the imaging time increases proportionally
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between two imaging modes based on the imaging requirements. For low-light imaging, it uses the high-sensitivity path with optimized exposure settings. For white-light imaging, it switches to the other path with faster capture capability, eliminating the need for long integration times when not required.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters by switching between different imaging paths, each optimized for specific conditions. The high-sensitivity path uses parameters optimized for low-light (longer exposure, higher gain), while the white-light path uses parameters for faster capture, allowing adaptive optimization without fixed constraints.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a second high resolution camera is introduced to overcome switching delays between imaging modes, then the imaging versatility is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The optical system is segmented into two independent imaging paths, each with its own imaging chip and optimized optical components. This segmentation allows each path to be optimized for its specific function while sharing common structural support and control systems, reducing overall complexity compared to a single complex unified system.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for optical imaging of a low radiance object is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a fixed polychromatic imaging device, the optical path between the polychromatic imaging device and the low radiance object being defined by a first section extending from the polychromatic imaging device to a fixed point, and a second section extending from the fixed point to the low radiance object. The apparatus also comprises a fixed high-sensitivity imaging device, the optical path between the high-sensitivity imaging device and the low radiance object being defined by a third section extending from the high-sensitivity imaging device to the fixed point, and the second section; and a focus controller arranged to control the focus of the high-sensitivity imaging device based on the focus of the polychromatic imaging device and the respective lengths of the first and third sections.