Dual-Waveguiding Module for OCT and CSLO Signal Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current optical imaging systems face challenges in simultaneously generating high-quality Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) and confocal Scanning Laser Ophthalmoscope (CSLO) images with pixel-to-pixel registration, due to limitations in signal collection efficiency and noise ratio, leading to difficulties in interpreting anatomical structures and correcting for sample movement.
Innovation Solution
A dual-waveguiding module with a concentric single-mode/multi-mode structure is used to collect and separate OCT and CSLO signals efficiently, employing a multi-mode optical power extractor to optimize signal-to-noise ratios and enable simultaneous image generation with inherent registration, while reducing system complexity and cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a single-mode fiber is used to collect light for OCT imaging, then axial resolution is improved, but signal collection efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the light collection function into two separate pathways: a single-mode fiber for OCT imaging (providing high axial resolution) and a multi-mode fiber for confocal imaging (providing high signal collection efficiency). This segmentation allows each imaging modality to use the optimal fiber type without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a dual-function probe that simultaneously performs both OCT and confocal imaging through a single integrated structure. The probe head contains both single-mode and multi-mode fibers that can collect light for both imaging modalities at the same time, eliminating the need for separate probes.
2Device complexity
If sequential acquisition of OCT and CSLO images is used, then system complexity is reduced, but image registration accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables simultaneous and continuous acquisition of both OCT and confocal images through the dual-waveguiding structure. Both imaging modalities capture data at the same time from the same sample location, ensuring perfect temporal alignment and eliminating registration errors caused by sample movement between sequential scans.
3Reliability
If separate probes are used for OCT and confocal imaging, then signal-to-noise ratio is improved, but device complexity and cost deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the OCT and confocal imaging capabilities into a single integrated probe head. The dual-waveguiding structure combines both single-mode and multi-mode fibers in one probe, allowing simultaneous collection of light for both imaging modalities through a single insertion point into the sample.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested fiber structure where the single-mode fiber and multi-mode fiber are positioned concentrically within the same probe head. The single-mode fiber is located at the center while the multi-mode fiber surrounds it, allowing both fibers to function independently while sharing the same physical space and sample access point.
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 achieves high signal-to-noise ratios for both OCT and CSLO images, preserving signal strength and optimizing CSLO detection, allowing for cost-effective and efficient generation of registered images with improved interpretability and reduced distortion.
Implementation Method 1
a dual-waveguiding structure that has at least two waveguides, one for single mode waveguiding and the other for multi-mode waveguiding
Implementation Method 2
OCT is an interference-based technique so only light that is spatially coherent contributes to the signal
Implementation Method 3
a dual-waveguiding structure that has at least two waveguides, one for single mode waveguiding and the other for multi-mode waveguiding
Implementation Method 4
The sample-returned light is separately collected by the single mode waveguide and the multi-mode waveguide
Data Source
AI summary
This invention provides a better apparatus and method for the generation of Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) and Confocal Scanning Laser Ophthalmoscope (CSLO) images, using a dual-waveguiding module. A dual-waveguiding structure consists of a single-mode and a multi-mode waveguide each with optimum size and numerical aperture for highly efficient collection of the OCT and CSLO optical signals. Separation of the two signals is achieved by channeling most of the multi-mode guided optical power to a CSLO detector. The non-tapped single-mode guided optical wave is further sent to a pure single-mode fiber of a standard OCT system for OCT image generation. The present invention achieves highly efficient optical power usage and hence high signal to noise ratio, together with inherent pixel-to-pixel registration of the OCT and CSLO images, and a cost reduction of the OCT/CSLO combo system.