Dual Wavelength OCT Resampling via Frequency Comb Clock
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional optical coherence tomography (OCT) systems face challenges in simultaneously imaging multiple areas of a sample, such as the eye, with multiple wavelengths, requiring complex setups and multiple interferometers, which increase cost, size, and complexity, and often result in nonlinear wavelength scanning leading to image distortion or noise.
Innovation Solution
An improved OCT system using two wavelength swept light sources with a single interferometer and detector, employing a splitter and wavelength reference filters with equal interval frequency combs to generate sequential clock waveforms for resampling, allowing simultaneous imaging of multiple areas with reduced components and complexity, and enabling real-time imaging of both the anterior chamber and retina.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple interferometers are used to image multiple areas with multiple wavelengths, then imaging capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple interferometers into a single interferometer that can handle multiple wavelengths and imaging areas simultaneously. The interferometer is designed to process signals from different wavelengths (e.g., 1064 nm and 1310 nm) through a unified detection and processing system, reducing the number of separate interferometric components while maintaining the ability to image multiple areas of the eye.
Solution Approach 2:
The single interferometer is designed with universal functionality to handle multiple imaging tasks. It can simultaneously process signals from different wavelengths and detect multiple imaging areas (anterior chamber, retina, etc.) through a common optical path and detection system, eliminating the need for separate interferometers for each imaging function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple interferometers are used to image multiple areas with multiple wavelengths, then imaging capability is improved, but system size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple interferometric systems into a single compact interferometer unit. By combining the optical paths, detectors, and signal processing components into one integrated system, the overall footprint and physical size of the OCT device are significantly reduced compared to having separate interferometers for each imaging function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a nested architecture where multiple imaging functions are integrated within a single interferometer structure. The optical paths for different wavelengths and imaging areas are nested or multiplexed within the same interferometric framework, allowing compact arrangement of components and reduced system volume.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional OCT systems use separate detection channels for multiple wavelengths, then wavelength coverage is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines separate detection channels for different wavelengths into a unified detection system. The interferometer uses a single detection path that can simultaneously capture signals from multiple wavelengths (e.g., 1064 nm and 1310 nm) through wavelength division or time-division multiplexing, eliminating the need for separate detection channels for each wavelength.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection system is designed with universal capability to handle multiple wavelengths simultaneously. The detector and signal processing circuitry are configured to process signals from different wavelengths through a common channel, maintaining wavelength coverage while reducing detection system complexity through multi-functional design.
4Productivity
If nonlinear wavelength scanning is used, then imaging speed is improved, but image quality deteriorates due to distortion or noise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms to monitor and correct wavelength scanning nonlinearity. The system uses reference signals and feedback loops to detect deviations from linear wavelength scanning and applies real-time correction through software algorithms, maintaining image quality while preserving high imaging speed through efficient feedback-based compensation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically adjusts scanning parameters to maintain linearity during high-speed imaging. The system modifies wavelength sweep characteristics in real-time based on feedback from the detection system, changing scanning speed or wavelength step size to compensate for nonlinearities and ensure consistent image quality across different imaging conditions.
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
The system achieves high-resolution, distortion-free imaging of multiple areas with reduced complexity and cost by combining two wavelengths into one path, using a single interferometer and detector, and performing resampling in the optical domain with only one additional input channel, enabling real-time imaging of multiple imaging ranges.
Implementation Method 1
The light from the sample and the reference light can be combined in such a way that gives rise to an interference pattern. That is, the light from the sample and the reference light will either constructively or destructively interfere with each other.
Implementation Method 2
The wavelength reference filter is configured to produce a sequential clock waveform from light received from the splitter
Implementation Method 3
a detector configured to compare light from the reference path with light from the interferometer sample path and product an imaging sample signal based on the comparison
Data Source
AI summary
An optical coherence tomography (OCT) system combining multiple wavelengths is generally described. In an example, the OCT system includes multiple wavelength swept light sources. The system further includes an interferometer into which light from the light sources is directed and a detector configured to produce an imaging sample signal based on light received from the interferometer. The system also includes a splitter configured to split light from at least one of light sources before the light reaches the interferometer. The system also includes a wavelength reference filter having an equal interval frequency comb and a signal processing circuit. The wavelength reference filter is configured to produce a sequential clock waveform from light received from the splitter, and the signal processing circuit is configured to resample the imaging sample signal based on the sequential clock waveform.