Fluorescence Origin Localization in Layered Eye Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for evaluating fluorescence in layer systems, such as the eye, are limited by their inability to accurately determine the points of origin of fluorescence and rely on assumptions that all fluorophores are in the same focal plane, leading to inaccurate evaluations of time-dependent summary fluorescence.
Innovation Solution
A method that considers layer-specific, time-dependent parameters in a multi-exponential model function to determine the time of origin of fluorescence in each layer, allowing for precise evaluation of summary decay behavior and localization of fluorescence points, using a laser scanner ophthalmoscope and a modified model function that includes a time-of-origin parameter.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If 2-photon or multi-photon excitation is used to achieve high geometric resolution and excite single points in one layer, then measurement precision is improved, but the device complexity increases and the method cannot simultaneously measure different layers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the fluorescence measurement into layer-specific segments by using a scanning system to sequentially excite different layers of the eye. Each layer is excited and measured separately, allowing high geometric resolution in each layer while avoiding the complexity of simultaneous multi-layer excitation. The scanning mechanism segments the measurement process across time rather than requiring complex spatial multiplexing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from spatial excitation (2-photon/multi-photon requiring high NA objectives) to temporal excitation using a scanning system. By moving the excitation point through the eye's layers over time rather than requiring complex optical focusing, the system achieves layer-specific measurement without the device complexity of high-aperture optical systems.
2Measurement precision
If high radiation energy is applied for 2-photon excitation to achieve high geometric resolution, then measurement precision is improved, but harmful effects on the eye increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses periodic scanning excitation where the laser beam sequentially scans through different layers of the eye over time. This periodic scanning allows low-energy excitation in each layer during its turn, avoiding the high peak power required for simultaneous 2-photon excitation. The periodic nature distributes the energy exposure over time, reducing cumulative damage while maintaining measurement precision.
3Device complexity
If the assumption that all fluorophores are in the same focal plane is used, then the evaluation process is simplified, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the fluorescence measurement by layer, assigning different time windows to each layer's fluorescence signal. By separating the measurement into layer-specific temporal segments, the system can precisely locate fluorescence origins in each layer without assuming all fluorophores are in the same plane. This segmentation eliminates the need for complex deconvolution while achieving precise localization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces time as an intermediary parameter to distinguish between different layers. Instead of trying to spatially separate all fluorophores in the same focal plane, the system uses temporal separation as an intermediary to identify which layer each fluorescence signal originates from. This time-based intermediary simplifies the evaluation process while improving localization precision.
4Productivity
If simultaneous determination of fluorescence from different layers is attempted, then productivity is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses periodic scanning to sequentially measure different layers over time. This periodic action allows the system to measure multiple layers efficiently without requiring simultaneous excitation, maintaining high productivity while preserving layer-specific precision. The scanning mechanism rapidly transitions between layers, achieving comprehensive measurement in a time-efficient manner.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic scanning excitation that adapts its focus across different layers over time. This dynamic approach allows the system to rapidly switch between measuring different layers, achieving high productivity. The dynamic nature of the scanning system maintains precision by adjusting the excitation focus for each specific layer being measured, rather than attempting static simultaneous measurement.
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 precise evaluation of time-resolved fluorescence decay behavior and accurate determination of fluorescence points within the geometric structure, improving diagnostic capabilities in ophthalmology and pharmacokinetic studies by distinguishing between different layers and tracking fluorescent marker diffusion.
Implementation Method 1
If layer systems are excited to fluorescence, local fluorophores emit in the individual layers
Implementation Method 2
time-resolved detection of the fluorescence
Data Source
AI summary
Determining the fluorescence in a layer system, such as the eye. The summary decay behavior of the fluorescence is evaluated. Points of origin of individual fluorescence of the layer system are determined. The time of origin (tci) of each fluorescence in the individual layers of the layer system are determined using layer-specific, time-dependent parameters for the relevant fluorescence. The parameters indicate the time of origin of the fluorescence in the relevant layer. The parameters are used in a model function for calculating the summary decay behavior of the fluorescence.