Incoherent Fourier Ptychographic Imaging With Spatial Light Modulator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional Fourier ptychographic imaging systems require slow physical translation of a diffuser and are limited to two-dimensional, flat objects, making them inefficient for imaging three-dimensional and moving objects at high speeds.
Innovation Solution
The system uses pre-computed, known illumination patterns projected onto a target without spatial translation, combined with precise registration of projection and imaging optics, allowing for high-speed imaging of three-dimensional objects using an iterative algorithm and optical transfer function processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If physical translation of a diffuser is used to achieve Fourier ptychographic imaging, then high-resolution imaging is achieved, but imaging speed becomes slow and the system is limited to two-dimensional flat objects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical translation system with a spatial light modulator (SLM) that can dynamically generate and position scattering patterns through electronic control. This substitution eliminates the need for physical movement of the diffuser, enabling high-speed switching between different illumination patterns while maintaining the Fourier ptychographic imaging capability. The SLM allows for rapid reconfiguration of illumination patterns without mechanical constraints, thus resolving the contradiction between achieving high resolution and maintaining fast imaging speed.
2Measurement precision
If physical translation of a diffuser is used to achieve Fourier ptychographic imaging, then high-resolution imaging is achieved, but the system can only image two-dimensional flat objects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a spatial light modulator that can dynamically generate and reposition scattering patterns in three-dimensional space through electronic control. This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt to objects of various shapes and dimensions, including three-dimensional objects, by adjusting the illumination pattern positions and orientations without mechanical translation. The dynamic nature of the SLM enables the system to maintain high-resolution imaging capability while significantly increasing versatility for imaging different object types.
3Productivity
If pre-computed known patterns are projected without spatial translation, then imaging speed increases, but precise registration of projection and imaging optics is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the system captures images using the projected scattering patterns and uses these images to refine the registration between the projection and imaging optics. The iterative process allows the system to automatically correct for misalignments and achieve precise registration without requiring manual adjustment. This feedback loop enables the system to maintain high imaging speed while ensuring the necessary optical alignment precision for accurate Fourier ptychographic reconstruction.
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 enables high-resolution imaging of three-dimensional objects with improved accuracy and speed, surpassing the limitations of conventional systems by achieving resolution enhancements of at least 3.5 times without the need for mechanical translation.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of known scattering patterns are projected onto an object to be imaged
Implementation Method 2
through a lens onto the object and records an image
Implementation Method 3
Fourier ptychographic super-resolution imaging system uses pre-computed, known illumination patterns projected onto a target without spatial translation, combined with precise registration of projection and imaging optics, allowing for high-speed imaging of three-dimensional objects using an iterative algorithm and optical transfer function processing
Data Source
AI summary
An Incoherent Fourier ptychographic imaging system. Multiple known light patterns are projected sequentially onto a target and images of the combined pattern and target are recorded by a camera, with the images being processed using an optical transfer function (OTF). The camera and projection system are aligned along the same optical axis. The known illumination patterns and the optical transfer function (OTF) are combined in an iterative algorithm to generate an image with resolution greater than would be achieved by uniform illumination of the target and imaging with the camera.