Infrared Imaging System With Homogeneous Illumination For NIR-II Fluorescence
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current preclinical imaging systems are limited to the visible and first near-infrared window of the electromagnetic spectrum, making them ineffective for imaging in the second near-infrared window where light absorption and scattering by living tissues are weaker, thus requiring a system capable of imaging in the 1000 nm to 1700 nm range.
Innovation Solution
An infrared imaging system comprising an enclosure, sample holder, light source, motor assembly, optomechanical mechanism, and detector, with first and second infrared illumination modules projecting beams that interact to create a rectangular and homogeneous illumination area, allowing for precise imaging of fluorescent markers in the NIR-II range.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If silicon-based detectors are used in preclinical imaging systems, then the systems can image from visible to first near-infrared window (400-1000 nm), but the systems are intrinsically limited and cannot image in the second near-infrared window (1000-1700 nm)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the detector material parameter from silicon-based to InGaAs-based, which fundamentally alters the spectral detection range. This parameter change enables the system to detect in the second near-infrared window (1000-1700 nm) where silicon-based detectors fail, directly resolving the contradiction between imaging spectral range and detection capability.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If light is used for imaging in the second near-infrared window, then light absorption and scattering by living tissues are weaker providing enhanced transparency, but existing imaging systems cannot detect this wavelength range
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the detector material parameter from silicon-based to InGaAs-based, which fundamentally alters the spectral detection range. This parameter change enables the system to detect in the second near-infrared window (1000-1700 nm) where silicon-based detectors fail, directly resolving the contradiction between imaging spectral range and detection capability.
3Measurement precision
If two infrared illumination beams are used to create homogeneous illumination, then imaging quality is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate infrared illumination beams into a single homogeneous illumination area by superimposing them. This merging approach creates uniform illumination across the sample, improving imaging quality while managing system complexity through coordinated control of the two beams.
Solution Approach 2:
The illumination system is divided into two separate illumination modules, each projecting a beam that can be independently controlled. This segmentation allows for precise control and optimization of each beam's characteristics while achieving homogeneous combined illumination through their superposition.
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 effective imaging of fluorescent markers in the NIR-II range, providing enhanced transparency for small animals and improved imaging capabilities beyond the limitations of existing systems.
Implementation Method 1
The first and second infrared illumination beams interact at an imaging plane to define an illumination area having a rectangular and homogeneous power profile
Implementation Method 2
The detector is configured to receive light emitted by the fluorescent markers of the sample upon illumination of the same in the imaging plane
Implementation Method 3
The light source is configured to illuminate the sample-contacting surface and includes a first illumination module and a second illumination module, each being configured to project a corresponding first and second infrared illumination beam towards the sample holder
Data Source
AI summary
There are provided infrared imaging systems and methods for imaging a sample with fluorescent markers. The system includes a light source configured to illuminate a sample-contacting surface. The light source includes first and second illumination modules, each configured to project a corresponding first and second infrared illumination beam towards a sample holder, the infrared illumination beams interacting at an imaging plane to define an illumination area having a rectangular and homogeneous power profile. The system also includes a control unit operatively connected to a motor assembly and to an optomechanical mechanism. The control unit is configured to superimpose the sample plane and the imaging plane at any of the multiple locations within the enclosure. The system includes a detector configured to receive light emitted by the fluorescent markers of the sample upon illumination of the same in the imaging plane when the sample plane is superimposed with the imaging plane.