Multi-Direction Interference Imaging for Multiple-Scattering Objects
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional optical diffraction tomography (ODT) struggles to effectively observe three-dimensional cell tissues due to the overwhelming influence of multiple scattered light, which causes speckle generation and deteriorates the single-to-multiscattering ratio (SMR), making it difficult to extract structural information.
Innovation Solution
An observation apparatus and method that utilizes an interference intensity image acquisition unit, complex amplitude image generation units, and transmission matrix processing to selectively detect and reduce the impact of multiple scattered light, enabling the generation of refractive index distribution images with high depth resolution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional ODT is applied to observe three-dimensional cell tissues, then the imaging technique can provide three-dimensional refractive index tomography, but the multiple scattered light causes speckle generation and deteriorates the single-to-multiscattering ratio, making it difficult to extract structural information
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the scattered light into single scattered light and multiple scattered light components, and processes them separately through different computational pathways. The single scattered light is used for high-precision structural imaging, while the multiple scattered light is handled through speckle reduction processing, allowing both components to contribute usefully to the final image
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the single scattered light component from the total scattered light signal through computational separation. By identifying and isolating the single scattering component, the system can utilize this clean signal for high-precision refractive index tomography while excluding the detrimental multiple scattered light that causes speckle
2Measurement precision
If the observation object is a multiple scattering object such as three-dimensional cell tissue, then the tissue structure needs to be imaged, but the multiple scattered light becomes dominant and buries the single scattered light, making measurement fail
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback through iterative computational processing where the detected scattered light pattern is used to refine the estimate of the single scattered light component. The system continuously adjusts its separation of single and multiple scattered light based on the refractive index distribution information, improving the accuracy of single scattered light extraction
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces computational algorithms as an intermediary between the raw scattered light measurement and the final structural image. This intermediary processing layer separates the single scattered light signal from the multiple scattered light background, recovering the useful signal that would otherwise be buried
3Measurement precision
If conventional ODT acquires images through multiple light irradiation directions, then three-dimensional imaging is achieved, but the processing time and computational complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by pre-calculating and storing the transmission matrix for each light irradiation direction before actual imaging. This pre-computed information is then reused during the imaging process, avoiding redundant calculations and significantly reducing the processing time for three-dimensional reconstruction
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a hybrid approach where full three-dimensional reconstruction is performed only for regions requiring high precision, while other regions use simplified processing. This partial application of the complete algorithm reduces overall processing time while maintaining measurement precision where needed
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 method effectively reduces the influence of multiple scattered light, allowing for accurate observation and analysis of three-dimensional cell tissues by enhancing the single-scattering component, thereby improving the clarity and reliability of structural imaging.
Implementation Method 1
acquire an interference intensity image generated by interference between light that has passed through the observation object and reference light
Implementation Method 2
a light source that outputs spatially coherent light
Implementation Method 3
an objective lens that inputs light that has passed through the observation object
Data Source
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AI summary
An observation apparatus 1A includes a light source 11, a mirror 22, a condenser lens 24, an objective lens 25, a beam splitter 41, an imaging unit 43, and an analysis unit 50. The analysis unit 50 irradiates an observation object S with light along each of a plurality of light irradiation directions by changing an orientation of a reflection surface of the mirror 22, acquires an interference intensity image at a reference position for each of the plurality of light irradiation directions from the imaging unit 43, and obtains a three-dimensional refractive index distribution of the observation object by performing predetermined processing based on the acquired interference intensity images. Thus, an observation apparatus capable of reducing influence of multiple scattered light and observing an observation object even in the case in which the observation object is a multiple scattering object is realized.