Multimode OCT System with Tunable Axial Resolution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) systems have a fixed imaging depth, which is insufficient for capturing the axial eye length variability, leading to time-consuming and iterative auto-referencing processes that can result in reduced image quality due to patient movements.
Innovation Solution
A multimode OCT imaging system that operates in multiple modes (retina, anterior segment, biometry) with adjustable axial resolution and imaging depth, using a swept source laser and spectrometers to detect reflected light within specific spectral ranges, allowing for dynamic tuning of optical parameters for each mode.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed imaging depth is used in OCT systems, then the system structure is simple, but it cannot accommodate axial eye length variability across different patients
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic tuning of the optical coherence function by adjusting the bandwidth of the optical parameter unit based on the selected imaging mode. The system transitions from a fixed imaging depth to a dynamically adjustable imaging depth that adapts to different eye structures (retina, anterior segment, biometry) without requiring multiple separate systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the bandwidth parameter of the optical parameter unit to switch between different imaging modes. By adjusting the bandwidth, the system modifies the coherence length and thus the imaging depth, enabling adaptation to various axial eye lengths while maintaining a single unified system structure.
2Measurement precision
If iterative auto-referencing is performed to match reference arm and sample arm path lengths, then imaging accuracy is improved, but the process becomes time-consuming and susceptible to patient movements
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary configuration by pre-setting the bandwidth of the optical parameter unit according to the selected imaging mode before actual imaging begins. This preliminary action establishes the appropriate coherence length in advance, eliminating the need for time-consuming iterative auto-referencing during patient examination and reducing susceptibility to patient movements.
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 efficient and high-quality imaging across multiple eye analysis modes without compromising imaging quality, reducing the need for iterative auto-referencing and minimizing the impact of patient movements.
Implementation Method 1
an optical path length of a reference arm of the system typically is matched with an optical path length of a sample arm of the system to enable light from each path to be combined into an interference signal used to derive an image
Implementation Method 2
a detector arranged to detect reflected light, wherein the reflected light is light that has been reflected in the path as a result of the coherence light scanning the sample
Data Source
AI summary
A multimode optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging system comprises a light source arranged to emit coherent light in a path to scan a sample. An optical parameter unit is arranged in the path and is operable in at least one selected mode from among a plurality of available operating modes, including at least a first mode, a second mode and a third mode. A detector is arranged to detect reflected light, the reflected light being light reflected in the path as a result of the coherence light scanning the sample. A controller is arranged to control at least one of the light source or the optical parameter unit. The first, second and third modes include a retina mode, anterior segment mode, and biometry mode, respectively. Also provided are a method for operating a multimode OCT imaging system, and a computer-readable storage medium storing a program for performing the method.