Multiple-Aperture Optical Systems for Faster Multimodal Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical imaging systems, particularly those using Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), face challenges in producing composite images with multiple modalities due to scaling and alignment issues, requiring multiple scans and inefficient use of resources when multiple characteristics are needed.
Innovation Solution
A multiple modal optical system and method utilizing a multiple aperture optical system with distinct apertures and modalities, such as OCT, white light, and ultrasound, that co-register data and enable faster imaging with higher resolution and extended depth of field by using multiple path lengths, carrier frequencies, and polarization states, and a computer for image processing to align and scale the images.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple scans using multiple probes are performed to obtain multiple characteristics, then the required imaging characteristics are achieved, but the imaging time and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple imaging modalities (OCT, white light, ultrasound) into a single integrated probe that can acquire multiple imaging characteristics simultaneously. The probe includes multiple apertures and optical paths that enable concurrent collection of different imaging data types, eliminating the need for sequential scanning and reducing total imaging time while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging system is designed as a universal platform that can perform multiple imaging functions through a single probe. The system incorporates switches and signal processing pathways that enable one probe to deliver OCT imaging, white light imaging, and ultrasound imaging capabilities, making the system multi-functional and adaptable to various imaging requirements without needing separate specialized probes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple scans using multiple probes are performed to obtain multiple characteristics, then the required imaging characteristics are achieved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple imaging modalities into a single integrated probe with unified signal processing. The system uses a single probe containing multiple apertures and optical paths that can switch between different imaging modes, reducing the need for multiple separate probes and their associated handling, calibration, and data integration systems, thereby simplifying overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a switch as an intermediary component that routes signals between different imaging modalities and the processing system. This switch acts as a mediator that manages the complexity by providing a centralized control mechanism for switching between OCT, white light, and ultrasound pathways, simplifying the architecture compared to having multiple independent probe systems.
3Ease of operation
If a single optical probe is used, then the system is simple to operate, but multiple characteristics require multiple scans with multiple probes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal imaging probe that delivers multiple imaging characteristics (OCT, white light, ultrasound) through a single device. This multi-functional probe maintains ease of operation by providing a unified interface and control system while dramatically improving productivity by enabling simultaneous acquisition of multiple imaging types in one scan, eliminating the need for multiple sequential scans with different probes.
4Speed
If the rotation rate and translation rate are increased for faster scanning, then the imaging speed increases, but the image quality becomes useless
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple imaging modalities that operate at different speed requirements into a single system. By integrating OCT, white light, and ultrasound imaging in one probe, the system can leverage the faster acquisition capabilities of white light and ultrasound while maintaining the high-resolution depth information from OCT, achieving useful image quality at higher scanning speeds than single-modality systems.
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 system achieves faster imaging with higher resolution, increased depth of field, and improved polarization data without increasing rotation rate or decreasing pitch, producing composite images efficiently by aligning and scaling signals from multiple probes.
Implementation Method 1
Light or energy from a source is focused onto or into the tissue. The tissue scatters the light or energy and the light or energy that is reflected back to the probe is received at a detector that converts the light to electrical signals.
Implementation Method 2
the light or energy that is reflected back to the probe is received at a detector that converts the light to electrical signals
Implementation Method 3
Many different lens types have been used to construct fiber optic endoscopes. These lenses include fiber lenses, ball lenses and GRadient INdex (GRIN) lenses.
Data Source
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AI summary
Multiple aperture, multiple modal optical systems and methods include at least one optical component positioned at a first position about a longitudinal axis; and at least two light sources connectable to the at least one optical component, wherein the multiple modal optical system is configured to transmit light from the at least two light sources in at least one direction transverse to the longitudinal axis and receive reflected light, and wherein the at least one optical component is configured to rotate about the longitudinal axis and translate along the longitudinal axis when connected to the at least two light sources.