Auto-focusing OCT System Controller Path Length Matching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current OCT imaging systems require manual adjustments to match the path lengths of the reference and sample arms, and to focus the lens, which is prone to human error and labor-intensive, affecting the accuracy and efficiency of the imaging process.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an auto-ranging and auto-focusing system within the OCT imaging system, where a controller adjusts the reference arm path length and focuses the lens using a controller and lens position control mechanism, by acquiring images at multiple focal points, determining figure of merit data, and fitting a mathematical function to find the optimal focal position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual adjustment of reference arm path length and lens focusing is performed, then the operator can control the imaging parameters, but the process becomes labor-intensive and prone to human error
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-adjustment by automatically matching the reference arm path length to the sample arm path length and autonomously determining optimal focal positions through image analysis, eliminating the need for manual operator intervention in these tasks
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback loops where acquired images are analyzed to determine figures of merit, which then guide automatic adjustments of the reference arm position and lens focal position to optimize imaging conditions
2Measurement precision
If manual focusing adjustment is performed based on operator vision, then the operator can control the focus position, but the determination of optimal focus becomes subjective and inaccurate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/manual focusing system with an automated optical-electronic system that uses image acquisition and computational analysis to determine focal position, substituting human visual judgment with objective algorithmic measurement
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an intermediary figure of merit calculation that objectively quantifies image focus quality, serving as a mediator between the optical system and the control system to enable precise, objective focus determination
3Manufacturing precision
If path length matching is performed manually with tight tolerance, then imaging accuracy is improved, but the task becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary automatic path length matching before actual imaging begins, using feedback from initial image acquisition to pre-position the reference arm at the correct path length, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual adjustments during imaging
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 automation improves the accuracy and efficiency of OCT imaging by reducing human error and labor-intensive tasks, ensuring precise matching of path lengths and optimal focusing, leading to higher-quality images.
Implementation Method 1
OCT imaging systems operate on the principle of interferometry, in which subsurface light reflections are resolved to provide a tomographic visualization of a sample
Implementation Method 2
The combination of reflected light from the sample arm and reflected reference light from the reference arm gives rise to an interference pattern
Implementation Method 3
an operator may also be tasked with manually adjusting the focal position of one or more focusing lenses of the OCT system
Data Source
AI summary
A system, in one embodiment, includes an optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging system having a light source configured to emit light. The OCT imaging system further includes a beam splitter configured to receive the light from the light source, split the light into a first light portion directed along a sample arm comprising a sample and a second light portion directed along a reference arm comprising a reference mirror, receive a first reflected light portion from the sample arm and a second reflected light portion from the reference arm, combine the first and second reflected light portions to obtain an interference signal at a detector. Further, the OCT imaging system includes a controller having logic configured to perform an auto-focusing process to determine the optimal position for a lens in the sample arm in order to bring the sample into focus.