Wavelength-Dependent Beam Splitter for Simultaneous OCT Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current OCT systems face limitations in axial measurement depth and image quality due to the need for separate interferometers and mechanical switching, which are costly and prone to inaccuracies and extended measurement times when trying to capture both the anterior and posterior segments of the eye simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
An OCT system utilizing a wavelength-dependent beam splitter to direct different frequency ranges along two separate paths without mechanical switching, allowing for simultaneous recording of two separate measuring ranges with improved axial resolution and reduced measurement time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two separate OCT interferometers are used for anterior and posterior segment measurements, then measurement coverage is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spectral bandwidth of the OCT light source is segmented into two distinct spectral ranges using a wavelength-dependent beam splitter. The first spectral range is directed along a first path and the second spectral range along a second path, enabling simultaneous measurement of anterior and posterior segments through spectral division rather than physical duplication of interferometers.
Solution Approach 2:
A single OCT interferometer is designed to perform multiple measurement functions by processing different spectral ranges through different paths. The system achieves universal capability to measure both anterior and posterior segments using one interferometer, eliminating the need for separate dedicated interferometers for each segment.
2Adaptability or versatility
If mechanical switching is used to switch between anterior and posterior segment paths, then measurement flexibility is improved, but measurement time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical switching system is replaced with a wavelength-dependent beam splitter that optically separates spectral ranges. This substitution eliminates moving parts and mechanical switching delays, allowing simultaneous acquisition of anterior and posterior segment data through spectral division, thereby reducing total measurement time while maintaining measurement flexibility.
3Adaptability or versatility
If mechanical switching is used between measurement paths, then path switching capability is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Mechanical switching is replaced by optical spectral separation using a wavelength-dependent beam splitter. This eliminates mechanical movement during measurement, preventing object motion artifacts and maintaining accurate spatial mapping. The system achieves path differentiation through wavelength selection rather than mechanical switching, preserving measurement precision.
4Adaptability or versatility
If separate light sources and detector units are used for each measurement area, then measurement specialization is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spectral output of a single light source is segmented into two spectral ranges that are directed along different paths within the same interferometer. This spectral segmentation enables specialized measurement of different segments (anterior and posterior) using one light source and one detector unit, avoiding the complexity of multiple complete interferometer systems.
Solution Approach 2:
A single OCT system with one light source and one detector unit is designed to perform specialized measurements of multiple segments by processing different spectral ranges differently. The universal system achieves segment-specific optimization through spectral division rather than requiring separate specialized systems for each measurement area.
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 accurate imaging of both the anterior and posterior segments of the eye with enhanced axial resolution and reduced measurement time, eliminating the need for multiple interferometers and mechanical switching, thus improving the overall imaging quality and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a wavelength-dependent beam splitter is arranged in the OCT beam path, such that a first spectral partial beam is guided along a longer path and a second spectral partial beam is guided along a shorter path
Implementation Method 2
a beam splitter that splits the OCT light emitted by the OCT light source into the object beam path and the reference beam path
Implementation Method 3
an interference beam splitter in which the OCT light from the object beam path and the OCT light from the reference beam path are made to interfere
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4~6
AI summary
The invention relates to an OCT system, comprising: an OCT light source (16) for emitting OCT light (15) into an object beam path (23) and a reference beam path (24); and a detector (25, 52, 53) for capturing an interference signal produced from the object beam path (23) and the reference beam path (24). A wavelength-dependent beamsplitter (35, 36, 54, 57) is arranged in the OCT beam path such that a first spectral partial beam (32) is guided along a longer path and a second spectral partial beam (33) is guided along a shorter path. The invention further relates to a corresponding OCT method. Two measurement regions (40, 41) separated from each other can be sensed by means of the OCT system according to the invention.