Integrated OCT and Fluorescence Imaging System with Shared Optics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Positional deviation of an imaging target occurs when switching between OCT and fluorescence observation methods, leading to accuracy issues in comparison and evaluation.
Innovation Solution
An image capture system with shared light sources and object systems between OCT and optical sheet microscope types, utilizing branching and synthesizing units to minimize positional deviation by maintaining the imaging target's position during method switching.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the imaging target is moved between apparatuses for sequential OCT and fluorescence observation, then both imaging methods can be performed, but positional deviation occurs leading to reduced comparison accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines OCT and fluorescence observation capabilities into a single integrated imaging apparatus. The imaging target remains stationary while the system switches between different imaging modes using shared optical components (light source, objective lens, imaging chamber), thereby eliminating positional deviation while maintaining the ability to perform both imaging methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging apparatus is designed with multi-functionality to perform both OCT and fluorescence observation using a single device. Key components such as the light source unit, objective lens, and imaging chamber are shared between the two imaging methods, allowing the system to adapt to different imaging requirements without moving the imaging target.
2Ease of manufacture
If separate apparatuses are used for OCT and fluorescence observation, then each method can be optimized independently, but the imaging target must be moved causing positional deviation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges separate OCT and fluorescence observation systems into a single integrated apparatus. By sharing common components (imaging chamber, objective lens, light source) while maintaining separate detection paths, the system achieves both independent optimization of imaging methods and elimination of positional deviation through the stationary imaging target.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the imaging target is moved between apparatuses, then different imaging methods can be applied, but time is lost during relocation and positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging target is pre-positioned within the shared imaging chamber of the integrated apparatus before imaging begins. This preliminary positioning eliminates the need for time-consuming relocation and repositioning when switching between OCT and fluorescence observation methods, as the target remains stationary throughout the imaging process.
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 effectively suppresses positional deviation, ensuring high accuracy in comparing and evaluating imaging results from both methods without the need to move the imaging target.
Implementation Method 1
a light source unit provided so as to be shared by the second image capture apparatus
Implementation Method 2
a first image capture apparatus of an optical interference type configured to capture an image of an imaging target
Implementation Method 3
a light concentrating unit provided so as to be shared by the second image capture apparatus and configured to concentrate the light incoming on the imaging target
Implementation Method 4
a second detection unit configured to detect fluorescence generated by the light which has been concentrated on the imaging target
Data Source
AI summary
The positional deviation of an imaging target due to the switching of image capture methods is suppressed. An image capture system includes a first image capture apparatus of an optical interference type and a second image capture apparatus of an optical sheet microscope type, wherein the first image capture apparatus includes a light source unit provided so as to be shared by the second image capture apparatus, a light concentrating unit provided so as to be shared by the second image capture apparatus, a reflecting unit, a branching unit, a synthesizing unit, a first detection unit configured to detect a spectral distribution of a synthetic light, and a calculation unit configured to calculate a boundary surface position in the imaging target, and the second image capture apparatus includes the light source unit, the light concentrating unit, and a second detection unit configured to detect fluorescence.