Optical Probe Astigmatism Correction via Curved Component
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Solution Overview
Problem
The cylindrical shape of the sheath in optical-imaging devices, such as endoscopes, introduces astigmatism, which degrades image quality by causing light beams to converge or diverge differently in orthogonal directions, leading to reduced image clarity.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a correction component with optical power in the sagittal direction, positioned along the light path, which has a center of curvature coinciding with the optical axis of the optical component, to compensate for the astigmatism caused by the sheath. This correction component, made of materials like glass, plastic, or epoxy, is designed to match the refractive indices and dimensions of the sheath and other optical elements to ensure proper alignment and optical power balance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a sheath with cylindrical shape is used to protect the optical system, then the optical system is protected, but astigmatism is introduced that degrades image quality
Solution Approach 1:
A correction component is introduced as an intermediary element between the sheath and the optical component. This correction component has an optical power in the sagittal direction that compensates for the astigmatism introduced by the cylindrical sheath, allowing the sheath to remain for protection while image quality is restored
Solution Approach 2:
The correction component modifies the optical parameters of the light path by introducing a specific optical power in the sagittal direction. This parameter change counteracts the astigmatic effect of the sheath, adjusting the focal properties to achieve proper image focus
2Manufacturing precision
If the correction component is added to correct astigmatism, then image quality is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The correction component is integrated into the existing optical path structure, combining the protective function of the sheath with the corrective function of the correction component. The correction component is positioned to work in conjunction with existing optical elements rather than requiring complete system redesign
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 solution effectively corrects astigmatism and controls the beam waist location, improving image quality by ensuring that both OCT and fluorescence wavelengths focus at optimal working distances, maintaining high lateral resolution and beam size, thus enhancing the overall performance of optical-imaging devices.
Implementation Method 1
a correction component with optical power in the sagittal direction, positioned along the light path, which has a center of curvature coinciding with the optical axis of the optical component, to compensate for the astigmatism caused by the sheath
Implementation Method 2
improving image quality by ensuring that both OCT and fluorescence wavelengths focus at optimal working distances, maintaining high lateral resolution and beam size
Data Source
AI summary
An optical probe comprises a light-guiding component, an optical component, a light-reflecting component that is configured to receive light from the optical component and direct the light along a path, and a correction component. The correction component lies in the path, the correction component has an optical power, and the correction component has a center of curvature that substantially coincides with an optical axis of the optical component.