Polyfocal Hyperspectral Imaging Beam Splitter for Multidepth Tissue Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional optical imaging systems for biological tissues face limitations in depth of field and require repetitive mechanical movements for hyperspectral imaging, leading to increased acquisition time, reduced fluorescence, and higher costs due to over-exposure and increased computer processing needs.
Innovation Solution
The system employs a multispectral imaging approach with a microscope-based apparatus that spatially redirects light through different optical channels with varying effective powers, allowing simultaneous imaging of multiple focal planes without repositioning, using a spectrally-selective optical system and a Fourier Transform device to capture hyperspectral data at multiple depths with enhanced field-of-view and depth of field.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If sequential imaging at different depths is performed using conventional optical systems, then three-dimensional tissue imaging is achieved, but acquisition time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the imaging task into multiple optical channels, each focused on a different depth plane of the tissue sample. Instead of sequentially imaging each plane, all planes are captured simultaneously through parallel optical paths with different focal lengths, dramatically reducing acquisition time while maintaining depth resolution
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional sequential scanning to three-dimensional simultaneous capture by introducing the depth dimension as a separate optical channel. Each channel captures a specific z-plane, allowing the entire volumetric dataset to be acquired in a single exposure rather than through repeated mechanical scanning
2Measurement precision
If multiple sequential exposures are taken at different wavelengths for hyperspectral imaging, then spectral resolution is improved, but fluorescence intensity decreases due to over-exposure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the spectral imaging task across multiple optical channels, each optimized for specific wavelength ranges. By distributing the spectral capture across parallel channels rather than sequential exposures, the total illumination dose is reduced while maintaining full spectral information
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables continuous spectral capture across all wavelengths simultaneously through parallel optical paths, eliminating the intermittent nature of sequential exposures. This continuous action reduces cumulative light exposure while maintaining complete spectral data acquisition
3Area of stationary object
If conventional optical systems are used for deep tissue imaging, then field-of-view is maintained, but depth of field is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the depth field into multiple discrete planes, each captured by a dedicated optical channel with specific focal length. This segmentation allows each channel to maintain optimal focus at its designated depth while the collective system achieves extended overall depth coverage
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a multi-functional optical system where each channel serves multiple purposes: maintaining the full field-of-view of the parent system while simultaneously providing focused imaging at a specific depth plane. The aggregate system thus achieves both wide field coverage and extended depth of field
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 method significantly reduces imaging time, minimizes photobleaching, and increases the accuracy of depth determination, enabling efficient acquisition of hyperspectral data across multiple focal planes with a several-fold increase in field-of-view and depth of field compared to conventional systems.
Implementation Method 1
spatially redirecting this light along different optical channels having different corresponding effective optical powers
Implementation Method 2
The images formed by light passing through different optical channels are formed in different image planes
Implementation Method 3
detecting light that has transmitted through each of the optical channels with a photodetector
Implementation Method 4
filtering light received from the microscope with an optical filter system such as to form spectrally-filtered light
Implementation Method 5
Spatially redirecting the light received from the microscope along different optical channels may include dividing this light with reflectors that are positioned in a spiral and staircase-like relationship
Data Source
AI summary
A microscope-based system and method for simultaneous imaging of several object planes, of a three-dimensional (3D) sample, associated with different depths throughout the sample. The system includes a polyfocal optical portion, adapted to create a plurality of optical channels each of which is associated with an image of a corresponding object plane, and a spectrally-selective portion, adapted to transform the spectral distribution of the image-forming beam of light to a corresponding spatial distribution. The image, registered by a detector, includes an image of an object plane and an image of the spatially-coded spectral distribution. The method effectuates the simultaneous multispectral imaging of the several object planes. The required data-acquisition time is several fold shorter than that taken by a conventional multispectral microscope-based imaging system.