Single SLM Multi-Wavelength Imaging via Dichroic Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional systems requiring multiple spatial light modulators (SLMs) to project multiple optical images of different wavelengths are expensive, complex, and not suitable for compact designs, limiting their applicability in industrial applications such as optogenetics.
Innovation Solution
An optical imaging system utilizing a single SLM, with a dichroic beam splitter and mirrors to separate and recombine light of different wavelengths, producing an overlap image by shifting and overlaying image halves associated with different wavelengths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple SLMs are used to generate images of different wavelengths, then the system can project multiple optical images simultaneously, but the system cost and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple wavelength image generation functions into a single SLM by using a color separation prism that divides the SLM image into multiple wavelength components, each directed to a different camera. This merging approach eliminates the need for multiple separate SLMs while maintaining multi-wavelength projection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the image processing by dividing the single SLM image into different wavelength components using a color separation prism. Each wavelength component (e.g., red, green, blue) is separated and processed independently by dedicated cameras, allowing multi-wavelength functionality from a single SLM.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple SLMs are used to generate images of different wavelengths, then the system can project multiple optical images simultaneously, but the system cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple SLM functions into one by using a single SLM with a color separation prism and multiple cameras. This reduces the number of expensive SLM components needed while achieving the same multi-wavelength projection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The single SLM is made multi-functional by combining it with a color separation prism and multiple cameras, allowing it to serve multiple wavelength projection purposes simultaneously. This universal approach replaces multiple specialized SLMs with one versatile system.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple SLMs are used to generate images of different wavelengths, then the system can project multiple optical images simultaneously, but the optical layout arrangement becomes complex and space-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple optical paths into a single compact arrangement by using a color separation prism that simultaneously directs different wavelength components to different cameras in a space-efficient manner, reducing the overall optical layout footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a color separation prism to separate wavelengths in the spectral dimension, allowing multiple wavelength images to be processed simultaneously in a compact spatial arrangement. This dimensional separation enables space-efficient optical layout compared to using multiple separate SLM systems.
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 simultaneous projection of multi-wavelength images using a single SLM, reducing costs and complexity, and providing a compact, space-efficient solution suitable for applications like optogenetics and microscopy.
Implementation Method 1
a first dichroic beam splitter that receives the image light of the first and second wavelengths from the SLM, and reflects the image light of the first wavelength in a first direction and transmits the image light of the second wavelength in a second direction
Implementation Method 2
a first mirror that receives the image light of the first wavelength from the first dichroic beam splitter and reflects the image light of the first wavelength at a first angle, and a second mirror that receives the image light of the second wavelength from the first dichroic beam splitter and reflects the second wavelength at a second angle
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for multiplexing multiple images of different colors using only a single spatial light modulator (SLM) are disclosed. In the disclosed system, a first dichroic beam splitter receives an image light of first and second wavelengths from the SLM, and reflects the image light of the first wavelength towards a first mirror and an image light of the second wavelength towards a second mirror. The first mirror reflects the image light of the first wavelength at a first angle, and the second mirror reflects the image light of the second wavelength at a second angle. Further, the system includes a second dichroic beam splitter that receives the image light of the first wavelength from the first mirror and the image light of the second wavelength from the second mirror, and recombines the image light of the first and second wavelengths to produce an overlap image.