Structured Light Scatteroscopy for Real-Time Tissue Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional imaging systems, including stereoscopic high-definition microscopes, are inadequate for real-time imaging of subtle morphology changes in biological tissues due to their reliance on absorption-based contrast and time-consuming scanning methods, which are not suitable for immediate decision-making during surgical procedures.
Innovation Solution
A structured-light imaging system that uses high spatial frequency structured light to illuminate tissues, independent of absorption properties, allowing for direct imaging of scattering parameters and morphology changes without the need for complex light transport models, and includes a 3D surface model extraction for non-flat tissues.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional imaging systems use absorption-based contrast, then they can provide standard visual imaging, but they cannot detect subtle morphology changes in tissue
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the imaging parameter from absorption-based contrast to scattering-based contrast by using structured light with spatial frequencies optimized for scattering detection. This allows the system to detect subtle morphology changes in tissue that are invisible to conventional absorption-based imaging systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical scanning approach of conventional microscopes with a digital structured light projection system. This substitution enables wide-field imaging of scattering properties without mechanical movement, providing both high precision detection and real-time capability.
2Measurement precision
If electro-optical or mechanical scanning is used to extend localized scatter imaging, then scattering detection capability is improved, but imaging speed becomes too slow for clinical use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from point-by-point scanning in one dimension to wide-field parallel imaging in two dimensions by projecting structured light patterns across the entire tissue surface. This dimensional change enables simultaneous measurement of scattering properties across many locations, dramatically increasing imaging speed while maintaining detection precision.
3Measurement precision
If model-based interpretation is used to separate absorption and scattering contributions, then parameter extraction is possible, but implicit assumptions about tissue medium reduce accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the scattering contribution from the optical signal by using structured light with spatial frequencies and polarizations that are selectively sensitive to scattering. This extraction approach eliminates the need for model-based separation and removes the reliability issues associated with implicit assumptions about tissue properties.
4Illumination intensity
If conventional microscopes are used for tissue imaging, then standard visual imaging is provided, but they require time-consuming staining procedures that prevent immediate decision-making
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the intrinsic scattering properties of tissue as the imaging contrast mechanism, requiring no external staining agents or chemical preparations. The tissue itself provides the necessary optical contrast through its natural scattering characteristics, enabling immediate imaging without time-consuming staining procedures.
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 fast and accurate classification of tissue types during surgical procedures by enhancing scattering contrast and suppressing absorption contrast, providing immediate diagnostic information without the limitations of traditional imaging systems.
Implementation Method 1
illuminate the surface with structured light having a spatial frequency of at least 0.5 mm−1... determining maps of scattering parameters of the surface independent of variations in absorption properties
Data Source
AI summary
A structured-light imaging system includes a structured light projector for illuminating a surface and an electronic camera configured to image the surface. An image processor receives the images and has structured light scatteroscopy (SLS) firmware with machine readable instructions that illuminate the surface with structured light having a spatial frequency of at least 0.5 mm″1, and process the images to determine a map of scattering parameters at the surface independent of absorption properties. In an embodiment, the system also has cameras configured to obtain a stereo pair of images of the surface, the image processor having 3D firmware for extracting a three dimensional model of the surface from the stereo pair of images and compensating the map for non-flat surfaces.