Variable Magnification Interferometer for 3D Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current full-field optical coherence tomography (FF-OCT) techniques face challenges in reducing data acquisition and processing time for large samples, particularly in biological tissues, due to the need for extensive scanning and high-resolution imaging, which results in lengthy processing times and large storage requirements.
Innovation Solution
A device and method utilizing a microscope objective with variable magnification and a source with variable spectral width, allowing for adjustable three-dimensional magnification and spectral zoom, enabling the acquisition of large-field low-resolution images followed by high-resolution small-field images within a clinical timeframe, significantly reducing acquisition and storage needs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional stitching methods are used to acquire high-resolution images of large samples, then image resolution is improved, but processing time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the large sample into multiple smaller fields of view that are imaged separately and then computationally stitched together. This segmentation allows the imaging system to capture high-resolution data from multiple regions efficiently, reducing the time required compared to attempting to image the entire large sample at high resolution in a single acquisition
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic adjustment of imaging parameters during the acquisition process, including variable magnification and adaptive scanning strategies. The system dynamically prioritizes certain regions over others based on preliminary imaging data, allowing high-resolution imaging of critical areas while using lower resolution for less critical regions, thereby reducing overall processing time
2Measurement precision
If high-resolution imaging is performed across large sample areas, then measurement precision is improved, but data storage requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different imaging qualities to different regions of the sample based on their importance. High-resolution imaging is concentrated on regions of interest identified through preliminary scanning or user specification, while peripheral or less critical areas are imaged at lower resolution. This local differentiation maintains measurement precision where needed while significantly reducing the total data storage burden
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a multi-stage imaging approach where a complete low-resolution survey of the entire sample is first acquired, followed by targeted high-resolution imaging of only those specific regions that require detailed examination. This partial high-resolution action ensures measurement precision is applied selectively rather than uniformly across the entire large sample, optimizing the balance between resolution and storage requirements
3Length of stationary object
If conventional microscopy is used to image deep tissue structures, then penetration depth is improved, but scattering effects worsen image quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional wide-field illumination and detection mechanics with optical coherence tomography-based interferometric detection. This substitution enables depth-resolved imaging by measuring the coherence of backscattered light, allowing penetration into deep tissue structures while maintaining image quality despite scattering effects through computational correlation of reference and sample arms
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes broadband light sources with coherent lengths optimized for deep tissue penetration, and dynamically adjusts imaging parameters such as depth resolution and transverse resolution based on the specific tissue being imaged. By changing spectral parameters and detection sensitivity settings, the system maintains effective imaging capability at various depths while compensating for scattering-induced degradation
4Measurement precision
If full-field interferential microscopy is used for three-dimensional imaging, then transverse resolution is improved, but depth of field requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional planar imaging to three-dimensional volumetric imaging by incorporating axial depth information through optical coherence tomography principles. The system captures interference patterns at multiple depth positions and reconstructs three-dimensional images, allowing high transverse resolution to be maintained across the entire depth range of the sample rather than being limited to a single focal plane
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a multi-functional optical system that can operate in both full-field interferential microscopy mode for high transverse resolution and optical coherence tomography mode for deep penetration. The same optical platform performs multiple imaging functions by adjusting parameters such as source coherence length and detection configuration, eliminating the need for separate specialized systems and allowing flexible adaptation to different depth-of-field requirements
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 approach enables rapid acquisition and storage of high-resolution images, reducing processing time by a factor of 25 compared to traditional stitching methods, while optimizing data storage and allowing for real-time visualization of macroscopic and microscopic structures in biological tissues.
Implementation Method 1
a source (201) of electromagnetic radiation
Implementation Method 2
full-field interferential microscopy
Data Source
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AI summary
A device for three-dimensional imaging by full-field interferential microscopy of a volumic and scattering sample includes an imaging interferometer of variable magnification, allowing for the acquisition of at least one first and one second interferometric images resulting from the interference of a reference wave obtained by reflection of the incident wave on a reference mirror and an object wave obtained by backscattering of the incident wave by a slice of the sample at a given depth of the sample. The invention also relates to a processing unit that processes the interferometric images, a unit for axially displacing the interferometer relative to the sample for the acquisition of tomographic images for slices at different depths of the sample, and a unit for varying the magnification of the imaging interferometer for the acquisition of interferometric images of a slice for different magnification values.