Multi-Reference Wavefront Sensor Spatial Filtering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current adaptive optics systems for ophthalmology are bulky and expensive, limiting their clinical applications, and suffer from unwanted light interference from parasitic source reflections and unwanted object regions, which restricts their ability to achieve high-resolution imaging of the human retina effectively.
Innovation Solution
A multi-reference adaptive optics system utilizing a collimator array and a single spatial filter to simultaneously measure wavefront slopes from multiple sources on a single detector, allowing for real-time correction of high-order aberrations and reduction of unwanted light interference using a variable pinhole, enabling improved image quality and wider field views.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multi-conjugate adaptive optics (MCAO) systems are used to extend the corrected image region, then the field of view is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple wavefront sensing functions into a single sensor that can simultaneously measure wavefronts from multiple reference sources. This is achieved by using a microlens array to create Hartmann patterns from multiple sources on a single detector, eliminating the need for multiple separate wavefront sensors and reducing system complexity while maintaining wide field correction capability
Solution Approach 2:
The wavefront sensor designed in the patent serves multiple functions: it can sense wavefronts from multiple reference sources simultaneously, work in both open-loop and closed-loop modes, and provide measurements for multiple correction zones. This multi-functionality reduces the overall number of components needed in the MCAO system
2Measurement precision
If conventional adaptive optics systems are used, then wavefront measurement is achieved, but unwanted light from parasitic source reflections and unwanted object regions degrades image quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and isolates the light from desired reference sources using spatial filtering techniques. By positioning pinholes at the locations of reference source images in the focal plane of the collimator array, the system selectively transmits only the light from these desired sources while blocking parasitic reflections and light from unwanted regions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediate optical elements (collimator array, focal plane, and pinholes) between the reference sources and the wavefront sensor detector. These intermediaries act as spatial filters that separate desired light from unwanted light before the light reaches the wavefront sensing microlens array, thereby improving measurement accuracy
3Area of stationary object
If multiple reference sources are used to extend the corrected region, then the field of view is improved, but unwanted light from multiple sources increases interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the potentially harmful effect of multiple light sources into a beneficial feature by using the light from multiple reference sources to simultaneously populate multiple Hartmann patterns on the same detector. The spatial filtering ensures that each pattern is formed only from its corresponding reference source, transforming what could be interference into useful measurement data for extended field correction
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 solution enables real-time, high-resolution imaging of the human retina, facilitating earlier detection of eye diseases like age-related macular degeneration and glaucoma, and providing a cost-effective, compact solution for clinical applications by reducing instrument bulk and improving image quality.
Implementation Method 1
an array of collimator lenses making it possible to spatially filter the light from all guide stars using one variable pinhole
Implementation Method 2
Another problem, especially in the study of the human eye, is unwanted light from parasitic source reflections and light from unwanted object regions
Implementation Method 3
The aberrated wavefront associated with this point source is measured by subdividing it into small regions subjected only to local tilt
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to an adaptive optics sensor intended for simultaneous detection of several wavefronts on a common camera target. The sensor is intended for use in connection with multi-conjugate adaptive optics (MCAO), where several wavefront measurements are needed at the same time. The sensor includes a spatial filter taking out signals resulting from parasitic reflections of the reference sources and from unwanted parts of the object.