A new imaging technique which enables near real-time multispectral acquisition of the so-called degree of polarization (DOP) in polarimetry using incoherent white light is described. The experimental setup allows the interactive and dynamic acquisition of DOP for all the possible elliptic polarization states. In such a way, a complete chart of light-matter interaction can be obtained and besides many structure details can be enhanced. Thus, we present the calibration and first images acquired with this system. The particular characteristics of this setup allow it to be the perfect candidate for in vivo as well as ex vivo medical applications.
KEYWORDS: Polarization, Polarimetry, Diagnostics, Calibration, Biomedical optics, CCD cameras, Light scattering, Optical components, Real time imaging, RGB color model
This research proposes a new imaging technique for near real time multispectral acquisition using CCD RGB cameras of
the so called "Degree Of Polarization" (DOP) in polarimetry for future clinical investigation.
The aim of exploiting the DOP as the contrast element is to demonstrate that the elliptical DOP provides more
information characterizing complex medium than the more traditional linear and circular ones. The system considers an
incoherent input white light beam and opportunely calibrated nematic crystals (LCVR), so no mechanical tools are
necessary.
The particular features of the system indicate it to be the perfect candidate for a new imaging system considering in-vivo
(as well as ex-vivo) non invasive superficial diagnostic for medical application as dermatologic diagnostics, since no
type of sample preparation is necessary, i.e. tissue biopsy, radiation or contrast agent injection.
Thus the biomedical application of this method suggests a simple, direct, fast and also easily exploitable future
employment, as a desirable mean for clinical investigation but also for digital recognition in biometrics.
Further new elements to improve the model of light scattering and matter-light interaction will be acquired, in particular
considering a very complete characterization of the system response using latex microspheres suspension to simulate
turbid media with different concentration.
This research proposes a new imaging technique for near real time multispectral acquisition of the so called "Degree Of
Polarization" (DOP) in polarimetry for future clinical investigation.
The aim of exploiting the DOP as the contrast element is to demonstrate that the elliptical DOP provides more
information characterizing complex medium than the more traditional linear and circular ones. The system considers an
incoherent input white light beam and opportunely calibrated nematic crystals, so no mechanical tools are necessary.
The biomedical application of this method suggests a simple, direct, fast and also easily exploitable future employment, as a desirable mean for clinical investigation. Moreover new elements to improve the model of light scattering will be acquired.
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