Abstract: The embodiments of this invention use a multi-point scanning geometry. This design maintains the high frame rate of the slit-scan system and still allows both grayscale and multi-spectral imaging. In a confocal configuration, the multi-point scanning system's confocal performance is close to that of a single point scan system and is expected to yield improved depth imaging when compared to a slit-scan system, faster imaging than a point scan system, and the capability for multi-spectral imaging not readily achievable in a Nipkow disk based confocal system.

Abstract: The embodiments of this invention use a multi-point scanning geometry. This design maintains the high frame rate of the slit-scan system and still allows both grayscale and multi-spectral imaging. In a confocal configuration, the multi-point scanning system's confocal performance is close to that of a single point scan system and is expected to yield improved depth imaging when compared to a slit-scan system, faster imaging than a point scan system, and the capability for multi-spectral imaging not readily achievable in a Nipkow disk based confocal system.

Abstract: Confocal microscopy and optical coherence tomography (OCT) are two components combined in a system using the same optical train that have significant potential applications, such as for real-time in situ view of tissue in a clinical setting. Preferably the two methods employ wavelength ranges that are different, and more preferably non-overlapping, allowing rapid switching between the two imaging techniques. The system illuminates multiple points of a sample and provides outputs indicative of sample properties at the multiple points simultaneously for confocal microscopy and OCT. When used in an endoscope, an optical fiber bundle inserted in an animal body is used to transmit light from the system to tissue and collect return light and deliver the return light for confocal microscopy and OCT imaging.