Abstract: A laser imaging system is disclosed which provides the versatility of wide field digital imaging with enhanced spatial resolution and light gathering efficiency. The system will scan targets of any size, dependent only upon the data retrieval and storage limitation of the computer support system, for forward light loss densitometry images as well as fluorescent and forward scatter images. The system is easily adaptable for rare event detection and tracking. The laser system will provide image capture of an entire target within 10 to 60 seconds and controls the scan of the laser beam in three-dimensional pattern and speed. The beam may be repositioned to any one of 16 million locations on a target within an accuracy of +/-0.5 um. Finally, the imaging system of the present invention utilizes a novel optical fiber based detector assembly having NA values of 0.58-0.95 and filters having less than 15% loss at emission wavelengths.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for measuring low-level laser-induced fluorescence are disclosed. A laser is used to produce a coherent beam of light which is sequentially passed through a beam expander, iris diaphram, focusing lens and three-dimensional scanner before being focused onto a rigidly mounted target. A computer is used to predeterminately control the pattern and the rate at which the scanner passes the beam of light over the target. The light transmitted onto the target induces fluorescent light in the target. The fluorescent light is sequentially gathered by a biased cut optical fiber member and directed into a photomultiplier tube where the intensity of the fluorescent light is measured. The intensity data is then digitized and recorded by the computer as a function of the coordinates of each preprogrammed point location of the beam impinging upon the target. This data is used to produce an image of all or a portion of the target on a visual monitor.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for measuring low-level laser-induced fluorescence are disclosed. A laser is used to produce a coherent beam of light which is sequentially passed through a beam expander, iris diaphram, focusing lens and three-dimensional scanner before being focused onto a rigidly mounted target. A computer is used to predeterminately control the pattern and the rate at which the scanner passes the beam of light over the target. The light transmitted onto the target induces fluorescent light in the target. The fluorescent light is sequentially gathered by a biased cut optical fiber member and directed into a photomultiplier tube where the intensity of the fluorescent light is measured. The intensity data is then digitized and recorded by the computer as a function of the coordinates of each preprogrammed point location of the beam impinging upon the target. This data is used to produce an image of all or a portion of the target on a visual monitor.