Abstract: The system includes a laser light source configured to emit laser light; an optical fiber coupled to the laser light source and configured to guide the laser light along an illumination path; and an illumination optical assembly disposed in the illumination path and configured to direct the laser light on a workpiece. The workpiece emits fluorescent light along an emission path based on illumination from the laser light. The system further includes a collection optical assembly disposed in the emission path and configured to separate the fluorescent light from reflected laser light; and a detector disposed in the emission path and configured to generate one or more fluorescence images based on the fluorescent light.

Abstract: A range differentiator useful for auto-focusing, the range differentiator including an image generator providing an image of a scene at various physical depths, a depth differentiator distinguishing portions of the image at depths below a predetermined threshold, irrespective of a shape of the portions, and providing a depth differentiated image and a focus distance ascertainer ascertaining a focus distance based on the depth differentiated image.

Abstract: A range differentiator useful for auto-focusing, the range differentiator including an image generator providing an image of a scene at various physical depths, a depth differentiator distinguishing portions of the image at depths below a predetermined threshold, irrespective of a shape of the portions, and providing a depth differentiated image and a focus distance ascertainer ascertaining a focus distance based on the depth differentiated image.