Abstract: Provided is a tomographic imaging method, which acquires tomographic images of an object to be inspected, based on combined beams respectively acquired by combining reference beams and return beams acquired by irradiating the object to be inspected with a plurality of measuring beams. The tomographic imaging method includes a first step of acquiring the respective combined beams by reflecting information regarding the plurality of measuring beams which is stored in advance and irradiating the object to be inspected with the plurality of measuring beams, and a second step of generating the tomographic images based on the respective combined beams.

Abstract: In accordance with some embodiments of the present inventions, an imaging device includes an OCT imager, a trigger, a computer coupled to the OCT imager and the trigger, the computer executing instructions for: generating a first signal at the trigger to initiate closing of an object at a first time, generating a second signal at the trigger to initiate opening of an object at a second time following the first time, acquiring a plurality of OCT data scans with the OCT imager at different time intervals following the second time, identifying an area of interest in the plurality of OCT data scans, identifying layers in the area of interest, calculating thickness measurements of the layers from the OCT data scans, and displaying the thickness measurements.

Abstract: A polarization sensitive spectral interferometer apparatus and method for analyzing a sample by optical energy reflected from the sample. The polarization sensitive spectral interferometer apparatus and method determines polarization properties of the sample by optical energy reflected from the sample.

Abstract: A light source apparatus that emits pulsed light includes an optical resonator and a modulator. The optical resonator has an optical gain medium that amplifies light and an optical waveguide. The modulator modulates an intensity of the light in the optical resonator. The optical resonator with the optical gain medium includes a plurality of optical resonators having different optical path lengths from each other to make a difference between intervals of free spectral ranges in the plurality of optical resonators, to reduce a spectral line width of the pulsed light compared to that of a light source apparatus separately using the plurality of optical resonators as an individual optical resonator, the spectral line width determined by an envelope formed by a sideband wave of an oscillation mode which is generated by the modulation.

Abstract: Low-coherence interferometry (LCI) techniques enable acquisition of structural and depth information of a sample. A “swept-source” (SS) light source may be used. The swept-source light source can be used to generate a reference signal and a signal directed towards a sample. Light scattered from the sample is returned as a result and mixed with the reference signal to achieve interference and thus provide structural information regarding the sample. Depth information about the sample can be obtained using Fourier domain concepts as well as time domain techniques. In another embodiment, an a/LCI system and method is provided that is based on a time domain system and employs a broadband light source. The systems and processes disclosed herein can be used for biomedical applications, included measuring cellular morphology in tissues and in vitro, as well as diagnosing intraepithelial neoplasia, and assessing the efficacy of chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic agents.

Abstract: A temperature measuring apparatus includes a light source, a first splitter, a second splitter, a reference beam reflector, an optical path length adjuster, a reference beam transmitting member, a first to an nth measuring beam transmitting member and a photodetector. The temperature measuring apparatus further includes an attenuator that attenuates the reference beam reflected from the reference beam reflector to thereby make an intensity thereof closer to an intensity of the measurement beam reflected from the temperature measurement object.

Abstract: A method of analysis of a sample, including the steps of: (a) splitting an input optical beam into a probe beam and reference beam; (b) utilizing the probe beam to interrogate a sample and obtaining a return sample beam there from; (c) manipulating the reference beam into a predetermined polarization state; (d) mixing the return sample beam and reference beam producing a series of mixed beams; and (e) analyzing the polarization components of the series of mixed beams.

Abstract: The scanning speed of a sample in Doppler OCT, etc., is increased to enable quick measurement of blood flow rate, blood flow volume, etc.

Abstract: An optical apparatus is disclosed. The optical apparatus includes an optical scanning module and a rotation axis module. The optical scanning module is used to provide an optical signal for optical tomography. The rotation axis module and the optical scanning module are integrated. When the rotation axis module rotates, the rotation axis module makes the optical scanning module to perform a rotation scanning process to an object.

Abstract: Methods, systems and computer program products are provided for acquiring an image set using optical coherence tomography (OCT). A first portion of a defined volume is scanned at a low-density sampling rate to obtain a plurality of low-density frames. A second portion of the defined volume is scanned at a high-density sampling rate, higher than the low-density sampling rate, to obtain at least one high-density frame. The low-density frames and the at least one high-density frame are combined to provide a complete mixed-density image set.

Abstract: The optical tomographic imaging system includes a main body for acquiring an optical tomographic image, an optical probe having a rotary optical fiber for guiding the measuring and returning light, a measuring unit, and a sheath rotatably holding the rotary optical fiber and the measuring unit, a rotary drive unit for rotatably coupling the rotary optical fiber to a stationary optical fiber connected with the main body, an extra length handling mechanism for winding the optical probe into a loop having at least a minimum diameter and an attaching unit removably attaching the optical probe. The extra length handling mechanism winds an extra length of the optical probe by a length depending upon a length up to the location to be examined. The system eliminates the need to change the optical probe depending upon the location to be examined and the need to adjust the optical path length of reference light.

Abstract: Speckle, a factor reducing image quality in optical coherence tomography (“OCT”), can limit the ability to identify cellular structures that are important for the diagnosis of a variety of diseases. Exemplary embodiments of the present invention can facilitate an implementation of an angular compounding, angular compounding by path length encoding (“ACPE”) for reducing speckle in OCT images. By averaging images obtained at different incident angles, with each image encoded by path length, ACPE maintains high-speed image acquisition and implements minimal modifications to OCT probe optics. ACPE images obtained from tissue phantoms and human skin in vivo demonstrate a qualitative improvement over traditional OCT and an increased signal-to-noise ratio (“SNR”). Accordingly, exemplary embodiments of an apparatus probe catheter and method can be provided for irradiating a structure. In particular, an interferometer may forward forwarding an electromagnetic radiation.

Abstract: Apparatus, arrangement and method are provided for obtaining information associated with an anatomical structure or a sample using optical microscopy. For example, a radiation can be provided which includes at least one first electromagnetic radiation directed to be provided to an anatomical sample and at least one second electro-magnetic radiation directed to a reference. A wavelength of the radiation can vary over time, and the wavelength is shorter than approximately 1150 nm. An interference can be detected between at least one third radiation associated with the first radiation and at least one fourth radiation associated with the second radiation. At least one image corresponding to at least one portion of the sample can be generated using data associated with the interference. In addition, at least one source arrangement can be provided which is configured to provide an electromagnetic radiation which has a wavelength that varies over time.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for determining optical path length differences and for optical coherence tomography, having the steps of: generating spatially coherent light by a light source (SQ, BQ) emitting a spatial monomode, or the emission thereof being limited to a single spatial mode by suitable means (F); dividing at least a part of the light coming from said light source into two spatially separated paths; placing a sample (P) to be measured in the measurement path; using as at least two detectors (D) or one detector (D, A) having at least two detector elements (D) and further means (S, T, BP, F, Q, L, G, Z) for guiding beams, said means bringing light from a reference path and a measurement path together to the detectors/detector elements (D) and bringing said light to interference; receiving and analyzing the light intensities at the detectors/detector elements (D) in order to obtain a data set; and numerically analyzing and displaying the data set such that conclusions are possible abo

Abstract: In an embodiment of the present invention, an OCT probe is configured by including: a thin and long substantially cylindrical sheath whose distal end is closed; an n-reflecting surface body, as an irradiating device, which has n reflecting surfaces (with n being an integer of three or more) and which is provided in a distal end portion of the sheath; a torque transmitting coil, as a rotating device, which is provided along the longitudinal axis of the sheath and which transmits rotational torque for rotating each of the reflection surfaces of the n-reflecting surface body about the longitudinal axis of the sheath; and n fibers (1) to (n), as an n-channel waveguide device, which are provided and fixed in the sheath in a side by side relationship with the torque transmitting coil.

Abstract: Multi-core optical fiber probe includes a multi-core optical fiber (and method of manufacturing the probe) including a plurality of cores adjacent a cladding material, and a plurality of angled reflectors disposed at a distal end of the cores. An angled reflector of the plurality of angled reflectors deflects light propagating in the core at a deflection angle that is different from an axis of light propagation in the core. Light propagating toward a distal end of the core of the multi-core probe is emitted, after reflection by the corresponding reflector, out of the multi-core optical fiber probe.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus having a simple configuration capable of correctly detecting malfunction of an OCT apparatus by detecting the states of a light source and a sensor. An image pickup apparatus includes a switching unit that switches between a first mode in which a combined light beam of a return light beam from a specimen and a reference light beam is detectable by a detecting unit and a second mode in which the reference light beam is detectable by the detecting unit. The image pickup apparatus is switchable to the first mode on the basis of an intensity of the reference light beam detected by the detecting unit in the second mode.

Abstract: A surgical microscope assembly includes a microscope main objective and microscope imaging optics. The microscope main objective and microscope imaging optics define a viewing beam path that passes from a sample through the microscope main objective and the microscope imaging optics. The assembly includes an optical coherence tomography (OCT) unit having an illumination beam and a collection beam and a beamsplitter between the microscope main objective and the microscope imaging optics. The beamsplitter is configured to direct a portion of light from the microscope main objective to the microscope imaging optics and to direct another portion of light from the microscope main objective to the OCT unit collection beam. The beamsplitter is further configured to direct an illumination beam from the OCT unit to the microscope main objective and to the sample. A beam forming unit is between the OCT unit and the beamsplitter.

Abstract: Variants of an interferometric device are developed for examining internal structures of objects by means of optical coherence tomography, which allow for controlling a boundary location of the observation range. The device also allows for correcting a distortion of the tomographic image of the object under study, caused by lateral scanning, due to aberrations of the optical path length for the low-coherence optical radiation directed towards the object. Embodiments of the device include either one, or two fiber-optic controlled scanners, which in different combinations perform a function of in-depth scanning of the coherence window of low-coherence optical radiation within the observation range, a function of controlling a boundary location of the observation range, and a function of compensating the optical path length aberration for the low-coherence optical radiation directed towards the object, caused by lateral scanning.

Abstract: In the OCT apparatus, the reference mirror is a mirror having a multi-layer structure having at least two planes and includes a first plane and at least one second plane having a height difference corresponding to ¼ length of a central wavelength of the light source or an odd multiple of ¼ length with respect to the first plane such that beams reflected by the planes have a phase shift corresponding to a half wavelength or an odd multiple of the half wavelength. Since a bandwidth of a light source is not increased, large broadband performance of optical parts is not required and neither is dispersion compensation of the path in each coherence arm. Therefore, the OCT apparatus using the reference mirror can be applied in industries that require various precise thick film techniques through the tomography image having the remarkably enhanced contrast in the depth direction.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an optical scanning apparatus and an optical scanning system The optical system includes an optical engine connected to an optical scanning probe The optical scanning probe images a sample at different lateral positions of the sample The optical scanning probe includes a housing having a longitudinal axis extending in a direction towards a sample to be scanned, a first base having a first moveable mirror supported thereon by a first cantilever connecting the first moveable mirror to the first base, a second base having a second moveable mirror supported thereon by a second cantilever connecting the second moveable mirror to the second base, and a support attaching the first and second bases so that the first moveable mirror and the second moveable mirror are disposed along the longitudinal axis apart from each other

Abstract: Exemplary method, apparatus and arrangement can be provided for obtaining information associated with a sample such as a portion of an anatomical structure. The information can be generated using first data, which can be based on a signal obtained from a location on the sample, and second data, where the second data can be obtained by combining a second signal received from the sample with a third reference signal. An image of a portion of the sample can also be generated based on the information. For example, the first data can be associated with spectral encoding microscopy data, and the second data can be associated with optical coherence tomography data.

Abstract: A system and related methods for automatic or semi-automatic segmentation and quantification of blood vessel structure and physiology, including segmentation and quantification of lumen, guide wire, vessel wall, calcified plaques, fibrous caps, macrophages, metallic and bioresorbable stents are described, and including visualization of results. Calcified plaque segmentation can be used to estimate the distribution of superficial calcification and inform strategies stenting. Volumetric segmentation and quantification of fibrous caps can provide more comprehensive information of the mechanisms behind plaque rupture. Quantification of macrophages can aid diagnosis and prediction of unstable plaque and associated acute coronary events. Automated detection and quantification of metallic and bioresorbable stents can greatly reduce the analysis time and facilitate timely decision making for intervention procedures.

Abstract: In various embodiments, optical-imaging systems incorporate non-mechanical beam-actuation systems to facilitate the acquisition of, e.g., two- and three-dimensional images.

Abstract: A temperature measurement apparatus includes a light source; a first splitter that splits a light beam into a measurement beam and a reference beam; a reference beam reflector that reflects the reference beam; an optical path length adjustor; a second splitter that splits the reflected reference beam into a first reflected reference beam and a second reflected reference beam; a first photodetector that measures an interference between the first reflected reference beam and a reflected measurement beam obtained by the measurement beam reflected from a target object; a second photodetector that measures an intensity of the second reflected reference beam; and a temperature calculation unit. The temperature calculation unit calculates a location of the interference by subtracting an output signal of the second photodetector from an output signal of the first photodetector, and calculates a temperature of the target object from the calculated location of the interference.

Abstract: A digitized image of an object may include representations of portions of the object that are obscured, occluded or otherwise unobservable. The image may be a multi-dimensional visual representation of dentition. Characteristics of the dentition and its surfaces, contours, and shape may be determined and/or analyzed. A light may be directed toward and reflected from the dentition. The reflected light may be combined with a reference to determine characteristics of the dentition, including obscured areas such as subgingival tissue.

Abstract: Provided are an optical connector and an optical tomographic imaging apparatus, by which no noise occurs and a high quality image without a distortion can be obtained. In the optical connector, optical fibers are inserted into a lumen of a tube from opposite ends thereof; one of the optical fibers is fixed to the tube and the other optical fiber is held so as to be rotatable relative to the tube; an end of one of the optical fibers is separated from an end of the other optical fiber to form a gap therebetween in the lumen; a connecting section which connects the exterior space of the tube and the gap is formed; and a liquid or fluid made of a material which can transmit light is held in the exterior space, the gap, and the connecting section.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a structure in which a sensor includes a first area and a second area upon which dispersed first and second lights are focused. The first and second areas are disposed in a dispersion direction or a direction perpendicular to the dispersion direction. A distance between the first and second areas is adjusted by using a distance between a plurality of fiber ends from which a plurality of combined lights exit and an optical magnification at a detecting section.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an imaging device including a reducing section configured to reduce superimposition of first and second combined lights upon each other. The first and second combined lights are based on first and second measuring lights that illuminate an examination object. The imaging device according to the present invention also includes an obtaining section configured to obtain an optical coherence tomographic image of the examination object based on the first and second combined lights whose superimposition has been reduced at the reducing section. A sensor having a minimum number of pixels is provided by restricting crosstalk between interference lights at the sensor.

Abstract: Apparatus, method and data processing for increasing the depth range and signal to noise ratio (SNR) in Fourier domain low coherence interferometry (FD LCI) and in Fourier domain optical coherence tomography (FD OCT) using a 2 dimensional (2D) detector array is provided. The depth range and the noise of the FD LCI and FD OCT depend on the number of pixels in the detector that are used for imaging. As the depth range is proportional and the noise is inversely proportional to the number of pixels, the use of increased number of pixels of a 2D detector array increases the depth range and the signal to noise ratio (SNR) many fold.

Abstract: Apparatus, systems and methods for improving strength of thin cover glass for electronic devices are disclosed. Optical coherence tomography analysis may reveal fine details of a residual stress profile within chemically strengthened cover glass. One or more parameters of chemical strengthening treatments may be adjusted, based upon the analysis of the residual stress profile.

Abstract: An OCT apparatus that photographs with a plurality of measuring beams concurrently has a mechanism for adjusting the optical path length of a reference beam for each measuring beam. Accordingly, when tomographic images photographed in this manner are displayed side by side, because the depth of photographing varies from one tomographic image to another, it is difficult for an operator to comprehend the positional relation between the photographed images. In displaying tomographic images acquired with a plurality of measuring beams, the display position of each tomographic image is adjusted based on the changed optical path length of a reference beam of the measuring beam used for the image. The tomographic images are thus aligned in height and are presented in a manner that is easy for the operator to comprehend the positional relation between the photographed images.

Abstract: An imaging apparatus includes changing unit for changing a positional relation of irradiation positions of a plurality of measuring beams to be radiated onto an object. The imaging apparatus includes scanning unit for scanning the plurality of measuring beams in the positional relation which has been changed by the changing unit, and acquiring unit for acquiring an optical coherence tomographic image of the object on the basis of the plurality of measuring beams.

Abstract: To provide an optical imaging apparatus capable of providing a high lateral resolution in a wide region and easily adjusting prior to imaging for imaging an optical image of an eye to be inspected which is an object, and a method for imaging an optical image. The optical imaging apparatus in which a beam from a light source is used as a measuring beam, and an image of an object is imaged based on intensity of a return beam formed of the measuring beam irradiated to the object has the following: first, an optical device for focusing the measuring beam on the object; next, a aberration detecting device for measuring a aberration of the return beam; and a focus adjusting device for adjusting the optical device based on the aberration detected by the aberration detecting device.

Abstract: Some embodiments of the present invention provide adapters for use in posterior imaging systems. The adapters include lens set configured to adapt the posterior imaging system to operate as an anterior imaging system. Related optical coherence tomography systems and anterior imaging systems are also provided herein.

Abstract: A method of forming an image of tissue. The method includes non-invasively inserting a fiber-based device into a patient's ear canal and acquiring OCT data from ear tissue while the fiber-based device is in the ear canal. The method also includes converting the OCT data into at least one image.

Abstract: Systems for imaging a sample are provided. The system includes an optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging portion having an associated OCT path defined by one set of optical elements between an OCT signal delivery optical fiber and the sample; an image capture portion having an associated image capture path defined by a second set of optical elements between an image capture device and the sample, different from the OCT path; and an illuminator portion having an associated illumination path defined by a third set of optical elements between an illumination source and the sample. The OCT path, the image capture path, and the illuminator path have at least one optical element in common, and the respective paths differ from each other by at least one optical element. The OCT path and the image capture path share a common intermediate conjugate image plane.

Abstract: A frequency swept laser source that generates an optical signal that is tuned over a spectral scan band at single discrete wavelengths associated with longitudinal modes of the swept laser source. Laser hopping over discrete single cavity modes allows long laser coherence length even under dynamic very high speed tuning conditions. A ramp drive to the laser is used to linearize laser frequency tuning. A beam splitter is used to divide the optical signal between a reference arm leading to a reference reflector and a sample arm leading to a sample. A detector system detects the optical signal from the reference arm and the sample arm for generating depth profiles and images of the sample.

Abstract: A light source apparatus includes an optical resonator formed by an optical amplification medium and an optical switch. The optical switch includes a saturable absorber and changes its transmittance or reflectance when receiving an optical pulse emitted from a light irradiation source which includes a wavelength-tunable light source. The light source apparatus emits amplified light from the optical resonator in correspondence with the center wavelength of the optical pulse from the wavelength-tunable light source. The relationship between a length L and an effective refractive index n of the optical resonator and a repetition frequency f of the optical pulse satisfies a condition L<c/(nf), and a relationship between the length L and a recovery time ? in which the changed transmittance or reflectance of the optical switch recovers satisfies a condition ?>(nL)/c.

Abstract: Optical coherence tomographic imaging apparatus creating tomographic image of inspection object includes light splitting means for splitting light from light source into a single reference light and a single sample light, optical path length changing means for changing optical path length of the single reference light, reference light splitting means for splitting the single reference light whose optical path length is changed into a plurality of reference lights, sample light splitting means for splitting the single sample light into a plurality of sample lights, irradiation means for irradiating the inspection object by leading the plurality of sample lights thereto, interference signal forming means for combining returning lights of the plurality of the sample lights from the inspection object irradiated by the irradiation means with the plurality of reference lights passed through the reference-light path, and interference signal obtaining means for obtaining an interference signal from the interference s

Abstract: An optical coherence tomographic imaging apparatus includes a first measuring beam and a second measuring beam which differ from each other in center wavelength; first adjustment unit for adjusting focusing position of the first measuring beam; second adjustment unit for adjusting focusing position of the second measuring beam; first detecting unit for detecting an interference light generated from a first returning light and a first reference beam, where the first returning light results from the first measuring beam; and second detecting unit for detecting an interference light generated from a second returning light and a second reference beam, where the second returning light results from the second measuring beam reflected or scattered, in which the focusing positions of the first measuring beam and the second measuring beam can be adjusted by the first and second adjustment unit to be at different positions in a depth direction.

Abstract: Provided is a device for determining the surface topology and associated color of a structure, such as a teeth segment, including a scanner for providing depth data for points along a two-dimensional array substantially orthogonal to the depth direction, and an image acquisition means for providing color data for each of the points of the array, while the spatial disposition of the device with respect to the structure is maintained substantially unchanged. A processor combines the color data and depth data for each point in the array, thereby providing a three-dimensional color virtual model of the surface of the structure. A corresponding method for determining the surface topology and associated color of a structure is also provided.

Abstract: An apparatus for measuring a layered object comprising a low coherence light source, a coherent light source, and an interferometer including a reference arm and a measurement arm. The reference arm is comprised of a first section of polarization maintaining optical fiber engaged with a first fiber stretcher. The measurement arm is comprised of a second section of polarization maintaining optical fiber engaged with a second fiber stretcher. The first and second fiber stretchers are driven so as to alternatingly vary the lengths of the first section of polarization maintaining optical fiber and the second section of polarization maintaining optical fiber, thereby causing interference signals with the low coherence light when the length of the reference arm is equal to the length of the measurement arm including the distance from the second section of polarization maintaining optical fiber to any of the surfaces of the layers of the object.

Abstract: A method and a system for Uniform Frequency Sample Clocking to directly sample the OCT signal with a temporally-non-linear sampling clock derived from a k-space wavemeter on the external sample clock input port of a digitizer.

Abstract: An optical image measurement device comprises: a light amount adjustment part that adjusts the light amount of a laser beam generated by a low coherence light source 201; and a photodiode 105 placed outside the light path of the laser beam irradiated on an eye E and capable of measuring the light amount, wherein the laser beam is input to the photodiode 105 by changing the direction of a galvanomirror 170B; the photodiode 105 measures the light amount of the input laser beam; and the light amount adjustment part previously stores a specified range of light amount and adjust the light amount of the laser beam generated by the low coherence light source 201 such that the light amount measured by the photodiode 105 falls within the specified range.

Abstract: Exemplary embodiments of apparatus, systems and methods can be provided for providing at least one electro-magnetic radiation to at least one sample. For example, a plurality of wave-guiding arrangements can be provided which are configured to (i) provide the electro-magnetic radiation(s), and (ii) at a point of emission of each of the wave guiding arrangements, cause a phase of each of the electro-magnetic radiation(s) to have a predetermined value. The exemplary apparatus can be part of a probe. Further the exemplary apparatus can include an interferometric arrangement provided in communication with the probe and/or be part of the probe.

Abstract: An image diagnostic apparatus includes a probe capable of light transmission and reception, wherein a reflection light is obtained from the probe by scanning the probe rotatingly, and a tomographic image is formed and outputted based on the obtained reflection light. A light-shield is provided to shield the light transmitted to the probe, a connection detector detects whether or not the probe is connected, and a controller controls the light-shield based on a detected result by the connection detector.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for ocular surgery includes a delivery system for generating and guiding a surgical laser beam to a focal point on a target surface in a treatment area of an eye. A detector is coupled to the beam path of the surgical laser to create a three-dimensional image of the target surface, and a computer morphs this three-dimensional image into a two-dimensional image. Operationally, the computer then uses the two-dimensional image to position and move the focal point in the treatment area for surgery.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for measuring a frequency-domain optical coherence tomography power spectrum from a sample. The apparatus includes a partially reflective element configured to be optically coupled to a light source and to the sample. A first portion of light from the light source is configured to be reflected by the partially reflective element. A second portion of light from the light source is configured to propagate through the partially reflective element, to impinge the sample, and to reflect from the sample. The apparatus is configured to receive the first and second portions of light and to measure the frequency-domain optical coherence tomography power spectrum in response to the first portion of light and the second portion of light.

Abstract: A 3D OCT confocal imaging apparatus includes a light source module for providing an illumination beam with wider bandwidth from a crystal fiber; a reference source module; a pickup module; a beam splitter; an optical filter; and a sensor module. When the illumination beam illuminates a sample, a pickup objective lens and a piezoelectric actuator of the pickup module together provide an image beam scanning the sample in depth direction. The image beam and a reference beam from the reference source module together form an interference image beam, which is converted by a photosensor into a coherence image electric signal. Meanwhile, the interference image beam passes through a pinhole to form a confocal image, which is converted by an excited light photometer into a confocal image electric signal. With an image processing system, a 3D OCT confocal microscopic image of the sample can be produced from these image electric signals.