Real-time extended depth of field microscopy.
We describe an optical microscope system whose focal setting can be changed quickly without moving the objective lens or specimen. Using this system, diffraction limited images can be acquired from a wide range of focal settings without introducing optical aberrations that degrade image quality. We combine this system with a real time Nipkow disc based confocal microscope so as to permit the acquisition of extended depth of field images directly in a single frame of the CCD camera. We also demonstrate a simple modification that enables extended depth of field images to be acquired from different angles of perspective, where the angle can be changed over a continuous range by the user in real-time.
Botcherby
Edward J
EJ
Department of Engineering Science, University of Oxford, Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3PJ, United Kingdom.
Booth
Martin J
MJ
Juskaitis
Rimas
R
Wilson
Tony
T
D000465:Algorithms; D000818:Animals; D004867:Equipment Design; D007089:Image Enhancement / Q000379:methods*; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted; D021621:Imaging, Three-Dimensional / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D051379:Mice; D008853:Microscopy / Q000379:methods; D018613:Microscopy, Confocal / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D008856:Microscopy, Fluorescence / Q000379:methods; D055096:Optical Devices; D055100:Optical Fibers; D014741:Video Recording / Q000379:methods