Forward-viewing asymmetric fiber cantilever scanner for optical endomicroscopy

Area of Science:

• Optics and Photonics
• Biomedical Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering

Background:

• Resonant scanning systems are crucial for miniaturized optical imaging.
• Existing scanners face limitations in field of view and structural complexity.
• Forward-viewing designs are essential for in-situ biological sample analysis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a compact, forward-viewing fiber cantilever scanner.
• To achieve two-dimensional Lissajous trajectories for enhanced imaging.
• To optimize scanner parameters for improved fill factor and field of view.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of an asymmetric fiber cantilever scanner.
• Integration of a quadrupole piezoelectric tube actuator.
• Optimization using finite element analysis and experimental validation.
• Assembly with a gradient-index lens for a compact scanning unit.

Main Results:

• Achieved a frequency separation of 216 Hz and a field of view of 350 µm × 350 µm.
• Determined optimal resonance frequencies for a fill factor up to 92% at 10 Hz scanning speed.
• Demonstrated a structurally simple and performance-enhanced resonant scanning system.

Conclusions:

• The Lissajous fiber scanner offers a significant advancement for resonant scanning systems.
• The compact, forward-viewing design shows strong potential for optical endomicroscopy.
• This technology enables high-performance imaging in miniaturized platforms.