High-speed 3D tomographic imaging using a camera array
Unmet Need
Tomographic imaging has revolutionized both scientific research and clinical procedures. 3D tomographic imaging reveals information about a sample’s volume, depth, and internal structures, which cannot be obtained from 2D imaging alone. However, 3D imaging is typically slow, as it requires a large amount of data for faithful volumetric image reconstruction. As a result, tomographic 3D imaging typically requires sample immobilization, limiting its ability to image freely moving samples in their natural behavioral states. There is a need for a high-speed 3D tomographic imaging method that is compatible with mobile samples.
Technology
Duke inventors have developed a method to perform non-invasive tomographic 3D imaging using a camera array. This is intended to be used in both research and clinical applications. Specifically, the inventors used an array of cameras that captures synchronized tomographic snapshots of an object, allowing for subsequent computational 3D volume reconstruction. As a research tool, this invention is useful for studying biological processes in freely moving model organisms and has been demonstrated imaging GFP-expressing zebrafish larva.
Other Applications
This technology can also be used to improve surgical guidance systems and clinical diagnostics. In addition, this technology can be used for non-destructive 3D imaging in materials science and manufacturing.
Advantages
- Non-invasive technology to capture multi-view 3D images at high speed
- Does not require sample fixing or immobilization
- Compatible with both fluorescence- and non-fluorescence-based imaging