DE102006046554A1 - Optical head for endoscopic application, has scanning device with two-dimensional scan actuator that is movable in level for lateral movement of fiber-focusing optic unit in direct proximity of window - Google Patents

Abstract

The head has focusing optics (5) adapted to focus effective radiation into an object (1) by a window (3) in housing (2), and an optical fiber (4) that is rigidly connected with the focusing optics with its end in the housing, where the fiber is provided for supplying the effective radiation. A fiber focusing optics unit is formed by which the effective radiation is focused into the object. A scanning device has a two-dimensional scan actuator (6) that is movable in a level for lateral movement of the fiber-focusing optic unit in a direct proximity of the window. An independent claim is also included for a method for producing high resolution microscopic images.

Description

The The invention relates to a miniaturized optical head and a Method for generating high-resolution microscopic images, in particular for endoscopic applications, and methods for producing microscopic processing steps in an object, especially for Micro- and nanosurgical applications in which an optical Fiber to the feeder an effect radiation, a focusing optics for local energy input the effect radiation in an object, and a scanning device for changing the Place of local energy input arranged in a handy housing are, wherein the radiation effect on the focusing optics through a window in the case is focused in the object. The invention is preferably usable in micro-imaging, laser scanning microscopy, optically coherent tomography as well as single and multiphoton imaging, and takes place because of their extensive Miniaturization and flexibilization of the imaging or editing optical system in particular application in endomicroscopy and endomicrosurgery.

The development of several microscopic optical imaging techniques (so-called micro-imaging), such as Laser Scanning Microscopy (LSM), Optical Coherent Tomography (OCT) and Multiphoton Imaging (MPI) has revolutionized optical micro-imaging and rapidly expanded its capabilities ( see eg Concello et al. in: Nature Methods 2 (12), 2005, p. 920-931; Helmchen et al., Supra, pp. 932-940 ). The devices based on this method are increasingly being used in the biomedical field, because they allow microscopic examinations quickly, non-invasively and without the use of contrast substances (see, for example, US Pat Flushberg et al., Supra, pp. 941-950 ). Currently, the optical microscopic scanning are usually used for external or near-surface examinations, because flexible and miniaturized devices with scanning methods fail due to the lack of miniaturization of the scanner.

Existing optically imaging solutions, such as LSM endoscopes according to EP 1 468 322 , have only a limited resolution and can only be used for LSM. MPI endoscopes (eg Ling Fu et al. in: Optics Express 14 (3), 2006, pp. 1027-1032 ) have intrinsically relatively large dimensions, since a MEMS mirror scanner (micro-electromechanical system) with good optical parameters is not smaller than about 3 mm (whereby an endoscope with MEMS in diameter can not be smaller than about 5 mm) ,

Of the Invention is based on the object, a new way for microscopically scanning optical imaging, in particular for flexible medical handsets and microendoscopes, finding a miniaturization and flexibilization of the optical head at high local Resolution allowed, without being bound to any particular imaging (e.g., MPI, OCT or LSM) to be.

A extended task consists in the flexible application of the miniaturized optical head for Microscopic processing of biological tissue and other materials as well as for combined Imaging and processing equipment.

According to the invention Task with a miniaturized optical head, especially for endoscopic Applications in which an optical fiber for supplying a radiation effect, a Focusing optics for local energy input of the effect radiation into an object, and a scanning device to change the location of the local Energy input are arranged in a handy housing, wherein the focusing optics through a window in the housing the effect radiation in Focusing the object, solved by the fact that the optical fiber with her in the case located end is rigidly connected to the focusing optics and a fiber-focusing optics unit forms, by means of the effect radiation is focused in the object, and that the scanning device a two-dimensional in one plane moving scan actuator to the lateral Movement of the fiber focusing optics unit in the immediate vicinity of the window having.

Advantageous the scanning device furthermore has an axially movable adjusting unit for the axial movement of the fiber-focusing unit, wherein the Fiber-focusing optics unit in the adjustment axially clamped is.

In an alternative variant, the scanning device expedient one movable adjusting unit for the axial movement of the fiber, wherein the adjustment rigid with the two-dimensional scan actuator connected and the scan actuator in an axially movable scanner mount is attached.

The two-dimensional scan actuator is preferably designed as a piezo scanner. However, it can also be designed as an electrostatic scanner or as an electromagnetic scanner. An electrostatic scanner suitably has layered electrodes on the inner wall of the housing and a conductive coating opposite the fiber focusing optics unit for performing a controlled lateral scanning movement of the fiber focusing optics unit. An electromagnetic scanner has layered inductive elements on the inner wall of the housing for this purpose and, on the opposite side, on the fiber focusing optics unit a permanent magnet or inductive elements.

The Fiber is for spatially resolved Imaging is advantageously a double-clad large area core PCF. For others Applications, the fiber is designed as a large-area core PCF.

The casing is suitably tubular and is at the ends by a lid and a window hermetically sealed.

Advantageous is in the case at least one photoreceiver for direct recording around the fiber the object reaction radiation arranged. The photoreceiver is appropriate with an optical filter combination provided.

Preferably can in the case around the fiber several photoreceivers for direct recording arranged different components of object reaction radiation be.

Around To achieve a multi-channel scan, are useful in the housing several Guided fibers in a fiber holder parallel. Here are the fibers preferably embedded in a flexible bandage and have stiffening elements for vibration suppression on.

Especially for endoscopic Applications, the focusing optics, a radiation-deflecting element on, being on the case laterally a window is arranged so that the excitation radiation emerges laterally from the fiber focusing optics unit and through the laterally arranged window is focused on the object. Here are the adjustment for a first lateral scan dimension on the object and the scan actuator for a second lateral scan dimension and the depth scan provided in the object.

In In this case, the housing a flattened tubular Cross-section on, with the side window on a flattened Side of the housing is mounted and hermetically sealed together with end caps the housing sealed. The housing preferably has a square cross-section.

For an unhindered Movement of the scan actuator, it is appropriate to the hermetically sealed casing to evacuate.

• – gepulstes Einstrahlen fokussierter Anregungsstrahlung auf ein Objekt zur Auslösung einer Objektreaktionsstrahlung mittels einer Faser-Fokussieroptik-Einheit, bestehend aus einer optischen Faser und einer mit deren Ende starr verbundenen Fokussieroptik, und
• – mindestens zweidimensionale Scanbewegung des distalen Endes der Faser-Fokussieroptik-Einheit zur sukzessive veränderten örtlichen Ausrichtung der Anregungsstrahlung und zugeordneten ortsauflösend abgetasteten Aufnahme von Objektreaktionsstrahlung des orthogonal vor dem distalen Ende der Fokussieroptik vorliegenden Objekts.

The extended problem is solved in a method for generating high-resolution microscopic images by the following sequence of steps:

• Pulsed irradiation of focused excitation radiation onto an object for triggering an object reaction radiation by means of a fiber focusing optical unit, consisting of an optical fiber and a focusing optic rigidly connected to its end, and
• At least two-dimensional scanning movement of the distal end of the fiber-focusing optics unit for successively changed local orientation of the excitation radiation and associated spatially scanned recording of object reaction radiation of the object present orthogonally in front of the distal end of the focusing optics.

Advantageous a third one is orthogonal to the two-dimensional scan motion Scanning by moving the fiber axially to change the depth of one generated from the two-dimensional scan motion Image recording of the object reaction radiation in a predetermined by the focusing optics Object level.

It is useful through a kind of fiber bundle from multiple fiber focusing optics units simultaneously a multi-channel Scanning the object performed.

In another modified embodiment with a fiber bundle from a plurality of fiber focusing optics units advantageously a multi-channel scan image acquisition (Multi-Channel Scanning Imaging) executed.

In another embodiment of the method is by means of a fiber bundle of a plurality of fiber-focusing optics units performed a direct multiphoton tomography.

With Help of a fiber bundle of multiple fiber focusing optics units may also be advantageous Various imaging and measuring methods are performed simultaneously.

through a fiber bundle Multiple fiber-focusing optics units can perform imaging and editing functions be performed on the object quasi-simultaneous by the excitation radiation through increased performance is used as effect radiation for tissue processing.

By a bundling of several single-fiber direct scanners are advantageously parallel to the object over a large area Multi-channel scans for at least one of the multiphoton imaging methods (MPI), spatially resolved Spectral analysis or optically coherent Tomography (OCT) performed.

• – Umschaltung der Anregungsstrahlung zu einer leistungserhöhten Wirkungsstrahlung,
• – gepulstes Einstrahlen der mittels der Faser-Fokussieroptik-Einheit fokussierten Wirkungsstrahlung in das Objekt zur Auslösung von lokalen Gewebeveränderungen und
• – definiert gesteuerte Bewegung des distalen Endes einer Faser-Fokussieroptik-Einheit zur Ausführung dreidimensionaler Gewebebearbeitungsschritte im Objekt.

A combined imaging and processing method is advantageously operated with the direct-scanning head by advantageously carrying out the following additional steps:

• - Switching the excitation radiation to a power-enhanced effect radiation,
• Pulsed irradiation of the effect radiation focused by means of the fiber focusing optics unit into the object for triggering local tissue changes and
• Defined controlled movement of the distal end of a fiber focusing optics unit for performing three-dimensional tissue processing steps in the object.

there the switchover to irradiation of the power increased effect radiation for tissue processing of the object expedient in alternation with the scanned Injection of power-reduced excitation radiation for spatially resolving image acquisition of object reaction radiation.

• – gepulstes Einstrahlen fokussierter Wirkungsstrahlung in ein Objekt zur Auslösung von lokalen Gewebeveränderungen mittels einer Faser-Fokussieroptik-Einheit, bestehend aus einer optischen Faser und einer mit deren Ende starr verbundenen Fokussieroptik, die in einer Scaneinrichtung gehaltert ist, und
• – mindestens zweidimensionale definierte laterale Bewegung des distalen Endes einer Faser-Fokussieroptik-Einheit mittels einer Scaneinrichtung zur Ausführung von örtlich begrenzten Gewebebearbeitungsschritten am vorliegenden Objekt mittels der eingestrahlten Wirkungsstrahlung.

The extended object is further achieved by a method for producing microscopic processing steps in an object, in particular for micro- and nanosurgical applications, by the following steps:

• Pulsed irradiation of focused effect radiation into an object for triggering local tissue changes by means of a fiber focusing optical unit, consisting of an optical fiber and a focusing optics rigidly connected to its end, which is mounted in a scanning device, and
• - At least two-dimensional defined lateral movement of the distal end of a fiber-focusing optics unit by means of a scanning device for performing localized tissue processing steps on the subject object by means of the irradiated radiation effect.

there It proves to be advantageous that the end of the fiber-focusing optics unit additionally in a third orthogonal to the two-dimensional motion Movement dimension controlled by an axial adjustment unit, to three-dimensionally processing steps in the object, in particular Perform cuts in nanosurgery.

The Invention is based on the consideration that conventional endoscopic imagers or microsurgical units either too low an optical resolution or too big Have dimensions or to a specific microscopic Methods of imaging are coupled, allowing biological tissue can only be mapped on the basis of specific properties. The equipment are also difficult to combine with processing optical arrangements.

Further endoscopic imagers with GRIN optics have prevailed, where the further miniaturization precludes that the Scan deflection angle and thus the lateral resolution are very limited. Besides, they are the optical heads each for only one of the microscopic imaging methods (MPI, OCT, LSM Actually) adapted and applicable.

The Invention solves this manifold problem structure, by the previously insufficient scanning angle of the radiation Focusing optics by 2D or 3D scanning one with the optical fiber rigidly connected focusing optics is realized, the fiber-coupled Focusing optics as an integral part of an actuator via a thin optical window is scanned. By this focusing optics is the effect radiation (i.e., the excitation radiation for a the above-mentioned imaging method) from the fiber, Focused by the focusing optics in a point of the object and reflected by the object Reaction radiation - again bundled by the focusing optics and over the proximal end of the focusing optics to the numerical aperture the optical fiber adapted to an image sensor fed. In dependence of The imaging method used uses different focusing optics (for MPI or LSM e.g. with high distal numerical aperture (NA> 0.5).

The used actuators that enable a 2D scanning pattern, are e.g. miniaturized piezoelectric, electrostatic or electromagnetic Actuators. The distance of the distal end of the focusing optics from Window and the window thickness are at the working distance of the focusing optics (i.e., its distal focal length) coordinated and take into account changes the distance from the window for the depth adjustment of the fiber-coupled focusing optics. At the lateral scanning of the fiber focusing optics composite becomes points of a preselected level of the object is scanned systematically progressively. The after exposure the action radiation generated object reaction radiation, e.g. Fluorescence or SHG (Second Harmonic Generation), is used over the Focusing optics and an optical fiber transmitted to a sensor unit.

The second sub-task, the flexibilization of the invention for the application different imaging methods, is achieved by the (optical) radiation effect a light source through a flexible optical fiber to be imaged Object transported and there for scanning scanning of the object used and received the reaction radiation again from the optical fiber becomes (so-called "direct scanner") From an inserted imaging procedure are different optical fibers (Transport fibers) required, for the MPI one uses e.g. PCF (Photonic Crystal Fibers). The scanning head is thus by coupling different fibers with other imaging methods applicable.

In the scanner according to the invention (Direct scanner) becomes an optical fiber, at its distal end a miniaturized focusing optics is attached via a thin optical window that is in direct contact with the object, from a piezoelectric, electrostatic or electromagnetic actuator scanned. Through the fiber is an effect radiation (or excitation radiation) directed to the object and the focusing optics on the surface or focused in the depth of the object as well as returning from the object Reaction radiation through the optical window via the focusing optics external or directly in the scanner housing located sensor unit fed.

One Thus, a direct scanner can provide an axial and lateral resolution of the Realize object image. Alternatively, the scanner can be used in micro- and nanosurgery as well as for Processing of various fabrics and fabrics as a guided processing tool be used by the effect radiation through a material increased Performance for Laser cutting or machining operations is used.

With the solution according to the invention it is possible a microscopic scanning optical image, especially for flexible medical hand tools and micro-endoscopes, to realize the miniaturization of the optical recording head at high spatial resolution of Image capture allowed and for various imaging imaging methods, preferably for multiphoton imaging and laser scanning microscopy, suitable measuring heads much smaller, lighter and more flexible. Especially arise through the invention new applications of the MPI method (for example in endoscopy) as well as combinations of the MPI method with several other imaging methods as well as machining methods.

The Invention will be explained below with reference to exemplary embodiments. The drawings show:

1 : a direct scanner with piezo actuator for axial scanning and fluorescence detection by an optical fiber (double-clad fiber),

1a : a direct scanner with piezo actuator for lateral scanning, fluorescence detection by an optical fiber (double-clad fiber),

2 : a direct scanner after 1 with an electrostatic actuator,

3 : a direct scanner after 1 with an electromagnetic actuator and permanent magnet on the fiber assembly,

4 : a direct scanner after 1 with an electromagnetic actuator and inductive elements on the fiber assembly,

5 a direct scanner with an electrostatic actuator, a receiver located directly in the scanner (with fiber passage) and a reflective layer on the housing walls,

6 : a direct scanner with an electrostatic actuator and two directly integrated receivers,

7 : a direct scanner with an electromagnetic actuator and a directly integrated receiver (without fiber passage)

8th a direct scanner with an electromagnetic actuator and fluorescence detection by a fiber with wide-field imaging arrangement (without fiber passage),

9 Figure 1: A representation of a Double Clad Large Area Core PCF fiber,

10 : a schematic representation of a multi-channel arrangement in a housing.

The arrangement according to the invention (direct scanner) consists in its basic structure - as in 1 shown schematically - from a handy rigid housing 2 with a transparent window for the optical radiation components used 3 on an object 1 is attached, one to an optical fiber 4 coupled focusing optics 5 and a scan actuator 6 of the rigidly connected fiber-focusing optics arrangement 45 in a freely selectable scanning regime two-dimensional (X, Y scan) moves. Inside the case 2 is an axially movable scanner mount 7 provided by an axial adjustment 8th a third scanning movement (Z-scan) orthogonal to the first two scanning directions. The housing 2 is with a housing cover 2 ' completed before getting a flexible hose 2 '' for supply lines, such as for fibers 4 (for supplying effect radiation or reduced-power excitation radiation) and transmission of object reaction radiation), electrical feed lines for scan actuator 6 and adjustment unit 8th , and optionally a vacuum line 9 ,

On The basis of this basic version are different operating modes and structural Modifications realized below as exemplary embodiments are described.

1. Direct scanner with 3D scan

The direct scanner consists in this example, as in 1 shown, from a miniaturized focusing optics 5 , a fiber 4 with its distal end the proximal end of the focusing optics 5 is connected and a scan actuator 6 , eg piezo actuator 6 ' , which is the distal end of the focusing optics 5 immediately above a thin optical window 3 that on the object 1 abuts, scans. The focal point of the focusing optics 5 is located behind the window 3 on the surface of the object 1 or in its depth and is using the focusing optics 5 scanned (X, Y scan). The scanning depth in the object 1 can with an axial adjustment 8th be set. This is the axially movable scanner holder 7 on which the scan actuator 6 who is the fiber 4 and the focusing optics 5 moved together laterally, is fixed, displaced in the axial direction. The distance between the distal end of the focusing optics 5 and the window 3 thus changes and realizes one in the longitudinal direction of the housing 2 directed z-scan. The free length of the fiber 4 within the axial adjustment unit 8th and the scanner mount 7 is used for the length compensation of the fiber 4 at the distance change of the fiber-focusing optical unit 45 opposite the window 3 used.

The focusing optics 5 can be a different diameter than the fiber 4 and have as GRIN optics, conventional optics, Fresnel optics or a combination of GRIN optics and other optics (diffractive optics, Fresnel optics, etc.) be executed.

In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the focusing optics 5 a refractive hemisphere element 5 ' whose distal surface is flat, two GRIN lenses 5 '' and 5 ''' and a diffractive optic disposed therebetween 5 * on. The object-side GRIN lens 5 '' serves to compensate for the aberrations of the hemisphere element 5 ' and produced at its prostal end from the through the hemisphere element 5 ' transmitted highly divergent object reaction radiation quasi-parallel or slightly divergent beam. The second GRIN lens 5 ''' serves to couple this radiation into the fiber 4 or decoupling of the effect radiation (excitation radiation) from the fiber 4 , The diffractive optics 5 * corrects chromatic aberrations of the hemisphere element 5 ' as well as the GRIN lenses 5 '' and 5 ''' ,

The housing 2 , which consists of a medically approved material, is hermetically (vacuum-tight) at its distal end through the optical window 3 completed, which also consists of medically approved transparent material. At its proximal end, the housing becomes 2 For medical applications also vacuum-tight with the lid 2 ' completed. The lid 2 ' is with the hose 2 '' connected to all necessary for the scanner operation lines. On the distal side of the lid 2 ' is the axial adjustment unit 8th attached. The lid 2 ' ensures the vacuum-tight implementation of all cables leading to the scanner.

The housing 2 can through the vacuum line 9 Be evacuated to the air resistance for the distal end of the fiber-optic focusing unit 45 to reduce when scanning.

The axial adjustment unit 8th can be designed as eg a piezo plate.

The direct scanner can thus perform point, line, 2D or 3D scanning in any combination of the x, y and z movements, this is achieved by targeted control of the 2D scan actuator 6 and the axial adjustment unit 8th reached.

1a shows a special embodiment of the direct scanner with an optical window 3 , the side of a wall of the housing 2 is arranged. The focusing optics 5 includes in this case a deflecting element 5 ** (For example, a prism), which deflects the direction of the radiation by about 90 °. This will cause the depth adjustment with respect to the object 1 (z-scan) in this design of the direct scanner from the piezo actuator 6 ' taken the x-scan as well as in 1 performs. The axial adjustment unit 8th takes over the y-scan here.

2 shows a modified version of the direct scanner with an electrostatic scanner 6 '' , Here's the fiber-focusing optics unit 45 moved or displaced by a conductive coating 13 that has an electrical potential across the line 12 obtained by the electric field of the opposite current-conducting layer electrodes 10 undergoes a directional effect. The layer electrodes 10 are directly on the inner wall of the housing 2 applied, if the case 2 made of an insulating material or resting on an insulating base 11 if - as in 2 shown - the case 2 made of conductive material.

Incidentally, the direct scanner works with the electrostatic actuator 6 '' according to the same scheme as with the piezo actuator 6 ' ,

3 shows a modified version of the direct scanner with an electromagnetic actuator 6 ''' in which a permanent magnet 14 is used. Here's the fiber-focusing optics unit 45 moved or adjusted by the fact that the permanent magnet 14 pointing to the fiber-focusing optics unit 45 (Eg as a ferromagnetic coating) is applied, by the electromagnetic Field of the opposing current-conducting inductive elements 15 attached to the inner wall of the housing 2 are attached, undergoes a directional effect. If the case 2 is made of conductive material - as in 2 - An insulating pad in the form of a dielectric layer 11 used.

Another variant of this design is in 4 shown in which the permanent magnet 14 through several inductive elements 16 is replaced.

All other functions of the direct scanner are the same as those of the previous versions with piezo scanner 6 ' or electrostatic scanner 6 '' ,

If the embodiments according to the 1 - 4 such as 8th used for microscopic imaging purposes is called fiber 4 a so-called double-clad large-area-core-PCF (PCF-Photonic Crystal Fiber) is used, as described below with reference to 9 is described. A fiber 4 This type has a central area 20 with an elevated refractive index n ₁ , which has its leading properties through a microstructured area 21 that gets from a coat 22 is surrounded by an optical material with refractive index n ₂ . The coat 22 is with an outer coating 23 coated, which has the low refractive index n ₃ and especially the mechanical properties of the fiber 4 improved. In general, n ₁ > n ₂ > n ₃ . The core area 20 is used to deliver an effect radiation to the object 1 used. The in the object 1 generated reaction radiation is through the focusing optics 5 in the coat 22 the fiber 4 coupled, returned via this and coupled by means of a beam splitter to an (external) photoreceiver (both not shown). The photoreceiver is equipped with necessary color filters and possibly with a collection optics. Depending on the specific application of the direct scanner, the object reaction radiation can occur as specular or diffusely reflected excitation radiation, photoluminescence (in particular fluorescence), Raman and Rayleigh scattering, generated harmonics of the excitation radiation, etc. The above-mentioned fiber type is also advantageous for the applications in which imaging and fabric processing are combined.

When using the direct scanner exclusively for purposes of microsurgery or material processing is the fiber 4 preferably a so-called large area core PCF. In such a fiber 4 is the coat 22 on the microstructured area 21 reduced, ie the in 9 drawn coat 22 is completely eliminated as a functional layer.

Other ways of detecting the object reaction radiation are in the 5 - 7 shown, wherein the direct scanner with electrostatic or electromagnetic actuators 6 '' respectively. 6 '' works in special execution.

In a first embodiment according to 5 will for the fiber 4 used a large area core PCF. The object radiation radiation caused by the radiation of action is within the direct scanner of a photoreceptor 17 with upstream optical filter combination 18 , which consists of at least one color filter. The inner walls of the housing 2 on the distal side of the photoreceptor 17 are with a mirror layer 10 alternatively, by (reflecting) electrodes on the dielectric layer 11 can be formed. This embodiment is advantageous for miniaturized applications in which the photoreceiver used 17 a central hole for the fiber 4 Has.

6 discloses an embodiment in which at least two photoreceivers 17 ' and 17 '' are arranged so that as much as possible object reaction radiation without reflections on the walls of the housing 2 through filter combinations 18 ' and 18 '' from the photoreceptors 17 ' . 17 '' is detected. The photoreceivers 17 ' . 17 '' and the filter combinations 18 ' . 18 '' may be the same or different depending on the particular application.

For photoreceptor 17 , which do not have a central passage, such as secondary electron multiplier (SEV or PMT), is an alternative embodiment in 7 shown. In this arrangement, the fiber becomes 4 in an axially movable frame 7 ' attached, which has a crossbar construction. This shadows the frame 7 ' the photoreceptor 17 only minimally off. The frame 7 ' is on an annular or axially segmentary adjustment 8th' attached, in turn, with a stationary annular or segmental element 7 '' connected is.

In all variants according to the 5 - 7 can also do a double-clad large-area core PCF as fiber 4 be used when a portion of the object reaction radiation through the fiber 4 to an external photoreceiver (not shown) must be performed.

8th represents an embodiment in which the direct scanner with an electrostatic actuator 6 '' , formed of layer electrodes 10 , dielectric layer 11 , Supply line 12 and conductive coating 13 , with a two-dimensional image sensor 19 , For example, a CCD camera, including associated optics and lighting, can be combined. The fiber 4 is formed in this arrangement by a double-clad-large-area-area-PCF, which can be used for both imaging and microsurgical or Material processing purposes can be used.

In all embodiments of the direct scanner according to the 5 - 8th can for the electrostatic actuator 6 '' instead of the conductive coatings 10 and 13 for moving the fiber focusing optics unit 45 also a permanent magnet 14 and inductive elements 15 , as in 3 represented, or on the housing 2 and at the fiber-focusing optics unit 45 attached inductive elements 15 and 16 , as in 4 shown to be used.

2. Direct scanner with several Fiber focusing optics units

The direct scanner can also be designed as a multi-channel device. In this embodiment, the fiber-focusing optics unit 45 through a kind of multi-core cable - as in 10 shown replaced with at least two fiber-focusing optics units 45 connected to each other. The fibers 4 are in a flexible bandage 26 embedded, the freely protruding distal fiber sections are preferably the same length and are made by stiffening elements 25 in a holder 24 fixed. The stiffening elements 25 are used to adjust the vibration characteristics of the distal sections of the fiber focusing optics unit 45 , They can also be used for direct fixation of the focusing optics 5 be used. Through the bracket 24 become the fibers 4 arranged in a geometric pattern depending on the application, eg in a row ( 10B ) or two rows ( 10C ) or as matrix ( 10D ) symmetrical or asymmetrical. Depending on the application, even differently designed geometric patterns are possible.

The focusing optics 5 can depend on the application in a straight (after 1 ) or angled (after 1a ) Variant can be used.

The fiber holder 24 is either with the scan actuator 6 or especially a piezo actuator 6 ' (according to 1 respectively. 1a ) or into the axially movable scanner or frame mount 7 respectively. 7 ' (Variants according to 2 - 4 . 8th ) integrated.

The type of fibers used 4 is application-dependent, for example, double-clad-large-area-core-PCF is favorably used for MPI, for other applications large-area-core-PCF are sufficient.

2.1 Multi-Channel Scanning Imaging

In a modified version, the direct scanner can be used as a multichannel scanner for multi-channel scanned imaging such as LSM, MPI or OCT. Here are all fiber-focusing optics combinations 45 through a 2D scan actuator 6 moved synchronously over assigned sections. From the through the individual fibers 4 forwarded partial images, the overall picture is composed. This is achieved by a uniform focal length of all individual focusing optics 5 and achieves a uniform power distribution of the excitation radiation.

By scanning several fiber focusing optics units in parallel 45 the imaging time is significantly shortened - this can lead to the elimination of various artifacts caused by the heartbeat, breath or possible trembling of the examiner and / or the patient. Likewise, this can significantly increase the resolution of the image with a constant recording time or increase the overall image area. A possible depth adjustment takes place as for 1 and 2 described.

2.2 Direct multiphoton tomography

In another embodiment, the multi-channel direct scanner is constructed similar to Example 2.1, but the focal lengths of the focusing optics 5 of individual fibers 4 (or fiber groups) differently, whereby at the same time images (tomograms) of at least two different depths in the object 1 lying levels. This allows eg with LSM or MPI a 3D image of an object 1 be recorded in one step. Furthermore, the acquisition time of tomograms in larger depth ranges or with a higher depth resolution (several image planes) can be significantly shortened by using the depth adjustment, which in turn eliminates the artifacts mentioned in Example 2.1.

2.3 direct scanner using different imaging and / or measuring methods

In a further embodiment, the multichannel direct scanner is constructed as in Examples 2.1 or 2.2, but with the individual fibers 4 (or fiber groups) with different focusing optics 5 are provided. These are used in parallel for different optical imaging or measuring methods, eg for simultaneous or fast sequential MPI or MP tomography and OCT, in which case the fiber focusing optics units are 45 optimized for the appropriate imaging or measuring method and their vibration characteristics matched to each other.

The multichannel direct scanner can through These optimized, adapted properties can also be used for the simultaneous measurement of different characteristics of the object reaction radiation, eg fluorescence polarization, coherence or object imaging.

2.4 multichannel direct scanner with union of imaging and editing function

In a multi-functional embodiment, the multi-channel direct scanner according to any one of Examples 2.1 to 2.3 is constructed, but the focusing optics 5 of individual fibers 4 or fiber groups and the fiber 4 are different. Some of the fiber focusing optics combinations 4 . 5 are optimized for imaging (eg with LSM or MPI) and the others for microsurgery or material processing purposes (eg with multiphoton laser ablation), thereby allowing imaging and processing to be alternated or rapidly alternated by different fiber focusing optics units 45 or entire groups of them.

2.5 Combination of Multiple Single Fiber Direct Scanners

By assembling preferably identical variants of the direct scanner according to the 1 to 8th by removing the case 2 the single-fiber scanners are rigidly connected (not drawn separately), either the high-resolution scannable surface of the object 1 enlarged, eg parallel MPI, or created a multi-channel device, eg OCT multichannel direct scanner.

1

object

2

casing

2 '

housing cover

2 ''

flexible tube

3

window

4

fiber

45

Fiber focusing optics unit

5

focusing optics

5 '

refractive Halbkugelement

5 ''

first Object-side GRIN lens

5 '' '

second GRIN lens

5 *

Diffraktivoptik

5 **

deflecting

6

Scan actuator

6 '

Piezo Scanner

6 ''

electrostatic actuator

6 '' '

electromagnetic actuator

7

axial movable scanner holder

7 '

axial movable frame support

7 ''

immovable frame bracket

8th

axial adjustment

8th'

annular axial adjustment

9

vacuum line

10

film electrodes

11

dielectric layer

12

management

13

conductive coating

14

permanent magnet

15 16

inductive elements

17 17 ', 17' '

photoreceptor

18 18 ', 18' '

filter combination

19

(Areal) image sensor

20

centrally Area

21

microstructured Area

22

coat

23

outer coating

24

fiber mount

25

stiffeners

26

flexible bandage

Claims (33)

Miniaturized optical head, in particular for endoscopic applications, in which an optical fiber for supplying an effect radiation, a focusing optics for local energy input of the effect radiation in an object, and a scanning device for changing the location of the local energy input are arranged in a handy housing, wherein the focusing optics focused by a window in the housing the effect radiation in the object, characterized in that - the optical fiber ( 4 ) with her in the housing ( 2 ) end rigidly with the focusing optics ( 5 ) and a fiber focusing optics unit ( 45 ), by means of which the effect radiation into the object ( 1 ), and - the scanning device has a scanning actuator which is movable in two dimensions in one plane ( 6 ) for the lateral movement of the fiber focusing optics unit ( 45 ) in the immediate vicinity of the window ( 3 ) having. Arrangement according to claim 1, characterized in that the scanning device further comprises an axially movable adjusting unit ( 8th ) for the axial movement of the fiber-focusing unit ( 45 ), wherein the fiber-focusing optics unit ( 45 ) in the adjustment unit ( 8th ) is clamped axially fixed. Arrangement according to Claim 2, characterized in that the scanning device has a movable adjusting unit ( 8th ) for the axial movement of the fiber ( 4 ), wherein the adjusting unit ( 8th ) rigidly with the two-dimensional scan actuator ( 6 ) and the scan actuator ( 6 ) in an axially movable scanner mount ( 7 ) is attached. Arrangement according to claim 1, characterized in that the two-dimensional scan actuator ( 6 ) as a piezo scanner ( 6 ' ) is trained. Arrangement according to claim 1, characterized in that the two-dimensional scan actuator ( 6 ) as an electrostatic scanner ( 6 '' ) is trained. Arrangement according to claim 4, characterized in that the electrostatic scanner ( 6 '' ) on the inner wall of the housing ( 2 ) Layer electrodes ( 10 ) and opposite the fiber focusing optics unit ( 45 ) a conductive coating ( 13 ) having. Arrangement according to claim 1, characterized in that the two-dimensional scan actuator ( 6 ) as an electromagnetic scanner ( 6 ''' ) is trained. Arrangement according to claim 6, characterized in that the electromagnetic scanner ( 6 ''' ) on the inner wall of the housing ( 2 ) layer-shaped inductive elements ( 15 ) and opposite the fiber focusing optics unit ( 45 ) a permanent magnet ( 14 ) having. Arrangement according to claim 6, characterized in that the electromagnetic scanner ( 6 ''' ) on the inner wall of the housing ( 2 ) layer-shaped inductive elements ( 15 ) and opposite the fiber focusing optics unit ( 45 ) Inductive elements ( 16 ) having. Arrangement according to claim 1, characterized in that the fiber ( 4 ) is a double-clad large area core PCF. Arrangement according to claim 1, characterized in that the fiber ( 4 ) is a large area core PCF. Arrangement according to claim 1, characterized in that the housing ( 2 ) tubular and at its end faces by a cover ( 2 ' ) and a window ( 3 ) is hermetically sealed. Arrangement according to claim 1, characterized in that in the housing ( 2 ) around the fiber ( 4 ) at least one photoreceiver ( 17 ) is arranged for directly recording the object reaction radiation. Arrangement according to claim 12, characterized in that the photoreceiver ( 17 ) with an optical filter combination ( 18 ) is provided. Arrangement according to claim 12, characterized in that in the housing ( 2 ) around the fiber ( 4 ) around several photoreceivers ( 17 ) are arranged for directly receiving different components of object reaction radiation. Arrangement according to claim 1, characterized in that in the housing ( 2 ) several fibers ( 4 ) in a fiber holder ( 24 ) are guided in parallel. Arrangement according to claim 15, characterized in that the fibers ( 4 ) in a flexible bandage ( 26 ) are embedded and stiffening elements ( 25 ) for vibration suppression. Arrangement according to claim 2, characterized in that the focusing optics ( 5 ) a radiation-redirecting element ( 5 ' ) and on the housing ( 2 ) side a window ( 3 ) is arranged so that the excitation radiation laterally from the fiber-focusing optics unit ( 45 ) and through the laterally arranged window ( 3 ) on the object ( 1 ), wherein the adjustment unit ( 8th ) for a first lateral scan dimension on the object ( 1 ) and the scan actuator ( 6 ) for a second lateral scan dimension as well as the depth scan in the object ( 1 ) are provided. Arrangement according to claim 17, characterized in that the housing ( 2 ) has a flattened tubular cross-section, wherein the side window ( 3 ) on a flattened side of the housing ( 2 ) and together with end covers ( 2 ' ) the housing ( 2 ) is hermetically sealed. Arrangement according to claim 11 or 18, characterized in that the housing ( 2 ) has a square cross-section. Arrangement according to claim 11 or 18, characterized in that the hermetically sealed housing ( 2 ) is evacuated. Method for generating high-resolution microscopic images, characterized by the steps of pulsed irradiation of focused excitation radiation onto an object for triggering an object reaction radiation ( 1 ) by means of a fiber focusing optics unit ( 45 ), consisting of an optical fiber ( 4 ) and with its end rigidly connected focusing optics ( 5 ), and at least two-dimensional scanning movement of the distal end of the fiber-focusing optics unit ( 45 ) for the successively changed alignment of the excitation radiation and spatially associated high-resolution scanned recording of object reaction radiation of the orthogonal in front of the distal end of the focusing optics ( 5 ) present object ( 1 ). A method according to claim 21, characterized in that a third scan orthogonal to the two-dimensional scanning movement is carried out by axially moving the fiber ( 4 ) takes place to change the depth of an image acquisition of the ob generated from the two-dimensional scan movement jektreaktionsstrahlung in one by the focusing optics ( 5 ) predetermined object level ( 25 ). A method according to claim 21, characterized in that by a kind of fiber bundle of a plurality of fiber focusing optics units ( 45 ) simultaneously a multi-channel scanning of the object ( 1 ) is carried out. A method according to claim 23, characterized in that by a kind of fiber bundle of a plurality of fiber-focusing optics units ( 45 ) a multi-channel scan imaging (Multi-Channel Scanning Imaging) is performed. A method according to claim 23, characterized in that by a kind of fiber bundle of a plurality of fiber-focusing optics units ( 45 ) a direct multiphoton tomography is performed. A method according to claim 23, characterized in that by a kind of fiber bundle of a plurality of fiber-focusing optics units ( 45 ) Various imaging and measuring methods are carried out simultaneously. A method according to claim 23, characterized in that by a kind of fiber bundle of a plurality of fiber-focusing optics units ( 45 ) Mapping and editing functions of the object ( 1 ) are carried out quasi-simultaneously by the excitation radiation is used by parameter change for tissue processing. A method according to claim 21, characterized in that by bundling a plurality of single-fiber direct scanners on the object ( 1 ) large-scale parallel multi-channel scans after at least one of the methods multiphoton imaging (MPI), spatially resolved spectral analysis or optical coherent tomography (OCT) are performed. Method according to Claim 22, characterized by the further steps of: switching the excitation radiation to a power-enhanced radiation effect, pulsed irradiation of the radiation by means of the fiber-focusing optical unit 45 ) focused effect radiation into the object ( 1 ) for triggering local tissue changes and - defined movement of the distal end of a fiber-focusing optics unit ( 45 ) for performing three-dimensional tissue processing steps in the object ( 1 ). A method according to claim 29, characterized in that the switching to the irradiation of the power increased effect radiation for tissue processing of the object ( 1 ) in alternation with the scanned irradiation of power-reduced excitation radiation for spatially resolving image recording of object reaction radiation. Method for producing microscopic processing steps in an object, in particular for micro- and nanosurgical applications, characterized by the steps - pulsed irradiation of focused effect radiation into an object ( 1 ) for triggering local tissue changes by means of a fiber-focusing optics unit ( 45 ), consisting of an optical fiber ( 4 ) and with its end rigidly connected focusing optics ( 5 ) stored in a scanning device ( 6 ), and - at least two-dimensional defined lateral movement of the distal end of a fiber-focusing optics unit ( 45 ) by means of a scanning device ( 6 ) for performing localized tissue processing steps on the subject object ( 1 ) by means of the radiated effect radiation. A method according to claim 31, characterized in that the end of the fiber-focusing optics unit ( 45 ) in a third movement dimension orthogonal to the two-dimensional movement by an axial adjustment unit ( 8th ) is moved under control.