Multilayer optical strip for illumination, imaging and analysis

Abstract

An optical device (multilayer optical strip, MOS) is presented. It is composed of a small-sized, strip-shaped, multilayer, planar structure connected to a control unit. Active and passive optical elements allow for controlling the properties, spatial structure and time sequences of the emitted and received light. Several strips can be interconnected for specific applications. The external unit provides electrical power, drains heat, receives data and images, and allows for additional connectivity. Depending on the structure and materials of the layers, the optical strip/s can be flexible, rigid or of variable shape. They can be attached to instruments and tools for use in difficult-to-reach conduits and cavities. The strip/s can be sheathed for specific environments and sterilization or be disposable. The device can be portable, powered on batteries, cost-effective and easy to manufacture. Main areas of application span from surgery, medicine, dentistry, biology and veterinary to optical sensing of pollutants and pathogens, industrial inspection and quality control. It is suitable for use in small spaces such as vehicles, in emergency or disaster areas and in low-resources or developing environments. Four cases of use are presented: deep-field surgical illumination, optical analysis of materials, inner imaging of cavities and optical control of devices.