Patent ID: 8705047
Filing Date: 2014-04-22
Classification: G01B

Abstract:
1. A system to perform optical imaging of a sample, comprising: an optical radiation source outputting optical frequencies as a function of time; a frequency clock module monitoring the output optical frequencies of the optical radiation source, and outputting frequency clock signals; a signal processing circuit processing the frequency clock signals to produce a pulse train indicating a relationship of output optical frequencies of the source and time; a data acquisition (DAQ) device adapted for an analog to digital conversion process and externally clocked by the pulse train, wherein the pulse train is connected to an external clock input of the DAQ device; an optical interferometer in connection with the optical radiation source and the sample, wherein the optical interferometer outputs interference signals containing information about the sample, and the interference signals are connected to input channels of the DAQ device; and a processor controlling the DAQ device, processing the data transferred from the DAQ device and constructing multi-dimensional images of the sample; wherein the signal processing circuit compares the frequency clock signals with a reference voltage setting at zero, such that all zero-crossings in the clock signals are converted into pulses to produce a pulse train indicating the time when the output optical frequencies of the source have a linear relationship.