Optical coherence tomography array based subdermal imaging device

Abstract

The invention teaches a multiple reference optical coherence tomography scanner that provides a subdermal fingerprint scan, covers an area of approximately 16 mm-17 mm×10 mm in less than a second, and fits into a slim profile of less than 6 mm in thickness, thereby fitting within the slim consumer electronics such as the iPhone and similar consumer electronics. Various embodiments are taught.

I claim: 
     
         7 - 11 . (allowed) 
     
     
         12 . A combined OCT and camera system comprised of
 an OCT system with an array of optical sources and a long beam splitter   at least one actuator that translates the OCT system in a lateral direction   thereby acquiring multiple depth scans of a target, and a target contact surface on which said target is placed and along which light is directed by means of total internal reflection, and a camera which detects light scattered due to frustrated total internal reflection, where such frustration of total internal reflection is due to target contact with said target contact surface, where said camera is transparent at the wavelength of said OCT system and where the OCT probe beam is directed through said transparent camera. and OCT depth scans and an image of the target are acquired.   
     
     
         13 . The system of  claim 12  wherein said target is a fingerprint. 
     
     
         14 . The system of  claim 12  wherein said array of optical sources is an array of broad band optical sources. 
     
     
         15 . The system of  claim 14  wherein said array of optical sources is an array of swept sources. 
     
     
         16 . The system of  claim 12  wherein said camera is fabricated using thin film technology consisting of arrays of light detectors and transistor arrays.