Research on Axial Multi-Focus Scanning in Confocal Microscopy with Liquid Crystal Spatial Light Modulator

Abstract

In this paper, a non-mechanical axial zoom scanning method based on a phase only liquid crystal spatial light modulator is proposed. This novel method is to overcome the measurement error caused by moving mechanical parts in the axial mechanical scanning methods in the confocal microscopy system. The modulation on the incident wave front is completed by a spatial light modulator, which provides this scanning method some outstanding advantages including the flexibility of control and the absence of moving mechanical parts, especially suitable for the fixed sample imaging occasions. By simulating the multiple Fresnel lens with LCSLM to generate controllable multi-focal points and thus realizing this method of axial multi-focus scanning to enhance the axial scanning efficiency and the range. Simulations and experiments on the axial scanning features of the axial multi-focus zoom scanning method are carried out. Results of simulations and experiments indicate that non-mechanical axial zoom scanning can be realized with the use of a spatial light modulator in the confocal microscopy system.