YSP 2009 Research Assignment

Understanding the Optical Properties of Tissue using Dual-Integrating Sphere Theory
Principal Investigator
 Charles A. DiMarzio
Associate Professor
Electrical and Computer Engineering
 
Research Abstract
 Integrating spheres have been used for over 50 years to measure the optical properties of various samples. An integrating sphere is a highly reflective enclosure that has three openings. The first opening allows a light source to enter the sphere, the second opening directly across from the first allows a sample to be mounted, and the third opening oriented at 90 degrees from the diameter between the first and second openings allows a detector to be mounted. The light source enters the sphere and illuminates the sample, which in our experiments will be a tissue phantom that mimics human tissue. The light that scatters back into the sphere bounces around the highly reflective surface of the inner sphere wall until it reaches the detector that measures the intensity of the light. In our setup we also use an identical integrating sphere mounted on the opposite side of the sample. This second sphere allows us to measure the intensity of the light that transmits straight through the sample by mounting a detector in first opening, and also the forward scattered light by using a detector mounted in the third opening. The measurements that are completed with this system will provide a better understanding of how light interacts with human tissue, and will provide the basis for improving current optical imaging instruments used for biomedical applications.
Research Activities/
Experience

Students will become familiar with various aspects of mathematics, physics, optics, and electrical engineering. The research will involve (1) understanding the theory, (2) designing and developing the electronics and optical imaging system, (3) analyzing data collected to determine the optical properites of tissue phantoms using the theoretical knowledge gained.
Helpful skills or interests
 Basic knowledge of physics and mathematics with interest in optics and engineering is a must. We are looking for students with strong analytical skills who can think creatively. Ability to work independently and in group settings is important.
Suggested literature to review prior to program

1. JA Jacquez and HF Kuppenheim, "Theory of the integrating sphere," J. Opt. Soc. Am. 45, 460- (1955)
2. JW Pickering, SA Prahl, NvWieringen, JF Beek, HJCM Sterenborg, MJCv Gemert, "Double-integrating-spere system for measuring the optical properties of tissue," App. Optics Vol 32, No. 4, Feb 1993
3. DG Goebel, "Generalized Integrating-Sphere Theory," App. Optics, Vol 6, No.1, Jan 1967
Download
 PDF