Unified image formation theory for microscopy and optical coherence tomography in 4-D space-time

TL;DR

This paper develops a comprehensive 4-D space-time image formation theory that unifies various optical microscopy and OCT techniques using quantum physics principles and Feynman diagrams.

Contribution

It introduces a universal framework that connects diverse microscopy methods through a four-dimensional quantum approach, bridging classical and advanced imaging systems.

Findings

Unified theory encompasses classical microscopy and OCT.

Uses quantum fields and Feynman diagrams for modeling.

Provides a common understanding of diverse optical systems.

Abstract

We construct an image formation theory that covers the majority of optical microscopy techniques that use diverse coherent or incoherent light-matter interactions. The theories of individual microscopy methods could not previously be connected with other systems because of the absence of a common theoretical framework. Using the general principles of quantum physics and applying a four-dimensional representation, we unify the image formation theories of optical systems ranging from classical microscopy to cutting-edge instruments into a single framework in which light is replaced with quantum fields and the interactions are represented using double-sided Feynman diagrams. Our universal methodology requires a four-dimensional aperture that enables sufficient understanding of the associations between the different imaging types and interprets image formation appropriately for all systems, including optical coherence tomography.