Imaging device and method

摘要

The resolution of conventional imaging devices is restricted by the diffraction limit. ‘Perfect’ imaging devices which can achieve a resolution beyond the diffraction limit have been considered impossible to implement. However, the present disclosure provides an imaging device which can achieve improved resolution beyond the diffraction limit and which can be implemented in practice. Said imaging device comprises: a. a lens having a refractive index that varies according to a predetermined refractive index profile; b. a source; c. an outlet for decoupling waves from the device; and d. a reflector provided around the lens, the source and the outlet, wherein the reflector and the refractive index profile of the lens are together arranged to direct waves transmitted in any of a plurality of directions from the source to the outlet.

主权项

1. An imaging device comprising:
a. a lens having a refractive index that varies according to a predetermined refractive index profile; b. a radiation source from which radiation waves are emitted or have been reflected; c. an outlet for decoupling waves from the device; d. a reflector which surrounds the lens, the source and the outlet in at least two dimensions; wherein the reflector and the refractive index profile of the lens are together arranged to direct said radiation waves transmitted in any of a plurality of directions from the source to the outlet along a closed trajectory; wherein, in the absence of the outlet, the radiation waves transmitted along the closed trajectory are directed back to the source by the lens and the reflector; wherein said radiation waves transmitted to the outlet comprise reflected light able to produce a desired image at said outlet; and wherein the outlet comprises an image detector, wave collector, or reflector.