In our previous blogs, we explored the multi-camera CoaXPress demo solution; this week, let’s delve into another fascinating demonstration featuring Adimec’s Q-2HFW high full well capacity camera. To provide context for this technology, we recently interviewed Egidijus Auksorius from France’s Langevin Institute.

Fingerprinting Through the Skin

Egidijus is a physicist specializing in complex optical imaging systems and currently works at the Langevin institute alongside Professor Claude Boccara—the inventor of Full Field OCT (FF-OCT) technology. Their collaborative research focuses on developing an advanced fingerprint scanner capable of measuring internal fingerprints non-invasively.

Fingerprint as measured with FF-OCT 100 to 200 μm below the finger surface. The white dots are sweat ducts and the black lines correspond to valleys of the surface fingerprint.

As explained by Egidijus, this approach offers superior accuracy compared to traditional scanners because it captures internal anatomical details invisible through standard surface imaging.

About the Langevin Institute

Founded as a public research laboratory at Paris’ ESPCI (École Supérieure de Physique et Chimie Industrielles), the institute conducts cutting-edge research on wave physics—covering acoustics, optics, microwaves and more. Their primary focus involves developing innovative imaging techniques for non-destructive testing applications.

FF-OCT Research Applications

When asked about their specific work with Adimec’s Q-2HFW camera, Egidijus explained:

“We use the camera primarily within full field optical coherence tomography systems.”

The technology has proven particularly valuable in biomedical applications requiring isotropic resolution—especially for replacing traditional histology techniques. However, its most notable application involves imaging internal fingerprints.

Why This Camera?

According to Egidijus, this particular sensor stands out due to:

  1. Higher pixel count
  2. Superior frame rate
  3. Greater full well capacity

These specifications allow capturing significantly more photoelectrons per second than conventional cameras—making it ideal for demanding FF-OCT applications.

Measurable Improvements

The transition to high full well (HFW) technology delivered tangible benefits:

  • Increased imaging depth due to improved signal-to-noise ratio
  • Ability to capture larger areas while maintaining quality
  • Faster acquisition times through higher frame rates

Egidijus confirmed this camera’s versatility extends beyond fingerprinting. Their lab utilizes it for holography, virus detection systems, and other advanced optical applications.

Future Research Directions

Looking ahead, Egidijus outlined two primary research paths:

  1. Increasing imaging depth by optimizing existing camera parameters
  2. Exploring alternative light sources (like VCSEL arrays) to maximize sensor potential

He emphasized that further improvements would require continued innovation in both imaging hardware and optical configurations.

Interface Compatibility

The CoaXPress interface evaluation was surprisingly straightforward, with Egidijus praising the technology’s ability to handle high data throughput through a remarkably compact system design. However, he noted light intensity limitations remain their main bottleneck—suggesting that future camera enhancements like brighter light sources could unlock even greater capabilities.

Interface Experience

When asked about compatibility, Egidijus was unequivocal:

“It was surprisingly easy to integrate the CoaXPress interface despite its substantial data throughput capacity.”

Their conclusion? “It’s remarkable how efficient and robust this solution is considering the massive data transmission requirements. The compact design achieves performance previously thought unachievable for such bandwidth-intensive applications.

Conclusion

This interview revealed a clear passion driving their optical research: “The never-ending quest of OCT”—continuously pushing boundaries to achieve deeper imaging capabilities while maintaining image quality through continued sensor optimization and innovative system configurations.

Last Updated: 2025-09-04 21:09:39