Parallel image scanning with binary phase grating

Abstract

We discuss a novel approach for parallel image scanning, whereby the intensity peaks are generated by a binary phase grating instead of a lens array. These gratings under certain conditions generate one light spot per grating period in several transverse planes. The diameter of the focal spot is not restricted by the numeric aperture according to Abbe's law and can be used to scan a specimen with many spots simultaneously. Thus, imaging speed could be increased significantly. We discuss the principle effect and approaches to scanning as well as challenges for a potential implementation.