An efficient estimation algorithm for the calibration of low-cost SS-OCT systems

In this paper, we present a real-time instantaneous phase estimation technique for the calibration of swept source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT) systems. The proposed algorithm is able to accurately estimate both the amplitude and phase content of a swept source signal. The results are robust in the presence of substantial noise. Furthermore, the resulting phase profile is readily unwrapped, allowing for the generation of a k-linear sampling clock by means of a simple comparison step, which enables the SS-OCT system operator to determine the required number of points for accurate image reconstruction without the need for MZI path length modification. Our Simulations exhibit equivalent results with Hilbert transform based calibration techniques and low computational time rendering it suitable for real time applications.