Autofocus Optical Microscope

Abstract

In the method for autofocus microscopy, an overview image (60) showing the sample (62) and the environment is recorded. The image processing algorithm determines in the overview image (60) at least one boundary (61A, 63A, 64A, 66A) of an object (61, 63, 64, 66) that is not the sample (62) itself. The focus setting is then determined at the location (65) of at least one of the determined boundaries (63A, 66A).

Description

technical field [0001] The present invention relates to an autofocusing optical microscope, an autofocusing method for an optical microscope and a computer program product for implementing the method. Background technique [0002] Autofocus methods for optical microscopes are becoming increasingly important, both for user convenience and for automated sample inspection. In particular, if a large number of samples (eg thousands of samples) need to be examined, where possible, no user intervention is required. [0003] Different conventional methods utilize sample-based autofocusing based on image sharpness. Here, the lateral coordinates of the sample position must be known so that meaningful focusing can be performed. Additionally, the samples in the contrast method used must be sufficiently visible, which can be problematic depending on the sample. For example, fluorescent cells or bacteria may provide little contrast in overview images. Dirt, such as dust particles on t...

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The downside here is that special hardware is required, which comes at an additional cost

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