Optical imaging system

Abstract

The application provides an optical imaging system, which comprises a laser, a laser adapter and a microscope main machine; wherein the laser is used for emitting laser to the laser adapter; the laser adapter is used for receiving the laser emitted by the laser and adjusting and adapting the laser, and then transmitting the adjusted and adapted laser to the microscope main machine; and the microscope main machine is arranged to transmit the laser to a microscope probe and control the microscope probe to perform laser scanning on a living body to generate a fluorescent signal for imaging. In the technical scheme, the laser generated by the laser is transmitted through the laser adapter, the laser adapter converts various different laser signals received into uniform laser signal output, so that even if the laser is replaced or the position of the laser is changed, the laser can be adapted to the subsequent connected equipment.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of optical technology, specifically to an optical imaging system. Background Technology

[0002] Directly recording neuronal activity in freely moving, living animals is one of the most direct and effective methods for studying the relationship between animal behavior and neural function. Multiphoton optical imaging systems, with their excellent optical slicing capabilities and deep penetration, have become the most important and widely used tools for observing neurons. These multiphoton optical imaging systems can include two-photon, three-photon, Raman, and other nonlinear laser scanning microscopes.

[0003] In traditional multiphoton optical imaging systems, the laser and optical adjustment frame are fixed on an optical platform to adjust the optical path. After the optical path is shaped, it enters the microscope main unit through a mirror. Because the optical path from the laser to the microscope main unit is a spatial optical path, the microscope main unit must also be stably fixed on the optical platform to ensure that the optical path inside the main unit is not deflected by external forces, thus affecting the performance of the microscope.

[0004] However, since many modules are usually placed around it, such as beam shaping, circuit control modules, various drivers, fluorescence collection modules, wide-field fluorescence modules, laser modules, etc., the equipment is complicated and the wiring is complex. Moreover, the modules are easily affected by signal interference and human error, which can easily cause the optical path to deflect.

[0005] Furthermore, since the optical path and microscope main unit are fixed, experiments requiring specific positions and orientations for the microscope cannot be adapted or implemented. For example, if the laser optical path and the microscope main unit are not on the same platform or even in the same room, traditional methods are not feasible. If the laser needs to be replaced, or the distance to the laser changes, the emitted laser light will change, requiring all optical paths to be readjusted. Some of these adjustments may even be impossible due to significant differences in laser parameters. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In view of this, this application provides an optical imaging system to solve the problems of poor flexibility in traditional optical imaging systems, which require readjustment of the optical path due to changes in the laser emitted by the laser.

[0007] This application provides an optical imaging system, which includes: a laser, a laser adapter, and a microscope mainframe; wherein...

[0008] The laser is used to emit laser light into the laser adapter;

[0009] The laser adapter is used to receive the laser emitted by the laser, adjust and adapt the laser, and then transmit the adjusted and adapted laser to the microscope host.

[0010] The microscope host is configured to transmit laser light to the microscope probe and control the microscope probe to perform laser scanning on a living organism to generate a fluorescence signal.

[0011] Optionally, the optical imaging system further includes a first transmission optical fiber connected between the laser adapter and the microscope host, wherein the laser adapter transmits the adjusted laser to the microscope host through the first transmission optical fiber.

[0012] Optionally, the microscope host includes a laser coupling module, the laser input end of which is connected to the first transmission optical fiber, and the laser output end is connected to the microscope probe through a second transmission optical fiber;

[0013] The laser coupling module is used to adjust and process the laser received from the first transmission fiber and then transmit it to the microscope probe through the second transmission fiber.

[0014] Optionally, the laser adapter includes a first power detection device for detecting laser power;

[0015] The laser coupling module includes a second power detection device for detecting laser power.

[0016] Optionally, the first power detection device is located near the laser output end of the laser adapter, and the second power detection device is located near the laser input end of the laser coupling module.

[0017] Optionally, the laser adapter includes an adapter housing and a beam conversion device and a first beam stabilization device located within the adapter housing; wherein,

[0018] The beam conversion device is used to perform beam conversion on the laser entering the laser adapter;

[0019] The first beam stabilizing device is located downstream of the beam changing device along the laser transmission direction, and is used to adjust the laser transmission direction to correct the deviation between the actual position and the ideal position of the laser beam at the laser output end of the laser adapter.

[0020] Optionally, the laser coupling module includes a coupler housing, a dispersion compensation element, an acousto-optic modulator, and a second beam stabilizing device. The dispersion compensation element, the acousto-optic modulator, and the second beam stabilizing device are all disposed within the coupler housing and arranged sequentially along the laser transmission direction.

[0021] The dispersion compensation element is used to compensate for the negative dispersion caused by the transmission fiber during laser transmission;

[0022] The acousto-optic modulator is used to adjust the intensity of the laser;

[0023] The second beam stabilization device is used to adjust the laser transmission direction to correct the deviation between the actual position and the ideal position of the laser beam at the laser output end of the laser coupling module.

[0024] Optionally, the microscope main unit also includes a fluorescence acquisition module and a scanning control module;

[0025] The scanning control module is configured to be connected to the microscope probe via a control cable, and is used to control the microscope probe to perform laser scanning to generate fluorescence signals;

[0026] The fluorescence collection module is configured to be connected to the microscope probe via a fluorescence collection optical fiber, and is used to collect the fluorescence signal output by the microscope probe through the fluorescence collection optical fiber.

[0027] Optionally, the microscope main unit also includes a wide-field search module;

[0028] The wide-field search module is configured to perform wide-field imaging of a living organism in order to search for the target area on the living organism for mounting the microscope probe.

[0029] Optionally, the optical imaging system further includes a worktable, which includes a worktable host and a display;

[0030] The stage host is connected to the microscope host. The microscope host processes the collected fluorescence signals and transmits them to the stage host, and the display shows the image.

[0031] The stage host also sends control commands to the microscope host.

[0032] In the technical solution provided in this application, the laser generated by the laser is processed by a laser adapter. The laser adapter can amplify, reduce, and zoom the laser beam, converting various received laser signals into a unified laser signal output. This ensures the laser is compatible with subsequently connected equipment, facilitating optimal system performance. This allows the use of lasers with different parameters, or even if the distance to the laser changes, the laser beam can be transformed by the laser adapter to output a suitable laser beam to the microscope host.

[0033] Other features and advantages of this application will be described in detail in the following detailed description section. Attached Figure Description

[0034] The accompanying drawings, which form part of this application, are used to provide a further understanding of this application. The illustrative embodiments and descriptions of this application are used to explain this application and do not constitute an undue limitation of this application. In the drawings:

[0035] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an optical imaging system according to one embodiment of this application;

[0036] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the optical path of an optical imaging system according to one embodiment of this application;

[0037] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a laser adapter according to one embodiment of this application;

[0038] Figure 4 for Figure 3 The diagram shows the internal structure of the laser adapter.

[0039] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a laser coupling module according to one embodiment of this application;

[0040] Figure 6 for Figure 5 The diagram shows the internal structure of the laser coupling module.

[0041] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the microscope host according to one embodiment of this application;

[0042] Figure 8 for Figure 7 The diagram shows the microscope main unit with the light shield door open.

[0043] Figure 9 for Figure 8 The diagram shown is a schematic of the microscope main unit in a disassembled state;

[0044] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the cooperative installation of the mobile module, the live mounting device, and the field-of-view search adapter according to one embodiment of this application.

[0045] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of a wide-field search module mounted on a laser coupling module according to one embodiment of this application;

[0046] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the control box according to one embodiment of the present application;

[0047] Figure 13 for Figure 12 The front view of the control box is shown below;

[0048] Figure 14This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the storage device according to one embodiment of the present application.

[0049] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0050] 100-Laser; 200-Laser adapter; 201-Adapter housing; 202-First fixed mirror; 203-Second fixed mirror; 204-Beam conversion device; 205-First deflecting mirror; 206-Second deflecting mirror; 207-Position detector; 208-First power detection device; 209-First beam splitter; 210-Switch device; 211-Laser input end; 212-Laser output end; 213-Support leg; 214-Laser coupler; 300-Microscope main unit; 1-Mounting body; 11-Base; 12-Mounting frame; 13-Support plate; 2-Light shield; 3-Laser coupling module; 31-Laser input end; 32-Laser output end; 33-Coupler housing; 311-Second power detection device; 321-Second beam splitter; 331-Optical path through-hole; 34-Dispersion compensation element; 3 5-Reflector; 36-Acousto-optic modulator; 361-Driver; 362-Heat dissipation fins; 363-Fan; 37-First deflecting mirror; 38-Second deflecting mirror; 39-Position detector; 4-Field of view search module; 41-Fluorescence light source; 42-Camera; 43-Objective lens; 5-Control box; 51-First interface; 52-Second interface; 53-Fluorescence collection module; 54-Main control circuit board; 6-Storage device; 61-Storage body; 611-Winding cylinder; 612-Wire guide plate; 613-Wire slot; 62-Probe bracket; 63-Protective cover; 631-Observation window; 7-Moving module; 8-Living body mounting device; 9-Field of view search adapter; 91-Probe mounting assembly; 400-Microscope probe; 401-Second transmission fiber; 402-Fluorescence collection fiber; 403-Control cable; 500-First transmission fiber. Detailed Implementation

[0051] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application. Unless otherwise specified, the implementation methods and features in the implementation methods of this application can be combined with each other.

[0052] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "axial," "radial," and "circumferential," etc., indicating orientation or positional relationships, are based on the orientation or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings and are used only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation on this application. Furthermore, "inner" and "outer" refer to the inner and outer contours relative to the outline of each component itself.

[0053] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature.

[0054] This application provides an optical imaging system, such as Figure 1 As shown, the optical imaging system includes: a laser 100, a laser adapter 200, and a microscope main unit 300; wherein,

[0055] Laser 100 is used to emit laser light to laser adapter 200;

[0056] The laser adapter 200 is used to receive the laser emitted by the laser 100, adjust and adapt the laser, and then transmit the adjusted and adapted laser to the microscope host 300.

[0057] The microscope host 300 is configured to transmit laser light to the microscope probe 400 and control the microscope probe 400 to perform laser scanning on a living organism to generate a fluorescence signal for imaging.

[0058] In the technical solution provided in this application, the laser generated by laser 100 passes through laser adapter 200. Laser adapter 200 can amplify, reduce, and zoom the laser beam, converting various received laser signals into a unified laser signal output. This ensures the laser is compatible with subsequently connected equipment, facilitating optimal system performance. This allows the use of lasers with different parameters, and even if the distance to the laser changes, the laser adapter 200 can transform the received laser signal to output a suitable laser beam to the microscope host 300.

[0059] The optical imaging system provided in this application can be a multiphoton imaging system, that is, the microscope probe 400 can use two-photon, three-photon, Raman, or other nonlinear laser scanning imaging. In some embodiments, the microscope probe 400 may specifically include a micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) scanning galvanometer and various lenses.

[0060] In one embodiment, the optical imaging system further includes a first transmission optical fiber 500 connected between the laser adapter 200 and the microscope host 300. The laser adapter 200 transmits the adjusted laser light to the microscope host 300 through the first transmission optical fiber 500. One end of the first transmission optical fiber 500 can be connected to a laser coupler, which is connected to the output end of the laser adapter 200. The other end is connected to a collimator, which is connected to the microscope host 300.

[0061] The laser adapter 200 is connected to the microscope host 300 via fiber optic cable, which allows the microscope host 300 to be moved freely. As a result, the microscope host 300 can be placed in different locations as needed, or even across platforms, making it more flexible to use.

[0062] Furthermore, fiber optic output can shape the light beam, resulting in a more uniform light spot output from the laser adapter 200 to the microscope host 300, which helps improve system performance. In addition, compared to a fixed optical path adjustment device between the laser adapter 200 and the microscope host 300, fiber optic connection reduces interference and malfunctions, improving system stability. It also reduces the need for optical path adjustment devices between modules, simplifying installation and maintenance.

[0063] In one embodiment, the microscope host 300 includes a laser coupling module 3, the laser input end 31 of the laser coupling module 3 is connected to the first transmission optical fiber 500, and the laser output end 32 is connected to the microscope probe 400 through the second transmission optical fiber 401.

[0064] The laser coupling module 3 is used to adjust and process the laser light received from the first transmission fiber 500 and then transmit it to the microscope probe 400 through the second transmission fiber 401. For example, the laser coupling module 3 can perform dispersion compensation and / or intensity adjustment on the laser light.

[0065] In one embodiment, such as Figure 2 As shown, the laser adapter 200 includes a first power detection device 208 for detecting laser power, and the laser coupling module 3 includes a second power detection device 311 for detecting laser power.

[0066] The first power detection device 208 can detect the laser power entering the laser adapter 200 in real time. The power changes detected by the first power detection device 208 can detect whether there are any abnormalities in laser transmission, typically determining whether the laser 100 is damaged or whether there is any obstruction to the laser beam. Specifically, a first beam splitter 209 can be set in the laser transmission optical path. A portion of the laser beam is split by the first beam splitter 209 and sent to the first power detection device 208. The first power detection device 208 obtains the laser power by detecting the split beam. The second power detection device 311 can detect the laser power within the laser coupling module 3 in real time. Similarly, by acquiring the split laser beam, the second power detection device 311 detects the laser power by detecting the split beam. By comparing the power changes of the second power detection device 311 and the first power detection device 208, it is possible to determine whether there are any abnormalities in the laser transmission between the laser adapter 200 and the microscope host 300. Therefore, setting up the first power detection device 208 and the second power detection device 311 can quickly locate the problematic link in the laser transmission process.

[0067] Optionally, the first power detection device 208 is located near the laser output end 212 of the laser adapter 200, and the second power detection device 311 is located near the laser input end 31 of the laser coupling module 3. If the power of the second power detection device 311 is significantly different from that of the first power detection device 208, it can be determined that there is a problem with the first transmission fiber 500. This allows for quick location of the problem and enables rapid repair.

[0068] In one embodiment, the structure of the laser adapter 200 is as follows: Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, it includes an adapter housing 201 and a beam conversion device 204 and a first beam stabilization device located within the adapter housing 201.

[0069] Among them, the beam conversion device 204 is used to convert the laser entering the laser adapter 200. The beam conversion device 4 can be an existing device that can expand or shrink the cross-section of the laser beam and can zoom the laser beam. Its specific structure is achievable by those skilled in the art and will not be described in detail here.

[0070] The first beam stabilization device is located downstream of the beam changing device 204 along the laser transmission direction. It is used to adjust the transmission direction of the laser to correct the deviation between the actual position and the ideal position of the laser beam at the laser output end 212. That is, it controls the laser to be output within a range with a small deviation from the ideal output position, so that the laser can be stably coupled into the first transmission fiber 500 and the coupling efficiency of the laser output can be guaranteed.

[0071] When using lasers 100 with different parameters, and these lasers emit lasers with different parameters into the laser adapter 200, the beam conversion device 4 can convert the beams and output a uniform beam with a fixed spot size. This ensures that the lasers output by different lasers 100 can be adapted to the connected devices. Alternatively, if the distance to the laser 100 changes, the beam conversion device 204 can perform zoom processing to output a uniform laser beam. When the environment changes (e.g., changes in temperature or humidity, or vibration), the various components in the optical path (e.g., lasers, mirrors, beam splitters, etc.) may be affected by vibration or temperature, causing a change in the laser output direction. The first beam stabilization device can adjust the laser deflection direction in real time based on the deviation between the actual and ideal positions of the beam at the laser output end 212, ensuring stable laser output and guaranteeing the coupling efficiency of the laser output.

[0072] Therefore, by using the laser adapter 200 provided in this application, when different parameters of the laser are input, or when the laser deflection occurs during transmission, there is no need to readjust the optical path or replace the optical components on the optical path. The laser adapter 200 can be used to transform the input laser and adjust the laser transmission direction so that the laser can be adapted and coupled to the connected device.

[0073] In one embodiment, such as Figure 4 As shown, the first beam stabilization device may include a position detector 207, at least one deflecting mirror, and a mirror adjustment mechanism connected to each deflecting mirror.

[0074] The position detector 207 is positioned near the laser output end 212 to detect the laser's position at that end. Specifically, a beam splitter can be placed along the laser transmission path, reflecting a portion of the split beam back to the position detector 207, allowing the detector to determine the laser's position at the output end 212. The position detector 207 can be a 4D position detector, which can precisely detect and distinguish between positional and angular drift of the laser beam, accurately detecting its real-time position. The reflector adjustment mechanism is configured to drive the deflector to adjust the laser transmission direction based on the position information detected by the position detector 207, ensuring stable laser output.

[0075] Specifically, the ideal position of the laser beam at the laser output end 212 is first determined. This ideal position is the position where the laser achieves ideal coupling efficiency when coupled to the transmission optical fiber connected to the laser output end 212. When the beam deflects, for example due to vibration or temperature changes causing optical device misalignment, or due to human contact, the position detector 207 detects the laser's position information at the laser output end 212 in real time and sends it to the control unit. The control unit continuously determines the deviation between the laser beam's position and the ideal position based on the position information and controls the reflector adjustment mechanism to adjust the position of the deflecting reflector, thereby adjusting the laser's reflection direction and ensuring stable transmission of the laser within a certain range around the ideal position.

[0076] The laser adapter 200 also includes at least one fixed reflector for changing the laser transmission direction, the fixed reflector being disposed upstream of the beam conversion device 204 along the laser transmission direction. By setting a fixed reflector to change the laser transmission direction, the optical path can be bent, which facilitates the arrangement of various components along the optical path and helps to reduce the overall size of the laser adapter.

[0077] like Figure 4 In the illustrated embodiment, the at least one fixed reflector includes a first fixed reflector 202 and a second fixed reflector 203, and the at least one deflecting reflector includes a first deflecting reflector 205 and a second deflecting reflector 206. Optionally, the incident and exit angles of the laser at the first fixed reflector 202 and the second fixed reflector 203 are approximately 45°, and the incident and exit angles of the laser at the first deflecting reflector 205 and the second deflecting reflector 203 are also approximately 45°.

[0078] The laser beam is reflected by the first fixed reflector 202 to the second fixed reflector 203, which then reflects the laser beam to the beam conversion device 204. After the beam conversion device 204 converts the laser beam, the output laser beam is reflected by the first deflecting reflector 205 to the second deflecting reflector 206. The second deflecting reflector 206 is configured to reflect the laser beam to the laser output end 212. With the adjustment of the first deflecting reflector 205 and the second deflecting reflector 206, the laser beam is stably output to the first transmission fiber 500.

[0079] Optionally, the laser adapter 200 further includes a switching device 210 disposed at the laser input end 211. The switching device 210 includes a switch door for opening and closing the laser input port (the laser inlet disposed at the laser input end 211) and a door drive mechanism for driving the switch door to switch between open and closed states. When the switch door is open, the laser can enter the laser adapter for transmission; when the switch door is closed, it blocks the laser from entering the laser adapter. The laser output end 212 is connected to a laser coupler 214 for connecting a transmission optical fiber.

[0080] In addition, a support leg 213 can be provided below the adapter housing 201 of the laser adapter 200. The support leg 213 is height adjustable. By adjusting the height of the support leg 213, the height of the laser input end 211 can be adapted to that of the laser 100, so that the laser 100 can accurately emit laser to the laser input end 211.

[0081] The laser output from the laser adapter 200 is transmitted to the laser coupling module 3 of the microscope host 300. For the specific structure of the laser coupling module 3, please refer to [reference needed]. Figure 5 and Figure 6 :

[0082] The laser coupling module 3 includes a coupler housing 33, a dispersion compensation element 34, an acousto-optic modulator 36, and a second beam stabilizing device. The dispersion compensation element 34, the acousto-optic modulator 36, and the second beam stabilizing device are all disposed inside the coupler housing 33 and arranged sequentially along the laser transmission direction.

[0083] Among them, the dispersion compensation element 34 is used to compensate for the negative dispersion caused by the transmission fiber during laser transmission; the acousto-optic modulator 36 is used to adjust the intensity of the laser; the second beam stabilizing device is used to adjust the laser transmission direction to correct the deviation between the actual position and the ideal position of the laser beam at the laser output end 32 of the laser coupling module 3, so as to stably couple the laser into the second transmission fiber 401.

[0084] The second beam stabilization device may specifically include a position detector 39, at least one deflecting mirror, and a mirror adjustment mechanism connected to each deflecting mirror. Figure 6The at least one deflecting mirror includes a first deflecting mirror 37 and a second deflecting mirror 38. A position detector 39 is positioned near the laser output end 32. A second beam splitter 321 is positioned on the laser transmission path near the laser output end 32. The second beam splitter 321 reflects a portion of the split beam to the position detector 39, which detects the position information based on the beam split. Based on the position information detected by the position detector 39, the controller can control the mirror adjustment mechanism to drive the deflecting mirror to deflect and adjust the laser transmission direction. This second beam stabilization device is basically similar to the first beam stabilization device in the laser adapter 200 in adjusting the laser transmission direction, and will not be described in detail here.

[0085] The following is based on Figure 2 The laser transmission path is described as follows:

[0086] The laser emitted by the laser 100 enters from the laser input end 211, is transmitted to the first fixed reflector 202, is deflected by the first fixed reflector 202 by approximately 90°, and is reflected to the second fixed reflector 203. After being deflected by the second fixed reflector 203 by approximately 90°, it is transmitted to the beam conversion device 204. After beam conversion by the beam conversion device 204, it is transmitted to the first deflecting reflector 205, is deflected by the first deflecting reflector 205 by approximately 90°, and is reflected to the second deflecting reflector 206. Then, it is reflected by the second deflecting reflector 206 to the laser output end 212 and coupled into the first transmission optical fiber 500 connected to the laser output end 212.

[0087] The first transmission fiber 500 enters the laser coupling module 3 from the laser input end 31. After dispersion compensation by the dispersion compensation element 34, it is transmitted to the reflector 35. After being deflected by the reflector 35 by about 90 degrees, it is transmitted to the acousto-optic modulator 36. After the acousto-optic modulator 36 adjusts the intensity of the laser, it is transmitted to the first deflecting reflector 37. After being deflected by the first deflecting reflector 37 by about 90 degrees, it is reflected to the second deflecting reflector 38. Then, it is reflected by the second deflecting reflector 38 to the laser output end 32 and coupled into the second transmission fiber 401 connected to the laser output end 32.

[0088] In one embodiment of this application, the microscope host 300 further includes a fluorescence acquisition module and a scanning control module;

[0089] The scanning control module is configured to be connected to the microscope probe 400 via a control cable 403, and is used to control the microscope probe 400 to perform laser scanning to generate fluorescence signals.

[0090] The fluorescence collection module is configured to be connected to the microscope probe 400 via the fluorescence collection fiber optic cable 402. It is used to collect the fluorescence signal output by the microscope probe 400 through the fluorescence collection fiber optic cable 402. The fluorescence signal can be converted into an electrical signal and transmitted to a computer for imaging display.

[0091] In one embodiment, the microscope host 300 further includes a wide-field search module 4, which is configured to perform wide-field imaging of a living organism to search for a target area on the living organism for mounting the microscope probe 400. The wide-field search module 4 is a device capable of imaging a large field of view of a living organism, and can employ single-photon fluorescence imaging. The images from the wide-field search module 4 can be transmitted to a computer for display, or an eyepiece can be installed on the wide-field search module 4 for direct observation of the image.

[0092] Figure 7-9 A microscope host 300 in one embodiment is shown. The microscope host 300 includes a mounting body 1 and a wide-field search module 4, a laser coupling module 3, a fluorescence collection module and a scanning control module integrated on the mounting body 1.

[0093] The microscope main unit 300 in this embodiment integrates various functional modules into a single, compact structure, significantly reducing space requirements and making it suitable for various laboratories. Furthermore, its modular design ensures neat and aesthetically pleasing output lines. In addition, the microscope main unit is small, portable, and easy to move and relocate. Its position and orientation can be quickly adjusted to meet various experimental needs, facilitating compatibility with a wider range of applications. Moreover, the microscope main unit is easy to install and maintain quickly on-site.

[0094] Optionally, the microscope host 300 may also include a moving module 7 disposed on the mounting body 1. The moving module 7 is used to carry the live object and can move the live object in multiple directions. The wide field search module 4 is configured to search the field of view of the live object located on the moving module 7.

[0095] Specifically, the live subject can be directly mounted on the moving module 7, and the subject can be restrained by setting clamping or limiting structures on the moving module 7. Alternatively, the live subject can first be mounted on the live subject mounting device 8, and then the live subject mounting device 8 can be fixed to the moving module 7. The moving module 7 can move with the live subject mounting device 8 to adjust the position of the live subject, thereby allowing the wide-field search module 4 to image different areas of the live subject to search for the target location of interest. The moving module 7 can be a multi-axis moving platform capable of moving in multiple directions: up, down, left, right, forward, and backward.

[0096] Figure 9 and Figure 10As shown, when using the wide-field search module 4 to perform wide-field imaging of a live organism, the live organism is mounted on the live organism mounting device 8, and then the live organism mounting device 8 is fixed to the moving module 7. The live organism can be a mouse or other animals.

[0097] The microscope main unit 300 also includes a field of view search adapter 9 mounted on the mounting body 1. The field of view search adapter 9 includes a probe mounting assembly 91 and a switching mechanism. The probe mounting assembly 91 is used to detachably mount the microscope probe 400, and the switching mechanism is configured to switch the probe mounting assembly 91 to a first position and a second position.

[0098] When the probe mounting assembly 91 is in the first position, the microscope probe 400 mounted on the probe mounting assembly 91 avoids the optical path between the wide field search module 4 and the living organism. When the probe mounting assembly 91 is in the second position, the optical path of the microscope probe 400 is aligned with that of the wide field search module 4.

[0099] The switching mechanism can be configured to switch the probe mounting assembly 91 between two positions by manually pushing and pulling. Specifically, a gripping part (not shown in the figure) can be provided on the switching mechanism. When the probe mounting assembly 91 is pushed by the gripping part, the probe mounting assembly 91 can move to the first position. When the probe mounting assembly 91 is pulled in the opposite direction, the probe mounting assembly 91 can move to the second position.

[0100] Furthermore, an objective lens 43 can be mounted on the field-of-view search adapter 9. When the field-of-view search adapter 9 is installed on the mounting body 1, the objective lens 43 is aligned with the optical path of the wide-field search module 4. Also, when the probe mounting assembly 91 is in the second position, the microscope probe 400 mounted on it is aligned with the optical path of the wide-field search module 4. When using the wide-field search module 4 for wide-field imaging, a switching mechanism is used to switch the probe mounting assembly 91 to the first position. After the wide-field search module 4 finds the target area on the living organism, the probe mounting assembly 91 is switched to the second position. Then, the microscope probe 400 on the probe mounting assembly 91 is removed and fixed to the probe mounting piece installed on the living organism, specifically at the position on the probe mounting piece corresponding to the searched target area (it can be fixed by adhesive).

[0101] After the microscope probe 400 is mounted on the probe mount, a live animal (e.g., a mouse) can be removed from the live animal mount 8, and the mouse can be released to move freely. Fluorescence imaging observation of the freely moving mouse can then be performed using the microscope probe 400.

[0102] In one embodiment, the microscope host 300 further includes a light-shielding door 2 that can be opened and closed and mounted on the mounting body 1. When the light-shielding door 2 is in the closed state, a sealed space is formed between the mounting body 1 and the light-shielding door 2, the moving module 7 is located in the sealed space, and the wide-field search module 4 is configured to perform a wide-field search for living subjects on the moving module 7 located in the sealed space.

[0103] Setting up the light-shielding door 2 ensures that the live subject is located in the dark room when the wide-field search module 4 images the live subject, which can achieve a high imaging signal-to-noise ratio. Moreover, setting up the light-shielding door 2 eliminates the need to build a special light-proof environment (such as setting up a large machine cover or turning off the laboratory lights).

[0104] Optionally, such as Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, there can be two light-blocking doors 2, which are installed in a double-opening manner. That is, the two light-blocking doors 2 are rotatably mounted on the mounting body 1. They can be closed when they rotate toward each other and opened when they rotate away from each other. Figure 7 The image shows the state of both light-blocking doors 2 when they are closed. Figure 8 The image shows both light-blocking doors 2 in the open position. It is understood that only one light-blocking door 2 may be installed, and it may be configured to open and close via lifting or sliding.

[0105] In one embodiment, the specific arrangement of the modules of the microscope host 300 can be referred to Figure 9 As shown, the mounting body 1 includes a base 11 and a mounting bracket 12 fixed on the base 11, and a support plate 13 is provided on the upper part of the mounting bracket 12.

[0106] The movable module 7 is movably mounted on the base 11 and located on one side of the mounting bracket 12. A control box 5, located below the support plate 13, is fixed to the other side of the mounting bracket 12. The scanning control module and the fluorescence collection module are housed within the control box 5. The laser coupling module 3 is mounted on the support plate 13, and the wide-field search module 4 is mounted above the movable module 7. A light-shielding door 2 is installed on the side of the mounting bracket 12 facing the movable module 7, forming a sealed space on the side of the mounting bracket 12 with the movable module 7. The optical path of the wide-field search module 4 located above this sealed space can be directly aligned with this sealed space.

[0107] Optionally, the wide-field search module 4 is mounted on the laser coupling module 3. The laser coupling module 3 has a through-hole 331 running vertically through the laser. The optical path of the wide-field search module 4 is configured to pass downward through the through-hole 331. The wide-field search module 4 may include a fluorescent light source 41 and a camera 42. The optical path of the camera 42 passes downward through the through-hole 331, enabling it to reach the living body on the moving module 7 and achieve wide-field imaging of the living body.

[0108] The laser coupling module 3 also includes a driver 361 for driving the acousto-optic modulator 36 and a cooling mechanism for cooling the driver 361. Both the driver 361 and the cooling mechanism are located on the upper surface of the coupler housing 33. The cooling mechanism may include heat dissipation fins 362 for dissipating heat from the driver 361 and a fan 363 for dissipating heat from the heat dissipation fins 362.

[0109] Because the driver 361 has a large RF power, placing it inside the coupler housing 33 increases the risk of interference from high-power RF signals. Moreover, because the driver 361 generates a lot of heat, it can easily cause deformation of the precision optical system's flat plate, increase the temperature inside the cavity, and affect the performance of the equipment. Therefore, the driver 361 is placed outside the coupler housing 33, and heat dissipation fins 362 and a fan 363 are added for heat dissipation.

[0110] The microscope main unit 300 may also include a cover 10 for covering the wide-field search module 4, the driver 361 and the cooling mechanism. The cover 10 not only provides protection but also contributes to aesthetics.

[0111] Figure 11 and Figure 12 The structure of the control box 5 is shown. The control box 5 contains a fluorescence collection module 53 and a main control circuit board 54. The fluorescence collection module 53 is located above the main control circuit board 54. The main control circuit board 54 includes a scanning control module, and may also include a drive circuit board for controlling the laser coupling module 3, the field search module 4, and indicator lights, light sensors, temperature and humidity sensors, etc.

[0112] Optionally, the fluorescence acquisition module 53 includes a beam splitter and at least two beam splitting collection modules. The fluorescence signal collected by the fluorescence collection fiber 402 from the microscope probe 400 is split into at least two fluorescence signals by the beam splitter and then collected by at least two beam splitting collection modules respectively.

[0113] The control box 5 may also be equipped with a signal processing module, which is configured to process the signal output by the fluorescence acquisition module 53 and transmit the processed signal to a computer for display. For example, the fluorescence signal acquired by the fluorescence acquisition module 53 is converted into an electrical signal, amplified, and then reconstructed through high-speed AD acquisition before being transmitted to a computer for display.

[0114] Optionally, the control box 5 is provided with a first interface 51 for connecting the control cable 403 and a second interface 52 for connecting the fluorescence collecting optical fiber 402. The first interface 51 and the second interface 52 are both located on the same side of the control box 5 above.

[0115] The laser coupling module 3 is located above the control box 5, and the laser output end 32 of the laser coupling module 3 for connecting the second transmission optical fiber 401 is on the same side as the first interface 51 and the second interface 52 of the control box 5.

[0116] By placing the laser coupling module 3 above the control box 5, with the first interface 51 and the second interface 52 of the control box 5 located on the top of the box, and the laser output end 32 of the laser coupling module 3 on the same side as the first interface 51 and the second interface 52 of the control box 5, the second transmission optical fiber 401, the fluorescence collection optical fiber 402, and the control cable 403 connected to the laser output end 32 can be brought close to each other, which is conducive to neat and aesthetically pleasing wiring. Moreover, it allows the cables to be converged into a total cable, for example, they can be converged and wrapped with a sheath to form a total cable, which is convenient for storage by the storage device 6.

[0117] In addition, the outlet ends of the second transmission optical fiber 401, the fluorescence collection optical fiber 402, and the control cable 403 are located at the top of the control box 5, which facilitates the adaptation of more behavioral devices and reduces cable length. For example, when a mouse with a microscope probe 400 is placed in a live behavior box and moves freely, the cable arrangement allows the microscope probe 400 to easily extend downward into the live behavior box.

[0118] In one embodiment, the microscope host 300 further includes a storage device 6, which is installed on one side of the control box 5 having a first interface 51 and a second interface 52. Since the second transmission optical fiber 401, the fluorescence collecting optical fiber 402 and the control cable 403 are all located on this side, the storage device 6 can conveniently store the microscope probe 400 and the cable connected to the microscope probe 400, including the second transmission optical fiber 401, the fluorescence collecting optical fiber 402 and the control cable 403.

[0119] The specific structure of storage device 6 is as follows: Figure 14 As shown, it includes a storage body 61 with a winding cylinder 611 and a probe holder 62. After the cable is wound on the winding cylinder 611, the microscope probe 400 can be mounted on the probe holder 62.

[0120] Specifically, the microscope probe 400, connected to a cable, enters the storage body 61 of the storage device 6 from the cable outlet of the control box 5, and then exits into the annular space outside the winding drum 611 and is wound around the winding drum 611. The microscope probe 400 can be mounted on the probe holder 62. When the end of the cable connected to the microscope probe 400 extends outward onto the probe mounting bracket 62 after being wound on the winding drum 611, the cable can be secured in the cable retaining groove 613 provided on the storage body 61. This prevents the cable from loosening from the winding drum 611 and also prevents the probe from detaching from the probe holder due to cable swinging or loosening.

[0121] With the storage device 6, the cables and probes will not be easily touched or pressed, thus preventing damage. It also avoids the situation where cables are randomly placed and become tangled, or where cables are randomly bent and damaged, resulting in damage to the internal optical fibers. Moreover, storing cables and probes with the storage device 6 makes the process neater and more aesthetically pleasing, which helps to improve the visual effect.

[0122] In addition, the storage device 6 may also include an indicator light, which is located inside the storage body 1 (it is not visible in the figure because it is blocked by the wire baffle 612). A light-transmitting cover may be provided on the wire baffle 612 of the storage body 61, through which the light emitted by the indicator light can be seen.

[0123] The indicator light can be set to indicate the working status of the optical imaging system. For example, when the controller receives a message that the laser 100 emits a laser, or when it detects laser transmission inside the laser adapter 200 or laser coupling module 3, it can control the indicator light to emit, for example, a green light to indicate that the system is in working status. If an abnormality is detected in the laser or other abnormal status, the indicator light can emit, for example, a red light to warn of the problem. When the system is not in working status, the ring indicator light can display yellow for internal illumination.

[0124] The storage device 6 may also be equipped with a protective cover 63, which is rotatably mounted on the storage body 1 via a pivot. The protective cover 63 may also be equipped with a transparent observation window 631 to facilitate observation of the internal condition of the storage device and to facilitate observation of the device status indicated by the ring indicator light.

[0125] It is understood that the microscope main unit 300 is not limited to the structural form described above. For example, the microscope main unit may only include the laser coupling module 3, the fluorescence collection module, and the scanning control module, or it may only include the aforementioned laser coupling module 3 and the control box 5 with the fluorescence collection module and the scanning control module. The moving module 7, the wide-field search module 4, and the field-of-view search adapter 9 are assembled to form another independent device for mounting the microscope probe 400 on a living organism.

[0126] The optical imaging system provided in this application may also include a worktable, which includes a worktable host and a display. The worktable host is connected to the microscope host 300. The microscope host 300 processes the collected fluorescence signals and transmits them to the worktable host, and the display shows the image. The worktable host also sends control commands to the microscope host 300, and then the control circuits in the control box 5 control each component.

[0127] The optical imaging system may also include a behavioral testing device that provides space for a living organism equipped with a microscope probe 400 to move around. For example, by placing a mouse equipped with a microscope probe 400 into the behavioral testing device and allowing it to move freely, the state of its neurons can be detected during the mouse's free movement.

[0128] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit this application. Any modifications or equivalent substitutions made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. An optical imaging system, characterized in that, The optical imaging system includes: a laser, a laser adapter, and a microscope mainframe; wherein... The laser is any one of a plurality of lasers with different parameters and / or located in different positions, used to emit laser light to the laser adapter; The laser adapter is used to adjust and adapt the different lasers received from the multiple lasers into a unified laser. When the laser emitted by any of the lasers is received, the laser is adjusted and adapted into the unified laser and transmitted to the microscope host. The microscope host is configured to transmit laser light to the microscope probe and control the microscope probe to perform laser scanning on a living organism to generate fluorescence signals for imaging. The laser adapter includes an adapter housing and a beam conversion device and a first beam stabilization device located within the adapter housing; The beam conversion device is used to enlarge or reduce the cross-section of the laser beam entering the laser adapter and to zoom the laser beam. The first beam stabilizing device is located downstream of the beam conversion device along the laser transmission direction, and is used to adjust the laser transmission direction to correct the deviation between the actual position and the ideal position of the laser beam at the laser output end of the laser adapter. The optical imaging system further includes a first transmission optical fiber connecting the laser adapter and the microscope host, wherein the laser adapter transmits the adjusted and adapted unified laser to the microscope host through the first transmission optical fiber; The microscope main unit includes a laser coupling module. The laser input end of the laser coupling module is connected to the first transmission optical fiber, and the laser output end is connected to the microscope probe through a second transmission optical fiber. The laser coupling module is used to adjust and process the laser received from the first transmission fiber and then transmit it to the microscope probe through the second transmission fiber. The laser coupling module includes a coupler housing, a dispersion compensation element, an acousto-optic modulator, and a second beam stabilizing device. The dispersion compensation element, the acousto-optic modulator, and the second beam stabilizing device are all disposed within the coupler housing and arranged sequentially along the laser transmission direction. The dispersion compensation element is used to compensate for the negative dispersion caused by the first transmission fiber during laser transmission; The acousto-optic modulator is used to adjust the intensity of the laser; The second beam stabilization device is used to adjust the laser transmission direction to correct the deviation between the actual position and the ideal position of the laser beam at the laser output end of the laser coupling module.

2. The optical imaging system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The laser adapter includes a first power detection device for detecting laser power; The laser coupling module includes a second power detection device for detecting laser power.

3. The optical imaging system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first power detection device is located near the laser output end of the laser adapter, and the second power detection device is located near the laser input end of the laser coupling module.

4. The optical imaging system according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The microscope main unit also includes a fluorescence acquisition module and a scanning control module; The scanning control module is configured to be connected to the microscope probe via a control cable, and is used to control the microscope probe to perform laser scanning to generate fluorescence signals; The fluorescence acquisition module is configured to be connected to the microscope probe via a fluorescence collection optical fiber, and is used to collect the fluorescence signal output by the microscope probe through the fluorescence collection optical fiber.

5. The optical imaging system according to claim 4, characterized in that, The microscope main unit also includes a wide-field search module; The wide-field search module is configured to perform wide-field imaging of a living organism in order to search for the target area on the living organism for mounting the microscope probe.

6. The optical imaging system according to claim 4, characterized in that, The optical imaging system also includes a worktable, which includes a worktable host and a display. The stage host is connected to the microscope host. The microscope host processes the collected fluorescence signals and transmits them to the stage host, and the display shows the image. The stage host also sends control commands to the microscope host.

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