Microscopic imaging structure and imaging method

Abstract

The application discloses a kind of microscopic imaging structure and imaging method, it is related to microscopic imaging technical field.The microscopic imaging structure includes microscopic imaging module and adjusting component, wherein microscopic imaging module includes light source, objective and object table, light source and objective are correspondingly arranged on the two sides of object table;Adjusting component includes Z-axis lifting module, Y-axis feeding module and shell, Z-axis lifting module and Y-axis feeding module are connected with object table, Z-axis lifting module is configured to drive object table to move up and down, Y-axis feeding module is configured to drive object table to move horizontally between the first working position of part of protruding shell and the second working position located in the inside of shell.Can solve the technical problem that the detection result is distorted due to false touch caused by the defects of existing sperm analysis detection means.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of microscopic imaging technology, and in particular relates to a microscopic imaging structure and imaging method. Background Technology

[0002] When analyzing and studying key indicators such as motility and concentration of human sperm samples, real-time observation and high-resolution imaging using a microscopic imaging system are typically required. Sperm motility tracking, density statistics, and morphological assessment all depend on clear and stable microscopic images. Therefore, the field of view, imaging accuracy, and operational stability of the imaging system directly affect the accuracy and reliability of the test results. Currently, optical microscopy-based imaging technology has become the mainstream technique in assisted reproductive technology and clinical semen analysis.

[0003] Current microscopic imaging techniques for sperm observation and analysis typically employ a staged imaging strategy. First, a low-magnification objective (e.g., 10× or 20×) is used to obtain a large field of view, allowing for the capture of a sufficient number of sperm in a single image, thus enabling sperm concentration estimation and preliminary localization of motility areas. Subsequently, a high-magnification objective (e.g., 40× or higher) is switched to magnify specific sperm or key areas, obtaining clearer cell outlines and structural details to support accurate morphological analysis and interpretation of motility characteristics. This process often involves mechanical switching of the objective turret and readjustment of the focus.

[0004] However, existing technologies have significant operational drawbacks. Between different analytical steps, manual switching of objectives, focus adjustment, and sample positioning are typically required, making the process cumbersome and reliant on operator experience. More importantly, because sample slides are often in exposed or semi-exposed positions in most existing microscopic imaging mechanisms or analyzers, they are highly susceptible to accidental interference from unintentional touching, pressing, or bumping during repeated adjustments. This interference can cause samples to shift, tilt, or even detach from the detection area, leading to problems such as loss of observation field, loss of target sperm, and deviation in counting areas. Ultimately, this can result in missed sperm identification, distorted counting, or even invalid test results, severely impacting the repeatability and accuracy of clinical testing. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This invention proposes a microscopic imaging structure and imaging method that can solve the technical problem of distorted detection results caused by accidental touches due to the defects of existing sperm analysis and detection methods.

[0006] To address the aforementioned technical problems, in a first aspect, the present invention provides a microscopic imaging structure, including a microscopic imaging module and an adjustment component. The microscopic imaging module includes a light source, an objective lens, and a stage, with the light source and the objective lens respectively disposed on both sides of the stage; the adjustment assembly includes a Z-axis lifting module, a Y-axis feed module, and a housing, with the Z-axis lifting module and the Y-axis feed module connected to the stage, the Z-axis lifting module configured to drive the stage to move up and down, and the Y-axis feed module configured to drive the stage to move horizontally between a first working position partially extending out of the housing and a second working position located inside the housing.

[0007] Optionally, the light source is mounted above the stage, the objective lens is mounted below the stage, and the objective lens is fixedly connected to a folding lens barrel and a camera.

[0008] Optionally, the stage includes two pressing blocks arranged at a horizontal distance, with grooves on the opposite end faces of the two pressing blocks, which together define a slot for receiving a sample slide.

[0009] Optionally, the Z-axis lifting module includes a base and a Z-axis stepper motor, a coupling push rod, a feed screw, a reversing link, and a Z-axis linear slide mounted on the base. The coupling push rod is configured such that one end is connected to the Z-axis stepper motor for transmission, and the other end is connected to one end of the feed screw. The other end of the feed screw is connected to one end of the reversing link, and the other end of the reversing link is connected to the Z-axis linear slide. The Z-axis linear slide is connected to the bottom of the platform and is vertically mounted on the base.

[0010] Optionally, a toothed sleeve is provided at the connection between the feed screw and the reversing linkage.

[0011] Optionally, the Y-axis feed module includes a slide rail, a Y-axis stepper motor, a Y-axis lead screw, and a Y-axis lead screw nut. The slide rail is arranged horizontally, the Y-axis stepper motor is located at one end of the slide rail, the Y-axis lead screw nut is slidably mounted on the slide rail, the Y-axis lead screw is parallel to the slide rail and rotatably passes through the Y-axis lead screw nut, the Y-axis lead screw is driven by the Y-axis stepper motor, and the Y-axis lead screw nut is connected to the base.

[0012] Optionally, the slide rail includes a guide rail and a slider. The guide rail is arranged in a strip shape on the slide rail and is parallel to the slide rail. The slider is slidably mounted on the guide rail and is connected to the Y-axis lead screw nut.

[0013] Optionally, the light source is an adjustable light source.

[0014] Optionally, the outer casing is provided with an openable and closable opening that matches the stage.

[0015] Secondly, embodiments of the present invention also provide an imaging method based on a microscopic imaging structure described in the first aspect, comprising: The Y-axis feed module is driven to move the stage to a first working position that is partially located outside the housing. The sample slide is placed on the stage, and the Y-axis feed module is driven to move the stage to the second working position inside the housing, so that the sample slide enters the imaging point. The Z-axis lifting module is used to move the stage to a designated focal plane position, and the objective lens is used to image and take pictures.

[0016] The beneficial effects of the present invention include at least the following: The microscopic imaging structure provided in this invention, through the cooperation of the imaging module and the adjustment module, designs the stage as a dual-axis motion structure that can move inside and outside the outer shell under the drive of the Z-axis lifting module and the Y-axis feed module. This achieves automatic longitudinal focusing while solving the technical problem in existing technologies where the sample slide is exposed and susceptible to accidental interference. On one hand, the first working position facilitates sample loading and unloading operations; on the other hand, the second working position houses the sample inside the outer shell, achieving effective protection during the detection process and avoiding problems such as loss of field of view, sperm loss, and count distortion caused by sample displacement. This significantly improves the repeatability and reliability of sperm analysis and detection. It effectively solves the technical problem of distorted detection results caused by accidental touches due to the deficiencies of existing sperm analysis and detection methods. Attached Figure Description

[0017] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the microscopic imaging structure located on one side inside the outer shell, as provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the microscopic imaging structure located on the other side inside the outer shell, as provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the stage in the first working position of the microscopic imaging structure provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the stage located in the second working position in the microscopic imaging structure provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the Z-axis lifting module provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the Y-axis feed module provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 7 A flowchart of an imaging method provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] In the picture: 1-Microscopic imaging module; 11-Light source; 12-Objective lens; 13-Stage; 131-Crimping block; 1311-Groove; 131a-Slot; 14-Folding lens tube; 15-Camera; 2-Adjusting component; 21-Z-axis lifting module; 211-Base; 212-Z-axis stepper motor; 213-Coupling push rod; 214-Feed screw; 215-Reversing linkage; 216-Z-axis linear slide; 217-Gear sleeve; 22-Y-axis feed module; 221-Slide rail; 2211-Guide rail; 2212-Slider; 222-Y-axis stepper motor; 223-Y-axis lead screw; 224-Y-axis lead screw nut; 23-Outer shell; 231-Openable / closable opening; m - Sample slide. Detailed Implementation

[0019] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the protection scope of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the microscopic imaging structure located on one side inside the outer shell, as provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the microscopic imaging structure located on the other side inside the outer shell, as provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the stage in the first working position of the microscopic imaging structure provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the stage located in the second working position in the microscopic imaging structure provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the Z-axis lifting module provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the Y-axis feed module provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] Example 1: like Figures 1 to 6 As shown, this embodiment of the invention provides a microscopic imaging structure, including a microscopic imaging module 1 and an adjustment component 2.

[0022] The microscopic imaging module 1 includes a light source 11, an objective lens 12, and a stage 13, with the light source 11 and objective lens 12 respectively positioned on opposite sides of the stage 13. Specifically, as shown... Figure 1As shown, the light source 11 is mounted above the stage 13 to provide downward illumination, ensuring that the sample slide m placed on the stage 13 is fully illuminated. The objective lens 12 is mounted below the stage 13 to receive the light transmitted through the sample slide m and perform magnification imaging. This transmissive optical arrangement allows the light emitted by the light source 11 to pass through the sample slide m from top to bottom, and after being collected by the objective lens 12, form a magnified microscopic image, suitable for the observation and analysis of transparent or translucent biological samples such as sperm samples.

[0023] Furthermore, the objective lens 12 is fixedly connected to a folding lens tube 14 and a camera 15. The function of the folding lens tube 14 is to change the direction of the light path, guiding the image formed by the objective lens 12 to the photosensitive element of the camera 15 through specular reflection or prism refraction. The camera 15 is preferably an industrial camera with a high-resolution, high-sensitivity image sensor, capable of capturing microscopic images in real time and converting them into digital signals for subsequent image analysis software processing. Through this optical structure, the present invention can achieve high-quality microscopic imaging while maintaining a compact structure.

[0024] The stage 13 includes two horizontally spaced pressing blocks 131. Grooves 1311 are respectively provided on the opposite end faces of the two pressing blocks 1311. The two grooves 1311 are positioned opposite each other and together define a slot 131a for accommodating the sample slide m. The sample slide m can be stably embedded in the slot 131a. The pressing blocks 131 on both sides provide lateral restraint to the sample slide m through the edges of the grooves 1311, preventing the sample slide m from sliding laterally or falling off during movement or vibration. This snap-fit ​​fixing structure ensures the positioning accuracy of the sample slide m while facilitating quick loading and unloading, improving operational efficiency. Simultaneously, the design of the slot 131a ensures that the observation area of ​​the sample slide m is fully exposed in the optical path between the light source 11 and the objective lens 12, ensuring that the imaging quality is not obstructed.

[0025] The adjustment assembly 2 includes a Z-axis lifting module 21, a Y-axis feed module 22, and a housing 23. Both the Z-axis lifting module 21 and the Y-axis feed module 22 are connected to the stage 13, together forming the dual-axis motion control system of the stage 13. The Z-axis lifting module 21 is configured to drive the stage 13 to move vertically (i.e., along the Z-axis) to achieve precise adjustment of the focusing surface position. The Y-axis feed module 22 is configured to drive the stage 13 to move horizontally (i.e., along the Y-axis) to move back and forth, allowing the stage 13 to switch between a first working position partially extending out of the housing 23 and a second working position completely inside the housing 23.

[0026] Specifically, when the stage 13 is in the first working position, the front end of the stage 13 extends out of the outer shell 23, allowing the operator to easily place or remove the sample slide m from the stage 13. After the sample slide m is placed, the Y-axis feed module 22 drives the stage 13 to move backward to the second working position. At this position, the stage 13 and the sample slide m on it are completely retracted into the internal space enclosed by the outer shell 23. In the second working position, the outer shell 23 provides physical protection and spatial isolation for the stage 13 and the sample slide m, placing the sample slide m in a relatively closed and stable detection environment. In this way, during the entire microscopic imaging and data acquisition process, the operator or external factors cannot directly contact the sample slide m, effectively avoiding problems such as sample displacement, tilting, or detachment from the detection area caused by accidental touch, pressing, collision, or other human interference, thereby ensuring the stability of the detection process and the accuracy of the detection results.

[0027] The above technical solution solves the technical problem in the prior art where the sample slide is exposed and easily interfered with by accidental contact by designing the stage 13 as a dual-axis motion structure that can move inside and outside the housing 23. On the one hand, the first working position facilitates sample loading and unloading operations; on the other hand, the second working position stores the sample inside the housing 23, achieving effective protection during the detection process and avoiding problems such as loss of field of view, loss of sperm tracking, and distortion of counting caused by sample displacement, thus significantly improving the repeatability and reliability of sperm analysis and detection.

[0028] Example 2: Based on Embodiment 1, this embodiment provides a detailed description of the specific structure of the Z-axis lifting module 21.

[0029] The Z-axis lifting module 21 includes a base 211 and a Z-axis stepper motor 212, a coupling push rod 213, a feed screw 214, a reversing link 215, and a Z-axis linear slide 216 mounted on the base 211. The base 211 provides a stable mounting foundation and support platform for the entire Z-axis lifting module 21.

[0030] The Z-axis stepper motor 212 is mounted on the base 211 and serves as the power source for the Z-axis lifting motion. The stepper motor 212 can precisely control the rotation angle and speed according to the pulse signals sent by the control system, thereby achieving micron-level position control accuracy and meeting the requirements for precise positioning of the focal plane in microscopic imaging.

[0031] The coupling push rod 213 is configured such that one end is connected to the output shaft of the Z-axis stepper motor 212, and the other end is connected to one end of the feed screw 214. The function of the coupling push rod 213 is to transmit the rotational motion of the Z-axis stepper motor 212 to the feed screw 214, while also playing a certain role in shock absorption and compensation, preventing the motor's vibration from being directly transmitted to the screw and affecting the imaging quality.

[0032] The other end of the feed screw 214 is connected to one end of the reversing link 215. Specifically, a threaded sleeve 217 is provided at the connection between the feed screw 214 and the reversing link 215. The threaded sleeve 217 has a threaded hole that mates with the thread of the feed screw 214, and the threaded sleeve 217 is also fixedly connected to the reversing link 215. When the Z-axis stepper motor 212 drives the feed screw 214 to rotate, since the threaded sleeve 217 is restricted to the vertical direction and cannot rotate with the screw, the threaded sleeve 217 will move left and right along the axial direction of the feed screw 214. The left and right movement of the threaded sleeve 217 is transmitted to the Z-axis linear slide 216 through the reversing link 215, thereby converting the rotational motion of the screw into linear lifting motion.

[0033] The other end of the reversing linkage 215 is connected to the Z-axis linear slide 216. The Z-axis linear slide 216 is vertically and vertically mounted on the base 211, and its sliding part is fixedly connected to the bottom of the stage 13. The Z-axis linear slide 216 typically includes a guide rail and a slider structure. The guide rail is fixed on the base 211 and extends vertically, and the slider can slide smoothly on the guide rail, thereby ensuring that the lifting and lowering movement of the stage 13 is stable, precise, and without lateral sway.

[0034] The working principle of the entire Z-axis lifting module 21 is as follows: The control system sends pulse commands to the Z-axis stepper motor 212. The stepper motor 212 rotates a specific angle according to the command, driving the feed screw 214 to rotate through the coupling push rod 213. The rotation of the feed screw 214 causes the threaded sleeve 217 to move left and right. The movement of the threaded sleeve 217 is transmitted to the Z-axis linear slide 216 through the reversing linkage 215, pushing the Z-axis linear slide 216 to slide up and down on the guide rail, ultimately driving the connected platform 13 to achieve precise vertical position adjustment.

[0035] Through this structure combining helical transmission and linear guide rails, the Z-axis lifting module 21 enables micron-level lifting control of the stage 13. In practical applications, the control system can control the Z-axis lifting module 21 to drive the stage 13 to move layer by layer at equal intervals near the near-focal plane of the objective lens 12. Each time a hovering position is reached, the camera 15 triggers the capture of an image. By capturing multiple layers of images and analyzing and comparing their sharpness using software, the system can automatically identify the position of the sharpest focal plane. Then, it controls the Z-axis lifting module 21 to precisely retract the stage 13 to that sharp focal plane, thus achieving autofocus. This autofocus mechanism avoids the tedious manual adjustment of the focus, significantly improving detection efficiency and the consistency of image quality.

[0036] Example 3: Based on Embodiment 1, this embodiment provides a detailed description of the specific structure of the Y-axis feed module 22.

[0037] The Y-axis feed module 22 includes a slide rail 221, a Y-axis stepper motor 222, a Y-axis lead screw 223, and a Y-axis lead screw nut 224. The slide rail 221 is arranged in the horizontal direction (i.e., the Y-axis direction) to provide guidance and support for the overall forward and backward movement of the platform 13 and the Z-axis lifting module 21.

[0038] The Y-axis stepper motor 222 is mounted at one end of the slide rail 221 and serves as the power source for the Y-axis feed motion. Similar to the Z-axis stepper motor 212, the Y-axis stepper motor 222 can also precisely control the rotation angle and speed according to the pulse commands of the control system, thereby achieving precise positioning of the stage 13 in the horizontal direction.

[0039] The Y-axis lead screw nut 224 is slidably mounted on the slide rail 221. The Y-axis lead screw 223 is arranged parallel to the slide rail 221 and rotatably passes through the Y-axis lead screw nut 224. Specifically, the outer surface of the Y-axis lead screw 223 is threaded, and the inner hole of the Y-axis lead screw nut 224 is threaded to mate with the thread of the Y-axis lead screw 223, forming a threaded pair. One end of the Y-axis lead screw 223 is connected to the output shaft of the Y-axis stepper motor 222, and the other end is supported by a bearing on the other end of the slide rail 221, allowing the Y-axis lead screw 223 to rotate freely under the drive of the Y-axis stepper motor 222.

[0040] The Y-axis lead screw nut 224 is connected to the base 211. Since the base 211 is the mounting base of the Z-axis lifting module 21, and the platform 13 is connected to the base 211 through the Z-axis linear slide 216, the connection between the Y-axis lead screw nut 224 and the base 211 actually realizes the overall drive of the platform 13 and the entire Z-axis lifting module 21.

[0041] Furthermore, the slide rail 221 includes a guide rail 2211 and a slider 2212. The guide rail 2211 is strip-shaped and mounted on the base of the slide rail 221, extending parallel to the length direction of the slide rail 221. The slider 2212 is slidably mounted on the guide rail 2211 and is fixedly connected to the Y-axis lead screw nut 224. The guide rail 2211 and the slider 2212 form a linear guide pair, which can provide precise guidance for the linear movement of the Y-axis lead screw nut 224, ensuring no lateral offset or wobbling during movement.

[0042] The working principle of the entire Y-axis feed module 22 is as follows: The control system sends pulse commands to the Y-axis stepper motor 222, which rotates at a specific angle according to the commands, driving the Y-axis lead screw 223 to rotate. Since the Y-axis lead screw nut 224 is restricted by the guide rail 2211 through the slider 2212 to only move along the Y-axis direction and cannot rotate with the Y-axis lead screw 223, the Y-axis lead screw nut 224 will move back and forth along the Y-axis direction when the Y-axis lead screw 223 rotates. The movement of the Y-axis lead screw nut 224 drives the base 211 connected to it, as well as the entire Z-axis lifting module 21 and the stage 13, to move along the Y-axis direction, thereby realizing the switching of the stage 13 between the first working position and the second working position, or moving it to different field of view positions during the detection process.

[0043] Through a structure combining lead screw and nut drive with linear guide rails, the Y-axis feed module 22 enables smooth and precise horizontal movement of the stage 13. During sample placement, the Y-axis feed module 22 moves the stage 13 to the first working position, partially extending it out of the outer casing 23, facilitating sample slide placement by the operator. After sample placement, the Y-axis feed module 22 drives the stage 13 back to the second working position, allowing the sample slide m to enter the internal space protected by the outer casing 23, preventing accidental contact interference during the detection process. During detection, the Y-axis feed module 22 can also drive the stage 13 to multiple different field-of-view positions according to control system commands. Combined with the autofocus function of the Z-axis lifting module 21, this allows for multi-point sampling and imaging of different areas of the sample slide m, enabling the acquisition of a sufficient number of sperm images even under the small field-of-view conditions of a high-magnification objective lens, ensuring the accuracy of the analysis data.

[0044] Example 4: Based on the foregoing embodiments, this embodiment describes the specific structure of the outer shell 23.

[0045] like Figure 4 As shown, the outer casing 23 is provided with an openable and closable opening 231 that matches the stage 13. The position of the openable and closable opening 231 corresponds to the extended position of the stage 13 when it is in the first working position, and its size is sufficient to allow the stage 13 and the sample slide m on it to pass through. The openable and closable opening 231 can adopt various openable and closable structures such as a sliding door, a flip cover, or a roller shutter. It opens when the stage 13 needs to extend out of the outer casing 23 and closes when the stage 13 retracts to the second working position.

[0046] By providing an openable and closable opening 231, the housing 23 can both provide the necessary operating channel during sample loading and unloading and form a relatively enclosed protective space during the detection process. When the openable and closable opening 231 is closed, the housing 23 isolates the detection area from the external environment, preventing external factors such as dust and airflow from interfering with the imaging quality. It also prevents operators or other personnel from accidentally touching the sample slide m in the detection state, further enhancing the protection against accidental contact.

[0047] Example 5: Based on the foregoing embodiments, this embodiment describes the specific configuration of the light source 11.

[0048] Light source 11 is an adjustable light source. The adjustable light source 11 can adjust the light intensity, color temperature, or illumination mode according to different sample characteristics and imaging requirements. For sperm sample analysis, appropriate light intensity must ensure sufficient brightness and contrast in the image while avoiding excessive light that could cause thermal or photodamage to live sperm. The adjustable light source 11 can use an LED light source, controlling the light intensity by adjusting the current, or it can use a multi-color LED light source, adjusting the color temperature and spectral characteristics by controlling the brightness ratio of different colored LEDs.

[0049] By configuring the adjustable light source 11, the microscopic imaging structure of the present invention can adapt to different types of samples and different analytical needs, improving the flexibility and applicability of the system. For example, when performing sperm motility analysis, the light intensity can be appropriately reduced to minimize the impact on sperm movement; while when performing sperm morphology analysis, the light intensity can be appropriately increased to obtain clearer cell contour images.

[0050] Example 6: Figure 7 A flowchart illustrating the imaging method provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7 As shown, this embodiment of the invention also provides an imaging method based on the microscopic imaging structure provided in the foregoing embodiments, comprising the following steps: S1: Drive the Y-axis feed module 22 to move the stage 13 to a first working position that is partially located outside the housing 23.

[0051] Specifically, before the sample is tested, the control system sends a positive motion pulse command to the Y-axis stepper motor 222. The Y-axis stepper motor 222 rotates according to the command, driving the Y-axis lead screw nut 224 to move outward along the slide rail 221 via the Y-axis lead screw 223. Since the Y-axis lead screw nut 224 is connected to the base 211, and the base 211 is equipped with the Z-axis lifting module 21 and the stage 13, the entire stage 13 moves outward until the front end of the stage 13 extends out of the openable and closable opening 231 of the outer shell 23, reaching the first working position. At this time, the stage 13 is in a position that is easily accessible to the operator, facilitating the placement or removal of the sample slide m.

[0052] In the first working position, the slot 131a of the stage 13 is exposed outside the housing 23, allowing the operator to easily insert the sample slide m into the slot 131a between the two pressing blocks 131. The two side edges of the sample slide m are embedded in the grooves 1311, forming a stable lateral positioning. This open loading and unloading position design makes sample replacement simple and quick, eliminating the need for complex opening or disassembly actions, thus improving work efficiency.

[0053] S2: Place the sample slide m on the stage 13, drive the Y-axis feed module 22 to move the stage 13 to the second working position inside the housing 23, so that the sample slide m enters the imaging point.

[0054] Specifically, after the operator securely places the sample slide m in the slot 131a of the stage 13, they send a start detection command through the operation interface. Upon receiving the command, the control system sends a reverse motion pulse command to the Y-axis stepper motor 222. The Y-axis stepper motor 222 rotates in the reverse direction according to the command, driving the Y-axis lead screw nut 224 to move inward along the slide rail 221 via the Y-axis lead screw 223, thereby causing the stage 13 and the sample slide m on it to retract together into the internal space of the outer casing 23.

[0055] When the stage 13 moves to the second working position, the sample slide m is completely located within the internal space enclosed by the housing 23 and reaches the predetermined imaging point. The imaging point refers to the position where the observation area of ​​the sample slide m is aligned with the optical center axis of the objective lens 12. At this position, the objective lens 12 can clearly image the target area on the sample slide m. At this time, if the housing 23 is provided with an openable and closable opening 231, the opening 231 can automatically close, forming a relatively closed detection space, completely isolating external physical contact and environmental interference.

[0056] This step transfers the sample slide m from its exposed loading / unloading position to a protected testing position, achieving a balance between operational convenience and testing stability. Once the sample slide m is in the second working position, operators or other personnel cannot directly touch it, effectively preventing accidental sample displacement or tilting, and ensuring the reliability of subsequent testing processes.

[0057] S3: Use the Z-axis lifting module 21 to move the stage 13 to the designated focal plane position, and use the objective lens 12 to image and take pictures.

[0058] Specifically, after the sample slide m enters the imaging point, the control system begins the automatic focusing and image acquisition process. First, the control system sends a pulse command to the Z-axis stepper motor 212, driving the Z-axis lifting module 21 to move the stage 13 upwards to the near-focal plane near the objective lens 12. The near-focal plane refers to the position close to the theoretical focal plane but not yet at its optimal sharpness.

[0059] Next, the control system controls the Z-axis lifting module 21 to move the stage 13 downwards or upwards in small increments at equal intervals. After each step, the Z-axis lifting module 21 hovers, at which point the control system triggers the camera 15 to take a picture, acquiring an image of the current focal plane position. This process is repeated multiple times until a sufficient number of images of different focal planes are captured. The step distance is typically set to a few micrometers to tens of micrometers, with the specific value determined based on the depth of field and imaging requirements of the objective lens 12.

[0060] Subsequently, the control system performs sharpness analysis and comparison on the captured multi-layer focal plane images. Sharpness analysis can employ various image processing algorithms such as image gradient, Laplacian operator, and frequency domain analysis to calculate the sharpness index of each image, identifying the layer with the highest sharpness and its corresponding focal plane position. After determining the position of the sharpest focal plane, the control system sends a retraction command to the Z-axis stepper motor 212, driving the Z-axis lifting module 21 to precisely retract the stage 13 to that position.

[0061] Once stage 13 reaches the position of the clearest focal plane, the control system triggers the recording function of camera 15 to capture a video of a fixed duration. This video is used to record the movement trajectory and state of sperm on sample slide m, providing a data basis for sperm motility analysis. The video duration can be set according to the analysis requirements, typically from a few seconds to tens of seconds. After recording, the control system saves the image and video data for subsequent image analysis software to perform sperm counting, motility assessment, morphological analysis, and other processing.

[0062] After completing the imaging at the current field of view, if it is necessary to sample other areas of the sample slide m at multiple points, the control system can further drive the Y-axis feed module 22 to move the stage 13 along the Y-axis to the next field of view, and then repeat the autofocus and imaging process described in S3. By sampling and imaging at multiple different areas of the sample slide m, a greater number of sperm images can be obtained, improving the reliability of statistical analysis. Because this invention uses a high-magnification objective lens 12 (such as 40x or higher), the range of a single field of view is relatively small. By using multi-point sampling, a sufficiently large sample area can be covered while maintaining high-resolution imaging, ensuring that a sufficient number of sperm are collected for concentration and motility analysis.

[0063] The technical advantages of the aforementioned imaging method are as follows: Through dual-axis automatic control of the Y-axis feed module 22 and the Z-axis lifting module 21, the entire process from sample loading and unloading to detection is automated and protected. Firstly, the first working position facilitates rapid sample loading and unloading; secondly, the second working position houses the sample inside the outer casing 23, preventing accidental interference during detection; thirdly, the autofocus function eliminates the tediousness and errors of manual focusing, improving the stability of image quality; and finally, multi-point sampling combined with a high-magnification objective lens ensures sufficient sample data while maintaining imaging accuracy. The entire imaging process can be completed in approximately 2 to 3 minutes, significantly reducing the time compared to traditional manual operation analysis (approximately 50 to 60 minutes), thus significantly improving the efficiency of sperm analysis and detection.

[0064] Furthermore, because the sample slide m is protected by the outer shell 23 throughout the entire testing process, the testing environment is stable and free from external interference, thus effectively ensuring the accuracy and repeatability of the test results. This is of great significance for quality control in clinical semen analysis and assisted reproductive technologies.

[0065] The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined arbitrarily. For the sake of brevity, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described; only preferred embodiments of the present invention are illustrated. The descriptions are relatively specific and detailed, but they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present invention. As long as the combination of these technical features does not contradict each other, it should be considered within the scope of this specification.

[0066] It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the inventive concept, and these all fall within the scope of protection of this invention. Therefore, the scope of protection of this invention should be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A microscopic imaging structure, characterized in that, It includes a microscopic imaging module (1) and an adjustment component (2). The microscopic imaging module (1) includes a light source (11), an objective lens (12), and a stage (13). The light source (11) and the objective lens (12) are respectively disposed on both sides of the stage (13). The adjustment component (2) includes a Z-axis lifting module (21), a Y-axis feed module (22), and a housing (23). The Z-axis lifting module (21) and the Y-axis feed module (22) are connected to the stage (13). The Z-axis lifting module (21) is configured to drive the stage (13) to move up and down. The Y-axis feed module (22) is configured to drive the stage (13) to move horizontally between a first working position that partially extends out of the housing (23) and a second working position that is located inside the housing (23).

2. The microscopic imaging structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The light source (11) is mounted above the stage (13), the objective lens (12) is mounted below the stage (13), and the objective lens (12) is fixedly connected to the folding lens tube (14) and the camera (15).

3. The microscopic imaging structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The stage (13) includes two pressing blocks (131) arranged horizontally at intervals. The two pressing blocks (131) have grooves (1311) on their opposite end faces, which together define a slot (131a) for accommodating a sample slide (m).

4. The microscopic imaging structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The Z-axis lifting module (21) includes a base (211) and a Z-axis stepper motor (212), a coupling push rod (213), a feed screw (214), a reversing link (215), and a Z-axis linear slide (216) mounted on the base (211). The coupling push rod (213) is configured such that one end is connected to the Z-axis stepper motor (212) for transmission, and the other end is connected to one end of the feed screw (214). The other end of the feed screw (214) is connected to one end of the reversing link (215). The other end of the reversing link (215) is connected to the Z-axis linear slide (216). The Z-axis linear slide (216) is connected to the bottom of the platform (13) and is mounted on the base (211) in a liftable manner.

5. A microscopic imaging structure according to claim 4, characterized in that, A toothed sleeve (27) is provided at the connection between the feed screw (214) and the reversing link (215).

6. The microscopic imaging structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The Y-axis feed module (22) includes a slide rail (221), a Y-axis stepper motor (222), a Y-axis lead screw (223), and a Y-axis lead screw nut (224). The slide rail (221) is arranged in a horizontal direction. The Y-axis stepper motor (222) is located at one end of the slide rail (221). The Y-axis lead screw nut (224) is slidably mounted on the slide rail (221). The Y-axis lead screw (223) is parallel to the slide rail (221) and rotatably passes through the Y-axis lead screw nut (224). The Y-axis lead screw (223) is connected to the Y-axis stepper motor (222) in a transmission connection. The Y-axis lead screw nut (224) is connected to the base (211).

7. A microscopic imaging structure according to claim 6, characterized in that, The slide rail (221) includes a guide rail (2211) and a slider (2212). The guide rail (2211) is arranged in a strip shape on the slide rail (221) and is parallel to the slide rail (221). The slider (2212) is slidably mounted on the guide rail (2211). The slider (2212) is connected to the Y-axis lead screw nut (224).

8. A microscopic imaging structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The light source (11) is an adjustable light source.

9. A microscopic imaging structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer shell (23) is provided with an openable and closable opening (231) that matches the stage (13).

10. An imaging method based on a microscopic imaging structure according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that, include: The Y-axis feed module (22) is driven to move the stage (13) to a first working position that is partially located outside the outer shell (23); The sample slide (m) is placed on the stage (13), and the Y-axis feed module (22) is driven to move the stage (13) to the second working position inside the outer shell (23), so that the sample slide (m) enters the imaging point; The Z-axis lifting module (21) is used to move the stage (13) to the specified focal plane position, and the objective lens (12) is used to image and take pictures.

Images