Filter block assembly and optical system utilizing it

Abstract

The present invention aims to provide a filter block assembly comprising a housing, a plurality of fluorescence channels and a bright-field channel built into the housing, and a light source assembled in the housing to provide illumination. The filter block assembly may be characterized in that a first light source is assembled in at least one of the plurality of fluorescence channels, light from a second light source passes through the bright-field channel, the first light source irradiates a sample, the light emitted from the sample passes through at least one of the plurality of fluorescence channels and is refracted to generate a fluorescence image of the sample, the light from the second light source passes through at least one of the one or more bright-field channels and is refracted to generate a bright-field image of the sample, and the fluorescence image and the bright-field image overlap by 70% or more.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a filter block assembly and an optical system. Specifically, the present disclosure relates to an optical system having a bright-field image correction function. Specifically, the present invention configures optical components so that the refraction amount generated during fluorescence image shooting is the same as that during bright-field image shooting, and the bright-field image is automatically shifted and generated so as to substantially overlap the fluorescence image, thereby improving a sample imaging optical system capable of obtaining a clearer image.

[0002] The present invention also relates to a filter block having a fluorescence image and a bright-field image correction function, an automatic position adjustment function, etc. while applying a plurality of fluorescence filter sets to one housing.

[0003] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a filter block assembly capable of easily alternating a beam splitter (e.g., a dichroic mirror) by inserting or withdrawing the beam splitter through a side insertion port, and an optical system using the same.

Background Art

[0004] A fluorescence optical system is an optical system that irradiates a sample with light sources of various wavelengths and observes an object with the fluorescence emitted by the sample, and is mainly used when the sample itself emits fluorescence or when a fluorescent substance can be adsorbed on the sample. For example, a fluorescence optical system may be used to label specific cells with a fluorescent dye or a fluorescent antibody and study the intracellular structure and function of the cells.

[0005] Here, the fluorescence optical system includes a light source and a number of filters corresponding to wavelengths matching the fluorescence stain, but may include, for example, an excitation filter used to select the excitation wavelength of the light emitted from the light source, a dichroic beam splitter that splits the beam to irradiate the sample with light that has passed through the excitation filter, and an emission filter that allows only a narrow wavelength band around the maximum fluorophore emission wavelength to pass through while blocking unwanted traces (noise) in the excitation light reflected in response to the fluorescence of the sample, so that only the desired fluorescence of the sample reaches the detector.

[0006] Traditionally, mercury and xenon arc-type lamps have been used as light sources. Recently, however, inexpensive and accurate solid-state light sources, such as LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes), have become widely used as alternatives to arc-type lamps.

[0007] Recently, fluorescence optics have utilized fluorescence channels to observe various wavelengths, and the optical system commonly employs a configuration where the light source and fluorescence filter block exist separately. In this system, three fluorescence components—an excitation filter, a beam splitter, and an emission filter—are combined into a single block, while the light source is positioned separately. However, this configuration may involve a rotating turret on which multiple blocks are coupled. In this case, the volume of the externally located light source is large, and because it is a turret-type multi-channel system, the size of the filter blocks also increases, resulting in a large overall equipment volume, which is a disadvantage as miniaturization is difficult.

[0008] In addition, there have been many attempts to miniaturize multi-channel fluorescence light source systems. Recently, a configuration has been used in which three fluorescence sets and light sources are combined into a single block, and each block is mounted on a turret and rotated for interchangeable use. However, in this case, multiple housings, each containing three fluorescence sets and a light source, are required, resulting in a relatively large size and effectively limiting miniaturization. Furthermore, because it is a turret-type rotating system, in order to supply power to the light source, contacts must be provided for connection to the circuit board in the receptacle of each block. This complicates the structure, and problems arise such as poor contact due to foreign matter during rotation, which can lead to inability to observe due to poor illumination by the light source. Moreover, even when miniaturization of the filter block assembly is achieved, a disadvantage arises in that the filter block assembly must be divided to replace components such as the dichroic beam splitter, making replacement difficult. Therefore, there is a need to develop a filter block assembly that is miniaturized and allows for easy replacement of components such as the dichroic beam splitter, which can be effectively used in fluorescence microscopes.

[0009] Furthermore, a bright-field optical system is an optical system that uses visible light and an objective lens to magnify and illuminate a sample. It is called a bright-field optical system because the sample is illuminated from below and appears bright against a dark background.

[0010] Bright-field optical systems are relatively simple and inexpensive, and are therefore primarily used in research, education, and other fields, especially in biology and medicine, for observing cells, tissues, and other biological specimens.

[0011] Therefore, when observing cells or tissues, especially live cells, the shape of the cells or tissues is imaged using bright-field microscopy, and then fluorescence microscopy is performed separately by switching the microscope mode, such as the light source and optical filters. The resulting fluorescence image and the bright-field image are then overlapped.

[0012] However, a disadvantage is that image shifting occurs during each imaging process due to light refraction by the filter, causing the two images to not match and appear blurry rather than sharp, making it impossible to obtain an accurate image.

[0013] One way to improve this is to compare the two images and process the images in software to match the refracted and shifted images. While this has the advantage of being low-cost and not incurring significant costs, it has the disadvantage of having large performance differences depending on the software algorithm, and the overall image size becoming smaller because it requires extracting image frames that lack information due to the shift.

[0014] Another method involves aligning the image by moving the stage in the X and Y axes by the amount of fluorescence refraction during brightfield imaging. However, this requires manual operation, which reduces accuracy, and performance varies greatly depending on resolution and speed, so this method also has its limitations.

[0015] This disclosure aims to provide a filter block and an image optical system including the same for solving the problems of fluorescence optical systems and brightfield optical systems. [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0016] This disclosure aims to provide an improved filter block assembly and image optical system including the same, which enable miniaturization by eliminating the use of a carriage in the fluorescence optical system and applying multiple fluorescence filter sets to a single housing, as well as integrating the light source into the housing and forming a single main unit. This allows for a smooth and accurate optical system without power supply failures, and also enables the acquisition of sharper images by automatically correcting the optical components to match the refractive amount generated in fluorescence image capture during brightfield image capture, thereby preventing image shifting. Furthermore, the filter block assembly may have an improved automatic position adjustment function that enables accurate and rapid alignment work by allowing automatic operation via a drive source.

[0017] Furthermore, this disclosure aims to provide a filter block assembly that allows for easy and miniaturization of components such as beam splitters (e.g., dichroic beam splitters) and filters. [Means for solving the problem]

[0018] One embodiment of this disclosure aims to provide a filter block assembly and a sample imaging optical system utilizing the same.

[0019] A sample imaging optical system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a fluorescence channel containing a first light source for generating a fluorescence image and a bright-field channel containing a second light source for generating a bright-field image. In one embodiment, the first light source irradiates a sample, and the light emitted from the sample passes through the fluorescence channel and is refracted to generate a fluorescence image of the sample, and the light from the second light source passes through the sample and is refracted after passing through the bright-field channel to generate a bright-field image of the sample, wherein the fluorescence image and the bright-field image may overlap by about 70% or more. Preferably, the fluorescence image and the bright-field image may overlap by about 80% or more, more preferably by about 90% or more, and even more preferably by 100%.

[0020] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a fluorescent filter block assembly comprising a housing, two or more sets of fluorescent filters housed in the housing, and a light source assembled in the housing to provide illumination.

[0021] A filter block assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a housing, a plurality of fluorescence channels housed in the housing, a bright-field channel, and a light source assembled in the housing to provide illumination, wherein a first light source is assembled in at least one of the plurality of fluorescence channels, light from a second light source passes through the bright-field channel, the first light source irradiates a sample, the light emitted from the sample passes through at least one of the plurality of fluorescence channels and is refracted to produce a fluorescence image of the sample, and the light from the second light source that has passed through the sample passes through at least one of the one or more bright-field channels and is refracted to produce a bright-field image of the sample, wherein the fluorescence image and the bright-field image may overlap by 70% or more. Preferably, the fluorescence image and the bright-field image may overlap by about 80% or more, more preferably by about 90% or more, and even more preferably by 100%.

[0022] In one embodiment, each of the multiple fluorescence channels may be equipped with a separate light source. For example, if there are two fluorescence channels, the first fluorescence channel may be equipped with a first light source, and the second fluorescence channel may be equipped with a second light source different from the first light source.

[0023] In one embodiment, the filter block assembly may further include one or more brightfield channels built into the housing. That is, it may also include multiple brightfield channels.

[0024] In one embodiment, the filter block assembly may not use a carriage.

[0025] In one embodiment, the bright-field channel may include one or more windows configured to refract light that has passed through the sample and through the bright-field channel when the second light source passes through the sample.

[0026] In one embodiment, the window may be made of a transparent material.

[0027] In one embodiment, the one or more windows may be made of glass or acrylic.

[0028] In one embodiment, a separate light source may be assembled for each of the plurality of fluorescence channels.

[0029] In one embodiment, the filter block assembly may further include one or more bright-field channels incorporated into the housing.

[0030] In one embodiment, the fluorescence channel assembled with the first light source includes a dichroic beamsplitter and an emission filter. Light emitted from the sample after being irradiated by the first light source may be refracted when passing through the dichroic beamsplitter and the emission filter to generate the fluorescence image.

[0031] In one embodiment, the bright-field channel includes a first window and a second window. Light that has passed through the sample and through the first window and the second window may be refracted to generate a bright-field image.

[0032] In one embodiment, the fluorescence channel assembled with the first light source includes a dichroic beam splitter and an emission filter, and when the first light source irradiates a sample, the light emitted from the sample is refracted as it passes through the dichroic beam splitter and the emission filter to generate a fluorescence image, and the bright-field channel includes a first window and a second window, and the light from the second light source that has passed through the sample is refracted as it passes through the first and second windows to generate a bright-field image.

[0033] In one embodiment, the first window may be positioned in a location corresponding to the dichroic beam splitter, and the second window may be positioned in a location corresponding to the emission filter.

[0034] In one embodiment, at least one of the thickness, material, and angle of the first and second windows may be selected such that the fluorescence image and the bright-field image overlap by 70% or more. Preferably, the fluorescence image and the bright-field image may overlap by about 80% or more, more preferably by about 90% or more, and even more preferably by 100%.

[0035] In one embodiment, the plurality of fluorescence channels, in particular the fluorescence channel into which the first light source is assembled, may include three fluorescence components consisting of an excitation filter; a dichroic beam splitter; and an emission filter.

[0036] In one embodiment, the three fluorescent components may be arranged sequentially from the first light source in the order of excitation filter - dichroic beam splitter - emission filter.

[0037] In one embodiment, the three fluorescent components may be circular, polygonal, star-shaped, or elliptical in shape.

[0038] In one embodiment, the light source is fixed to an optical module, and the optical module may be assembled on one side of each fluorescence channel in the housing.

[0039] In one embodiment, at least one or more focusing lenses may be further installed between the first light source and the fluorescent component.

[0040] In one embodiment, the plurality of fluorescent filters may be arranged in a linear, curved, or circular pattern.

[0041] In one embodiment, the housing may include a drive means that enables automatic position adjustment of the plurality of fluorescence channels.

[0042] In one embodiment, the driving means may include a drive source fixed to the housing; and a guide for controlling and guiding the operation of the drive source.

[0043] In one embodiment, the drive source may be a drive motor, a linear motor, a piezoelectric motor, a solenoid actuator, or a voice coil.

[0044] In one embodiment, the guide may be a sliding guide for linear movement.

[0045] In one embodiment, the drive source may be a drive motor, a pinion may be fixed to the drive motor, and the pinion may be meshed with a rack.

[0046] In one embodiment, the drive source is a drive motor, and a ball screw or a lead screw may be fixed to the drive motor, with the screw meshed with a nut.

[0047] In one embodiment, the drive source is a linear motor, and the linear motor may be inserted into a magnet track.

[0048] In one embodiment, the housing may further include a sensor for detecting the position of the housing.

[0049] In one embodiment, the sensor may include one or more selected from the group consisting of a linear encoder, a circular encoder, and a limit switch.

[0050] A filter block assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a housing; a channel section housed in the housing and including a first fluorescence channel, a second fluorescence channel, and a bright-field channel; and a first-first light source assembled to the first fluorescence channel to provide illumination to the first fluorescence channel, and a first-second light source assembled to the second fluorescence channel to provide illumination to the second fluorescence channel. Here, the first-first light source is assembled to the first fluorescence channel to provide illumination to the first fluorescence channel, and the first-second light source is assembled to the second fluorescence channel to provide illumination to the second fluorescence channel, and the light emitted from the second light source may pass through the bright-field channel.

[0051] In one embodiment, the sample imaging optical system is a sample imaging optical system comprising a first fluorescence channel including a 1-1 light source; a second fluorescence channel including a 1-2 light source; and a bright-field channel including a 2 light source, wherein the 1-1 light source irradiates the sample, and the light emitted from the sample passes through the first fluorescence channel and is refracted to generate a first fluorescence image of the sample; the 1-2 light source irradiates the sample, and the light emitted from the sample passes through the second fluorescence channel and is refracted to generate a second fluorescence image of the sample; and the light from the 2 light source that has passed through the sample passes through the bright-field channel and is refracted to generate a bright-field image of the sample. Here, the first fluorescence image and the bright-field image may overlap by about 70% or more, and / or the second fluorescence image and the bright-field image may overlap by about 70% or more. Preferably, the first or second fluorescence image and the bright-field image may overlap by about 80% or more, more preferably by about 90% or more, and even more preferably by 100%.

[0052] In one embodiment, the first fluorescence image and the second fluorescence image may overlap by about 70% or more, preferably about 80% or more, more preferably about 90% or more, and even more preferably completely 100%.

[0053] In this manner, in another embodiment, the first fluorescence image, the second fluorescence image, and the bright-field image may overlap each other by at least about 50%, preferably about 60%, more preferably about 70%, even more preferably about 80%, particularly preferably about 90%, or completely.

[0054] In one specific example, the filter block assembly may have a channel section built into the housing that includes the fluorescence channel and the brightfield channel in the order of first fluorescence channel; brightfield channel; and second fluorescence channel; or it may include the first fluorescence channel; second fluorescence channel; and brightfield channel.

[0055] In one specific example, the housing includes a drive means, which is located between the first and second fluorescence channels and enables automatic positioning of the fluorescence channels, and the drive means may include a drive source fixed to the housing and a guide for controlling and guiding the operation of the drive source.

[0056] In one specific example, the brightfield channel may be located between the first fluorescence channel and the second fluorescence channel, and the driving means may be assembled on one side of the brightfield channel.

[0057] In one specific example, the driving means may include a drive source fixed to the housing, and a guide for controlling and guiding the operation of the drive source.

[0058] In one embodiment, a bright-field channel used with a fluorescence channel including a first light source includes a second light source, wherein the first light source irradiates a sample, the light emitted from the sample passes through the fluorescence channel and is refracted to generate a fluorescence image of the sample, and the light from the second light source that has passed through the sample passes through the bright-field channel and is refracted to generate a bright-field image of the sample, and the fluorescence image and the bright-field image may overlap each other by 70% or more.

[0059] In one embodiment, the filter block assembly may include a housing; a side insertion opening formed on the side of the housing at a predetermined angle with the bottom surface of the housing; a reference surface formed inside the side insertion opening; a support surface formed inside the side insertion opening so as to face the reference surface; and a side insertion opening cover for opening and closing the side insertion opening, wherein a beam splitter can be inserted or replaced through the side insertion opening.

[0060] In one embodiment, an elastic member may be inserted into the side insertion port together with the beam splitter.

[0061] In one embodiment, the elastic member may include a leaf spring.

[0062] In one embodiment, the beam splitter may be in close contact with the reference surface by the elastic member.

[0063] In one embodiment, the filter block assembly may include at least one of a brightfield channel or a fluorescence channel. For example, the filter block assembly may be a brightfield channel or a fluorescence channel. In one embodiment, when the filter block assembly is a fluorescence channel, the present invention provides a fluorescence channel comprising a housing; a side insertion opening formed on the side of the housing at a predetermined angle with the bottom surface of the housing; a reference surface formed inside the side insertion opening; a support surface formed inside the side insertion opening so as to face the reference surface; and a side insertion opening cover for opening and closing the side insertion opening, wherein a beam splitter can be inserted or replaced through the side insertion opening.

[0064] In one embodiment, the beam splitter may be a dichroic beam splitter.

[0065] In one embodiment, the dichroic beam splitter may be formed to form an angle of 45 degrees ± 1.5 degrees with at least one of the excitation filter or emission filter.

[0066] In one embodiment, the housing includes a first opening for mounting an emission filter; a second opening for mounting an excitation filter; an excitation filter coupling portion formed by screw threads on the surface of the first opening that is exposed to the outside of the filter block assembly; and an emission filter coupling portion formed by screw threads on the surface of the second opening that is exposed to the outside of the filter block assembly, wherein the surface on which the first opening is formed, the surface on which the second opening is formed, and the side surface are adjacent to each other.

[0067] In one embodiment, the filter block assembly may further include at least one of the following: an insertion port for inserting or replacing an excitation filter or an insertion port for inserting or replacing an emission filter.

[0068] In one embodiment, the filter block assembly may include an excitation filter, a dichroic beam splitter inserted into the side inlet, and an emission filter, wherein a light source is irradiated onto the sample, and the light emitted from the sample is refracted as it passes through the dichroic beam splitter and the emission filter to generate a fluorescence image.

[0069] In one embodiment, the filter block assembly may include a plurality of fluorescence channels and one or more bright-field channels, and the side insertion port, the reference surface, the support surface, and the side insertion port cover may be provided for each of the plurality of fluorescence channels.

[0070] A sample imaging optical system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include an objective lens; a receptacle positioned above the objective lens; a filter block assembly according to one embodiment positioned within the receptacle; and an eyepiece positioned above the fluorescence filter block assembly. [Effects of the Invention]

[0071] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a number of fluorescence filter sets and light sources are integrated into a single housing, thereby reducing the overall size and manufacturing cost of the optical system, and making it suitable for use in multi-channel fluorescence microscopes.

[0072] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the structure can be configured as a linear sliding type, and since it does not require a separate plate and carriage to fix the housing, the structure is simple and easy to implement, and the number of parts can be reduced.

[0073] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the power supply structure is simple and clear, and measurement errors may not occur.

[0074] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, when using an LED light source, energy savings are possible because there is no heat generation, and it may be particularly suitable for use in LCI (Live Cell Imaging) microscopes.

[0075] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, since the blocks are not separated into individual units, the optical alignment and coupling may be more stable compared to the separated type.

[0076] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the filter block can be moved to a precise position via electronic control.

[0077] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when automated, filter blocks can be moved in an order that has been set in advance by the user.

[0078] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, since the final refractive index in the fluorescence path and the final refractive index in the brightfield path are substantially the same, there is no shifting between the two images, and therefore additional correction or compensation work may not be required.

[0079] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, various color fluorescence channels can be added and used without being limited to brightfield image shifting.

[0080] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, it is more economical to use a specially designed fluorescent filter block that prevents refraction of the fluorescent light path.

[0081] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, relatively fast results can be achieved by minimizing image processing to compensate for shifting or by eliminating the need to physically move the stage.

[0082] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a beam splitter (e.g., a dichroic beam splitter) can be easily replaced.

[0083] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, each filter block is constructed as an integrated unit rather than being separated into individual blocks, and each optical module is assembled to one side of each fluorescent filter set in the housing, thereby aligning the optical path between the light source and the objective lens. This increases optical efficiency and reduces the time the light is used, ultimately reducing the rate of condensation. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0084] [Figure 1] This is an illustrative diagram of a filter block assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] This is a cross-sectional view along line AA in Figure 1. [Figure 3] This is an exemplary exploded view of a fluorescent filter set and light source constituting a filter block assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] This is an illustrative diagram showing a filter block assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from another angle. [Figure 5] This is an illustrative diagram showing a filter block assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from another angle. [Figure 6] This is an illustrative diagram showing a filter block assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from another angle. [Figure 7]This is an illustrative diagram showing another example of a filter block assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] This is an illustrative diagram showing the internal structure of a fluorescent channel according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of light refraction by a fluorescence channel. [Figure 10] This is an illustrative diagram showing the internal structure of a bright-field channel according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of light refraction using a brightfield filter block. [Figure 12] This is an illustrative diagram showing a case in which the fluorescence image of a sample and the bright-field image of a sample do not overlap at all, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] This is an illustrative diagram showing a case in which the fluorescence image and bright-field image of a sample completely overlap 100% according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] This is an illustrative diagram showing a case in which the fluorescence image and bright-field image of a sample overlap in a range greater than 0% but less than 100% according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] This is an illustrative diagram of a side insertion port of a filter block assembly integrated with a light source according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 16a] This is a cross-sectional example diagram of a filter block assembly including a side insertion port according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 16b] This is an illustrative diagram showing a case in which a dichroic beam splitter is inserted into the side insertion port of a filter block assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0085] To clarify the technical concept of this disclosure, embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In describing this disclosure, if it is determined that a specific description of a related known function or component would unnecessarily obscure the gist of this disclosure, such detailed description will be omitted. Components in the drawings that have substantially the same functional configuration will be assigned the same reference numerals and symbols whenever possible, even if they are shown in other drawings. For convenience of explanation, the apparatus and method will be described together where necessary. The operations of this disclosure do not necessarily have to be performed in the order described and may be performed in parallel, selectively, or individually.

[0086] The terms used in the embodiments of this disclosure have been selected as widely used and common terms as possible, taking into account the function of this disclosure, but these terms may change depending on the intent of the articulators, case law, the emergence of new technologies, etc. In certain cases, the applicant has also arbitrarily selected terms, in which case their meaning will be described in detail in the description of the embodiment. Therefore, the terms used herein are not merely names of terms, but must be defined based on the meaning of the term and the overall content of this disclosure.

[0087] Throughout this disclosure, singular expressions may include plural expressions unless the context clearly intends otherwise. Terms such as “includes” or “has” are intended to specify the existence of a feature, number, stage, action, component, part, or combination thereof, and should be understood not to pre-exist the existence or possibility of adding one or more other features, numbers, stages, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof. That is, when a part of this disclosure “includes” a component, this means, unless otherwise specifically stated, that it does not exclude other components, but rather that it may further include other components.

[0088] Expressions like "at least one" modify the entire list of components, not the components of that list individually. For example, "at least one of A, B, and C" and "at least one of A, B, or C" refer to just A, just B, just C, either A and B, either B and C, either A and C, the whole of A, B, and C, or any combination thereof.

[0089] Furthermore, terms such as "...part" and "...module" as used in this disclosure mean a unit that processes at least one function or operation, which may be implemented in hardware or software, or in combination of hardware and software.

[0090] Throughout this disclosure, when a part is described as being “connected” to another part, this includes not only “directly connected” parts, but also “electrically connected” parts with other elements in between. Furthermore, when a part is described as “containing” a component, this means, unless otherwise stated, that it does not exclude other components, but rather that it may contain other components.

[0091] Throughout this disclosure, the expression "configured to" may, depending on the context, be replaced by, for example, "suitable for," "having the capacity to," "designed to," "adapted to," "made to," or "capable of." The term "configured to" does not necessarily mean "specifically designed to" in terms of hardware. Instead, in some contexts, the expression "a system configured to" may mean that the system, together with other devices or components, "is capable of." For example, the phrase "a processor configured to perform A, B, and C" may mean a dedicated processor for performing those operations (e.g., an embedded processor) or a generic-purpose processor (e.g., a CPU or application processor) capable of performing those operations by running one or more software programs stored in memory.

[0092] Terms including ordinal numbers, such as "first," "second," etc., may be used to describe various components, but the components are not limited by the terms. The terms are used solely for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another. For example, within the scope of the rights of the present invention, the first component may be named as the second component, and similarly, the second component may be named as the first component. The terms "and / or" include combinations of multiple related items or any item among multiple related items.

[0093] As used in this disclosure, the term “about” means within 10%, preferably within 5%, and more preferably within 1% of a given number or range.

[0094] One embodiment of the present disclosure aims to provide a filter block assembly in which a filter set is configured in a single block, while components such as beam splitters (e.g., dichroic beam splitters) can be replaced without a separate filter block division process. Furthermore, by applying one embodiment of the present disclosure, not only dichroic beam splitters but also other filters can be replaced without a separate filter block division process.

[0095] As used in this application, the term "filter block assembly" means comprising one or more filter sets or channels that can be used in a sample image optical system. In one embodiment, the filter block assembly of the present invention may refer to either a brightfield channel or a fluorescence channel, respectively. In other embodiments, the filter block assembly of the present invention may comprise a plurality of brightfield channels and / or a plurality of fluorescence channels.

[0096] A fluorescence imaging optical system according to one embodiment of this disclosure, such as a fluorescence microscope, requires at least two fluorescence channels to measure two or more wavelength bands. In such a fluorescence imaging optical system, light emitted from a light source of a specific wavelength band is focused through an objective lens to excite a fluorescent substance labeled to a cell, and the light emitted from it is collected by an image sensor. Care must be taken in this process, as incorrect alignment of the light path can make image acquisition impossible or result in a severe degradation of image quality.

[0097] As a result, one embodiment of this disclosure achieves miniaturization and ensures easy, accurate, and high-precision light alignment by integrating multiple fluorescent channels and a light source into a single housing.

[0098] Above all, since the filter block according to one embodiment of this disclosure is not an individual filter block structure, it does not require plates or carriages that are essential and required in the prior art, and in particular, the connection of lead wires for power supply is simple and easy, and there is no need for a complex contact connection structure for connecting to an existing circuit board, so the structure is simple and easy, and it has the advantage of providing a structure optimized for miniaturization.

[0099] Furthermore, a sample imaging optical system with a bright-field image shifting correction function according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can acquire a sample image by imaging the shape of the sample using bright-field microscopy, separately performing fluorescence microscopy by switching the mode of the microscope such as the light source and optical filter, and then overlapping (superimposing) the obtained fluorescence image and the bright-field image.

[0100] Here, the fluorescence channel that images the fluorescence image focuses light from a light source in a specific wavelength band through an objective lens to excite the fluorescent substance labeled on the sample, and the light of the wavelength emitted from it is collected by an image sensor. At this time, care must be taken because incorrect alignment of the light path will make image acquisition itself impossible or result in a severe degradation of quality. In one embodiment, the optical system may include multiple fluorescence channels, for example, two, three, four or more.

[0101] Furthermore, a bright-field channel for imaging a bright-field image is an optical system that uses visible light and an objective lens to magnify and illuminate a sample, thereby obtaining an image in which the sample is illuminated below and appears bright against a dark background. Accordingly, in this application, the expression "the bright-field channel includes a light source" must be interpreted to include not only cases where a light source is directly assembled in the bright-field channel, but also cases where light from a light source illuminates and passes through the bright-field channel.

[0102] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, by configuring the optical components to be identical to the amount of light refraction generated in fluorescence imaging during brightfield imaging and automatically correcting to prevent image shifting, it is possible to obtain a clearer image by substantially overlapping the brightfield image and the fluorescence image. In this application, the expression "substantially overlapping" means that the brightfield image and the fluorescence image overlap so that the image of the sample portion of interest can be confirmed, and that they overlap by at least about 50%, about 60%, or about 70%. Each image may preferably overlap by about 80%, more preferably about 90%, and particularly preferably completely 100%.

[0103] Throughout this disclosure, the terms "fluorescence channel" and "brightfield channel" may refer to concepts that include a fluorescence filter and a brightfield filter, respectively.

[0104] As used herein, the term “sample” is interchangeable with “specimen” and may include all things observable by optical or light microscopes and all things known to the art. For example, “specimen” may include, but is not limited to, cells or tissues (e.g., animal, plant, fungal, protist, bacterial cells or tissues - including all general or pathological cells / tissues), cell components (e.g., nucleus, cytoplasm, chloroplasts, mitochondria, etc.), microorganisms (e.g., bacteria, protists, some birds and fungi, etc.), organoids, etc.

[0105] A sample imaging optical system having fluorescence image and bright-field image shifting correction function according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a fluorescence channel including a first light source for generating a fluorescence image and a bright-field channel including a second light source for generating a bright-field image. The phrase "fluorescence channel including a first light source" as used in this application includes all cases in which the fluorescence channel is designed to be able to utilize the first light source, as well as cases in which the first light source is physically assembled to the fluorescence channel. The phrase "bright-field channel including a second light source" as used in this application can also be analyzed in the same manner. In one embodiment, the first light source included in the fluorescence channel may include an excitation light source that excites a fluorescent substance in the sample by irradiating it with light for fluorescence excitation. The second light source included in the bright-field channel may include a light source that emits light having a spectrum in the visible light region. For example, the first light source may be a laser light source or an LED light source, and the second light source may be a lamp that emits light having a wide spectral characteristic in the visible light region.

[0106] In one embodiment, a fluorescence filter may be used when imaging a fluorescence image, and a brightfield filter may be used when imaging a brightfield image. In this case, the brightfield channel may be formed in correspondence with the fluorescence channel. In one embodiment, the sample imaging optical system may have a structure that allows the channels to be used interchangeably.

[0107] In one embodiment, the fluorescence channel may include an excitation filter, a dichroic beam splitter, and an emission filter.

[0108] Throughout this disclosure, an excitation filter is a means of transmitting only the wavelength of illumination light (i.e., the excitation wavelength) or a narrow wavelength band around it that efficiently excites a particular fluorophore (dye) from the light source.

[0109] Throughout this disclosure, a dichroic beamsplitter is a means for reflecting light so as to irradiate a sample with excitation light of an excitation wavelength that is transmitted only at or around the wavelength of illumination light that efficiently excites a particular fluorophore from the light supplied by a light source (i.e., the excitation wavelength), and may also be referred to as a dichroic mirror.

[0110] In one embodiment, the first light source can be any type commonly used in fluorescence imaging optics, without limitation. For example, mercury, xenon, or LEDs can be used as the first light source, preferably white light, blue light, or green light from an LED. In this case, the type of LED can be appropriately selected depending on the type of fluorescence; for example, blue light can be selected for observing green fluorescent protein (GFP), and green light can be selected for observing red fluorescent protein (RFP). The light source may be integrated with the fluorescence channel or it may be a separate configuration. According to one embodiment, when the fluorescence channel and the light source are integrated into a single housing, for example, when the light source is assembled into the fluorescence channel, the overall size and manufacturing cost of the optical system can be reduced, and in this case, it can be suitable for use in a multi-channel fluorescence microscope.

[0111] In one embodiment, when the light source is integrated with the fluorescent channel, miniaturization can be achieved by combining multiple fluorescent channels and the light source into a single housing and realizing them as an integrated unit, while also ensuring easy, accurate, and highly precise light alignment. This will be described in more detail with reference to Figure 13.

[0112] Furthermore, an emission filter is a means of transmitting only the wavelength emitted from the sample or a narrow wavelength band around it, so that the desired fluorescence from the sample reaches the detector while blocking noise from the excitation light. In other words, the sample molecules are electronically and vibrationally excited by the incoming photons, heated and relaxed into a lower vibrational state, and return to their electronic ground state by emitting photons with lower energy than those absorbed, i.e., higher wavelengths. At this time, the fluorescent molecules absorb a specific wavelength and emit light at other wavelengths, so the sample can be identified by its fluorescence emission spectrum at known incident light wavelengths.

[0113] Such emission filters can be classified and used as filters for the infrared region, the visible region, the ultraviolet region, vacuum ultraviolet region, etc.

[0114] As used herein, the term “sample” is interchangeable with “specimen” and may include all things observable by optical or light microscopes and all things known to the art. For example, “specimen” may include, but is not limited to, cells or tissues (e.g., animal, plant, fungal, protist, bacterial cells or tissues - including all general or pathological cells / tissues), cell components (e.g., nucleus, cytoplasm, chloroplasts, mitochondria, etc.), microorganisms (e.g., bacteria, protists, some birds and fungi, etc.), organoids, etc.

[0115] Figure 1 is an illustrative diagram of a filter block assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA of Figure 1.

[0116] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, the filter block assembly may include a housing 100, a fluorescent filter set 200 housed in the housing 100, a light source assembled in the housing 100 to provide illumination (e.g., a first light source 300 included in a fluorescent channel), an optical module 310, a motor base 110, a sliding guide 120, a side insertion opening (e.g., a side insertion opening 150 in Figure 2), a side insertion opening cover 140, and the like. In this case, the optical module 310 may include cooling pins to reduce heat generation from the light source. However, the components of the filter block assembly are not limited to the examples described above. For example, the filter block assembly may include more or fewer components than those described above. For example, the optical module 310 may include cooling pins to reduce heat generation from the light source.

[0117] In one embodiment, the side inlet may be formed on the side of the housing while forming a predetermined angle with the bottom surface of the housing. That is, the side inlet may be an inlet formed on the side of the fielder block so as to form a predetermined angle with the bottom surface of the filter block. The housing may include a reference surface formed inside the side inlet and a support surface formed inside the side inlet so as to face the reference surface. In one embodiment, the side inlet may be an inlet for inserting a beam splitter (e.g., a dichroic beam splitter; the same applies hereafter). In addition, an elastic body may be inserted into the side inlet together with the beam splitter. For example, the elastic body may include a leaf spring, a coil spring, etc. In one embodiment, the beam splitter inserted into the side inlet by the elastic member can be in close contact with the reference surface. That is, the elastic member can press the beam splitter with the support surface so as to be in close contact with the reference surface and fix it in place so as not to shake. Also, the beam splitter in close contact with the reference surface can form an angle of about 45 degrees with other filters. To this end, the machined reference surface can be formed such that the beam splitter forms an angle of approximately 45 degrees with at least one of the excitation filter or emission filter.

[0118] In one embodiment, after the beam splitter is inserted into the side insertion port, the side insertion port can be sealed with a side insertion port cover 140 that opens and closes the side insertion port. Furthermore, when it is necessary to replace the beam splitter, the side insertion port cover 140 can be removed to remove the beam splitter inserted into the side insertion port, and a new beam splitter can be inserted. For example, when replacing a fluorescence channel consisting of a set for observing green fluorescent protein (GFP) with a fluorescence channel for observing red fluorescent protein (RFP), the light source, excitation filter, and emission filter suitable for RFP observation will be replaced, and in this case, a dichroic beam splitter of a suitable type may be used.

[0119] The side insertion port will be discussed in more detail later with reference to Figures 2 to 3b.

[0120] Throughout this disclosure, the terms “integrated” or “assembly” used in relation to “housing” indicate that each component, such as a fluorescence channel, light source, or brightfield channel, is not separately separated but is integrated into a single housing. However, while each component is physically integrated, it may be configured to independently perform its own function or effect.

[0121] As a result, a filter block assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may not include a plate or carriage. That is, a filter block assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may consist of a single housing and may not require a separate structure to house each filter set or filter block.

[0122] In one embodiment, at least two or more fluorescent filter sets 200 are provided and integrated with the housing 100 to realize at least two or more fluorescent channels. Thus, throughout this disclosure, the term "fluorescent filter set" may be used interchangeably with "fluorescent channel".

[0123] In one embodiment, an arbitrary fluorescence filter set 200 may include an excitation filter 210, a dichroic beam splitter 220, an emission filter 230, and the like.

[0124] In one embodiment, the excitation filter 210 may be a means that transmits only the wavelength of illumination light (i.e., the excitation wavelength) or a narrow wavelength band around it that efficiently excites a specific fluorophore from the light source. The dichroic beam splitter 220 is a means that reflects light so that the transmitted excitation light of the excitation wavelength irradiates the sample, and may also be referred to as a dichroic mirror. The emission filter 230 may be a means that transmits only the wavelength emitted from the sample or a narrow wavelength band around it so that the desired fluorescence from the sample reaches the detector while blocking noise from the excitation light. That is, the sample molecules are electronically and vibrationally excited by the incoming photons, heated and relaxed in a low vibrational state, and return to the electronic ground state by emitting photons with lower energy than absorbed, i.e., higher wavelengths. At this time, the fluorescent molecules absorb a specific wavelength and emit light at other wavelengths, so that the sample can be identified by its fluorescence emission spectrum at known incident light wavelengths. The fluorescent filter set 200 can be used without limitation as long as it can extract specific wavelengths from a mixture of light of various wavelengths, in addition to the case where it is composed of the three fluorescent components mentioned above. For example, filters that transmit light with a constant transmittance regardless of wavelength, correction filters that adjust the light intensity in a specific wavelength range, and broadband filters can also be used. Furthermore, depending on the frequency range in which they are used, the filters can be classified and used as filters for the infrared region, the visible region, the ultraviolet region, vacuum ultraviolet region, etc.

[0125] In one embodiment, the first light source 300 can be any light source commonly used in fluorescence imaging optics, without limitation. For example, the first light source 300 may be mercury, xenon, or an LED light source. The first light source 300 may be fixed to the optical module 310, and the optical module 310 may be assembled to one end of the housing 100 (e.g., a fluorescence channel) to form an integral part of the housing 100.

[0126] In one embodiment, a focusing lens 240 may or may not be installed between the first light source 300 and the fluorescence filter set 200, for example, the excitation filter 210. Furthermore, multiple focusing lenses 240 may be installed in addition to one to further enhance the focusing quality.

[0127] In one embodiment, the filter block assembly further includes one brightfield channel, which may be housed in a housing 100. Inside the housing 100, two fluorescent filter sets 200 may be formed on either side, as illustrated in Figure 1, with one brightfield channel in the center. That is, in this case, they may be arranged in the order of first fluorescent channel - brightfield channel - second fluorescent channel. In other specific examples, they may be arranged in the order of first fluorescent channel - second fluorescent channel - brightfield channel. Of course, the fluorescent channels may consist of three, four, five, six, seven, or more, and the brightfield channels may consist of one or more. In this case, the arrangement order of the fluorescent channels and brightfield channels may be appropriately determined according to the user's requirements. Multiple channels, for example, two fluorescent channels and one brightfield channel, may be physically integrated within a single housing 100 but configured to function independently.

[0128] In one embodiment, the multiple fluorescent filter sets may be arranged in a curved or circular pattern in addition to a linear pattern. If a brightfield channel is further included, this can also follow the arrangement of the fluorescent filter sets.

[0129] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, in one respect, since all the main components are housed or assembled in the housing 100, the housing or, in some cases, the filter block assembly can be considered as a single filter block, which makes optical alignment easy and accurate, driving and control easy, and miniaturization possible.

[0130] Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, even in a single filter block (assembly) in which all the main components are built-in or assembled, the beam splitter can be easily replaced via a side insertion port.

[0131] In one embodiment, the housing 100 may be configured to allow automatic positioning of two or more fluorescent filter sets, enabling automatic alternation of two or more fluorescent filter sets. For example, if multiple fluorescent filter sets are arranged in a linear configuration, the housing 100 may be configured to allow automatic positioning of two or more fluorescent filter sets while sliding linearly. Alternatively, if the fluorescent filter sets are arranged in a curved or circular configuration, the housing 100 may be configured to automatically adjust the position of the fluorescent filter sets to match the arrangement structure. If brightfield channels are further included, the arrangement will follow the arrangement of the fluorescent filter sets.

[0132] In one embodiment, the housing 100 may be configured to automatically position and alternate multiple sets of fluorescence filters and one or more brightfield field channels. To this end, the housing 100 may include a drive mechanism.

[0133] In one embodiment, the driving means includes a drive source that can move each channel such that multiple fluorescence channels and / or one or more brightfield channels within the housing 100 are automatically positioned. For example, if a number of channels are arranged linearly, the drive source can slide the housing 100 linearly to automatically adjust the position of each channel. In this case, the drive source may be configured to be fixed to the housing 100.

[0134] In one specific example, if the housing includes two fluorescence channels and one brightfield channel, the channels may be arranged in the order of first fluorescence channel; brightfield channel and second fluorescence channel, or in the order of first fluorescence channel; second fluorescence channel; and brightfield channel, in which case the drive source may be assembled on one side of the brightfield channel. In a preferred specific example, the channels may be arranged in the housing in the order of first fluorescence channel; brightfield channel and second fluorescence channel, in which case the optical module 310 may be assembled on one side of each of the first and second fluorescence channels, and the drive source may be assembled on one side of the brightfield channel (see Figures 4 to 7 below).

[0135] Figure 15 is an illustrative diagram of a side insertion port of a filter block assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 15 is an illustrative diagram of a filter block assembly consisting of a single fluorescence channel, wherein the fluorescence channel in Figure 15 may be used in conjunction with other channels, such as an additional fluorescence channel or a bright-field channel, and the top surface of Figure 15 is shown with a dotted line.

[0136] Referring to Figure 15, the filter block assembly may include a side insertion opening 150. In one embodiment, the side insertion opening 150 may be formed on the side of the housing while forming a predetermined angle with the bottom surface 180 of the housing. That is, the side insertion opening 150 may be an insertion opening formed on the side of the fielder block so as to form a predetermined angle with the bottom surface 180 of the filter block. By forming the side insertion opening 150, the housing may include a reference surface 160 formed inside the side insertion opening 150 and a support surface 170 formed inside the side insertion opening so as to face the reference surface 160. However, this is only an example, and the surface indicated by reference numeral 170 may be the reference surface and the surface indicated by reference numeral 160 may be the support surface. The reference surface is the surface to which the beam splitter is in direct contact, and may also be the surface that serves as a reference for the beam splitter to form a predetermined angle with other filters (however, since Figure 15 is an illustrative diagram of the case where the filter block assembly is a single fluorescent channel, a dichroic beam splitter is used as a preferred embodiment in Figure 15. The same applies hereafter).

[0137] In one embodiment, the side insertion port 150 may be an insertion port for inserting a beam splitter. In addition, an elastic body may be inserted into the side insertion port 150 together with the beam splitter. For example, the elastic body may include a leaf spring, a coil spring, etc. In one embodiment, the beam splitter inserted into the side insertion port by the elastic member can be in close contact with the reference surface 160. That is, the elastic member can press the beam splitter with the support surface 170 so that the beam splitter is in close contact with the reference surface 160 and is fixed in place so as not to shake. Furthermore, the beam splitter in close contact with the reference surface 160 can form an angle of about 45 degrees with other filters, for example, an angle of about 45 degrees ± 0.5 degrees, about 45 degrees ± 1.0 degrees, about 45 degrees ± 1.5 degrees, about 45 degrees ± 2.0 degrees, about 45 degrees ± 2.5 degrees, about 45 degrees ± 3.0 degrees, about 45 degrees ± 3.5 degrees, about 45 degrees ± 4.0 degrees, about 45 degrees ± 4.5 degrees, about 45 degrees ± 5.0 degrees, preferably an angle of about 45 degrees ± 1.5 degrees. For this purpose, the reference surface 160, which is a machined surface, can be formed such that the beam splitter forms an angle of about 45 degrees ± 1.5 degrees with other filters. For example, the reference surface 160 can be formed such that the dichroic beam splitter forms an angle of about 45 degrees ± 1.5 degrees with at least one of the excitation filter or the emission filter.

[0138] In another embodiment, the reference plane 160 may be formed to form an angle of about 45 degrees with at least one of the paths of light that will pass through the beam splitter. The term "light that will pass through the beam splitter" as used in this application means excitation light, emitted light, etc., necessary for the user's intended application, but it also includes light that is incident on the beam splitter, reflected from it, or transmitted through it, i.e., incident light, reflected light, or transmitted light to the beam splitter, and of course these lights also mean the light necessary for the user's intended application. For example, when observing GFP, blue light is used as the light source for the fluorescence channel, and the dichroic beam splitter may be positioned to reflect blue light incident at about 45 degrees towards the objective lens at 45 degrees (i.e., the incident light and reflected light are at 90 degrees).

[0139] In one embodiment, after the beam splitter is inserted into the side insertion port 150, the side insertion port can be sealed with a side insertion port cover that opens and closes the side insertion port. Furthermore, when it is necessary to replace the beam splitter, the side insertion port cover can be removed to remove the beam splitter inserted into the side insertion port 150, and a new beam splitter can be inserted.

[0140] In one embodiment, the housing may include a first opening (not shown) for mounting an emission filter and a second opening 190 for mounting an excitation filter. The emission filter and the excitation filter can be fixed in a planar manner to the surface of the first opening that is exposed to the outside of the filter block assembly and the surface of the second opening 190 that is exposed to the outside of the filter block assembly, respectively. For example, the emission filter can be fixed to the filter block assembly by assembling it from outside the filter block assembly to an emission filter coupling formed by screw threads on the surface of the first opening that is exposed to the outside of the filter block assembly. Alternatively, the excitation filter can be fixed to the filter block assembly by assembling it from outside the filter block assembly to an excitation filter coupling formed by screw threads on the surface of the second opening 190 that is exposed to the outside of the filter block assembly. In one embodiment, the side surface on which the side insertion port 150 is formed may be adjacent to the surface on which the first opening is formed and the surface on which the second opening is formed. Here, the surfaces may be adjacent at a predetermined angle. Furthermore, the surface on which the first opening is formed, the surface on which the second opening is formed, and the side surface on which the side insertion port is formed may be adjacent to each other.

[0141] In another embodiment, the excitation filter and emission filter may also be inserted or replaced via inlets, similar to the beam splitter. That is, the filter block assembly may include inlets for inserting or replacing the excitation filter, inlets for inserting or replacing the emission filter, and so on. In this case as well, elastic members such as leaf springs may be inserted together with the inlets, and the beam splitter embodiment can be appropriately modified and applied.

[0142] Figure 16a is a cross-sectional example of a filter block assembly including a side insertion port according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0143] Referring to Figure 16a, a filter block assembly is shown in which a side insertion opening 150 is formed between a reference surface 160 and a support surface 170. In one embodiment, the filter block assembly may include a side insertion opening 150 for inserting a beam splitter, an emission filter, an excitation filter, etc. The side insertion opening 150 may be the space between the reference surface 160 and the support surface 170. When the beam splitter and elastic member are inserted into the side insertion opening 150, the elastic member pushes the beam splitter away from the support surface 170, allowing the beam splitter to be in close contact with the reference surface 160. In Figure 16a, the upper surface of the side insertion opening 150 is shown as the reference surface 160 and the lower surface as the support surface 170, but this is merely an example, and of course, depending on the design, the lower surface may be the reference surface 160 and the upper surface as the support surface 170.

[0144] In existing designs, product deviations occurred due to gaps and cumulative tolerances between assembled parts. However, according to one embodiment of this disclosure, the inclined surface of the beam splitter can be in direct contact with a reference surface provided on the filter block, thereby eliminating product deviations. This improves the quality of the assembly angle of the beam splitter.

[0145] Figure 16b is a cross-sectional diagram illustrating a case in which a dichroic beam splitter is inserted into the side insertion port of a filter block assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0146] Referring to Figure 16b, the beam splitter and elastic member are inserted into the side insertion port, and the filter block assembly may include the beam splitter, elastic member, emission filter, excitation filter, etc. For example, the elastic member may include a donut-shaped leaf spring corresponding to the frame of the beam splitter. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the elastic member makes close contact with the entire frame of the beam splitter, which may reduce the likelihood of the beam splitter cracking.

[0147] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, since the beam splitter is directly fixed to the filter block, no separate parts are required to fix the beam splitter, and the filter block assembly can be designed using only parts that assist in fixing. For example, conventionally, a fabricated part and fixing screws were required to fix the dichroic beam splitter, but according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the parts can be simplified and costs reduced by using an elastic member and a side insertion port cover.

[0148] Figures 15 to 13 illustrate in one embodiment the structure of a fluorescent channel included in a filter block assembly consisting of a single fluorescent channel or a fluorescent channel included in a filter block assembly composed of multiple channels. However, the filter block assembly of the present invention is not limited to a fluorescent channel. In one embodiment, the filter block assembly of the present invention may be a bright-field channel including a side insertion port into which a beam splitter according to the present invention can be inserted or replaced. As used herein, the term "beam splitter" refers to an optical component used to split incident light into two or more separate beams at a predetermined ratio, or to combine two or more different beams into a single beam, and a typical example is a "dichroic beam splitter".

[0149] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA in Figure 1.

[0150] Referring to Figure 2, the fluorescence filter set 200 may include an excitation filter 210, a dichroic beam splitter 220, an emission filter 230, and so on.

[0151] In one embodiment, the excitation filter 210, the dichroic beam splitter 220, and the emission filter 230 may be as defined above. The fluorescence filter set 200 can be used without limitation as long as it can extract specific wavelengths from a mixture of light of various wavelengths, in addition to the case in which it is composed of the three fluorescence components mentioned above. For example, filters that transmit light with a constant transmittance regardless of wavelength, correction filters that adjust the light intensity in a specific wavelength range, and broadband filters can also be used. Furthermore, depending on the frequency range in which they are used, the filters can be classified and used as infrared filters, visible region filters, ultraviolet region filters, vacuum ultraviolet region filters, etc.

[0152] In one embodiment, the first light source 300 can be any light source commonly used in fluorescence imaging optics, without limitation. For example, the first light source 300 may be mercury, xenon, or an LED light source. The first light source 300 may be fixed to the optical module 310, and the optical module 310 may be assembled to one end of the housing 100 (e.g., a fluorescence channel) to form an integral part of the housing 100.

[0153] In one embodiment, a focusing lens 240 may or may not be installed between the first light source 300 and the fluorescence filter set 200, for example, the excitation filter 210. Furthermore, multiple focusing lenses 240 may be installed in addition to one to further enhance the focusing quality.

[0154] In one embodiment, the dichroic beam splitter 220 may be inserted on the side of the filter block. Conventionally, in order to replace the dichroic beam splitter 220, the filter block had to be separated from the equipment and then disassembled. However, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, since the dichroic beam splitter is inserted on the side of the filter block, the dichroic beam splitter can be replaced even when the filter block is assembled to the equipment, as long as only the side is exposed.

[0155] Figure 3 is an exemplary exploded view of a fluorescent filter set and light source constituting a filter block assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0156] Referring to Figure 3, the fluorescence filter set 200 may be arranged in the order of excitation filter 210 - dichroic beam splitter 220 - emission filter 230 relative to the first light source 300. Furthermore, the three fluorescence components included in the filter set 200 can be realized in various shapes, such as circular, polygonal, star-shaped, or elliptical.

[0157] Figures 4 to 6 are illustrative diagrams showing a filter block assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from other angles.

[0158] Referring to Figures 4 to 6, an optical module 310 may be assembled on one side of each of the first and second fluorescence channels, and a drive source may be assembled on one side of the brightfield channel. The drive source can be used without limitation as long as it is attached to the housing 100 and capable of moving the device or component, for example, a drive motor (rotary motor), a linear motor, a piezoelectric motor (also referred to as a "piezo motor") that utilizes the piezoelectric effect, an ultrasonic motor that utilizes ultrasound, a solenoid actuator that utilizes the force of an electromagnet, or another form of electromagnet that is a voice coil.

[0159] Furthermore, referring to Figures 4 to 6, the sliding guide 120 can be assembled to slide along a sliding groove (not shown) of a connecting member (F, see Figure 6) fixed to the receptacle.

[0160] In one embodiment, the drive means may be configured to further include a guide. In this case, the guide can be used without limitation as long as it can control and guide the operation of the drive source, for example, the guide may include a sliding guide for linear movement, a rail or track for guiding movement along a specific path, a bearing, pin, or shaft for reducing friction between parts moved by the drive source and for smooth movement.

[0161] For example, the driving means may include a drive motor 130 as a drive source and a sliding guide 120 as a guide. In this case, the motor base 110 may be fixed to one side of the housing 100 on which the optical module 310 is assembled, and the sliding guide 120 may be fixed to the same side as the side on which the motor base is fixed, or to the other side.

[0162] In one embodiment, a drive motor 130 is securely fixed to the motor base 110, and a pinion 132 can be fixed to the motor shaft of the drive motor 130. In addition, a rack 134 is fixed to the position of the coupling member (F) corresponding to the pinion 132, and the pinion 132 can mesh with the rack 134.

[0163] In another embodiment, instead of a rack and pinion, a ball screw or lead screw may be fixed to the drive motor 130, and the screw may mesh with a nut.

[0164] In one embodiment, a linear encoder (ENC) may be installed on one side of the housing 100. A linear encoder (ENC) is an electronic element that grasps linear motion as an absolute position value. When it is a non-contact type, it does not require wear and maintenance and does not require reference movement, making it very useful for finding absolute position values. Therefore, it can automatically recognize and move according to the order and position set in advance by the user, enabling accurate alignment and potentially preventing defects due to positional errors.

[0165] In one embodiment, instead of a linear encoder (ENC), a circular encoder that reads the rotational speed of the drive motor 130 and calculates the position value can be used, and the absolute position value can also be physically controlled using a limit switch. In addition, any sensor that measures the position information of the housing can be used without limitation, and one or more types of sensors can be used in combination. For example, using a linear encoder (ENC) and a limit switch together allows for more accurate position control. Such types of sensors are generally known to the technician.

[0166] As a result, when the drive motor 130 is driven, the pinion 132 rotates and moves relative to the fixed rack 134. Consequently, the housing 100 to which the drive motor 130 is fixed slides, allowing the position of multiple fluorescence channels to be changed. In other words, if observation is being performed using the first fluorescence channel and it is necessary to switch to the second fluorescence channel, the drive motor 130 is operated to move the housing 100. This positions the second fluorescence channel in an observable location, allowing the sample to be observed using the second fluorescence channel.

[0167] Figure 7 is an illustrative diagram showing another example of a filter block assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0168] Referring to Figure 7, a linear motor may be used as the drive source for the drive mechanism, and in this case, the linear motor may be used together with a magnetic track. For example, as shown in Figure 7, a linear motor (LM) may be fixed on the motor base 110, and a magnetic track (MT) may be fixed to the coupling member (F, see Figure 6).

[0169] In one embodiment, the magnetic track (MT) may be detachably fixed with fixing pins (P) or screws or bolts. The magnetic track (MT) may be formed in a "⊃" shape with an insertion groove, and may be configured to operate with a portion of a linear motor (LM) inserted into the insertion groove. That is, the linear motor (LM) can perform linear reciprocating motion along the magnetic track (MT). In this case as well, a sensor for measuring linear position information, such as a linear encoder (ENC), may be installed to enable absolute position control, or a limit switch may be installed and used instead of the linear encoder (ENC).

[0170] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a filter block assembly that combines two or more fluorescent filter sets and a light source, which is improved to enable miniaturization by not using a carriage in the fluorescence imaging optical system and applying a large number of filter sets to a single housing, as well as integrating the light source into the housing and forming a single main body, thereby realizing a smooth and accurate optical system without power supply failure.

[0171] A fluorescent filter block assembly according to one embodiment can be used in a fluorescent imaging optical system. Thus, one embodiment of the present disclosure can provide a fluorescent filter block assembly for a fluorescent imaging optical system.

[0172] One embodiment of the present disclosure can provide a sample imaging optical system including a fluorescent filter block assembly. Throughout the entirety of the present disclosure, “sample imaging optical system” is not limited to any equipment that includes an optical system capable of sample imaging, such as a fluorescence microscope or live cell imaging equipment, and not limited to any other equipment that utilizes a fluorescence microscope, such as a digital pathology instrument / scanner. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the filter block assembly may be provided in the fluorescence imaging optical system between the eyepiece and the objective lens. For example, the filter block assembly may be installed inside a receptacle that is positioned between the eyepiece and the objective lens.

[0173] In one embodiment, the sample image optical system may include an objective lens, a receptacle positioned above the objective lens, a fluorescence filter block assembly positioned inside the receptacle, and an eyepiece positioned above the fluorescence filter block assembly.

[0174] A filter block having fluorescence image and bright-field image shifting correction function according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be used in an optical system that images the shape of cells using bright-field microscopy, separately performs fluorescence microscopy by switching the mode of the microscope such as the light source and optical filter, and then overlaps the obtained fluorescence image and bright-field image.

[0175] Here, the sample imaging optical system for imaging fluorescence requires at least two fluorescence channels to measure two or more wavelength bands. Such an optical system focuses light from a light source of a specific wavelength band through an objective lens to excite the fluorescent substance labeled to the cell, and the light emitted from it is collected by an image sensor. At this time, care must be taken because incorrect alignment of the optical path will make image acquisition itself impossible or result in a severe degradation of image quality.

[0176] Furthermore, a bright-field optical system for imaging bright-field images is an optical system that uses visible light and an objective lens to magnify and illuminate a sample, thereby enabling the acquisition of an image in which the sample is illuminated from below and appears bright against a dark background.

[0177] One embodiment of this disclosure aims to provide a method for obtaining a sharper image by configuring the optical components of a brightfield channel such that the brightfield image obtained during brightfield imaging and the fluorescence image obtained during fluorescence imaging are identical or overlap in a substantial manner, thereby automatically correcting to prevent image shifting. In one embodiment, a filter block having fluorescence image and brightfield image shifting correction functions may include a plurality of fluorescence filters forming a fluorescence channel and one or more brightfield filters forming a brightfield channel. In one embodiment, the brightfield filter may be configured such that the brightfield channel is formed corresponding to the fluorescence channel. The fluorescence filter may be used when imaging the fluorescence image, and the brightfield filter may be used when imaging the brightfield image. Thus, the filter block may have a structure that allows the channels to be used interchangeably.

[0178] Figure 8 is an illustrative diagram showing the internal structure of a fluorescent channel according to one embodiment of this disclosure.

[0179] Referring to Figure 8, the fluorescence channel may include a dichroic beam splitter 800 positioned at a certain angle to a vertical imaging path, and an emission filter 810 positioned below the dichroic beam splitter 800 at a distance and tilted at an acute clockwise angle to the horizontal plane. In one embodiment, the fluorescence channel may further include a light source for generating a fluorescence image (in this case, each fluorescence channel may use a separate light source), an excitation filter, and the like.

[0180] In one embodiment, the fluorescence channel may be provided in a filter block assembly, and the filter block assembly may be provided in a sample imaging optical system. Furthermore, multiple fluorescence channels may be present in the sample imaging optical system and the filter block assembly.

[0181] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of light refraction by a fluorescence channel as shown in Figure 8.

[0182] Referring to Figure 9, the initial image paths of the fluorescence channel and the brightfield channel are the same in (1), but the light from the fluorescence channel is first refracted as it passes through the dichroic beam splitter 800 and then second refracted as it passes through the emission filter 810, causing image shifting in (2). Throughout this disclosure, the amount of change in the path of light as it moves due to a change in medium will be defined as "refractive amount." That is, "refractive amount" can mean the degree to which the image with refraction is shifted compared to the image without refraction, due to the refraction of the output light. In one embodiment, the fluorescence filter can generate a refraction amount that causes the light path to move from (1) to (2). For example, the refraction amount that causes the light path to move from (1) to (2) may include various concepts indicating the degree of movement from (1) to (2), such as the distance between (1) and (2), and the angle that a hypothetical line from the point where the path in (2) overlaps with the eyepiece to the light source makes with the path in (1).

[0183] In one embodiment, light passes through medium 1 (air) - medium 2 (glass) - medium 1 (air) twice, causing refraction and a shift from the first image path (1) to (2). That is, the fluorescence channel can generate a refraction that shifts the light path from (1) to (2). More specifically, when the first light source of the fluorescence channel is irradiated onto a sample and the light emitted from the sample passes through the fluorescence channel, a refraction that shifts the light path from (1) to (2) can be generated.

[0184] Figure 10 is an illustrative diagram showing the internal structure of a bright-field channel according to one embodiment of this disclosure.

[0185] Referring to Figure 10, the bright-field channel may include one or more windows that cause light emitted from a second light source and passing through the sample to be refracted as it passes through the bright-field channel. In one embodiment, one or more windows may be made of a transparent material. For example, the windows may be made of a material such as glass or acrylic.

[0186] In one embodiment, the fluorescence channel may include a dichroic beam splitter 800 and an emission filter 810, and the bright-field channel may include a first window 900 corresponding to the dichroic beam splitter 800 and a second window 910 corresponding to the emission filter 810. The first light source of the fluorescence channel irradiates the sample, and the light emitted from the sample is refracted as it passes through the dichroic beam splitter 800 and the emission filter 810 to generate a fluorescence image of the sample. The second light source of the bright-field channel refracts the light that has passed through the sample as it passes through the first window 900 and the second window 910 to generate a bright-field image of the sample. In this case, the bright-field image of the sample generated by the second light source of the bright-field channel after the light has passed through the sample and passed through the first window 900 and the second window 910 may substantially overlap with the fluorescence image of the sample generated when the first light source of the fluorescence channel irradiates the sample and the light emitted from the sample is refracted after passing through the dichroic beam splitter 800 and the emission filter 810. However, the components of a brightfield channel are not limited to the examples described above, and a brightfield channel may include more or fewer components than those described above. For example, a brightfield channel may include only one window that forms the same path as the final refraction path of light by the dichroic beam splitter 800 and the emission filter 810, or it may include three or more windows, or it may include a second light source within the channel.

[0187] In one embodiment, even when the arrangement angles of the first window 900 and the second window 910 differ from those of the dichroic beam splitter 800 and the emission filter 810, the thickness, material, angle, etc., of the first window 900 and the second window 910 can be configured such that the bright-field image generated by passing through the first window 900 and the second window 910 largely overlaps with the fluorescence image generated by passing through the dichroic beam splitter 800 and the emission filter 810.

[0188] In one embodiment, the bright-field image generated when light emitted by the second light source passes through the sample and is refracted after passing through the bright-field channel substantially overlaps, for example, by about 70% or more, with the fluorescence image generated when the first light source irradiates the sample and the light emitted from the sample passes through the fluorescence channel, as will be explained earlier with reference to Figures 12 to 14.

[0189] Figure 12 is an illustrative diagram of a case in which one image and another image according to one embodiment of this disclosure do not overlap at all (i.e., 0% overlap). In one embodiment, when the fluorescence image 510 of the sample and the bright-field image 520 of the sample are in contact, at least a portion of the boundary between the fluorescence image 510 and the bright-field image 520 may be touching, but the regions do not overlap at all. In this case, the sample portion of interest cannot be sufficiently imaged.

[0190] Figure 13 is an illustrative diagram showing a case in which one image and another image overlap 100% according to one embodiment of this disclosure. In one embodiment, when the fluorescence image 510 of the sample and the bright-field image 520 of the sample completely overlap, this can be referred to as the case where the fluorescence image 510 and the bright-field image 520 completely overlap 100%. In this case, it can be said that the amount of refraction of light that has passed through the fluorescence channel last and the amount of refraction of light that has passed through the bright-field channel last are substantially the same. Furthermore, in this case, the sample portion of interest can be accurately imaged, and this can be said to be the most ideal case.

[0191] Figure 14 is an illustrative diagram showing a case in which one image and another image overlap by more than 0% but less than 100% according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. In one embodiment, the refractive index of the filter for generating the fluorescence image 510 and the refractive index of the filter for generating the bright-field image 520 overlap within a certain range, which can mean that a portion of the fluorescence image 510 of the sample and the bright-field image 520 of the sample overlap.

[0192] In one embodiment, the degree to which each image overlaps can be understood as the extent to which the bright-field image region of the sample overlaps with the entire fluorescence image region of the sample, based on the overall area of ​​one fluorescence image region of the sample.

[0193] In one embodiment, the amount of refraction produced when the light from the fluorescence channel passes through the dichroic beam splitter 800 is the same as, or within a specific range of, the amount of refraction produced when the light emitted from the second light source of the brightfield channel passes through the sample and then through the first window 900, and the amount of refraction produced when the light from the fluorescence channel passes through the emission filter 810 is the same as, or within a specific range of, the amount of refraction produced when the light from the brightfield channel passes through the second window 910.

[0194] For example, a bright-field channel may include a first window 900 positioned at a position and angle corresponding to the dichroic beam splitter 800 with respect to a vertical imaging path, and made of the same material, and a second window 910 positioned at a position and angle corresponding to the emission filter 810, and made of the same material. Alternatively, even if at least one of the first window 900 and the second window 910 in the bright-field channel is not positioned at a position, angle, or angle corresponding to the dichroic beam splitter 800 and the emission filter 810, respectively, the bright-field image of the sample produced by the refraction of light from the bright-field channel after it has passed through the first window 900 and the second window 910 can substantially overlap (e.g., by about 70% or more) with the fluorescence image of the sample produced by the refraction of light from the fluorescence channel after it has passed through the fluorescence channel, which includes the dichroic beam splitter 800 and the emission filter 810.

[0195] In one embodiment, whether the bright-field channel has only one window or multiple windows, the fluorescence image of the sample generated by the refraction of light from the fluorescence channel after it has passed through the dichroic beam splitter 800 and the emission filter 810 can substantially overlap (e.g., overlap by about 70% or more) with the bright-field image of the sample generated by the refraction of light after it has passed through one or more windows provided in the bright-field channel.

[0196] In one embodiment, there may be multiple fluorescence channels. In this case, the bright-field image produced by refraction after passing through the bright-field filter can substantially overlap (e.g., by about 70% or more) with the fluorescence image produced by refraction after passing through any one of the fluorescence channels. For example, if the fluorescence channels include a first fluorescence channel containing a first-1 light source and a second fluorescence channel containing a first-2 light source, the bright-field image produced by refraction after passing through the bright-field channel, when light generated by the second light source of the bright-field channel passes through the sample, can substantially overlap (e.g., by about 70% or more) with the first fluorescence image produced by refraction after passing through the first fluorescence channel and / or the second fluorescence image produced by refraction after passing through the second fluorescence channel. In this case, each fluorescence image, i.e., the first fluorescence image and the second fluorescence image, can also substantially overlap (e.g., by about 70% or more). In this manner, in another embodiment, the first fluorescence image, the second fluorescence image, and the bright-field image may overlap each other by at least about 50%, preferably about 60%, more preferably about 70%, even more preferably about 80%, particularly preferably about 90%, or completely.

[0197] However, this is merely an example, and the bright-field channels can be designed so that the bright-field image generated by passing through them substantially overlaps with at least one of the fluorescence images generated by passing through multiple fluorescence channels. As explained above, there can also be substantial overlap between multiple generated fluorescence images. Figure 11 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of light refraction using a bright-field filter block as shown in Figure 10.

[0198] Generally, the initial image path for fluorescence channels and brightfield channels is the same (i.e., (1) in Figures 9 and 11), but unlike fluorescence channels which have filters that refract light, no refraction of light occurs within existing conventional brightfield channels. As a result, light passing through the fluorescence channel undergoes image shifting due to refraction, causing the fluorescence image and the brightfield image to not match, resulting in a blurry and inaccurate image.

[0199] In order to generate a final image by superimposing the fluorescence image generated after passing through the fluorescence channel with the brightfield image generated after passing through the brightfield channel, without separate image correction procedures, it is necessary to adjust the degree of image shifting by the brightfield channel to be the same as or similar to the degree of image shifting after passing through the fluorescence channel.

[0200] Referring to Figure 11, the brightfield channel may include at least one window corresponding to the fluorescence channel. For example, if the brightfield channel includes a first window 900 corresponding to the dichroic beam splitter 800 and a second window 910 corresponding to the emission filter 820, the light emitted by the light source of the brightfield channel and passing through the sample is refracted first as it passes through the first window 900, and then refracted second as it passes through the second window 910, causing image shifting in (3). The degree of this image shifting may be the same as or similar to the degree of image shifting of the fluorescence filter. According to one embodiment, image shifting occurs in the same manner as in (2) of Figure 9, so that when the two images that have passed through each channel are superimposed, the images will be in the same position. In other words, the two images will substantially overlap.

[0201] This means that an automatic image shifting correction function has been achieved.

[0202] In one embodiment, in order to make the image shifting by the fluorescence filter and the image shifting by the brightfield filter identical, the first window 900 may be positioned at a location corresponding to the dichroic beam splitter 800 and at an angle corresponding to the vertical imaging path, and the second window 910 may be positioned at a location corresponding to the emission filter 810 and at an angle corresponding to the vertical imaging path.

[0203] In one embodiment, the first window 900 and / or the second window 910 may be made of a transparent material, particularly glass or acrylic.

[0204] In one embodiment, the thickness, material, and angle of the first window 900 and the second window 910 may be configured such that the refraction amounts by the first window 900 and the second window 910 are the same as those by the dichroic beam splitter 800 and the emission filter 810, respectively; that is, the fluorescence image and the bright-field image generated therefrom overlap by 70% or more. For example, the first window 900 and the second window 910 may be configured to correct image shifting by adjusting their material, angle, etc., so that the refraction amounts are the same even if their thicknesses differ from those of the dichroic beam splitter 800 and the emission filter 810, or so that the two images substantially overlap.

[0205] Furthermore, for example, even if the first window 900 and the second window 910 are positioned at different angles relative to the dichroic beam splitter 800 and the emission filter 810, respectively, their thickness, material, etc., can be adjusted to correct image shifting with the same amount of refraction, so that the two images effectively overlap.

[0206] Furthermore, even if the first window 900 and the second window 910 are constructed using different materials than the dichroic beam splitter 800 and the emission filter 810, respectively, they can be configured to correct image shifting with the same amount of refraction by adjusting their thickness, angle, etc., so that the two images effectively overlap.

[0207] With this configuration, the fluorescence path and the brightfield path correspond to each other, eliminating the need for additional correction or compensation between the two images.

[0208] Furthermore, according to one embodiment, various brightfield channels can be added and used without being limited to shifting by the fluorescence channel, it is more economical than using a specially designed fluorescence filter block that prevents refraction of the fluorescence light path, and relatively faster results can be obtained because there is no need to perform image processing to compensate for shifting or to physically move the stage.

[0209] In one embodiment, the sample imaging optical system of the present invention may include, without limitation, any optical system that requires the use of fluorescence images and bright-field images together, such as a fluorescence microscope, a live cell imaging device, a digital pathology scanner device, etc., and may include the filter block assembly described above, with reference to Figures 1 to 7.

[0210] In one embodiment, the sample imaging optical system may include an objective lens, a receptacle positioned above the objective lens, a fluorescence channel and a brightfield channel positioned within the receptacle, and an eyepiece positioned above the receptacle.

[0211] The eyepiece lens includes a first CCD for performing bright-field imaging of the target and a second CCD for performing fluorescence imaging of the target, and the first and second CCDs operate in synchronization, enabling simultaneous bright-field imaging and fluorescence imaging. In one embodiment of the sample imaging optical system of this disclosure, light that has passed sequentially from a second light source through a notch filter, an objective lens, a first dichroic split, and a second dichroic split is received by the first CCD to perform bright-field imaging. Simultaneously, if a fluorescence image signal is generated within the cells of the target by light reflected from the first light source by the first dichroic split and irradiated onto the target, this light is focused by the objective lens, reflected by the second dichroic split, and received by the second CCD through an emission filter, enabling fluorescence imaging.

[0212] In one embodiment, a sample imaging optical system can be used to generate an image in which a bright-field image and a fluorescence image are superimposed on each other at the same position in the xy plane.

[0213] Furthermore, it allows for the addition and use of various color fluorescence channels without being limited to brightfield shifting, is more economical than using specially designed fluorescence filter blocks that prevent refraction of the fluorescence light path, and can produce relatively faster results because it eliminates the need for image processing to compensate for shifting or physically moving the stage.

[0214] Furthermore, an image correction device using a filter block according to one embodiment of this disclosure can acquire a fluorescence image based on a fluorescence filter that forms a fluorescence channel, acquire a bright-field image based on a bright-field filter that forms a bright-field channel corresponding to the fluorescence channel, and acquire a corrected image based on the fluorescence image and the bright-field image. In addition, an image correction device using a filter block can identify the degree of refraction by comparing the fluorescence image and the wide-field image, and acquire a corrected image by shifting at least one of the fluorescence image and the wide-field image based on the degree of refraction. Software processing may be used when shifting at least one of the fluorescence image and the wide-field image.

[0215] Figure 13a is an illustrative diagram of a filter block assembly integrated with a light source according to one embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 13b is a cross-sectional view of Figure 13a along line AA; and Figure 13c is an illustrative diagram of the filter block assembly of Figure 13a viewed from another angle.

[0216] Referring to Figures 13a to 13c, the filter block assembly may include a housing 600, a plurality (i.e., two or more) fluorescent filter sets 700 housed in the housing 600, and a light source 300 assembled in the housing 600 to provide illumination. In one embodiment, the filter block assembly may form a fluorescent channel and a bright-field channel. For example, as illustrated in Figure 13a, a fluorescent channel may be formed on both sides of the housing 600 by two fluorescent filter sets, with a bright-field channel in the center.

[0217] Throughout this disclosure, the terms “integrated” or “assembly” used in relation to “housing” may refer to a configuration in which each component, i.e., a fluorescence channel, light source, brightfield channel, etc., is not separately separated but is integrated into a single housing. However, each component may be configured to independently perform its own function or effect, even if it is physically integrated. Thus, a fluorescence filter block assembly according to one embodiment may not include a plate or carriage. That is, a filter block assembly according to one embodiment may consist of a single housing and may not require a separate structure to house each filter set or filter block.

[0218] In one embodiment, one or more fluorescent filter sets 700 are provided and integrated with the housing 600 to realize one or more fluorescent channels.

[0219] In one embodiment, the fluorescent filter set 700 may include three fluorescent components, which may include an excitation filter 710, a dichroic beam splitter 720, and an emission filter 730. Furthermore, the filter set 700 may be arranged sequentially in the order of excitation filter 710 - dichroic beam splitter 720 - emission filter 730 relative to the light source 300. The three fluorescent components included in the filter set 700 can also be realized in various shapes, such as circular, polygonal, star-shaped, or elliptical. However, the fact that the fluorescent filter set 700 is composed of the three fluorescent components mentioned above is merely an example and is not limited thereto. Any other component that can extract specific wavelengths from a mixture of various wavelengths of light can be used without limitation. For example, filters that transmit light with a constant transmittance regardless of wavelength, correction filters that adjust light intensity in a specific wavelength range, and broadband filters can also be used. Furthermore, depending on the frequency range in which the light is transmitted, filters for the infrared region, the visible region, the ultraviolet region, and vacuum ultraviolet region may be used.

[0220] In one embodiment, the light source 300 can be fixed to the optical module 310, and the optical module 310 can be assembled to one end of the housing 600 to form an integral part with the housing 600.

[0221] In one embodiment, a focusing lens 740 may be further installed between the light source 300 and the fluorescent filter set 700, for example, the excitation filter 710. Furthermore, one or more focusing lenses 740 may be installed to further enhance the focusing quality.

[0222] In one embodiment, the housing 600 may be configured to slide linearly to allow for the alternating use of multiple fluorescence channels. For example, the housing 600 may allow for the alternating use of two fluorescence channels and one brightfield channel. To this end, the housing 600 may further include a drive motor and a sliding guide. For example, the housing 600 may have a motor base 610 fixed to one side of the surface on which the optical module 310 is assembled, and a sliding guide 620 may be integrally fixed to the opposite side of the surface on which the motor base 610 is installed.

[0223] In one embodiment, the sliding guide 620 may be assembled to slide along a sliding groove of a coupling member fixed to a receptacle.

[0224] In one embodiment, a drive motor is securely fixed to a motor base 610, and a pinion 630 is fixed to the motor shaft of the drive motor. A rack 640 is fixed to the corresponding position of the pinion 630 of the coupling member, and the pinion 630 meshes with the rack 640. As a result, when the drive motor is driven, the pinion 630 rotates and moves relative to the fixed rack 640, so that the housing 600 to which the drive motor is fixed slides, allowing the position of multiple fluorescence channels to be changed. That is, if observation is being made with the first fluorescence channel and it is necessary to switch to the second fluorescence channel for observation, the drive motor is operated to move the housing 600. This positions the second fluorescence channel in an observable position, allowing the sample to be observed with the second fluorescence channel.

[0225] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a filter block assembly is provided which combines a two-channel or more fluorescence filter set and a light source, which is improved to enable miniaturization by not using a carriage in the sample imaging optical system and applying a large number of filter sets to a single housing, as well as integrating the light source into the housing and forming a single main body, thereby enabling a smooth and accurate optical system without power supply failure.

[0226] One embodiment of the present disclosure inserts and fixes the dichroic beam splitter into a side insertion port, which may reduce the likelihood of assembly errors compared to a separate type. Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, logistics or inventory management is simplified, assembly is possible, and productivity may be higher compared to a separate type. Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the dichroic beam splitter is fixed in close contact with the reference surface by an elastic member, which may be advantageous in terms of durability against vibration and shock. One embodiment of the present disclosure may also be realized in the form of a recording medium containing computer-executable instructions, such as program modules executed by a computer. Computer-readable media may be any available medium that can be accessed by a computer, and include all volatile and non-volatile media, separate and non-separable media. Furthermore, computer-readable media may include all computer storage media and communication media. Computer storage media include all volatile and non-volatile, separate and non-separable media realized by any method or technique for storing information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Communication media typically include computer-readable instructions, data structures, or program modules, and include any information transmission medium.

[0227] The descriptions of this disclosure set forth herein are illustrative, and a person with ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs will understand that the invention can be readily modified into other specific forms without altering the technical idea or essential features of the invention. Therefore, the embodiments described herein should be understood to be illustrative and not limiting in all respects. For example, each component described as a single type may be implemented in a distributed manner, and similarly, components described as distributed may be implemented in a combined manner.

[0228] The scope of this disclosure is indicated by the claims set forth below rather than by the detailed description above, and all modified or altered forms derived from the meaning and scope of the claims, as well as the concept of equivalents thereof, should be interpreted as being included within the scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A fluorescence channel including a first light source, A brightfield channel including a second light source, This is a sample imaging optical system that includes, The first light source is irradiated onto the sample, and the light emitted from the sample passes through the fluorescence channel and is refracted to generate a fluorescence image of the sample. The light from the second light source passes through the sample, then passes through the bright-field channel and is refracted to generate a bright-field image of the sample. A sample imaging optical system in which the fluorescence image and the brightfield image overlap by 70% or more.

2. The sample imaging optical system according to claim 1, wherein the bright-field channel includes one or more windows that cause light from the second light source that has passed through the sample to be refracted as it passes through the bright-field channel.

3. The sample imaging optical system according to claim 2, wherein one or more of the windows are made of a transparent material.

4. The sample imaging optical system according to claim 1, wherein the fluorescence channel includes a dichroic beam splitter and an emission filter, and when the first light source is irradiated onto the sample, the light emitted from the sample is refracted as it passes through the dichroic beam splitter and the emission filter to generate a fluorescence image.

5. The sample imaging optical system according to claim 1, wherein the bright-field channel includes a first window and a second window, and the light from the second light source that has passed through the sample is refracted as it passes through the first window and the second window to generate a bright-field image.

6. The fluorescence channel includes a dichroic beam splitter and an emission filter, and when the first light source is irradiated onto a sample, the light emitted from the sample is refracted as it passes through the dichroic beam splitter and the emission filter to generate a fluorescence image. The sample imaging optical system according to claim 1, wherein the bright-field channel includes a first window and a second window, and the light from the second light source that has passed through the sample is refracted as it passes through the first window and the second window to generate a bright-field image.

7. The first window is positioned in a location corresponding to the dichroic beam splitter, The sample imaging optical system according to claim 6, wherein the second window is positioned in a location corresponding to the emission filter.

8. The thickness, material, and angle of the first and second windows are as follows: The sample imaging optical system according to claim 6, wherein the fluorescence image and the brightfield image are selected to overlap by 70% or more.

9. Housing and A side insertion opening is formed on the side of the housing while forming a predetermined angle with the bottom surface of the housing, A reference surface formed on the inside of the aforementioned side insertion opening, A support surface formed on the inside of the side insertion opening so as to face the reference surface, Includes a side insertion opening cover that opens and closes the side insertion opening, A filter block assembly characterized in that a beam splitter can be inserted or replaced through the aforementioned side insertion port.

10. The aforementioned side insertion opening is: The filter block assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that an elastic member can be inserted together with the beam splitter.

11. The aforementioned beam splitter is The filter block assembly according to claim 10, wherein the elastic member adheres closely to the reference surface.

12. The beam splitter is a dichroic beam splitter. The aforementioned reference surface is The filter block assembly according to claim 9, wherein the dichroic beam splitter is formed to form an angle of 45 degrees ± 1.5 degrees with at least one of an excitation filter or an emission filter.

13. The housing has a first opening for mounting an emission filter, A second opening for attaching an excitation filter, The excitation filter coupling portion formed by screw threads on the surface of the filter block assembly of the first opening that is exposed to the outside, The second opening includes a discharge filter coupling portion formed by screw threads on the surface of the filter block assembly that is exposed to the outside, The filter block assembly according to claim 12, wherein the surface on which the first opening is formed, the surface on which the second opening is formed, and the side surface are adjacent to each other.

14. The filter block assembly includes a plurality of fluorescence channels and one or more brightfield channels. The side insertion port, the reference surface, the support surface, and the side insertion port cover are provided for each of the multiple fluorescence channels. At least one of the plurality of fluorescence channels is assembled with a first light source, and light from the second light source is passed through one or more bright-field channels. The first light source is irradiated onto the sample, and the light emitted from the sample is refracted after passing through at least one of the plurality of fluorescence channels to generate a fluorescence image of the sample. The light from the second light source passes through the sample, and after passing through at least one of the one or more bright-field channels, it is refracted to generate a bright-field image of the sample. The filter block assembly according to claim 9, wherein the fluorescence image and the brightfield image overlap by 70% or more.

Images