Microimaging device

Abstract

The present subject matter relates to a microimaging device. The microimaging device is capable of handling any type of microscopy by changing an external light source within a light carrier arm of the microimaging device.

Description

MICROIMAGING DEVICETECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present subject matter relates to digital imaging technologies for portable imaging systems or devices. More specifically, the present subject matter relates to portable imaging systems or devices with integrated digital multimode microimaging systems for detecting or analyzing micron-sized objects.BACKGROUND

[0002] Microscopy is a technical field that involves the use of microscopes to view objects and areas of objects that cannot be seen with the naked eye. Optical microscopes use visible light and an assembly of optical lenses to magnify images of small objects. A subset of microscopy is microimaging that involves capturing and processing of images from a microscope. This may involve using a combination of devices such as digital cameras, sensors, and processing unit(s) to capture, process, and analyze the images. The images can be used for a variety of purposes, including research, diagnosis, and education.

[0003] With the evolving digital technologies, devices such as portable imaging systems and other portable computing devices, with their digital imaging capabilities, may represent themselves as the potential candidates for the purpose of microimaging. In general, a portable computing device is essentially a compact computing device equipped with a digital camera, a display, a variety of sensors, audio-visual interfaces, and capabilities for internet access and connectivity. All these features are integrated into a user-friendly package that is continually updated with new software and applications.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0004] The following detailed description of the present subject matter is better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the present subject matter, exemplary constructions of thepresent subject matter are shown in the drawings. However, the present subject matter is not limited to the specific structures disclosed herein. The description of a structure referenced by a numeral in a drawing is applicable to the description of that structure shown by that same numeral in any subsequent drawing herein.

[0005] FIG. 1A illustrates a microimaging device, in accordance to an example;

[0006] FIG. IB illustrates a microimaging device, in accordance to another example;

[0007] FIG. 1C illustrates a microimaging device, in accordance to another example;

[0008] FIG. 2 illustrates a first light source and an optical lens assembly of a microimaging device, in accordance to an example;

[0009] FIG. 3 illustrates a light source arm of a microimaging device, in accordance to an example;

[0010] FIG. 4 illustrates a second light source of a microimaging device, in accordance to an example;

[0011] FIGS. 5A to 5G illustrate various second light sources, in accordance to an example;

[0012] FIG. 5H illustrates different design filter patterns for obtaining field effects, in accordance to an example;

[0013] FIG. 6A illustrates a focusing unit of a microimaging device, in accordance to an example;

[0014] FIG. 6B illustrates a side view of a lifting unit of a focusing unit, in accordance to an example;

[0015] FIG. 6C illustrates a top view of a lifting unit of a focusing unit, in accordance to an example;

[0016] FIG. 6D illustrates an angled view of a lifting unit of a focusing unit, in accordance to an example;

[0017] FIG. 7A illustrates a second lifting mechanism of a focusing unit, in accordance to an example;

[0018] FIGS.7B-7C illustrate side views of a second lifting mechanism, in accordance to an example;

[0019] FIG. 8 illustrates a third lifting mechanism, in accordance to an example;

[0020] FIG. 9 illustrates cross-sectional top view of a microimaging device, in accordance to an example; and

[0021] FIGS. 10A-10I illustrate images obtained using a microimaging device for various samples, in accordance to an example.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] In general, an optical microscope, which may be an assembly of optical lenses, magnifies images of small objects present in a sample using light of different characteristics. Optical microscopes find their utilization in fields like, but not limited to, microbiology, microelectronics, nanophysics, biotechnology, and pharmaceutical research. However, such optical microscopes are not portable. As a result, conventional portable microscopy devices were developed. These conventional microscopy devices may include an attachable microscopy device that is attachable to an imaging device, such as, smartphone, tablet, or other portable imaging systems. However, the conventional portable microscopy device may suffer from limitations, such as, bulky optical imaging system, imprecise control of parameters such as, light intensity, sample and light source distance, and focus. Further, different characteristics of microscopy such as light field, filter field, dark field, and polarized filter field may require separate conventional portable microscopy device of individual light source. As a result, conventional portable microscopy devices are expensive and also are limited in providing qualitative and quantitative estimation of any of the samples or objects for various applications in the fields such as education, analytics, diagnosis, and research.

[0023] Therefore, a compact multiple-mode microscopy device is desirable that is portable, user-friendly, facilitates precisely controlled automatedoperation, and is usable for a wide range of applications including, but not limited to, qualitative and quantitative estimation of any of the samples or objects.

[0024] Detailed embodiments of the present subject matter are disclosed herein, however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the present subject matter, which may be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific functional and structural details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present subject matter in virtually any appropriately detailed structure.

[0025] The present subject matter overcomes the aforesaid drawbacks of conventional devices. The objects, features, and advantages of the present subject matter will now be described in greater detail. Also, the following description includes various specific details and is to be regarded as merely exemplary. Accordingly, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that without departing from the scope and spirit of the present disclosure and its various embodiments there may be any number of changes and modifications described herein.

[0026] It must also be noted that as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an," and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Although any systems similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of embodiments of the present subject matter, the preferred systems are now described.

[0027] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the present subject matter belongs.

[0028] The word “system” and “device” may be used interchangeably through the disclosure. In addition to the features and components described herein, the systems or the devices may include one or more other components, such as, a memory, an interface, a display screen, an image capturing unit, a graphical user interface.

[0029] Throughout the disclosure, term ‘assembly’ or ‘smartphone’ or ‘smartphone with integrated microscopy features’ used herein refers to aninstrument that contain a built-in camera lens assembly, a camera, and a display screen to produce a simple microscope platform; a digital image capturing assembly; or a device for qualitative or quantitative estimation. The terms ‘assembly’, ‘smartphone’ and ‘smartphone with integrated microscopy features’ can be used interchangeably throughout the specification.

[0030] Throughout the disclosure, term ‘other device’ or ‘other device with integrated microscopy features’ used herein refers to an image capturing assembly, a digital portable device for image capturing or any of digital device for observation of object. The terms ‘other device’ and ‘other device with integrated microscopy features’ can be used interchangeably throughout the specification.

[0031] The present subject matter discloses a microimaging device for enabling integrated microscopy in a portable imaging device, such as a smartphone and other devices. Further, the described microimaging device provides integrated microscopy features such as, but not limited to, manual or automated digitally controlled focusing, multimode such as light field, dark field and filter field mode, batch or continuous sample holding system, manual or automated digitally controlled slide observing system, variable depth of field, resolution, field of view, and magnification. The microimaging device is compact, portable, and easy to use. The microimaging device may therefore increase the flexibility to view a wide range of objects using the smartphones and the portable imaging systems. The smartphones and other portable imaging systems with the integrated microscopy feature makes them accessible to users, such as researchers, pupils, and professionals for education purposes, onsite diagnosis, and in qualitative and quantitative analysis of micron-size objects. The term “micron” herein may be understood as micrometer (pm).

[0032] The microimaging device of the present subject matter is used in a portable imaging system. The portable imaging system may include, but is not limited to, a smartphone, a mobile phone, a portable computing device, a portable medical device, a portable microscope, or a portable analytical instrument. The portable computing device may include, but is not limited to, a laptop, a netbook, a notebook, a sub-notebook, a tablet computing device, and an Ultrabook computer.The portable medical device may include, but is not limited to, a small pocket size medical device, an analytical instrument, a diagnosis device, and a quantitative and qualitative analytical instrument. The portable microscope may include, but is not limited to, a pocket size portable microscope and a portable digital microscope device.

[0033] The microimaging device of the present subject matter comprises multiple elements, which are sequentially arranged from the object side to the image side for the microscopy functionality in portable imaging systems, such as the smartphones and / or other devices. In an implementation of the present subject matter, the microimaging device includes a housing. The housing is to accommodate all the components of the microimaging device either internally or externally. The microimaging device further includes an optical lens assembly disposed within the housing. The optical lens assembly comprises one or more lens elements inside the housing and an aperture positioned on a top surface of the housing. The one or more lens elements in the microimaging device may provide microscopy features such as variable optical magnification, resolution, field of view, and high depth of field. The microimaging device further includes an image sensor disposed within the housing to image an object in a field of view of the optical lens assembly and a sample holder to hold a sample over the aperture of the optical lens assembly. In an example, the image sensor may be a camera. In another example, the image sensor may be a part of a camera. A focusing unit is provided with a focusing mechanism to adjust the one or more lens elements of the optical lens assembly for focusing while imaging the sample. In an example, the focusing mechanism is provided for controlled focusing of object at various depth of fields. The focusing unit has a casing, where the optical lens assembly of the microimaging device is disposed within the casing of the focusing unit. The focusing mechanism is configured to switch between fine and coarse movements for a dual-mode focusing setup.

[0034] The housing includes an internal light source disposed inside the housing and in proximity to the optical lens assembly. The microimaging device further includes a light carrier arm disposed on the top surface of the housing. Thelight carrier unit has a receiving slot to detachably accommodate an external light source. The external light source is to be selected based on the type of microscopy to be performed. The light carrier arm is to position the external light source axially in line with the aperture of the optical lens assembly when the microimaging device is in operation. In an example, the light carrier arm is compact, foldable, and adjustable with a fixed or detachable arrangement for changing different light sources as per desired by a user. In an example, the light carrier arm may be without any detachable arrangement. In an example, the light source may be for a light field such as LED with or without optical elements or diffuser arrangement, dark field and filter field arrangement. In an example, the type of microscopy is one of dark field microscopy, filter field microscopy, light field microscopy, and polarized filter microscopy.

[0035] In an example, the optical lens assembly may have one or more of the following characteristics such as an optical magnification in a range of about IX to about 7.8X; an airy radius in a range of about 0.783 micron to about 23.25 micron; a depth of field in a range of about 2.847 micron to about 338 micron; a numerical aperture in a range of about 0.015 to about 0.438; a half field of view in a range of about 13 degrees to about 70 degrees; and a length in a range of about 5.511 millimeter (mm) to about 57 mm. In an example, the optical assembly may be contained in a lens barrel. The lens barrel may be further placed in a voice coil motor for fine movement of the lens barrel to facilitate focusing. In another example, the optical lens assembly may include a filter for filter field microscopy.

[0036] In an example, the internal light source is a first light source for light field microscopy. The first light source is placed adjacent to the optical lens assembly to emit light such that the emitted light is incident on a sample held within a sample holder, when the sample holder is placed over the optical lens assembly. In an example, the sample holder is designed for multiple field characteristics. The sample holder may have a top side and bottom side. The top or bottom side may be allow light of specific wavelengths to pass. This enables observation of objects that are emitting the light of the specific wavelength. In an example, at least one side (a bottom side or a top side or both sides) of the sample holder have wavelength-specific characteristics for filter field or fluorescence characteristics. The sample holder may have a filter stacked on the top or bottom side. This allows the sample holder to act as a specific color filter or a specific wavelength filter. In another example, the sample holder may have at least one compartment, at least a single channel, and a continuous or batch sample holding system for observing single or multiple objects in different light fields such as light field, dark field, filter field or polarized field. In an example, the first light source may include at least one light emitting diode (LED) placed at a circumferential boundary of the optical lens assembly. In another example, the first light source may include at least two or more LEDs having different wavelengths. The two or more LEDs with different wavelengths may enable field microscopy, for example, dark field microscopy, florescence / filter field microscopy etc. In an example, the at least one LED may be placed such that the light is emitted in a form of a ring. In an example, the at least one LED is used with at least one light modification element. The light modification element may be one of diffuser, light guiding element, wavelength filter, and polarized filter. In an example, the at least one LED may be a white LED to enable light field microscopy. In another example, the at least one LED may be of single wavelength. In another example, the at least one LED may be of multiple wavelengths. In an example, the temperature of the white LED may be in the range of 3000K to 8000K. In another example, the first light source may create a dark field and filter field based on the angle of placement of the at least one LED. In an example, the at least one LED is placed at an angle such that the light reflects from a top light source surface. In such a case, the at least one LED provides a bright field illumination. In another example, the at least one LED is placed at an angle such that light does not reach or reflects from the top light source surface. In such a case, the at least one LED creates a dark field illumination or a contrast illumination or a filter field without a bright background. In an example, the at least one LED may provide a filter field (fluorescence). In the filter field (fluorescence), the light is passed through the sample. As a result, the molecules of the sample get excited and emit light of a specific wavelength. In an example, the specific wavelength is in a range from 300 nm to 750nm depending on the molecules of thesample). The length of specific wavelength is passed through an emission filter which may be placed in the optical lens assembly. Therefore, the sample is observed in the florescence or filter field. In an example, the microimaging device may include an external light source arm for light field microscopy. In an example, the external light source arm is foldable. In another example, the external light source arm may include at least one light emitting diode (LED) mounted on top of the external light source arm.

[0037] The conventional portable microscopy device may one only include a single light source. As a result, multiple conventional portable microscopy devices may be required to work with different light source which may be expensive for a user. For example, a separate conventional portable microscopy device for a white light source and a separate conventional portable microscopy device for a light source of a particular wavelength. The microimaging device of the present disclosure may include a detachable light source arrangement can expand the use of a single light source to multiple light sources in a single compact microimaging device and a need for separate microscopes for the individual light source is eliminated. Such arrangements enhance the applicability of light sources for users for multiple light sources in one arrangement.

[0038] In an example, the microimaging device may be embedded in the portable imaging system at any location forming patterns of various shapes, such as circular, hexagonal, square, or any other geometrical shape.

[0039] In an example, the image may be made from an integrated circuit technology or a photosensor technology. The image sensor may be, but is not limited to, a complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) sensor or a (charge coupled device) CDD sensor. In an example, the image sensor may have one or more of the following characteristics such as a pixel size in a range of 0.1 micron to about 10 micron and provides a resolution in a range of about 0.5 megapixel (MP) to about 200 MP.

[0040] The present subject matter is further explained in detail with the help of drawings.

[0041] Referring to figures, Fig. 1 A shows a microimaging device 100, in accordance with an example. In the example, the microimaging device 100 may be attached to a portable imaging system. In another example, the microimaging device 100 may be embedded inside a portable imaging system, for example, while manufacturing the portable imaging system. The microimaging device may replace the existing camera lens assembly within the portable imaging system or may be embedded as an additional unit for enabling microscopy feature in the portable imaging system. The portable imaging system may include, but is not limited to, a smartphone, a mobile phone, a portable computing device, a portable medical device, a portable microscope, or a portable analytical instrument. The portable computing device may include, but is not limited to, a laptop, a netbook, a notebook, a sub-notebook, a tablet computing device, and an Ultrabook computer. The portable medical device may include, but is not limited to, a small pocket size medical device, an analytical instrument, a diagnosis device, and a quantitative and qualitative analytical instrument. The portable microscope may include, but is not limited to, a pocket size portable microscope and a portable digital microscopy device.

[0042] In an example, the microimaging device 100 may include an optical lens assembly 102 with one or more lens elements. The one or more lens elements in the microimaging device 100 may provide microscopy features such as variable optical magnification, resolution, field of view, and high depth of field. The microimaging device 100 may include an image sensor (not shown in Figures) adjacent to the optical lens assembly 102 to image an object in a field of view of the optical lens assembly 102. In an example, the image sensor may be a camera. In another example, the image sensor may be a part of a camera.

[0043] In an example, the microimaging device 100 may include a focusing unit (not shown in FIG. 1) with focusing mechanism for controlled focusing of object at various depth of fields. The focusing unit is surrounded by a housing 104 and a housing cover 106 that covers the top of the focusing unit. The optical lens assembly 102 of the microimaging device 100 may be disposed within the housing 104 of the focusing unit. In an example, the housing cover 106 isdetachable. The housing 104 provides protection to the focusing unit and the housing cover 106 protects the optical lens assembly 102 from physical stress and chemical stress. The housing cover 106 may comprises a transparent polymer or glass or composite material with physical and chemical stress resistance properties. The housing cover 106 may have varying thicknesses from 0.05 mm to 4 mm. The focusing unit is to operate the optical lens assembly 102 for focusing while imaging an object. The focusing unit is further described in detail with reference to FIG. 6.

[0044] In an example, the microimaging device 100 comprises a first light source 108 arranged within a periphery of the microimaging device 100. The first light source 108 may be placed adjacent to the optical lens assembly 102 to emit light such that the emitted light is incident on a sample held within a sample holder, when the sample holder is placed over the optical lens assembly 102. In an example, the first light source 108 may include at least one light emitting diode (LED) placed at a circumferential boundary of the optical lens assembly 102. In an example, the at least one LED may be placed such that the light is emitted in a form of a ring. In an example, the at least one LED is used with at least one of a diffuser, a light guiding element, a wavelength filter, and a polarized filter. In an example, the filter or the diffuser is located peripherally in the ring-shaped arrangement or any other geometrical shape formed by the first light source 108. In an example, the diffuser has a thickness in the range of 0.05 mm to 8 mm. In an example, the first light source 108 may be a white light source or a light source of specific wavelength. In an example, the temperature of the white LED may be in the range of 3000K to 8000K. In another example, the microimaging device 100 comprises another light source in a light source arm 110.

[0045] In an example, the light source arm 110 may be detachable. In another example, the light source arm 110 may be foldable. In another case, the light source arm 110 may exist completely separate from the microimaging device 100. The light source arm 110 may magnetically connect with the microimaging device 100. The light source arm 110 may have a L shape. The folding and unfolding characteristics of the light source give compactness and portability. In FIG. 1A, the light source arm 110 is in a folded state. The folded state mayhereinafter be referred to as non-operating state. The light source arm 110 in the non-operating state makes the entire microimaging device 100 compact and portable. In an example, the dimension of microimaging device 100 may be in a range of combinations of sizes, such as, 20 mm to 100 mm (Length) * 20 mm to 100 mm (Width) and 10 mm to 50mm (Height). Therefore, the microimaging device 100 may be carried in a pocket or bag as compared to the conventional portable microscopy devices which are bulky in nature and difficult to carry. In an example, the housing cover 106 may include a first slot (not shown in Figures) and a plurality of second slots (not shown in Figures). The first slot accommodates the first light source 108 and the optical lens assembly 102. The plurality of second slots accommodates one or more indicators mounted on the focusing unit. The one or more indicators may include a battery indicator 116, a system indicator 118, and a position indicator 120. The battery indicator 116 may show the battery level in terms of high battery, medium battery, and low battery through different Red-Green-Blue (RGB) colours on the microimaging device 100. In an example, the same information of battery level, and charging can be displayed virtually on a digital device, for example, on a software or applications on a digital device such as mobile phone, computer, laptop, that may connect to the microimaging device 100 via a connecting port 122 located in the housing 104. In an example, the indicators may indicate various inputs of the microimaging device 100 including light intensity, focusing controlling, device health, storage, life and charging of a battery, type of field, and connection status with respect to a connected digital device. The digital device connected to the microimaging device 100 is hereinafter referred to as the connected digital device. In an example, the connecting port 122 may be a Universal Serial Bus (USB) port. In an example, the system indicator 118 may be used to indicate that the microimaging device 100 is properly connected to the connected digital device. In an example, the system indicator 118 may be used to indicate that the microimaging device 100 is compatible with the connected digital device. In an example, the system indicator 118 may be a micro light emitting diode (LED). The position indicator 120 may indicate a maximum limit for fine movement (in the upward direction and the downward direction) of a focusing platform (not shownin FIG. 1) in the housing 104. In an example, the position indicator may be a LED or one or more LEDs mounted on the housing 104. In an example, the position indicator 120 may appear digitally on the connected digital device, for example, the position indication may appear as a part of a digital application or software installed in a mobile device. The microimaging device 100 may include an actuator 124 that controls the movement of the focusing platform. In an example, the actuator 124 may be a knob. The actuator 124 disposed on the housing 104 is for user control of device functions. In an example, the digital interface port 122 integrated into the housing 104 may be for establishing a connection with an external digital device. The digital interface port 122 enables transmission of captured microscopic image data from the microimaging device 100 to the external digital device for processing, storage, or display. The digital interface port 122 is configured to connect to a smartphone, tablet, computer, or other portable electronic device.

[0046] FIG. IB shows a microimaging device 100 with a light source arm 110 in an unfolded state in accordance to another example. The unfolded state may hereinafter be alternatively referred to as an operating state. In an example, the light source arm 110 is comprised of a first arm 112 and a second arm 114. In an example, the first arm 112 has two ends. Similarly, the second arm 114 has two ends, i.e., a first end and a second end. In an example, one of the two ends of the first arm 112 is connected to the first end of the second arm 114 through at least one connecting rod 126. The first arm 112 is movable along the at least one connecting rod 126 in an upward-downward direction. The second arm 114, via the second end of the second arm 114, is connected to the housing 104 through connecting means. In an example, the connecting means may be a screw. In another example, the connecting means may be a rod or one or more rods. In an example, the second arm 114 is movable along the second end in an angle of 0 degree to 90 degree. When the second arm 114 is at 90 degrees with respect to the second end, the light source arm 110 is in the operating state. When the second arm 114 is at 0 degree with respect to the second end, the light source arm 110 is in the non-operating state. The first arm 112 may include a third slot (not shown in FIG. IB) in which a second light source 128 is inserted. The second light source 128 may emit light directly on the sampleholder, the light may pass through the sample holder and then may go to the optical lens assembly 102. The sample holder may be placed between the light source arm 110 and the housing cover 106 and directly above the optical lens assembly 102. The sample holder may have at least one compartment, at least a single channel, and a continuous or batch sample holding system for observing single or multiple objects in different light fields such as light field, dark field, filter field or polarized field. The sample holder may have X-axis and Y-axis directional movement in a horizontal plane. The sample holder may be held by the external mechanical platform (not shown in Figures) for the controlled manual or automated movement of the sample holder in the X-axis and Y-axis directions. The mechanical platform may be attached externally in place of the sample holder and the sample holder is mounted as an external unit to the entire microimaging device 100. In an example, at least one surface (a bottom surface or a top surface or both surfaces) of the sample holder have wavelength-specific characteristics for filter field or fluorescence characteristics. In an example, the filter of the sample holder may turn the top surface as black for dark field microscopy. In an example, the movement of the platform may be manually controlled or is controlled by a digital device, software or application. The automated movement and digital control of the sample holder provides a user-friendly way to scan the sample in a precise manner. The information collected after scanning the entire sample or partial sample area helps to analyse or observe the sample quickly by users. The information may also be used for detection or qualitative and quantitative analysis by utilizing existing databases or algorithms or software in the connected digital devices. The information may further be stored and shared to one or more devices over a network, for example, by using cloud storage and cloud sharing.

[0047] In an example, the first arm 112 and the second arm 114 may include a first magnet and a second magnet, respectively, to facilitate positioning of the first arm 112 on the second arm 114. The first magnet and the second magnet may collectively be referred to as magnets. The positioning of the first arm 112 and the second arm 114 using magnets is described in detail in reference to FIG. 3.

[0048] FIG. 1C illustrates a light source arm 110 with a first arm 112 in an adjusted position, in accordance to an example. As shown in FIG. 1C, the positioning of the first arm 112 along the second arm 114 is adjustable. The first arm 112 is movable along the at least one connecting rod 126. In an example, the user may manually move the first arm 112 to adjust its position and thereby adjusting the focus of the microimaging device 100 as desired. Once the user stops manually moving the first arm, it will be locked to desired position because of the action of the magnets.

[0049] FIG. 2 illustrates an arrangement of an optical lens assembly and a first light source in accordance to an example. The optical lens assembly is the same as the optical lens assembly 102 of FIGS. 1A to 1C. The first light source is the same as the first light source 108 of FIGS. 1A to 1C. In the example, one or more of the LEDs of the first light source 108 may be located at different angles (0) in a range from 10 degrees to 90 degrees with respect to a reflecting surface of the first light source 108 surrounding the optical lens assembly 102. For example, the light emitted from the one or more LEDs of the first light source 108 may get reflected from the reflecting surface at an angle of 60 degrees and fall on the optical lens assembly 102. In another example, the light passing through the sample holder does not reflect from the reflecting surface. As a result, a dark field illumination or a contrast illumination or a filter field without a bright background is obtained.

[0050] FIG. 3 illustrates a light source arm in an operating state, in accordance to an example. The light source arm is the light source arm 110 of FIGS. 1 A to 1C. The first arm 112 comprises the second light source 128. In an example, one end of the first arm 112 is connected to one end of the second arm 114 through at least one connecting rod 126. In an example, the first arm 112 has an upward- downward movement along the at least one connecting rod 126. The second arm 114 is further connected to the housing 104 through connecting means 130, such as, a rod. The first arm 112 is positioned along the at least one connecting rod 126. To facilitate the positioning of the first arm 112 on the second arm 114, along the at least one connecting rod 126, the light source arm 110 may include a first magnet 132 and a second magnet 134. The first arm 112 may include the first magnet 132and the second arm 114 may include the second magnet 134. The first magnet 132 and the second magnet 134 may collectively be referred to as magnets. The magnets provide support to position the first arm 112 on the second arm 114 at a certain position which is manually adjustable. With the magnets, free movement of the first arm 112 on the second arm 114 is avoided. The first magnet 132 may magnetically couple to the second magnet 134. With the magnetic coupling between the magnets, the first arm 112 remains in a fixed position with respect to the second arm 114. A mechanical force exerted by the user to a threshold value may overcome the magnetic coupling between the first magnet 132 and the second magnet 134. The user may therefore be able to easily adjust the position of the first arm 112 on the second arm 114. Once the user adjusts the first arm 112 to a desired position, the first arm 112 remains in that position due to the magnetic coupling between the first magnet 132 and the second magnet 134. The magnets may also reduce the free movement of the first arm 112 with respect to the second arm 114 when the light source arm 110 is in the non-operating state. The conventional portable microscopy devices may include an external light source arm that may fold to facilitate compactness. However, such external light source arm may include foldable arms that may lock fit into each other using screws and rods. The user may have to spend extra time to adjust the position of the foldable arms by manually screwing the foldable arms tight. The extra components such as screws and rods may increase the bulkiness of the external light source arm which is not desirable. Additionally, over a period of time, components, i.e., the foldable arms, the screws, the rods may deteriorate due to usage that may involve wear n tear of the components. As a result, the foldable arms may not be able to hold their positions firmly. By using magnets for positioning the first arm 112 on the second arm 114, the light source arm 110 overcomes the above limitations of the conventional portable microscopy devices. With the magnets, the user is not required to spend extra time fixing the position of the first arm 112. Further, by eliminating the requirement of screws and rods, the bulkiness of the light source arm 110 reduces. Since no wear n tear takes while adjusting the position of the first arm 112 on the second arm 114, the life of thelight source arm 110 is improved. Furthermore, ability of the first arm 112 to remain in the same position for a longer duration is improved.

[0051] The light source arm 110 may include a fourth slot 136 for connecting wires from the light source arm 110 to an electrical printed circuit board (PCB). In another example, the connecting wires may directly pass through a hollow connecting screw.

[0052] FIG. 4 illustrates a secondary light source of a light source arm, in accordance to an example. The light source arm is the light source arm 110. In an example, the second light source 128 is inserted in the third slot 138. The third slot is a receiving slot and can be referred to as 138. As shown in FIG. 4, the second light source 128 is above the optical lens assembly 102. The second light source 128 emits light directly on the sample holder, the light passes through the sample holder and goes to the optical lens assembly 102. The second light source 128 is detachable and may expand the use of a single light source to multiple light sources in a single compact microimaging device. Therefore, the requirement for separate microscopes for the individual light source is eliminated as compared to the conventional portable microscopy devices. The provision of multiple light sources enhances the applicability of the microimaging device 100 by the users for multiple light sources in one arrangement.

[0053] In an example, the second light source 128 may have different arrangements of light sources for different applications, such as light field, filter field, dark field and polarized field. The second light source 128 may have power connectivity with the light source arm 110 through an electrical connector 140. In an example, the electrical connector 140 is spring-loaded. When the second light source 128 is placed in the third slot 138 of the first arm 112, the electrical connector 140 is automatically connected to a counter connector (not shown in Figures) through a magnetic effect or position. In an example, the second light source 128 is fixed in the third slot 138 of the first arm 112 with a magnetic effect. In an example, the second light source 128 lock-fits into the third slot 138 of the first arm 112. In an example, the intensity of the second light source 128 is controlled through the microimaging device 100. In an example, the second light source 128 is poweredthrough the microimaging device 100. In another example, the second light source 128 may have its own battery storage and an intensity-controlling unit.

[0054] In another example, the light carrier arm may be positioned such that a light ray from the external light source incident on the sample holder causes a total internal reflection of the light with the sample holder.

[0055] FIGS. 5A to 5G illustrate various secondary light sources in accordance to an example. The secondary light sources correspond to the external light source 128 of the microimaging device 100. In FIG. 5A, a second light source 128a is shown. The second light source 128a is an example of the external light source 128. The second light source 128a has a first auxiliary light source 142a which is mounted on a periphery of the second light source 128a. In an example, the first auxiliary light source 142a may be at least one LED. In an example, the second light source 128a may also include a first light modification element 144a. A first top surface 146a of the second light source 128a is reflective and may reflect the light coming from the first auxiliary light source 142a to the first light modification element 144a. In an example, the first light modification element 144a may be a diffuser. In another example, the first light modification element 144a may be a filter. The light coming from the first reflecting top surface 146a passes from the first modification element 144a, enters the sample in the sample holder, and then enters in the optical lens assembly 102.

[0056] FIG. 5B shows another second light source 128b, in accordance to an example. The second light source 128b is an example of the external light source 128 of the microimaging device 100. In FIG. 5B, a second auxiliary light source 142b is mounted on top of the second light source 128b. In an example, a second light modification element 144 may be diffuser of different wavelengths. The light coming from the second auxiliary light source 142b is diffused from the diffuser 144b and directly enters the sample and then the optical lens assembly 102. In an example, the second light modification element 144b may be a filter and more specifically a polarized filter. In the case of second modification component 144b is a filter, the light coming from the second auxiliary light source 142b is passedfrom the filter 144b, instead of diffuser, and directly enters the sample and then the optical lens assembly 102.

[0057] FIG. 5C shows another second light source 128c, in accordance to an example. The second light source 128c is an example of the external light source 128 of the microimaging device 100. In FIG. 5C, an LED as a third auxiliary light source 142c is mounted on top of the second light source 128c. The second light source 128c may include two light modification elements, i.e., a third light modification element 144aa and a fourth light modification element 144bb. In an example, each of the light modification elements 144aa and 144bb is a diffuser. In an example, each of the light modification elements 144aa and 144bb is a filter. In an example, one of the light modification elements 144aa and 144bb is a diffuser and the other one of the light modification elements 144aa and 144bb is a filter. In an example, the light coming from the third auxiliary light source 142c is diffused from the third light modification element 144aa and fourth light modification element 144bb, and enters into the sample and then in the optical lens assembly 102. In an example, a distance between two diffusers 144aa and 144bb is at least 1 mm. In an example, a distance between the third auxiliary light source 142c and the diffuser 144aa is at least 2 mm.

[0058] FIG. 5D shows another second light source 128d, in accordance to an example. The second light source 128d is an example of the external light source 128 of the microimaging device 100. In FIG. 5D, a fourth auxiliary light source 142d is mounted on the periphery of the second light source 128d. The second light source 128d may include a fifth light modification element 144d, a second top reflecting surface 146d, and a first optical element 148d. The fifth light modification element 144d may be a diffuser or a filter. The first optical element 148d may be one of plano-convex, concave, and convex lens elements and the likes. The second top reflecting surface 146d reflects the light coming from the fourth auxiliary light source 142d to the fifth light modification element 144d. The diffuse light / filtered light from the fifth light modification element 144d, is passed through the first optical element 148d to direct the light in one plane toward the sample in the sample holder and the optical lens assembly 102.

[0059] FIG.5E shows a second light source 128e, in accordance to an example. The second light source 128e is an example of the external light source 128 of the microimaging device 100. As shown in FIG. 5E, a fifth auxiliary light source 142e is mounted on the periphery of the second light source 128e. The second light source 128e includes a third top reflecting surface source 146e and a second optical element 148e. The third top reflecting surface 146e is used to reflect the light coming from the fifth auxiliary light source 142e to the second optical element 148e. The second optical element 148e may be one of plano-convex, concave, and convex lens elements. The second optical element 148e may direct the light toward the sample and the optical lens assembly 102. In an example, LED of a single wavelength is used as the internal light source 108 and the external light source 128. In another example, multiple wavelength of light are used as the internal light source 108 and the external light source 128.

[0060] FIG.5F shows a second light source 128f, in accordance to an example. The second light source 128f is an example of the external light source 128 of the microimaging device 100. In Fig.5F, the LED as a sixth auxiliary light source 142f is mounted on top of the second light source 128f. The second light source 128f further includes a third optical element 148f. The third optical element 148f may be one of plano-convex, concave, and convex lens elements, and the likes that direct the light toward the sample and the optical lens assembly 102. In an example, the third optical element 148f may act as a collimating light source where a single or multiple elements are involved. The collimating light sources may pass the light without a centered white spot of LED light on the sample holder and provides a uniform light distribution on the sample holder.

[0061] FIG. 5G shows a second light source 128, in accordance to an example. The second light source 128g is an example of the external light source 128 of the microimaging device 100. In FIG. 5G, a seventh auxiliary light source 142g is mounted on top of the second light source 128g. The second light source 128g may further include a fourth optical element 148g and a black filter 150. The fourth optical element 148g may be one of plano-convex, concave, and convex lens elements and the likes. The fourth optical element 148g may direct the light towardthe sample in the sample holder and then to the optical lens assembly 102. Further, a ring-shaped opening is present in the black filter 150. The black filter 150 is located between the seventh auxiliary light source 142g and the fourth optical element 148g for passing the light in the periphery of the seventh auxiliary light source 142g. The present second light source 128g disclosed in FIG. 5G may be utilized for filter field or dark field applications. In an example, a white LED is used as the seventh auxiliary light source 142g based on the type of microscopy. In an example, LED with single wavelength or multiple wavelengths is used as the seventh auxiliary light source 142g based on the type of microscopy.

[0062] The different second light source arrangements as shown, but not limited to, in FIGS. 5A to 5G, the micro imaging device 100 may facilitate multimode such as light field mode, dark field mode, filter field mode, polarized field mode.

[0063] FIG. 5H shows different design filter patterns for obtaining field effects, such as, dark-field effect, light-field effect, polarized field effect, and the like. The shape and the geometry of the filter contribute to spatial effects created from the filter. Therefore, different shapes and geometries of the filter may provide different field effects.

[0064] In an example, each of the first optical element 148d, the second optical element 148e, the third optical element 148f, and the fourth optical element 148g comprises a first optical surface and second optical surface. The first optical surface is one of convex lens element, concave lens element, and planar lens element or a combination thereof, wherein the second optical surface is one of convex lens element, concave lens element, and planar lens element or a combination thereof.

[0065] FIG. 6A illustrates an exploded view of a focusing unit 152 in a microimaging device, in accordance to an example. The microimaging device is the microimaging device 100. The focusing unit 152 facilitates adjustment in the focusing ability of the microimaging device 100. The focusing unit 152 provides controlled focusing of object at various depth of fields. The focusing unit 152 is surrounded by the housing 104 and the housing cover 106 placed at the top of thefocusing unit 152. The first light source 108 and the light source arm 110 may provide the light for the microscopy. During operation, the sample holder may be placed between the light source arm 110 and the housing cover 106 and above the optical lens assembly 102. The microimaging device 100 may further include an image sensor (not shown in the Figures) adjacent to the optical lens assembly 102 to image the sample in a field of view of the optical lens assembly 102. In an example, the image sensor may be a camera. In another example, the image sensor may be a part of a camera. The focusing unit 152 may include a focusing platform 154 on which the optical lens assembly 102 is mounted. In the present disclosure, the focusing of the samples takes place in two approaches by using the microimaging device 100. In the first approach, the focusing platform 154 is moved. In the second approach, the optical lens assembly 102 has movement with respect to the image sensor. The fine movement of the optical lens assembly 102 may take place through various mechanisms such as, but not limited to, electromagnetic movement, voice coil motorized system, piezoelectric movement etc. The focusing platform 154 is positioned on a plurality of guided rods 156. In an example, the plurality of guided rods 156 includes four guided rods. The focusing platform 154 may have a smooth movement in the upward and downward directions along the plurality of guided rods 156. In an example, a biasing unit, such as a spring, to create a downward force on the focusing platform 154, is fixed with a top side of focusing platform 154. In an example, a controlled movement of the focusing platform 154 in the upward and downward directions is provided by a lifting unit 158.

[0066] The lifting unit 158 may be positioned above a bottom plate 160. The lifting unit 158 may be connected to a rotating wheel 162, via the bottom plate 160, through a plurality of gears 164. In an example, the lifting unit 158 may be connected to an adjustable screw through the plurality of gears 164. In an example, the lifting unit 158 may have a forward movement and a backward movement in a lifting unit slot (not shown in this Figure) in the bottom plate 160 through internal threading. In an example, a number of gear and threading sizes define the fine movement of the focusing platform 154 in the upward and downward directions. The focusing platform 154, the lifting unit 158, the bottom plate 160, the rotatingwheel 162, and the plurality of gears 164 combinedly may hereinafter be referred to as a first lifting mechanism. The lifting unit 158 may include a slanted portion. In an example, the slanted portion may have an angle of slant in a range of 5 degrees to 60 degrees. The movement of the lifting unit 158 in the lifting unit slot of the focusing platform 154 is adjusted through the plurality of gears 164 connected to the rotating wheel 162. The plurality of gears 164 and the rotating wheel 162 are hereinafter collectively referred to as gear mechanism. The movement of the rotating wheel 162 causes a fine movement of the lifting unit 158 in the lifting unit slot of the focusing platform 154. A lifting force is created on the focusing platform 154 in the upward direction due to the slanted portion. The angle of slant of the slanted portion and its movement creates a pressure on the focusing platform 154 in an upward direction. When a force resulting from the pressure exceeds a threshold pressure value, fine movement of the focusing platform 154 takes place. The lifting force created by the gear mechanism results in a precise controlled vertical movement in an upward and downward direction.

[0067] In an example, the controlled movement may be at least of one micron for focusing application. Therefore, by manually rotating the rotating wheel 162, the user can adjust the movement of focusing platform 154 as desired. In another example, the plurality of gears 164 may be connected to an electric motor (not shown in Figures) instead of the rotating wheel. The electric motor provides a rotational movement to the gears in a clockwise direction or anti-clockwise direction. The rotation movement produced by the electric motor results in fine lifting movement of the focusing platform 154 in the upward direction or downward direction. In an example, the movement of the motor electric is controlled using a microcontroller (not shown in figures). The microcontroller may provide a timedependent movement or a degree of rotational movement to control the fine movement of the focusing platform 154. The microcontroller therefore provides a digitally controlled fine-focusing movement of the focusing platform 154. The microcontroller may provide automated focusing based on pixel clarity of an image or a video obtained at the image sensor.

[0068] In an example, the microcontroller may provide controlled movement of the electric motor in a clockwise direction or an anti -clockwise direction such that an image or a video captured by the image sensor is above a clarity threshold value. In an example, the microcontroller providing the controlled autofocus may be a proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controller that provides PID based controlled algorithm to control the electric motor. In another example, the revolutions per minute (RPM) or the rotational movement steps of the electric motor may be controlled by a potentiometer or by a connected digital device, such as, a laptop, a mobile phone. The digitally controlled movement of the electric motor through the connected digital device provides an automated or digitally controlled focusing of the sample. The microimaging device 100 therefore facilitates manual or automated focusing on a compact arrangement. The housing may include a first housing slot 166 to accommodate the rotating wheel 162 and a second housing slot 168 to accommodate the connecting port 122 when the focusing unit 152 is inserted into the housing 106. In an example, the connecting port 122 is further connected to a control unit 194. The control unit 194 may include one or more processor(s) to facilitate transfer of data to or from the connected digital device. In an example, the control unit 194 may provide a feedback mechanism. For example, the microimaging device 100 may face an issue, such as, a connectivity issue with the connecting port 122. In such a case, the control unit 194 may automatically generate a report based on the issue with the connecting port 122 and may initiate a troubleshooting process to rectify the issue. In an example, the control unit 194 may apply feedback mechanism in features such as connectivity, Light source on-off, intensity controlling, focusing, charging, etc. The control unit 194 is either to facilitate transfer of data to or from a connected imaging system over a cloud-based network or to operate as a standalone data processing system.

[0069] In an example, the rotating wheel operatively connected to the lifting unit 158 through the plurality of gears 164 is arranged to convert rotational movement of the rotating wheel 162 to linear movement of the lifting unit 158. The plurality of gears 164 includes a gear operatively connected to the rotating wheel162 and configured to engage with a threaded screw that interacts with the slanted portion of the lifting unit 158 to provide controlled vertical displacement.

[0070] In another example, the gear mechanism in the first lifting mechanism may offer two types of focusing modes, namely fine focusing and coarse focusing. The rotating wheel has a push-pull mechanism which works on a horizontal displacement of the focusing platform. Pushing the rotating wheel in the aperture shifts the gear system and provides fine movement of the lifting unit in a range of about 0.01 micron to about 50 micron per rotation. When the rotating wheel is pulled outward, it facilitates coarse focusing, with movement in range of about 20 micron to 1000 micron per rotation.

[0071] FIG. 6B illustrates a side view of a lifting unit, in accordance to an example. The lifting unit is the lifting unit 158. The lifting unit 158 is placed above the bottom plate 160. The lifting unit 158 has a movement in forward direction and a backward direction through the plurality of gears 164.

[0072] FIG. 6C illustrates a top view of a lifting unit, in accordance to an example. The lifting unit is the lifting unit 158. In the lifting unit 158, the plurality of gears 164 enables movement of the focusing platform 154 in microns. By rotating the rotating wheel 162, fine movement of lifting unit 158 takes place in the forward direction and backward directional movement along the length of the lifting part that results in a fine lift of top part of the focusing platform 154. In an example, the lifting unit 158 may have a forward movement and a backward movement in a lifting unit slot 160a inside the bottom plate 160 through internal threading 160b. The angle of slanted portion of the lifting unit, the rotational movement controlled through the number of the plurality of gears, internal threading, pitch of the plurality of gears, may control the fine movement of the focusing platform in micron. FIG. 6D illustrates an angled view of the lifting unit 158, in accordance to an example.

[0073] FIG. 7A illustrates a second lifting mechanism, in accordance to an example. In the example, the rotating wheel 162 is facing the XY plane and has a first threaded part 170 at one end and which is connected to the adjustable screw 172 (not shown in this Figure) through internal threading. One or more gears are placed between the rotating wheel 162 and adjustable screw to achieve a finemovement of the focusing platform 154 in micron. A revolute joint 174 is placed on the adjustable screw through internal threading. The revolute joint 174 is connected to a lifting platform 176 at a first revolute joint end 178 and at a second revolute joint end 180. The first revolute joint end 178 may be located at a top side of the revolute joint 174. The second revolute joint end 180 is located at a bottom side of the revolute joint 174. At the second revolute joint end 180, the revolute joint 174 is placed in a revolute joint slot (not shown in Figures) located at a bottom part of the lifting platform 180 via a revolute joint positioner 182. The revolute joint positioner 182 has free movement in a horizontal direction (along the x-axis) in the revolute joint slot.

[0074] FIGS.7B-7C illustrate side views of a second lifting mechanism, in accordance to an example. The second lifting mechanism is the second lifting mechanism of FIG. 7A. FIG. 7B illustrates the side view of the second lifting mechanism from the XY plane. The revolute joint positioner 182 is placed in a revolute joint positioner slot 184 of the bottom part of the lifting platform 180. The joint positioner 182 allows the movement of the revolute joint 174 in a horizontal forward direction or in a horizontal backward direction, without any jerk. When the rotating wheel 162 is rotated clockwise or anticlockwise, the revolute joint 174 moves in the horizontal forward direction or in the horizontal backward direction, respectively. As a result, the lifting platform 180 is lifted in an upward or downward direction. The second lifting mechanism therefore provides a fine movement of the lifting platform 180 in upward and downward directions respectively, in an amount of microns, the second lifting mechanism therefore enables the microimaging device 100 to be used focusing application in the current invention. In another example, the fine movement of the lifting mechanism may be controlled digitally through using an electric motor in place of the rotating wheel 162. Similarly, FIG. 7C illustrates the side view of the second lifting mechanism from the ZX plane.

[0075] In another example, the second lifting mechanism may include an electric motor such that the adjustable screw 172 is connected to the electric motor through a plurality of gears (not shown in Figures). The electric motor provides a rotational movement in clockwise or anti -clockwise directions that results in finelifting movement of the lifting platform 180 in the upward direction or the downward direction. In an example, the rotational movement of the electric motor may be controlled using a microcontroller. The microcontroller is the microcontroller used in lifting mechanism of FIG.6A. The microcontroller may include instructions to provide a time-dependent movement or degree of rotational movement to precisely control the fine movement. Thus, the second lifting mechanism provides a digitally controlled fine-focusing movement of the lifting platform 180. Similar to the lifting mechanism of FIG. 6, automated focusing may be achieved based on the pixel clarity of an image or video obtained from the image sensor, i.e., the rotational movement through electric motor is controlled by the microcontroller till the image picture or video captured at the image sensor is above a clarity threshold value. In an example, the microcontroller is a proportional- integral-derivative (PID) microcontroller that may include PID based controlled algorithm to control the electric motor. FIG. 7C illustrates another side view of the alternative lifting mechanism from the XZ plane, in accordance to an example.FIG. 8 illustrates a third lifting mechanism, in accordance to an example. The third lifting mechanism may be a variation of the second lifting mechanism having the lifting platform 176 and the rotating wheel 162 of the of the second lifting mechanism. The third lifting mechanism enables a fine movement of the lifting platform 176 in an upward direction and a downward direction (in a vertical direction) through a scissor mechanism. In the third lifting mechanism, the lifting platform 176 is connected to the bottom plate 160 (not shown in figures) through one or more guiding arms 186. In an example, the one or more guiding arms 186 include four guiding arms. Two of the one or more guiding arms 186 are hereinafter referred to as a first pair of guiding arms and the remaining two of the one or more guiding arms 186 are hereinafter referred to as a second pair of the guiding arms 186. Each of the one or more guiding arms may have two ends, a first guiding arm end and a second guiding arm end. Each of the first pair of guiding arms 186 are connected to the lifting platform 176 at the first guiding arm end, respectively, by a first guiding arms connector 188. Each of the first pair of guiding arms 186 are connected to second pair of guiding arms 186 at second guiding arm endrespectively. The first guiding end of each of the second pair of guiding arms 186 is connected to the bottom plate 160 by a second guiding arms connector 188. The rotating wheel 162 is connected to a threaded screw 190 which is placed in a position housing 192 through internal threading. The second guiding arm end of each of the one or more guiding arms are jointed by the threaded screw 190. The guiding arms are pivotally connected to each other at pivot points and the lifting platform is connected to the plurality of guiding arms 186). The rotation of the rotating wheel 162 causes the threaded screw 190 to move the guiding arms in a manner that expands or contracts the scissor configuration to raise or lower the lifting platform.

[0076] The clockwise movement and anticlockwise movement of the rotational wheel 162 causes a movement of the threaded screw 190 in forward and backward direction, respectively, in the positioning housing 192. The threaded screw 190 therefore increases or decreases the distance between the first pair of guiding arms and the second pair of guiding arms in a direction parallel to the lifting platform 176. As a result, the distance between the lifting platform 176 and the bottom plate 160 increases and decreases respectively, i.e., the lifting platform 176 moves in the upward direction or in the downward direction based on the rotation of the rotating wheel 162. In another embodiment, the rotating wheel 162 is connected to the threaded screw 190 through a plurality of gears for a fine movement of the lifting platform 176. In an example, the fine movement of the lifting platform 176 may be manually controlled. In another example, the fine movement of the lifting platform 176 may be digitally controlled. In another example, the fine movement of the lifting platform 176 may be automated controlled for fine focusing by using the microcontroller used in the first lifting mechanism.

[0077] In an example, the microimaging device 100 includes a shiftable system configured to switch the focusing mechanism in the dual-mode focusing setup between a fine focusing and a coarse focusing based on a horizontal displacement of the rotating wheel of the focusing unit. In an example, the focusing mechanism is configured to switch between fine and coarse movements for a dual-mode focusing setup. In an example, in a manual mode in the dual-mode focusing setup, the shiftable system is a knob to operate the focusing mechanism in a dualmode setup. When the knob is pushed inward, the knob engages with a fine focusing gear, and in its normal position, the knob operates the focusing mechanism for coarse focusing. In an example, in an automated mode, the focusing mechanism is controlled via a mobile application for both fine and coarse movements. The fine focusing provides a focusing resolution in a range of about 0.01 micron to about 50 micron per rotation of the rotating wheel. The coarse focusing provides a focusing resolution in a range of about 20 micron to about 1000 micron per rotation of the rotating wheel.

[0078] FIG. 9 illustrates cross-sectional top view of a microimaging device, in accordance to an example. The microimaging device is the microimaging device 100 of FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 9, the microimaging device 100 comprises the light source arm 110 adjacent to the focusing unit 152 in a compact design. The focusing unit 152 comprises the optical lens assembly 102 on a focusing platform 154. The focusing platform 154 is connected to the gear mechanism, i.e., the rotating wheel 162 and the plurality of gears 164. In an example, the rotating wheel 162 protrudes out of the first housing slot (not shown in FIG. 9) allowing the user to manually adjust the focus. In an example, the rotating wheel 162 may be operated using the motor. In an example, the focusing unit 152 includes the connecting port 122, for example, a USB port to connect to digital devices, such as, a mobile phone, a laptop. The connecting port is connected to the control unit 194. The control unit 194 facilitates the transfer of data from the microimaging device 100 to the connected digital device. In an example, the focusing unit 152 may include a battery 196 to power the microimaging device 100 that may involve powering the first light source 108 and the light source arm 110, the control unit 194, the electric motor. In an example, the battery 196 may be a single battery unit. In an example, the battery 196 may be a collection of one or more battery units. In another example, the control unit 194 may facilitates the transfer of data from the microimaging device 100 to the connected digital device via a wireless communication, such as, Bluetoothconnectivity, Wi-Fi connectivity etc. In an example, the control unit 194 may transfer the data through a cloud route to users.

[0079] FIGS. 10A-10I illustrate images obtained using the microimaging device 100 for various samples, in accordance to an example. In the example, samples of a fly wing, a human hair, paramecium cells, digital display screen of a laptop, a plat stem transverse section, an amoeba cell, bacteria cells are observed in the microimaging device 100. Each of the samples are first inserted in the sample holder and are then observed under the microimaging device 100. The images are obtained under a light field filter at different focus level. In the example, the focus level of the microimaging device 100 corresponds to different zoom, such as, 100X, 400X, 500X etc. FIG. 10A illustrates an image of fly wing at 100X zoom. FIG. 10B illustrates an image of Human hair at 400X zoom. FIG. 10C illustrates an image of Paramecium at 15 OX zoom. FIG. 10D illustrates an image of Paramecium at 500X zoom. FIG. 10E illustrates an image of a display pixel of a laptop display at 500X zoom. FIG. 10F illustrates an image of a Plant stem transverse section at 400X zoom. FIG. 10G illustrates an image of an amoeba cell at 300X zoom. FIGS. 10H and 101 illustrate images of Bacteria (Bacterium spirillum) cells at 300X and 500X zoom respectively.

[0080] The microimaging device 100 not only provides single or multiple light sources in compact arrangement that are easy to carry but also provides improved adjustment control of the distance between the sample and the light source, light intensity controlling, and folding arrangement, to make the entire microimaging device 100 compact and portable, micro imaging device with features such as but not limited to manual or automated digitally controlled focusing, multimode such as light field, dark field and filter field mode, batch or continuous sample holding system, manual or automated digitally controlled slide observing system etc. The micro-imaging system has variable optical magnification, resolution, the field of view, depth of field etc.

[0081] The present microimaging device 100 is compact, portable, facilitates multiple-mode microscopy, is user-friendly and allows digitally controlled automated operation that can be used for a wide range of applications including butnot limited to education, analytical applications, diagnosis, and research applications. Furthermore, by incorporation machine learning, the qualitative and quantitative estimation of any of the samples or objects for various applications may improve.

Claims

We claim:

1. A microimaging device (100) comprising: a housing (104); an optical lens assembly (102) disposed within the housing (104), wherein the optical lens assembly (102) comprises one or more lens elements inside the housing (104) and an aperture positioned on a top surface of the housing (104); an image sensor disposed within the housing (104) to image an object in a field of view of the optical lens assembly (102); a sample holder to hold a sample over the aperture of the optical lens assembly (102); a focusing unit (152) with a focusing mechanism to adjust the one or more lens elements of the optical lens assembly (102) for focusing while imaging the sample, wherein the focusing mechanism is configured to switch between fine and coarse movements for a dual-mode focusing setup; an internal light source (108) disposed inside the housing (104) and in proximity to the optical lens assembly (102); and a light source arm (110) disposed on the top surface of the housing (104), wherein the light source arm (110) has a receiving slot to detachably accommodate an external light source (128), wherein the external light source (128) is to be selected based on type of microscopy to be performed, wherein the light carrier arm (110) is to position the external light source (128) axially in line with the aperture of the optical lens assembly (102) when the microimaging device (100) is in operation.

2. The microimaging device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the type of microscopy is one of dark field microscopy, filter field microscopy, light field microscopy, and polarized filter microscopy.

3. The microimaging device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the light source arm (110) is foldable, detachable, and adjustable.

4. The microimaging device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the light source arm (110) comprises:a first arm (112) having the receiving slot (138) to detachably accommodate the external light source (128); a second arm (114) having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the second arm (114) is connected to an end of the first arm (112) distal to the receiving slot (138), wherein the second end of the second arm (114) is connected to the housing (104); wherein the first arm (112) has a first magnet (132) and the second arm (114) has a second magnet (134), wherein the first magnet (132) and the second magnet (134) are arranged to facilitate movement of the first arm (112) with respect to the second arm (114), and wherein one of the two ends of the first arm (112) is connected to the first end of the second arm (114) through at least one connecting rod (126).

5. The microimaging device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the internal and external light sources comprise one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs) to emit light rays of different wavelengths.

6. The microimaging device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the external light source (128) comprises: a first auxiliary light source (142a) mounted on a periphery of the external light source (128); a first light modification element (144a) disposed at a bottom surface of the external light source (128); and a first reflecting top surface (146a) to reflect a light ray coming from the first auxiliary light source (142a) towards the first light modification element (144a).

7. The microimaging device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the external light source (128) comprises: a second auxiliary light source (142b) mounted on a top surface of the external light source (128); and a second light modification element (144b) to receive a light ray coming from the second auxiliary light source (142b), wherein the second light modification element (144b) is a polarized filter for polarized filter microscopy.

8. The microimaging device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the external light source (128) comprises: a third auxiliary light source (142c) mounted on a top surface of the external light source (128); a third light modification element (144aa); a fourth light modification element (144bb), wherein the third light modification element (144aa) is disposed between the third auxiliary light source (142c) and the fourth light modification element (144bb), wherein a first distance between the third light modification element (144aa) and the fourth light modification element (144bb) is at least 1 mm and a second distance between the third light modification element (144aa) and the third auxiliary light source (142c) is at least 2 mm, wherein the third light modification element (144aa) is one of a filter and a diffuser, and wherein the fourth light modification element (144bb) is one of a filter and a diffuser.

9. The microimaging device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the external light source (128) comprises: a fourth auxiliary light source (142d) mounted on a periphery of the external light source (128); a fifth light modification element (144d); a second reflecting top surface (146d) to reflect a light ray coming from the fourth auxiliary light source (142d) towards the fifth light modification element (144d); and a first optical element (148d) to direct the light ray coming from the fifth light modification element (144d) towards the optical lens assembly (102).

10. The microimaging device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the external light source (128) comprises: a fifth auxiliary light source (142e) mounted on a periphery of the external light source (128); a third reflecting top surface (146e) to reflect a light ray coming from the fifth auxiliary light source (142e); anda second optical element (148e) to further direct the light ray reflected by the third reflecting top surface (146e) towards the optical lens assembly (102).

11. The microimaging device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the external light source (128) comprises: a sixth auxiliary light source (142f) mounted on a top surface of the external light source (128); and a third optical element (148f) to direct a light ray coming from the sixth auxiliary light source (142f) towards the optical lens assembly (102).

12. The microimaging device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the external light source (128) comprises: a seventh auxiliary light source (142g) mounted on a top surface of the external light source (128); a fourth optical element (148g) to direct a light ray coming from the seventh auxiliary light source (142g) towards the optical lens assembly (102); and a black filter (150), having a ring-shaped opening, disposed between the seventh auxiliary light source (142g) and the fourth optical element (148g).

13. The microimaging device (100) as claimed in claim 6 or 9, wherein the first light modification element (144a) and the fifth light modification element (144d) are one of a filter and a diffuser.

14. The microimaging device (100) as claimed in one of claims 9 to 12, wherein the first optical element (148d), the second optical element (148e), the third optical element (148f), and the fourth optical element(148g), each of the first optical element (148d), the second optical element (148e), the third optical element ( 148f), and the fourth optical element (148g) comprises a first optical surface and second optical surface, wherein the first optical surface is one of convex lens element, concave lens element, and planar lens element or a combination thereof, wherein the second optical surface is one of convex lens element, concave lens element, and planar lens element or a combination thereof.

15. The microimaging device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the focusing mechanism comprises: a plurality of guided rods (156);a focusing platform (154) axially movable along the plurality of guided rods(156); a biasing unit fixed on a top side of the focusing platform (154); a lifting unit (158) having a slanted portion configured to engage with the focusing platform (154) to control vertical movement of the focusing platform (154); and a rotating wheel (162) operatively connected to the lifting unit (158) through a plurality of gears (164) arranged to convert rotational movement of the rotating wheel (162) to linear movement of the lifting unit (158), wherein the plurality of gears (164) includes a gear operatively connected to the rotating wheel (162) and configured to engage with a threaded screw that interacts with the slanted portion of the lifting unit (158) to provide controlled vertical displacement.

16. The microimaging device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the focusing mechanism comprises: a rotating wheel (162); an adjustable screw (172) operatively connected to the rotating wheel (162); one or more gears positioned between the rotating wheel (162) and the adjustable screw (172) for providing controlled movement of a focusing platform (154); a revolute joint (174) placed on the adjustable screw (172) through internal, wherein the revolute joint (174) is placed in a slot located at the bottom of a lifting platform using a revolute joint positioner (182), wherein the revolute joint positioner (182) is configured to secure the revolute joint (174) within the slot located at a bottom portion of the focusing platform (154), wherein rotation of the rotating wheel (162) causes vertical displacement of the focusing platform (154).

17. The microimaging device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the focusing mechanism comprises: a rotating wheel (162); a threaded screw (190) operatively connected to the rotating wheel (162); a plurality of guiding arms (186) arranged in a scissor configuration, wherein the guiding arms are pivotally connected to each other at pivot points;a lifting platform (176) connected to the plurality of guiding arms (186); and a positioning housing (104) containing the threaded screw (190), wherein rotation of the rotating wheel (162) causes the threaded screw (190) to move the guiding arms in a manner that expands or contracts the scissor configuration to raise or lower the lifting platform.

18. The microimaging device (100) as claimed in one of claims 15 to 17, wherein the movement of the focusing mechanism is controlled by an electric motor, wherein the electric motor is controlled using a microcontroller for digitally controlled movement of components of the focusing mechanism.

19. The microimaging device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the microimaging device (100) is configured to connect to a portable imaging system through a wired or wireless connection.

20. The microimaging device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the microimaging device (100) comprises a control unit (194) either to facilitate transfer of data to or from a connected imaging system over a cloud-based network or to operate as a standalone data processing system.

21. The microimaging device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the optical lens assembly (102) has an optical magnification in a range of about IX to about 7.8X, an airy radius in a range of about 0.783 micron to about 23.25 micron, a depth of field in a range of about 2.847 micron to about 338 micron, a numerical aperture in a range of about 0.015 to about 0.438, a half field of view in a range of about 13 degrees to about 70 degrees, and a length in a range of about 5.511 millimeter (mm) to about 57 mm.

22. The microimaging device (100) as claimed in claim 1, further comprising one or more indicators (116; 118; 120) disposed on the housing (104) to indicate various inputs of the microimaging device (100) including light intensity, focusing controlling, device health, storage, life and charging of a battery, type of field, and connection status with respect to a connected digital device.

23. The microimaging device (100) as claimed in claim 1, further comprising an actuator (124) disposed on the housing (104) for user control of device functions.

24. The microimaging device (100) as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a digital interface port (122) integrated into the housing (104) for establishing a connection with an external digital device, wherein the digital interface port (122) enables transmission of captured microscopic image data from the microimaging device (100) to the external digital device for processing, storage, or display.

25. The microimaging device (100) as claimed in claim 24, wherein the digital interface port (122) is configured to connect to a smartphone, tablet, computer, or other portable electronic device.

26. The microimaging device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the sample holder comprises a filter on a top surface or a bottom surface of the sample holder, wherein the filter is to turn the sample holder to a specific color filter or a specific wavelength filter for filter field microscopy, and wherein the filter is to turn the top surface as black for dark field microscopy.

27. The microimaging device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the sample holder comprises one or more compartments for holding the sample.

28. The microimaging device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the image sensor is a complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) sensor or a (charge coupled device) CDD sensor.

29. The microimaging device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the image sensor has a pixel size in a range of about 0.1 micron to about 10 micron and a resolution in a range of about 0.5 MP to about 200MP.

30. The microimaging device (100) as claimed in claim 15, wherein the microimaging device (100) comprises a shiftable system configured to switch the focusing mechanism in the dual-mode focusing setup between a fine focusing and a coarse focusing based on a horizontal displacement of the rotating wheel (162).

31. The microimaging device (100) as claimed in claim 30, wherein in a manual mode of the dual-mode focusing setup, the shiftable system is a knob to operate the focusing mechanism in a dual -mode setup, wherein when the knob is pushed inward, the knob engages with a fine focusing gear, and in its normal position, the knob operates the focusing mechanism for coarse focusing.

32. The microimaging device (100) as claimed in claim 30, wherein in an automated mode of the dual-mode focusing setup, the focusing mechanism is controlled via a mobile application for both fine and coarse movements.

33. The microimaging device (100) as claimed in claim 30, wherein the fine focusing provides a focusing resolution in a range of about 0.01 micron to about 50 micron per rotation of the rotating wheel (162).

34. The microimaging device (100) as claimed in claim 30, wherein the coarse focusing provides a focusing resolution in a range of about 20 micron to about 1000 micron per rotation of the rotating wheel (162).

35. The microimaging device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the optical lens assembly (102) is contained in a lens barrel, wherein the lens barrel is placed in a voice coil motor for a fine movement of the lens barrel for precise focusing.

36. The microimaging device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the optical lens assembly (102) comprises a filter for filter field microscopy.

37. The microimaging device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more lens elements of the optical lens assembly (102) is a filter for microscopy.

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