2D Array Sensor Autofocus for Digital Scanning Microscopy
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Solution Overview
Problem
The combination of 1D line sensors with autofocus based on focus maps in digital scanning microscopes is limited by increased throughput time, complex mechanical components, and focus errors, which complicate the scanning process and require multiple acquisitions of the same sample area.
Innovation Solution
A method using a 2D array sensor to simulate an x-line sensor by activating sub-arrays of pixels at specific angles, allowing for efficient autofocus and focus depth adjustment during scanning, where the 2D array sensor acts as both an imaging and focus detection system, capturing image and focus information simultaneously.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If a 1D line sensor is used with focus map-based autofocus, then continuous mechanical scanning operation is improved, but throughput time increases due to prior map generation requirement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing focus measurement and map generation during the scanning process itself rather than requiring a separate preliminary step. The focus map is built incrementally as the scanner moves through the sample, using measurements taken at each scan position to inform subsequent focus adjustments, thereby eliminating the need for a dedicated pre-scanning map generation phase.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a 1D line sensor is used with focus map-based autofocus, then scanning capability is improved, but device complexity increases due to complex mechanical components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical autofocus adjustment systems with a computational approach. Instead of using complex mechanical actuators to continuously adjust the objective lens position based on pre-generated focus maps, the system uses software-based focus map generation and interpolation to control a simpler mechanical system, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining scanning capability.
3Manufacturing precision
If focus adjustments are increased to compensate for Z-axis position variations, then image quality is improved, but device complexity increases due to complex actuators
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes complex mechanical actuator systems with a computational focus control system. By generating focus maps through software and using interpolation algorithms to determine optimal focus positions at each scan location, the system achieves precise image quality control without requiring complex mechanical actuators to continuously adjust focus during scanning.
4Manufacturing precision
If multiple acquisitions are performed to correct focus errors, then image quality is improved, but productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous useful action by performing focus measurements and generating focus maps during the normal scanning process rather than requiring separate re-acquisition passes. The system continuously updates the focus map as it scans, allowing real-time focus correction and eliminating the need for multiple acquisitions of the same sample area, thereby maintaining both image quality and productivity.
Data Source
AI summary
This invention pertains to a method for microscopically imaging a sample, with a digital scanner comprising a sensor including a 2D array of pixels and to a digital scanning microscope carrying out this method. It is notably provided a method for microscopically imaging a sample with a scanner comprising a sensor including a 2D array of pixels in an XY coordinate system, the axis Y being substantially perpendicular to the scan direction, wherein the scanner is arranged such that the sensor can image an oblique cross section of the sample, and wherein the method comprises the steps of: • activating a first sub-array of the 2D array of pixels, the first sub-array extending mainly along the Y axis at a first X coordinate (X1), • creating a first image by imaging a first area of the sample by means of the first sub-array of pixels. According to aspects of the invention, it is further proposed a scanner carryout this method and using the same 2D array sensor for imaging and auto-focusing purpose.