Bi-telecentric Imaging System for Dual-Mode Macro-Micro Scanning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current imaging systems lack the capability to seamlessly switch between macroscopic and microscopic imaging modes using the same optical system, limiting their ability to provide detailed quantitative measurements and efficient imaging of samples.
Innovation Solution
A dual-mode imaging system utilizing a bi-telecentric imaging system that enables controllable switching between macroscopic and microscopic imaging modes, allowing for large area scanning and high magnification zooming using the same bi-telecentric line-scanning imager, with integrated laser combining modules and relay optics for efficient illumination and detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single optical imaging system is used for both macroscopic and microscopic imaging, then device complexity is reduced and resource efficiency is improved, but the system must accommodate multiple imaging modes which increases operational complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single optical imaging system that can operate in both macroscopic and microscopic imaging modes by incorporating mode-switching capability. The system uses a stage that can be positioned at different locations (first location for macroscopic, second location for microscopic) and relay optics that can redirect illumination beams through objective lenses. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate imaging systems while maintaining both imaging capabilities.
2Device complexity
If macroscopic imaging is performed with a standard imaging system, then the system structure is simple, but measurement precision and quantitative accuracy are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic stage positioning system that can be moved between different locations to enable both macroscopic and microscopic imaging modes. The stage position is dynamically adjusted based on the imaging mode requirement, and the system includes control mechanisms to maintain precise positioning. This dynamic adaptability allows the system to achieve high measurement precision in macroscopic mode by positioning the stage at the first location and using the illumination beam directly, while also enabling microscopic mode when needed.
3Reliability
If separate imaging systems are used for macroscopic and microscopic imaging, then each system can be optimized for its specific function, but loss of time and resources increases due to having multiple instruments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines macroscopic and microscopic imaging capabilities into a single integrated system. The same optical imaging system, illumination source, and detector are used for both imaging modes by adjusting the stage position and configuring the relay optics. This merging eliminates the need to physically move samples between separate instruments, saving time and resources while maintaining the functional optimization of both imaging modes through dedicated optical paths and control mechanisms.
4Measurement precision
If high magnification is achieved through additional optics, then microscopic imaging capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses relay optics as an intermediary component to enable microscopic imaging mode. The relay optics are configured to receive the illumination beam and redirect it through an objective lens onto the sample, allowing high magnification without requiring a completely separate microscope system. This intermediary optical path provides the necessary magnification capability while integrating smoothly with the existing optical imaging system, minimizing additional complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables fast, sensitive, and quantitative imaging with direct macroscopic scanning and high-resolution microscopic imaging, saving time and resources by using the same instrument for both modes, suitable for various scientific applications including fluorescence imaging.
Implementation Method 1
a bi-telecentric imaging system adapted to receive the emission beam from the sample and project the emission beam onto a detector array
Implementation Method 2
relay optics that are configured to receive and redirect the illumination beam through an objective lens when the preparation is in a certain location relative to the imaging system
Implementation Method 3
a CCD that acquires a macro image of the observation region by capturing transmitted light from the observation region
Implementation Method 4
a light source that radiates excitation light onto the biological specimen and a micro-image acquisition unit that acquires a micro image of the biological specimen by detecting fluorescence generated at a position in the biological specimen irradiated by the excitation light
Data Source
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AI summary
Dual mode imaging systems and methods for macroscopic and microscopic imaging using the same optical imaging system (OIS). The various embodiments enable controllable and/or automated switching between macroscopic imaging and microscopic imaging modes. A dual mode imaging system includes a sample platform movable relative to an OIS between first and second locations, and a light source subsystem configured to generate and project an illumination beam onto a focal plane. When in the first location, the sample platform coincides with the focal plane, and the OIS receives light from the sample platform along a first detection light path. When in the second location, the illumination beam interacts with relay optics and impinges on the sample platform through an objective lens, and the light from the sample platform is directed back through the objective lens and relay optics to the OIS via the first detection path.