Bimodal Imaging Device Switching Lensless and Microscopy Modes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current lensless imaging technologies for observing biological samples lack the ability to seamlessly switch between high magnification and wide-field observation modalities, limiting their applicability and efficiency in detailed analysis and large-scale sample examination.
Innovation Solution
A device and method that allow an object to be positioned in two distinct modes: a conventional imaging modality with magnification optics and a lensless imaging modality without magnification optics, using a support system to align the object along different optical paths, enabling the formation of sharp images and digital reconstruction of images with wider fields of view.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If lensless imaging is used to observe biological samples, then the field of view is significantly larger and the device is simpler, but the magnification capability and spatial resolution are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a movable support that can dynamically reposition the object between two distinct positions: a first position for lensless imaging (wide field of view) and a second position for conventional microscopy (high magnification). This dynamic positioning capability allows the system to switch between observation modes, resolving the contradiction between field of view and spatial resolution by adapting the object's position according to the required observation goal.
2Measurement precision
If conventional microscopy with magnification optics is used, then spatial resolution is improved, but the field of view is limited and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal imaging system that can perform both lensless imaging and conventional microscopy functions using a single device. By incorporating both imaging paths and using a movable support to position the object appropriately, the system achieves multi-functionality, allowing users to select the most appropriate mode (lensless or conventional) based on whether they prioritize field of view or spatial resolution, thereby resolving the contradiction between these two parameters.
3Measurement precision
If conventional microscopy is used to achieve high magnification, then detailed observation is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase due to additional optics
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a dynamically reconfigurable optical path where the movable support enables switching between lensless mode (simpler, for overview) and conventional microscopy mode (more complex, for detailed observation). This dynamic adaptation allows the system to employ the complex optical components only when necessary for detailed observation, reducing the overall operational complexity and cost while maintaining high magnification capability when needed.
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 bimodal observation of samples, allowing for high-resolution details and wide-field imaging, enhancing the capability to analyze and identify objects with improved spatial resolution and field of observation, while maintaining cost-effectiveness and simplicity.
Implementation Method 1
a light source and an image sensor, said light source being capable of emitting a light wave, said emission wave, along an emission axis, the light wave propagating, along an optical path, to the image sensor through said object
Implementation Method 2
said first position is interposed, along said optical path, between said light source and the optical system, so that the latter is configured to conjugate said image sensor to said first position
Implementation Method 3
The image sensor then captures an image of the light wave transmitted by the object. This image is formed by interference patterns between a light wave emitted by the light source and then transmitted by the sample, and diffraction waves resulting from the diffraction of the light wave emitted by the source by the sample
Implementation Method 4
a support, capable of holding the object, defining a first position and a second position, each position being capable of receiving said object, the support being configured such that
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 1C~1E
Figure 2A~2D
AI summary
The invention is a device including a light source and an image sensor, the device including a holder defining two positions between the light source and the image sensor. Each position is able to receive an object with a view to its observation. An optical system is placed between the two positions. Thus, when an object is placed in a first position, it may be observed, through the optical system, via a conventional microscopy modality. When an object is placed in the second position, it may be observed via a second what is called lensless imagery modality.