Compact 3D Optical Microscope Using Segmented Fourier Optics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 3D optical microscopes with large form factors face limitations in portability due to their long optical path lengths, which are a result of the conventional 4-f transmission optical system configuration, restricting their use in applications requiring mobility and compactness, especially in biomedical settings.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a transmission optical system with a novel configuration using pairs of lenses with the same focal length to perform Fourier transforms, reducing the optical path length by half, thereby enabling a smaller form factor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional 4-f transmission optical system configuration is used, then the optical system can perform Fourier transforms and transmit optical information, but the optical path length becomes long, resulting in a large form factor that limits portability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the conventional 4-f transmission optical system into two separate 2-f transmission optical systems. Each 2-f system uses two lenses with the same focal length arranged at a distance equal to the focal length, performing a single Fourier transform. By splitting the original system into two shorter subsystems, the overall optical path length is reduced while maintaining the required Fourier transform functionality for imaging
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a magnification dimension by combining two 2-f systems with different magnification factors. The first 2-f system provides magnification M1 and the second provides magnification M2, with the total magnification being M1×M2. This dimensional approach allows achieving high magnification through multiple smaller transformation steps rather than a single long optical path
2Length of stationary object
If the optical path length is reduced to achieve a compact form factor, then portability is improved, but the ability to magnify and transmit optical information from fine specimens to camera sensor resolution may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The magnification function is segmented across two separate 2-f transmission optical systems. Instead of achieving total magnification M in a single long optical path, the system achieves the same total magnification M through two sequential magnification steps M1 and M2 where M = M1 × M2. Each subsystem maintains precise optical transformation over a shorter distance, preserving magnification accuracy while reducing overall path length
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the optical parameters by using two different focal length combinations in the two 2-f systems. The first system uses lenses with focal length f1 and the second uses lenses with focal length f2, allowing independent optimization of each subsystem's magnification and resolution characteristics. This parameter differentiation enables maintaining high magnification precision in each short subsystem while achieving cumulative high magnification
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
This configuration allows for a compact 3D optical microscope design, enhancing portability and enabling its use in portable medical tools and devices, particularly for early and accurate diagnosis.
Implementation Method 1
Fourier-transform a light signal incident on the input plane and output the transformed signal to the first output plane
Implementation Method 2
Fourier-transform a light signal incident on the third lens and output the transformed signal to the second output plane
Data Source
AI summary
A 3D optical microscope device of a small form factor optical system is disclosed. A transmission optical system device comprises a first lens having a left side disposed in contact with an input plane, and a second lens having a right side disposed in contact with a rear focal plane and disposed at a position spaced apart by a focal length of the first lens. The first lens and the second lens Fourier-transform a light signal incident on the input plane and output the transformed signal to the rear focal plane.