Confocal Scanner Focus Correction via Dynamic Profile Matching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Confocal imaging systems face challenges in maintaining accurate focus across the length of longer sample slides due to variations such as bending or warping, leading to miscalibration at different points.
Innovation Solution
The method involves obtaining dynamic profiles of a test sample's optical characteristics and comparing them to stored reference profiles to determine necessary corrections for focus, using pattern-matching analysis to select a reference profile that matches the dynamic profile, and applying adjustments such as z-axis translation to achieve desired focus.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a single calibration is performed for the imaging system, then the calibration process is simple and quick, but the focus accuracy deteriorates at different positions along longer sample slides due to bending or warping
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the sample slide into multiple detection regions and performs separate focus calibrations for each region. The system obtains dynamic profiles for different portions of the slide and associates each with appropriate reference profiles, enabling position-specific focus correction that accounts for local variations in slide flatness and optical path length.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent pre-calibrates the imaging system at multiple positions along the sample slide before actual use. By obtaining dynamic profiles for different detection regions and storing them as reference profiles, the system prepares position-specific correction data in advance, eliminating the need for time-consuming recalibration during operation.
2Manufacturing precision
If the imaging system is calibrated for one end of the slide, then the focus is accurate at that position, but the focus becomes miscalibrated at opposite ends or middle sections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different focus corrections to different regions of the sample slide. By obtaining dynamic profiles for specific detection regions and associating each with appropriate reference profiles, the system tailors the focus calibration to local conditions at each position, accounting for variations in slide geometry and optical path characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic focus adjustment by obtaining real-time dynamic profiles for different detection regions during operation. The system adapts the focus calibration based on the actual position being scanned, allowing continuous optimization of focus accuracy across the entire slide length rather than relying on a static single-point calibration.
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 approach ensures accurate and consistent focus across the sample slide by using stored reference profiles to correct for variations, improving image quality by maintaining desired characteristics like intensity, resolution, and contrast.
Implementation Method 1
an objective lens for focusing the radiation at a focal plane
Implementation Method 2
a confocal detector adapted to detect radiation emanating from the lightest sample
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for facilitating focusing of an image scanner, such as a confocal microscope, are disclosed. Measurement of optical characteristics in certain areas of a test sample are compared to stored or baseline optical characteristic profiles to determine an appropriate correction to properly focus the scanner. In one aspect, the method includes obtaining a dynamic profile at a current detection region of a test sample and associating the dynamic profile to a profile selected from a set of stored baseline profiles. Each of the stored baseline profiles is associated with a correction.