Confocal Microscopy Microlens Array Spinning Polarizer High Magnification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current confocal microscopy systems face limitations in speed and image quality, particularly at high magnification levels, due to inefficiencies in light transmission and diffraction issues.
Innovation Solution
A confocal optical system incorporating a piezoelectric drive controller coupled with a microlens array member that minimizes diffraction and enhances light control, combined with a spinning polarizer and multiple cameras for improved image capture, allowing for higher magnification and faster image production.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional confocal microscopy systems are used, then image quality can be maintained at standard magnification levels, but speed and image quality deteriorate at high magnification levels due to inefficiencies in light transmission and diffraction issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a microlens array that divides the optical path into multiple discrete channels, each focusing light through individual microlenses. This segmentation allows parallel processing of multiple image points simultaneously, dramatically increasing imaging speed while maintaining high magnification and image quality through controlled light transmission in each channel.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a piezoelectric drive controller as an intermediary mechanism to precisely control the position and focus of the microlens array. This intermediary device optimizes light transmission by dynamically adjusting the microlens configuration, reducing diffraction effects and improving both image quality and acquisition speed at high magnification levels.
2Illumination intensity
If conventional confocal microscopy systems are used, then standard imaging can be performed, but diffraction issues reduce light transmission efficiency and image quality at high magnification
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality optimization by using individual microlenses in the array, each tailored to focus light at specific locations. This localized approach allows precise control of light transmission paths, minimizing diffraction effects at each point while maximizing overall light transmission efficiency for high magnification imaging.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical focusing systems with a piezoelectric-driven microlens array system. This substitution enables more precise and rapid adjustment of light paths, reducing diffraction-induced losses and improving light transmission efficiency without the mechanical limitations of traditional confocal systems.
3Measurement precision
If higher magnification is achieved, then image detail is improved, but speed of image production decreases due to inefficiencies in the optical path
Solution Approach 1:
The microlens array segments the optical path into multiple parallel channels that can process different portions of the image simultaneously. This segmentation enables high magnification imaging while maintaining fast acquisition speeds, as multiple image elements are captured in parallel rather than sequentially, directly addressing the productivity limitation at high magnification.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuous light transmission through the microlens array with minimal interruption or loss. The piezoelectric drive maintains continuous optimization of the optical path, ensuring that light transmission remains efficient throughout the imaging process, thereby maintaining high productivity even at 10,000× 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
The system achieves high-quality images at magnifications up to 10,000× with reduced diffraction and increased speed, surpassing the capabilities of existing confocal microscopy systems by optimizing light transmission and image capture.
Implementation Method 1
a piezoelectric drive controller coupled to a microlens array member that minimizes diffraction of the light while enhancing the visibility
Implementation Method 2
a piezoelectric drive controller coupled to a microlens array member that minimizes diffraction of the light
Implementation Method 3
combined with a spinning polarizer and multiple cameras for improved image capture
Data Source
AI summary
A confocal optical system includes a light source and a spinning polarizer disposed in the optical pathway such the light emitted from the light source passes through the spinning polarizer. A first objective lens is disposed in the optical pathway to allow passage of light that passes through the spinning polarizer. A microlens array member is disposed adjacent the first objective lens to receive light. The microlens array member includes a plate having a plurality of holes arranged in an array pattern. A second objective lens is disposed in the optical pathway to receive and allow passage of light to a sample. The optical pathway is arranged such that, after reaching the sample, the light is directed back through the second objective lens, the microlens or microlens with filter array, and the first objective lens and a fluorescent filter cube as an emission beam to reach at least one camera which provides an image of the sample.