Confocal Microscope Positionable Imaging Head
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing confocal microscopes are cumbersome when switching between imaging ex-vivo tissue samples on a stage and in-vivo tissue samples, as they require separate setups and lack versatility for both modes of imaging from a common platform.
Innovation Solution
A confocal microscope with a positionable imaging head that can be adjusted vertically, rotated, and tilted to image tissue samples both on and beside a platform, utilizing multiple stages for precise positioning and a computer system for image capture and control, allowing for both ex-vivo and in-vivo imaging from a single platform.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a confocal microscope is designed for imaging ex-vivo tissue samples on a stage, then imaging capability for ex-vivo samples is achieved, but the device becomes cumbersome and cannot efficiently image in-vivo tissue samples
Solution Approach 1:
The confocal microscope is designed with a positionable imaging head that can be moved between different positions to perform both ex-vivo imaging (over the platform) and in-vivo imaging (beside the platform). This multi-functional design allows a single device to replace what would traditionally require separate imaging systems, achieving versatility without sacrificing operational convenience
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging head is equipped with multiple stages (first stage for vertical movement, second stage for rotation) that enable dynamic repositioning between imaging modes. This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt its configuration based on whether ex-vivo or in-vivo imaging is required, resolving the contradiction between versatility and ease of operation
2Reliability
If separate confocal microscope setups are used for ex-vivo and in-vivo imaging, then each imaging mode can be optimized, but device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines both ex-vivo and in-vivo imaging capabilities into a single confocal microscope system with a shared platform, optical system, and control mechanisms. By merging these functions into one device rather than using separate systems, the patent reduces overall device complexity while maintaining imaging quality through the positionable imaging head design
3Adaptability or versatility
If the imaging head is fixed in position, then the optical system remains stable, but the microscope cannot switch between imaging ex-vivo and in-vivo samples
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging head is designed with controlled mobility through multiple stages that allow precise movement when mode switching is required, while maintaining stability during actual imaging operations. The system transitions from a fixed to a dynamic configuration only when needed for mode changes, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and stability
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning system is divided into multiple independent stages (first stage for vertical movement, second stage for rotation) that can be adjusted separately. This segmentation allows precise control of the imaging head's position while maintaining optical stability during imaging, as each stage can be independently optimized for its specific function
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 efficient and versatile imaging of both ex-vivo and in-vivo tissue samples using a single platform, improving operational convenience and image capture quality by providing multiple degrees of freedom for the imaging head's movement and alignment.
Implementation Method 1
the optical system is operative by confocal microscopy, such that the microscope of the present invention is referred to as a confocal microscope
Data Source
AI summary
A confocal microscope for imaging tissue having an imaging head for capturing optically formed microscopic sectional images of tissue samples, a platform upon which is disposed a linear stage for moving the imaging head along a vertical dimension, and a rotary stage to rotate the linear stage and imaging head about the vertical dimension. A mounting arm couples the imaging head to the linear stage to adjust tilt of the imaging head and to rotate the imaging head about a normal axis perpendicular to an optical axis of an objective lens of the imaging head. In a first mode of operation, the imaging head is positioned to image an ex-vivo or in-vivo tissue sample upon the platform, such as ex-vivo tissue sample mounted upon a movable specimen stage, and in a second mode of operation the imaging head is positioned to image an in-vivo tissue sample beside the platform.