Optical Sample Scanning with Contrast-Based Adaptive Focusing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for optically scanning samples are hindered by slow processing speeds and the inability to accommodate operator requests for focusing, particularly due to lengthy automatic focusing times and lack of manual intervention capabilities.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an adaptive sensor unit that evaluates contrast values to dynamically adjust the focusing speed and parameters such as magnification and depth of focus, allowing for adaptive configuration of the scanning system to optimize focusing and image acquisition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If automatic focusing is performed for each individual image, then focusing precision is improved, but processing time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-evaluation of captured images using contrast analysis to automatically determine focusing quality, eliminating the need for manual focusing intervention while maintaining precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical focusing adjustment with an automated optical evaluation system that uses contrast analysis to determine optimal focus, substituting human operation with algorithmic control
2Measurement precision
If the scanning device records only specific section segments with high resolution, then image quality is improved, but the number of individual images requiring combination increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses contrast evaluation feedback to intelligently determine which individual images should be captured and combined, optimizing the selection process based on actual image quality metrics rather than uniform sampling
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a method and to a device for optically scanning a sample (1). The device comprises an adjusting unit (2, 3) and a scanning device (4, 5) which comprises an optical unit (4) and a scanning unit (5). The inventive device also comprises a control arrangement (6) which controls the optical unit (4), the scanning unit (5) and the adjusting unit (2, 3). The sample (1) is displaced in relation to the scanning device (4, 5), or vice-versa, by means of the adjusting unit (2, 3) which is impinged upon by the control arrangement (6). As a result, individual images (7), which are obtained by means of the scanning device (4, 5) are assembled to make at least one global image in the control arrangement (6). According to the invention, the respectively detected individual image (7) is evaluated either partially or totally in relation to the contrast thereof, and the obtained contrast values (K) influence the functionality of the entire arrangement.