Defocused Imaging Control for Transparent Sample Shape Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for observing and measuring transparent samples, such as cells, tissues, and biological samples, are inefficient in accurately determining the shape of the sample, with high accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A control apparatus and method that utilizes imaging and defocusing techniques to acquire and analyze the shape of the transparent sample by imaging and defocusing techniques, allowing for precise determination of the shape of the sample, with high contrast and accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional imaging methods are used to observe transparent samples, then the sample can be imaged, but the measurement precision and contrast are insufficient due to the colorless and transparent nature of the sample
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the imaging parameter from in-focus to defocus position. By intentionally imaging the transparent sample at a defocused position, the patent transforms the low-contrast problem into a high-contrast image where the transparent sample appears with clear boundaries against the background, enabling accurate shape measurement
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces conventional optical contrast mechanisms with a mathematical processing approach. Instead of relying on optical contrast enhancement methods, the patent uses computational techniques to extract shape information from defocused images, substituting mechanical/optical methods with information processing
2Measurement precision
If multiple imaging methods are used to improve measurement accuracy, then the precision improves, but the device complexity and processing time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential information needed for shape measurement from the defocused image. By focusing computational resources on extracting shape parameters rather than processing the entire image, the patent achieves high measurement precision with minimal device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the defocused image as a simplified copy that contains sufficient shape information without requiring the complexity of multiple imaging systems. The defocused image serves as an alternative representation that preserves shape characteristics while enabling simpler measurement
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 control apparatus and method enable precise and accurate determination of the shape of the sample, enhancing the accuracy and precision of the shape of the sample, with high accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
acquire a first image by imaging using an imaging unit and first information on a region corresponding to a sample in the first image, the first image including the sample acquired at a position defocused by a first amount from an in-focus position
Implementation Method 2
utilizes the property in which when light with a phase distribution propagates, an intensity distribution corresponding to the phase distribution appears
Data Source
AI summary
A control apparatus includes at least one memory storing instructions, and at least one processor that, upon execution of the instructions, is configured to acquire a first image by imaging using an imaging unit and first information on a region corresponding to a sample in the first image, the first image including the sample acquired at a position defocused by a first amount from an in-focus position, and acquire shape information on a shape of the sample based on the first information and the first amount.