Dual Illumination Imaging System for Macroscopic and Microscopic Preparation Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for acquiring and displaying images of preparations lack ease of use and the capability to seamlessly transition between macroscopic and microscopic imaging of slides.
Innovation Solution
A system with two illumination sources and a movable stage that allows for the combination of illumination beam paths, enabling both macroscopic and microscopic imaging, along with a digital camera and display for image acquisition and viewing, without the need for an eyepiece or complex optical tubes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single illumination source is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the capability to perform both macroscopic and microscopic imaging is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple illumination beam paths (first and second illumination sources) into a single optical path through the combining means, allowing both macroscopic and microscopic imaging capabilities to coexist without requiring separate complete imaging systems. This merging approach enables dual functionality while sharing common components like the camera and optical tube.
Solution Approach 2:
The illumination system is designed with multi-functionality where the first illumination source serves macroscopic imaging and the second illumination source serves microscopic imaging, but both can be integrated through the combining means to provide versatile imaging capabilities across different scales using the same basic infrastructure.
2Measurement precision
If complex optical tubes and eyepieces are used, then microscopic imaging capability is improved, but the ease of operation and ergonomic design deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical optical tube with eyepiece by a digital imaging system where a camera captures images that are then displayed on a screen. This substitution eliminates the need for users to look through optical tubes and eyepieces, improving ergonomics and ease of operation while maintaining or enhancing imaging precision through digital processing capabilities.
3Measurement precision
If separate systems are used for macroscopic and microscopic imaging, then imaging precision is improved, but the device complexity and ease of operation worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges separate macroscopic and microscopic imaging systems into a unified structure where multiple illumination sources and optical paths are combined through combining means to converge on a single camera and display system. This integration maintains the precision benefits of specialized imaging paths while eliminating the complexity of operating separate complete systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging system achieves multi-functionality by enabling both macroscopic and microscopic imaging capabilities within a single integrated system. The combining means allows different illumination paths to share common components (camera, display, stage), creating a universal platform that performs multiple imaging functions without requiring separate dedicated systems for each 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 easy and ergonomic acquisition and display of both macroscopic and microscopic images of preparations, facilitating user-friendly operation and efficient image capture with adjustable magnification.
Implementation Method 1
at least two illumination devices (4a, 4b) which emit light for illuminating the preparation
Data Source
AI summary
A system for acquiring and displaying images of preparations is provided. The system includes a first and second illumination device, each including an illumination source defining a respective illumination beam path amid configured to emit light to illuminate the preparation. A camera and a display for displaying a portion of the preparation are further provided. The preparation can be placed on a stage that is movable in x and y coordinate directions. The frame is also provided with a combining device configured to combine the first imaging beam path and the second imaging beam path, and direct them to the camera.