Dual-Configuration Microscope Rotating Objective Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional microscopes require separate upright and inverted configurations, leading to increased equipment and maintenance costs, as well as additional space for storage and use, due to the need for two distinct microscopes.
Innovation Solution
A dual-configuration microscope that can be converted from an upright to an inverted configuration and vice versa, utilizing a rotating or flipping mechanism, allowing the same microscope to be used in both setups with minimal space and equipment requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate upright and inverted microscopes are used, then each configuration provides dedicated functionality, but equipment cost, maintenance cost, and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The microscope system is designed with interchangeable objective positions that allow the same microscope to function in both upright and inverted configurations. The objective can be positioned above the stage for upright microscopy or below the stage for inverted microscopy, enabling one device to perform multiple functions that previously required two separate microscopes.
Solution Approach 2:
The microscope employs a dynamic objective positioning mechanism that allows the objective to move between different locations (above and below the stage). This dynamic reconfiguration capability enables the system to adapt its configuration based on the specific microscopy needs, transitioning between upright and inverted modes as required.
2Reliability
If two separate microscopes are maintained for upright and inverted configurations, then each provides optimized performance for its specific configuration, but space requirements and equipment costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
A single microscope platform is designed to accommodate both upright and inverted configurations through interchangeable objective positioning. This universal design maintains the performance reliability of both configurations while eliminating the need for separate dedicated microscopes, thereby reducing the space required for equipment storage and operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The functionality of two separate microscopes (upright and inverted) is merged into a single unified system. By combining the capabilities of both configurations in one microscope with interchangeable objective positions, the system achieves space efficiency while maintaining the performance characteristics of each configuration when needed.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the objective position is changed between upright and inverted configurations, then versatility is improved, but optical alignment and focal distance maintenance become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs dynamic optical path adjustment mechanisms that automatically or manually compensate for alignment changes when the objective position is switched between upright and inverted configurations. This dynamic adjustment capability maintains optical alignment and focal distance despite the change in objective position, reducing the complexity burden of configuration switching.
Solution Approach 2:
Optical intermediaries such as mirrors or lens systems are used to maintain the optical path integrity when switching between configurations. These intermediary elements help preserve the optical alignment and focal relationships, simplifying the transition process between upright and inverted modes by mediating the optical adjustments required.
Data Source
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Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A dual-configuration microscope is provided. The microscope may be converted into an upright configuration or an inverted configuration. The microscope includes a base having a lower portion and an upper portion, the lower portion configured to support the microscope. The microscope further includes a body having a first portion, a second portion, and an intermediate portion extending between the first and second portions. The intermediate portion of the body is rotatably coupled to the upper portion of the base at a rotational coupling. The rotational coupling defines a rotating axis that extends in a longitudinal direction with respect to the microscope. The microscope further includes an objective disposed proximal to the first portion and a light source disposed proximal to the second portion.