Automatic Focusing Optical System for Multi-Channel Fluorescence Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fluorescence detection optical systems face challenges in maintaining accurate focal position and detecting fluorescence signals with multiple wavelengths due to the narrow focal depth in microfluidic devices, requiring precise position control and complex attachment mechanisms, which increases cost and complexity.
Innovation Solution
The development of a fluorescence detection optical system with an automatic focusing unit that includes a divided-type photodetector, focusing lens, and actuator to adjust the objective lens position, allowing for precise focusing and detection of fluorescence beams with multiple wavelengths, and a light transferring unit with dichroic filters and beam splitters to manage different wavelengths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the numerical aperture of the objective lens is increased to accurately detect fluorescence, then the measurement precision is improved, but the focal depth is further reduced making position control more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements an automatic focusing mechanism that performs preliminary position adjustment of the objective lens before fluorescence detection. The focusing control unit calculates focusing error based on light distribution detected by the photodetector and automatically adjusts the objective lens position, ensuring the focal point is precisely positioned in the microchamber without requiring manual precision positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a feedback control system where the photodetector continuously monitors the light distribution pattern, the focusing control unit processes this information to calculate focusing error, and the objective lens position is adjusted accordingly. This closed-loop feedback mechanism maintains accurate focus despite variations in microfluidic device positioning.
2Measurement precision
If a precise attachment mechanism is used to maintain accuracy when attaching or detaching the microfluidic device, then the measurement precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-aligning attachment mechanism where the objective lens automatically returns to its original position after the microfluidic device is detached, eliminating the need for complex manual realignment procedures. The focusing control unit automatically recalibrates the lens position, making the attachment/detachment process simple while maintaining detection accuracy.
3Measurement precision
If precise position control is implemented to maintain focal point accuracy, then the measurement precision is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical position control systems with an optical-based automatic focusing system. Instead of using精密 mechanical stages and manual adjustment mechanisms, the system uses optical detection by the photodetector, electronic calculation of focusing error, and automated lens positioning controlled by the focusing control unit, thereby reducing mechanical complexity while improving precision.
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
This solution enables automatic focusing and accurate detection of fluorescence signals across multiple wavelengths, reducing the complexity and cost of the detection apparatus while maintaining precision, even if the microfluidic device is not accurately positioned.
Implementation Method 1
an objective lens which focuses the excitation light on a microfluidic device
Implementation Method 2
a fluorescence detector which detects fluorescence which is generated by the microfluidic device while a sample in the microfluidic device is excited by the excitation light
Implementation Method 3
an automatic focusing unit which detects the excitation light reflected off the microfluidic device, calculates a focusing error of the excitation light reflected off the microfluidic device
Data Source
AI summary
A fluorescence detection optical system detects fluorescence beams with two or more different wavelengths and maintains a focal position through an automatic focusing function. A multi-channel fluorescence detection apparatus includes the fluorescence detection optical system. The fluorescence detection optical system includes an automatic focusing unit which receives light reflected off a microfluidic device and determines a focal point by using an astigmatic method or a knife edge method, and an actuator which adjusts a position of an objective lens according to control of the automatic focusing unit. In addition, the fluorescence detection optical system may include a plurality of dual band pass filters, dichroic devices, etc., which provide light beams emitted from at least two light sources and transfer fluorescence generated from the microfluidic device to a photodetector.