Fluorescence Module Turret with Selectable LED Sources
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fluorescence microscopes rely on powerful light sources like mercury, xenon, or metal halide lamps, which require extensive filtration to produce monochromatic light, limiting flexibility and efficiency in selecting appropriate wavelengths for specimen illumination.
Innovation Solution
A fluorescence module with a selectable light source system, comprising a plurality of light sources and filters mounted on rotatable turrets, allowing independent selection and alignment of light sources and filters to optimize wavelength selection for specimen illumination, using LEDs and optical guides with actuatable mirrors for precise light path management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If conventional powerful light sources (mercury, xenon, metal halide) are used to provide high intensity illumination, then illumination intensity is sufficient, but the system requires extensive filtration and loses flexibility in wavelength selection
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the illumination function by using multiple discrete LED light sources, each emitting at a specific wavelength, replacing a single powerful broadband light source. This allows selective activation of individual LEDs or combinations thereof to match specific fluorophore excitation requirements, providing both sufficient intensity and wavelength flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of light source selection by using LEDs with different peak emission wavelengths (e.g., 380nm, 440nm, 480nm, 530nm, 560nm, 630nm) that can be independently selected or combined. This allows precise matching of excitation wavelengths to fluorophore characteristics without requiring extensive filtration of a single broadband source.
2Measurement precision
If multiple filters are used to select specific wavelengths from a broadband source, then wavelength selection is achieved, but the device complexity and filtration requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system extracts only the necessary wavelength selection function by using LEDs that inherently emit at specific wavelengths, eliminating the need for complex filter assemblies. Each LED serves as both the light source and the wavelength selector, removing the disturbing element of extensive filtration hardware while maintaining precise wavelength control.
Solution Approach 2:
The LED light sources perform multiple functions simultaneously: they provide high-intensity illumination, define the excitation wavelength through their emission spectrum, and eliminate the need for separate filter components. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity while maintaining wavelength selection 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
Enables flexible and efficient illumination of specimens by allowing precise selection of light sources and filters, improving the signal-to-noise ratio and reducing autofluorescence noise, thereby enhancing the imaging capabilities of fluorescence microscopy.
Implementation Method 1
Recently, manufacturers have also started using light emitting diodes (LEDs).
Implementation Method 2
Fluorescence is based on the phenomenon that certain material emits energy detectable as visible light when irradiated with the light of a specific wavelength.
Implementation Method 3
an excitation filter is provided for selecting an excitation wavelength of light from the light source
Implementation Method 4
a dichroic beam splitter is used to reflect light from the light source to illuminate the specimen
Implementation Method 5
an optical sensor configured to verify proper rotation of the filter turret for selection of at least one of the light filters
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the subject technology provide a fluorescence module that is configured to provide a selectable light source for fluorescence microscopy, e.g., through independent paired selection of a light source (emitter) and a corresponding light filter. In some implementations, light source and/or light filter selection is controlled through the independent actuation of light sources and/or light filters on a supporting turret structure.