Multiple Focus Stack Image Formation via Dynamic Scanning
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for forming multiple focus stack images in microscopy, such as line scan and focus stacking, face challenges with maintaining focus over large areas due to limited depth of focus and the need for multiple scans, which are time-consuming and prone to registration errors.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that use relative scanning movement and on-the-fly focus modification between different focal positions during scanning to obtain multiple focus stack images in a single pass, utilizing an array of light detectors and a focus device to adjust focus dynamically, allowing for continuous scanning and interpolation of image information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If multiple scans at different focus levels are used to cover full focus range, then focus coverage is improved, but scanning time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple focus levels into a single scan by integrating the focus stacking function with the scanning process. Instead of performing separate scans for each focus level, the system merges focus adjustment with the scanning movement to acquire multiple focus planes simultaneously in one pass.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically adjusts the focus level during the scanning process rather than using fixed focus planes. The focus position is modified continuously or in steps during the scan to capture images at different depths, enabling adaptive focus coverage without requiring multiple separate scans.
2Manufacturing precision
If focus is maintained over the whole length of scan, then image quality is improved, but registration accuracy deteriorates due to flexure and gravity exceeding focus tolerance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the focus parameter dynamically during the scan to accommodate sample flexure and gravity-induced displacement. By adjusting the focus level in response to detected sample position changes, the system maintains image quality while compensating for registration errors caused by mechanical instability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms to monitor focus status and sample position during scanning. The system uses this feedback to dynamically adjust focus levels and scan parameters, ensuring both image quality and registration accuracy are maintained despite sample flexure and gravity effects.
3Measurement precision
If focus map is built separately before scanning, then focus accuracy is improved, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary focus assessment during the scanning process itself rather than requiring a separate pre-processing step. The system evaluates focus conditions and adjusts parameters in real-time during the scan, eliminating the need for time-consuming separate focus map generation while maintaining focus accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent maintains continuous useful action by integrating focus assessment and adjustment into the scanning process itself. Rather than stopping for separate focus mapping, the system continuously monitors and adjusts focus during the scan, ensuring both speed and accuracy without idle processing time.
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 approach reduces the need for multiple scans, minimizes registration errors, and enables rapid acquisition of image information for different focuses, maintaining focus accuracy across varying sample topography without additional apparatus for focus mapping.
Implementation Method 1
an array of light detectors for receiving image information from a target in the form of scan lines
Data Source
AI summary
A method is provided of producing a multiple focus stack image of a target. The stack image has a plurality of images of the target, each image having a corresponding focal range or position. The method utilizes relative scanning movement between the target and an array of light detectors, the array being used to repeatedly receive image information as scan lines from the target during the scan. During the scan the relative focus between the target and the array is modified between the focal range or position of the respective images so as to obtain the images in the stack. Each image is thereby formed from the image information obtained at the respective focal range or position during the scan. Apparatus for performing the method is likewise provided.