Galvanometer Port Switcher for Fast Microscope Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern digital microscopy systems with multiple imaging devices and high NA objectives face limitations due to slow filter switching times, which hinder rapid acquisition and analysis of transitory signals, especially in multi-modal and multi-channel imaging applications.
Innovation Solution
A galvanometer-based fast filter-switcher device with an infinity-conjugate relay system allows for rapid optical path switching and filter selection, utilizing a galvanometer to redirect images through multiple optical paths and filters, achieving switch speeds of approximately 1 millisecond, thereby enabling continuous multichannel imaging without pausing the camera.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If automated filter switching is used in multi-modal microscopy systems, then multiple imaging devices can be accommodated, but the switching time becomes too slow to capture transitory signals
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical filter wheel systems with a galvanometer-based mirror system. The galvanometer uses electromagnetic fields to rapidly deflect a mirror, directing light between multiple imaging devices without mechanical movement of filters. This substitution of mechanical filtering with electromagnetic deflection achieves switching times on the order of milliseconds rather than seconds, resolving the contradiction between multi-device adaptability and switching speed.
2Measurement precision
If high NA objectives are used for high resolution imaging, then image quality is improved, but spherical aberration limits their use to ideal imaging situations only
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an infinity-conjugate relay system as an intermediary between the high NA objective and the imaging devices. This relay system includes a first lens that receives light from the objective and a second lens that directs light to the imaging device. The relay system corrects spherical aberration by providing an intermediate optical path that compensates for aberrations introduced by the high NA objective, enabling these objectives to be used reliably in multiple imaging configurations without being limited to ideal situations.
3Loss of information
If multiple optical devices are connected to the microscope, then information collection is enhanced, but the complexity of the optical train increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal port switching system using a galvanometer and infinity-conjugate relay that can interface with multiple different imaging devices (cameras, detectors, etc.) through a standardized optical interface. The system provides a common method for connecting and switching between various devices, eliminating the need for separate optical paths for each device. This multi-functional approach enhances information collection capability while managing optical train complexity through a unified switching mechanism.
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
The solution significantly reduces filter switching times, making it an order of magnitude faster than current technologies, allowing for uninterrupted imaging and enhancing the capability to capture transient signals in multi-modal microscopy systems.
Implementation Method 1
A fast filter-switcher device for an optical microscope using a galvanometer
Data Source
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AI summary
A fast modular port switching device is described. The device can be used with an optical microscope to facilitate using multiple devices with the microscope. The port switching is done with a galvanometer (20) for switching very fast. The device (100) is modular so it can be combined with any number of similar devices (50) for building a complex, multi-modal imaging system. Also described is the combination of a port switcher with automated spherical aberration correction. Even further described is a similar device where the outputs are recombined, thus making the device a fast filter switcher.