GRIN Lens Array Imaging for Expanded Microscopy Field of View
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing microscopes face challenges in achieving a large field of view without compromising spatial or temporal resolution, which are critical for effective imaging.
Innovation Solution
The use of a lens array, particularly a gradient-index (GRIN) lens array, in conjunction with scanning and descanning techniques, allows for capturing multiple fields of view simultaneously while maintaining spatial and temporal resolution through parallel optical axes and mosaic imaging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a single lens is used to capture the sample, then the spatial resolution is maintained, but the field of view is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the imaging system into multiple segments by using a lens array with multiple lenses (e.g., 7 lenses arranged in a hexagonal pattern). Each lens captures a separate field of view, and the individual images are mosaicked together to form a composite image. This segmentation allows the system to achieve a large overall field of view while each individual lens maintains its spatial resolution capabilities.
2Area of stationary object
If multiple lenses are used to increase field of view, then the field of view is enlarged, but the temporal resolution may be compromised due to sequential imaging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous parallel imaging by having multiple lenses simultaneously capture images of different fields of view. The detector array captures all lens outputs in parallel, eliminating sequential imaging delays. This continuous parallel action maintains temporal resolution while achieving a large field of view, as all regions are imaged at the same moment rather than sequentially.
3Area of stationary object
If a lens array is used to capture multiple fields of view simultaneously, then the field of view is enlarged without sacrificing spatial resolution, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a detector array where each detector corresponds to a specific lens in the lens array. This universal detector configuration allows each detector to handle signals from its corresponding lens, enabling simultaneous processing of multiple fields of view. The system achieves multi-functionality by using identical lens-detector pairs in a scalable arrangement, reducing the need for complex specialized components for each lens.
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
Enlarges the field of view without reducing spatial resolution and maintains temporal resolution by utilizing a GRIN lens array to capture and mosaic individual fields of view, enhancing imaging capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
A lens array is positioned in the optical path of the microscope, the lens array having a plurality of lenses each with a lens optical axis, the lens optical axes positioned to each capture a separate field of view of the sample
Implementation Method 2
A scanner can be positioned in the optical path between the light source and the lens array and configured to move to change the angle of incidence of light on the lens array
Implementation Method 3
a dichroic mirror is positioned in the optical path between the scanner and the at least one detector to reflect light returning from the sample to the at least one detector
Implementation Method 4
An additional lens array can be positioned between the dichroic mirror and the at least one detector, the additional lens array configured to focus light from each lens in the GRIN lenses separately to the at least one detector
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging system and method includes a microscope for observing a sample. A light source is arranged to generate light along an optical path of the microscope. A lens array is positioned in the optical path of the microscope, the lens array having a plurality of lenses each with a lens optical axis, the lens optical axes positioned to each capture a separate field of view of the sample. At least one detector is configured to detect the separate fields of view from the lenses. The imaging system is configured to mosaic the detected separate fields of view from each lens to generate an image of the sample.