Holographic Microscope Integrated Reference Light Source
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional holographic microscopes face challenges in miniaturization and vibration resistance due to the need for a separate optical structure for forming reference light, which also leads to speckle noise and image quality degradation.
Innovation Solution
A holographic microscope design that integrates a holographic image sensor capable of coherent interference between object light and reference light without a separate optical structure for reference light, utilizing a lens, filter, and nano wire transistor reference light source to enhance image quality and reduce noise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate optical structure for forming reference light is included in the holographic microscope, then the holographic interference pattern can be generated, but the device becomes heavy and large in size
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the reference light source and object light path into a single integrated optical system. The light source emits light that is split into reference light and object light, but both paths are managed within a unified structure rather than separate systems, reducing overall device complexity and weight while maintaining holographic interference capability
Solution Approach 2:
The optical structure is designed to perform multiple functions: the same light source generates both reference light and object light, and the optical components serve dual purposes in both illumination and interference pattern generation, eliminating the need for dedicated separate structures for each function
2Reliability
If a separate optical structure for forming reference light is included in the holographic microscope, then the holographic interference pattern can be generated, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the reference light generation and object light illumination into a single integrated optical pathway. By using a beam splitter to divide light from a single source and managing both paths within one structural framework, the system reduces the number of separate components and simplifies the overall optical architecture
Solution Approach 2:
The optical system is segmented into functional modules (light source, beam splitter, object illumination path, reference light path) that can be independently optimized but work together in a simplified manner, reducing overall complexity while maintaining interference pattern generation capability
3Reliability
If a separate optical structure for forming reference light is included in the holographic microscope, then the holographic interference pattern can be generated, but the device is sensitive to external vibration
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the reference light and object light paths into a single compact optical system, the patent reduces the physical separation between critical optical components. This minimization of optical path length and component separation reduces sensitivity to external vibrations while maintaining the ability to generate stable holographic interference patterns
4Reliability
If a separate optical structure for forming reference light is included in the holographic microscope, then the holographic interference pattern can be generated, but speckle noise increases causing image quality degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated optical structure allows for better control and management of the reference light and object light paths. By combining the systems, the patent enables more precise alignment and reduces unwanted scattering and interference that cause speckle noise, while still maintaining the necessary conditions for holographic interference pattern generation
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 design results in a lightweight, compact holographic microscope with improved image quality, reduced speckle noise, and enhanced vibration resistance, enabling high-resolution three-dimensional imaging.
Implementation Method 1
a lens focusing the object light to the holographic image sensor
Implementation Method 2
a filter transmitting a predetermined wavelength band of light of the focused object light
Implementation Method 3
allowing the object light to coherently interfere with reference light
Implementation Method 4
a beam splitter reflecting the light emitted from the light source to the object and transmitting object light reflected from the object
Data Source
AI summary
According to an embodiment, a holographic microscope comprises a light source emitting light to an object, a beam splitter reflecting the light emitted from the light source to the object and transmitting object light reflected from the object, a holographic image sensor sensing information, including a holographic image, by receiving the object light and allowing the object light to coherently interfere with reference light, and an image processor obtaining three-dimensional (3D) information about the object based on the information sensed by the holographic image sensor. The holographic image sensor includes a lens focusing the object light to the holographic image sensor, a filter transmitting a predetermined wavelength band of light of the focused object light, a light receiving unit receiving interference light to sense a holographic image, and a reference light source directly emitting the reference light having the predetermined wavelength band to the light receiving unit.