Immersion Fluid Bolus Detection and Control for Microscope Objectives
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automated immersion microscope systems lack robustness in forming and maintaining optimal boluses of immersion fluid, which affects the resolution and throughput of microscopy imaging.
Innovation Solution
A microscope imaging system with automated bolus formation and detection, where immersion fluid is delivered onto the objective to form boluses with a rounded outer surface, illuminated, and detected using optical sensors to determine size, with a processor adjusting fluid delivery based on detection data to ensure accurate bolus formation and size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If automated bolus formation is implemented, then throughput is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to insufficient robustness in maintaining optimal bolus formation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements optical detection systems that monitor bolus formation in real-time and provide feedback to the automated fluid delivery system. This closed-loop feedback mechanism allows the system to detect bolus size and quality, adjust fluid delivery parameters accordingly, and maintain reliable bolus formation while operating in automated mode, thus resolving the contradiction between throughput improvement and reliability maintenance
2Reliability
If manual bolus formation is used, then reliability is maintained, but productivity decreases due to reduced throughput
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the system to self-adjust fluid delivery parameters based on optical detection of bolus characteristics. The automated system monitors its own performance and makes real-time corrections to maintain optimal bolus formation, eliminating the need for manual intervention while preserving reliability and increasing throughput through continuous operation
3Manufacturing precision
If immersion microscopy with higher power objectives is used, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to automated bolus formation and detection systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functions into unified components: the optical detection system serves both to monitor bolus formation and to provide imaging capability, while the automated fluid delivery system combines precise fluid control with positional adjustment. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while maintaining high resolution imaging capability
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 system ensures consistent and accurate bolus formation, improving the robustness and throughput of immersion microscopy by automatically adjusting fluid delivery to maintain optimal bolus size and presence, enhancing imaging resolution.
Implementation Method 1
Light may be detected from each illuminated bolus to create detection data
Data Source
AI summary
Microscope imaging system and method for bolus formation and detection. In an exemplary method, immersion fluid may be delivered onto a front end of an objective of the imaging system to form one or more boluses. Each bolus may have a rounded outer surface intersected by an optical axis defined by the objective. At least a portion of each bolus may be illuminated. Light may be detected from each illuminated bolus to create detection data. A value representing a size of each bolus may be determined using the detection data. Delivery of the immersion fluid may be adjusted, if needed, based on the value(s) determined.