Immersion Media Applicator for Automated Microscopy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automated microscopy systems face challenges in efficiently applying and removing immersion media from objective lenses, leading to reduced productivity and potential damage to lenses due to prolonged exposure, especially in high-throughput imaging applications.
Innovation Solution
An imaging system with an integrated applicator and cleaning mechanism, featuring a nozzle for bubble-free media application and a wipe or suction device for media removal, integrated into the sample stage to automate the process and reduce mechanical complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual application of immersion media is used, then media can be applied effectively, but productivity and efficiency are reduced due to manual operation requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automated self-service by integrating the immersion media applicator directly into the automated imaging system. The applicator automatically applies immersion media to objective lenses without requiring manual intervention, allowing the system to service itself during automated imaging operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The immersion media applicator is merged with the automated imaging system components. The applicator is integrated into the stage assembly or objective lens holder, combining the media application function with the existing automated positioning and imaging functions into a unified system.
2Extent of automation
If additional motors or actuators are added to move and flip the immersion applicator, then automated media application becomes possible, but mechanical and operational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator is merged with existing system components such as the stage assembly or objective lens holder. This integration eliminates the need for separate motors or actuators by utilizing the existing movement mechanisms of the imaging system to position the applicator and objective lenses relative to each other.
Solution Approach 2:
The applicator design allows it to serve multiple functions within the imaging system. It can apply immersion media to different objective lenses as they pass through its position, and the same structural elements used for media application also serve the existing automated positioning functions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If prior systems are used, then media application to single objective is possible, but adaptability to multiple objectives and reconfiguration requirements reduce system versatility
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator is designed with universal functionality to work with multiple objective lens types and positions. It can accommodate various objective lenses on the stage or turret without requiring reconfiguration, providing consistent media application across different imaging configurations and objective types.
Solution Approach 2:
The applicator incorporates dynamic positioning capabilities that allow it to adapt to different objective lens positions and orientations. As objectives are moved into position by the automated imaging system, the applicator dynamically adjusts or maintains its positioning to ensure proper media application without manual reconfiguration.
4Reliability
If immersion media is removed from lenses promptly, then lens longevity and functionality are improved, but additional cleaning mechanisms are required which increase system complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning mechanism is merged with the existing applicator structure. The same applicator assembly that applies immersion media also contains the cleaning components, such as wipers or suction devices, that remove the media after use. This integration eliminates the need for separate cleaning systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning function is performed continuously or immediately after media application. The cleaning mechanism operates in direct succession to the media application, ensuring that immersion media is removed promptly from the objective lenses without interruption to the automated imaging workflow, thereby maintaining lens performance.
5Productivity
If automated imaging systems are used, then high throughput is achieved, but space constraints and dynamic movements make automated media application difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator is integrated with the stage assembly or objective lens holder that undergoes dynamic movement in the automated imaging system. By merging the applicator with these moving components, the system maintains the ability to apply media effectively despite the dynamic positioning and high throughput operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The applicator is designed to accommodate dynamic movements within the automated imaging system. It maintains proper positioning and alignment with objective lenses during rapid movements and transitions, ensuring that media application remains effective and reliable throughout high-speed automated operations.
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
Enhances efficiency and lens longevity by enabling automated, bubble-free application and removal of immersion media, reducing operational complexity and maintaining image quality across extended imaging sessions.
Implementation Method 1
The immersion media nozzle can be configured to dispense immersion media without bubbles
Implementation Method 2
The liquid sensor can include an optical sensor
Implementation Method 3
a multimeter for measuring resistance at the lens surface of the immersion objective
Implementation Method 4
a capacitor sensor
Implementation Method 5
a pump associated with the hose that is configured to dispense immersion media from the immersion media reservoir through the applicator
Implementation Method 6
a suction device configured to remove immersion media from the lens surface of the immersion objective
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging system configured for automatic application and/or removal of immersion media can include (i) a sample stage, (ii) an imaging assembly disposed on a first side of the sample stage and having an immersion objective configured to selectively align with an optical axis of the imaging system, and (iii) an applicator positioned to selectively interact with a lens surface of the immersion objective to deposit or remove immersion media.