Laser Alignment Guide for Non-Visible Imaging Beam Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current imaging systems face challenges in accurately, precisely, and rapidly aligning a sample relative to an imaging beam, particularly when the beam consists of non-visible wavelengths such as X-rays, ultraviolet light, or infrared light.
Innovation Solution
An image alignment guide is attached to the output nozzle of an imaging system, utilizing a pair of laser elements to project alignment lines onto the sample, allowing for precise positioning of the imaging beam by intersecting these lines at the desired imaging zone.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If alignment is performed using non-visible imaging beams (X-rays, ultraviolet, infrared), then imaging precision is improved, but alignment difficulty increases due to invisibility of the beam
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a visible alignment beam (laser) as an intermediary to indicate the position and direction of the non-visible imaging beam. The alignment beam is visible to the human eye and creates a visual reference that mediates between the invisible imaging beam and the operator, allowing precise alignment without directly observing the imaging beam itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses visible light (typically laser light appearing as a colored beam) to mark the path of the invisible imaging beam. This color change from invisible to visible spectrum allows operators to see and align with the beam path, solving the visibility problem while maintaining the precision benefits of using non-visible imaging beams.
2Loss of time
If manual alignment methods are used for non-visible beams, then device complexity is reduced, but alignment time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs preliminary action by pre-establishing a visible reference path using an alignment beam before introducing the non-visible imaging beam. This preliminary visible marker allows operators to quickly align the system without trial-and-error adjustments, significantly reducing alignment time while the added alignment apparatus complexity is minimal and justified by the time savings.
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 method enables accurate and rapid alignment of the imaging beam with the sample, ensuring that non-visible imaging beams are centered on the intended imaging point, improving the imaging process efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a first laser element connected to the guide wall, and a second laser element connected to the guide wall
Data Source
AI summary
The invention comprises an alignment guide apparatus and a method of use thereof for aligning an imaging beam, longitudinally passing through an exit nozzle of an imaging system, to an imaging zone of a sample, includes the steps of: (1) providing an alignment guide, the alignment guide comprising: (a) a guide wall at least partially circumferentially enclosing an aperture, (b) a first laser element connected to the guide wall, and (c) a second laser element connected to the guide wall; (2) inserting the exit nozzle of the imaging system into the aperture; (3) projecting a first line from the first laser element onto the sample; (4) projecting a second line from the second laser element onto the sample; and (5) moving the sample relative to the exit nozzle of the imaging system to position an intersection of the first line and the second line at the imaging zone to align the imaging beam to the imaging zone.