Laser Marking Attachment for Microscope Slide Labeling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for labeling histological slides during microscopic examination are cumbersome, inefficient, and often inaccurate, requiring manual rotation of the objective lens and use of a sharp ink pen.
Innovation Solution
A system that integrates a light microscope with a laser source, prism, and condenser to automatically or manually mark microscopic slides, allowing precise marking without removing the slide from the microscope stage, using a laser beam to create permanent marks on the glass.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual marking with ink pen is used, then labeling can be performed, but the process is cumbersome and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical marking process (rotating objective lens and using ink pen) with an automated laser marking system. The laser source, controlled by a computer or microprocessor, automatically marks the slide based on coordinates input from the user, eliminating the need for manual rotation and pen marking operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows the user to simply input the desired marking coordinates, and the automated laser system performs the entire marking process independently. The laser automatically positions itself and executes the marking without requiring the user to manually rotate the objective or guide the pen, making the system operate with minimal human intervention.
2Measurement precision
If manual marking with ink pen is used, then labeling can be performed, but accuracy is often poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the imprecise manual pen marking with a laser system that can be precisely positioned using computer-controlled coordinates. The laser's focused beam and programmable positioning system enable accurate marking at specific locations on the slide, far exceeding the precision achievable with manual pen work.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses digital coordinate information to replicate the exact positioning desired by the user. By inputting coordinates, the system creates a precise digital map of where marks should be placed, and the automated laser faithfully reproduces these positions, ensuring high accuracy without requiring manual measurement or estimation.
3Manufacturing precision
If laser marking is implemented, then marking precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the laser marking system with the existing microscope platform, allowing the same device to serve dual purposes: optical observation and precise marking. The laser source, prism, and condenser are incorporated into the microscope's optical path, enabling the system to function as both a viewing instrument and a marking device without requiring entirely separate equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a prism as an intermediary component to direct the laser beam onto the slide at the correct angle and position. This optical element acts as a mediator between the laser source and the sample, enabling precise beam control and integration with the microscope's optical path while maintaining system compactness and manageability.
4Stability of the object's composition
If laser beam is used for marking, then permanent high-resolution marks are created, but risk of glass damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs pulsed laser operation rather than continuous beam exposure. The laser delivers energy in controlled pulses, allowing brief intervals between pulses for heat dissipation. This periodic action enables the creation of permanent marks through cumulative thermal effects while preventing excessive heat buildup that could damage or shatter the glass slide.
Solution Approach 2:
The system carefully controls laser parameters including pulse duration, pulse frequency, and energy per pulse. By adjusting these parameters, the system optimizes the balance between creating permanent visible marks and maintaining glass integrity. The condenser lens focuses the beam to a precise spot size, concentrating energy enough to mark the glass permanently while the controlled parameters prevent energy accumulation that would cause damage.
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
Enables easy, quick, and accurate marking of slides with high resolution and precision, allowing for precise indication of microscopic structures without damaging the glass, improving the efficiency and accuracy of slide labeling.
Implementation Method 1
a laser source configured to generate a laser beam for marking the slides
Implementation Method 2
a prism for directing the laser beam
Implementation Method 3
a condenser through which the laser light travels
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is directed to a device and a laser, eye-safe method for laser marking slides for use in conjunction with a light microscope. The device is an attachment for a light microscope that allows the operator to make marks on preparations of biological tissues or other materials placed on a glass slide or between a glass slide and a cover slip. The marks can be used to indicate or highlight a microscopic structure or feature of interest. The marking on the slide is performed as the specimen is examined, without having to remove it from the microscope stage. In this way the invention has application in a biomedical or pathology laboratory for diagnostic, research, archival, and teaching or training purposes.