Laser Scanning Microscope Parallel Detection Channels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current laser scanning microscopy methods face challenges with long measurement times, potential inaccuracies due to vibrations, and stress on samples, especially in BioMed applications, as well as limited dynamic range and noise in material topography determination, due to the need for sequential double scanning and reliance on PMTs.
Innovation Solution
The use of a color neutral beam splitter with adjustable splitting ratios, such as 1000:1 or 50:50, and the integration of multiple light-sensitive sensors like CCD or CMOS chips, allowing for simultaneous detection and automation of measurement settings to enhance dynamic range and reduce noise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If sequential double scanning is used to achieve high dynamic range, then measurement accuracy is improved, but measurement time is doubled and sample stress increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detection process is segmented into multiple detection channels with different sensitivity ranges. Instead of performing sequential measurements, the patent divides the detection task across parallel channels that simultaneously capture different intensity ranges, eliminating the need for repeated scanning while maintaining measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from temporal dimension (sequential scanning) to spatial dimension (parallel detection channels). By adding a spatial dimension through multiple simultaneous detection channels with different sensitivities, the system achieves high dynamic range without the time penalty of sequential measurements.
2Measurement precision
If sequential double scanning is performed to capture high dynamic range, then contrast resolution is improved, but susceptibility to vibrations and scanner inaccuracies increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detection system is segmented into multiple independent detection channels that operate simultaneously. Each channel captures data independently at the same moment, eliminating the temporal separation that makes sequential scanning vulnerable to vibrations and scanner position drift between measurements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple detection channels with different sensitivity ranges into a unified detection system. By combining the outputs of parallel channels that simultaneously measure the same sample state, the system achieves high contrast resolution while being immune to vibrations that would affect sequential measurements.
3Measurement precision
If multiple sequential measurements are taken to achieve high dynamic range, then measurement accuracy is improved, but sample bleaching and cell changes increase
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement task is segmented across multiple parallel detection channels that simultaneously capture different intensity ranges in a single scan. This eliminates the need for multiple sequential measurements, thereby preventing sample bleaching and cellular changes that occur during repeated exposure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuous simultaneous measurement across multiple detection channels during a single scan, rather than interrupting the measurement process with sequential scans. This continuous action captures the complete dynamic range in one pass, preventing harmful effects from repeated sampling.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a beam splitter with asymmetrical splitting ratio is used to extend dynamic range, then detection capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a universal detection architecture where multiple detection channels can be configured with different sensitivity ranges. This multi-functional system can detect across a broad dynamic range using a single integrated setup, avoiding the need for multiple specialized devices or complex switching mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses dynamically adjustable detection channels that can be configured for different sensitivity ranges. Rather than using fixed asymmetrical beam splitters, the patent employs dynamic control of detector gains and sensitivities to achieve extended dynamic range with simpler optical path management.
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 approach significantly reduces measurement time, improves accuracy, and minimizes sample stress by enabling simultaneous multi-channel detection, resulting in higher intensity dynamic range and reduced noise, while allowing for automation of measurement conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a beam path of a laser scanning microscope is shown schematically... the light emitted from the focal plane and from the planes above and below it passes through the scanner to a dichroic beam splitter. This separates the sample light from the excitation light.
Implementation Method 2
After passing through the blocking filter, the sample light is measured using a point detector (usually a PMT).
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3a~3e
AI summary
Laser scanning microscope and method for its operation with at least two detection channels, which has at least one beam splitter with a distribution of the sample light deviating from the 50:50 distribution and/or, in the case of a 50:50 distribution, has detectors with differently set gains in the detection channels or has an additional light attenuator in at least one detection channel with the same light distribution.