Light Sheet Microscope Module for Large-Sample Imaging Flexibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing light sheet and confocal microscopes are limited in their ability to examine large samples, offering little flexibility and accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A confocal microscope converted into a light sheet microscope, featuring a mechanical receiving apparatus, optical module with interchangeable optical arrangements, and a beam path selector, allowing for flexible beam path adjustments and multiple microscopy modes without mechanical movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional light sheet microscopes or confocal microscopes are used, then the microscope structure is relatively simple, but the sample dimensions are limited and flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multi-functionality by enabling the microscope to operate in multiple modes (scanning, nonlinear illumination, confocal, light field, and light sheet modes) through a unified optical module. This allows the same microscope structure to examine samples of various dimensions and types, achieving adaptability without proportionally increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the illumination and detection functions into separate optical paths (first beam path for illumination, second beam path for detection) that can be independently configured. This segmentation allows flexible adaptation to different sample sizes by adjusting individual optical paths rather than redesigning the entire system
2Measurement precision
If conventional microscopes are used for large samples, then the device structure is simple, but accuracy and flexibility in examining large samples are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adaptability through the optical beam path selector, which can dynamically switch between different beam path configurations depending on the sample size and examination requirements. This dynamic reconfiguration enables high measurement precision for large samples without requiring a completely complex fixed structure
Solution Approach 2:
The optical beam path selector acts as an intermediary that mediates between the fixed microscope structure and the variable examination requirements. It enables accurate examination of large samples by selecting appropriate optical paths while maintaining the simplicity of the underlying microscope architecture
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple examination modes are implemented, then flexibility and accuracy are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple examination modes into a single integrated optical module with unified beam paths. By combining scanning, nonlinear illumination, confocal, light field, and light sheet modes in one configuration, the system achieves high versatility without proportionally increasing device complexity compared to having separate systems for each mode
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 examination of larger samples with enhanced flexibility and accuracy, enabling seamless switching between microscopy modes without relocating the sample or microscope, and supporting various imaging techniques.
Implementation Method 1
the first beam path or the second beam path extend at least in sections through the attachment element in order to generate a light sheet
Implementation Method 2
an optical module which is able to be attached to the receiving apparatus and which serves to illuminate a sample volume and collect and transmit light from the sample volume
Data Source
AI summary
A microscope, which is a confocal microscope converted into a light sheet microscope, includes a microscope body and a mechanical receiving apparatus for microscope objectives, through which a microscope beam path extends. An optical module attachable to the receiving apparatus is configured to illuminate a sample volume and collect and transmit light from the sample volume. The optical module comprises: first and second optical arrangements with first and second beam paths that intersect in the sample volume, an optical beam path selector configured to combine the first and/or second beam path with the microscope beam path, and an attachment element arranged between the first or second optical arrangement and the sample volume, wherein the first or second beam path extend at least in sections through the attachment element in order to generate a light sheet. An area sensor is configured to detect light collected from the sample volume.