Luminescence Microscope Beam Splitting for Multi-Focus Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing luminescence microscopes struggle to generate different light intensity distributions at the focus simultaneously or in rapid succession while maintaining a compact design, as previous methods require significant installation space and complex adjustments.
Innovation Solution
A luminescence microscope design utilizing a first beam displacement element to generate output light beams at acute angles, combined with phase and/or amplitude modulation by multiple active surfaces of a light modulator, allowing for simultaneous or rapid switching between various light intensity distributions without increasing the system's footprint.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple light intensity distributions are generated using sequential beam paths with polarization modulation, then different light distributions (donut, bottle-beam) can be formed, but the device becomes space-consuming and complex in setup
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single beam path into multiple parallel beam paths (first and second output light beams) that are spatially separated. Each beam path can be independently modulated by the light modulator to generate different light intensity distributions simultaneously or in rapid succession, eliminating the need for sequential switching and reducing optical complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from temporal multiplexing (sequential switching between different light distributions) to spatial multiplexing (parallel beam paths). By forming beams at an acute angle and using a beam displacer, the system creates multiple spatial channels that can be processed independently, adding a spatial dimension to the previously temporal process.
2Productivity
If light beams are directed sequentially through the same optical path with polarization switching, then different light distributions can be generated, but rapid switching is hindered by adjustment time and setup complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent pre-configures multiple beam paths with different polarization states using a beam displacer, so that when the input light beam is modulated by the light modulator, multiple output beams with different intensity distributions are generated simultaneously or in rapid succession without requiring time-consuming polarization switching adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical polarization switching mechanisms (which require physical adjustment and take time) with an optical beam displacer that uses the polarization properties of light to spatially separate beams. This substitution enables rapid switching by simply changing the input polarization state without mechanical movement.
3Volume of stationary object
If a single beam path is used with phase modulation, then the setup is compact, but generating multiple light intensity distributions simultaneously is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple beam paths into a single compact optical setup by using a beam displacer to create acute-angle separated beams that can be processed through a shared light modulator and objective lens. This merging maintains compactness while enabling multiple light intensity distributions to be generated simultaneously through parallel processing.
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 efficient generation and switching of diverse light intensity distributions, such as donuts and Gaussian focuses, in a space-saving and simplified manner, enhancing resolution and versatility in luminescence imaging.
Implementation Method 1
a first beam displacement element configured to generate a first output light beam and/or a second output light beam from an input light beam generated by the first light source in a polarization-dependent manner
Implementation Method 2
at least one light modulator comprising a first active surface and a second active surface, the first active surface and the second active surface being configured to modulate the phase and/or the amplitude of light incident on the respective active surface
Implementation Method 3
the first active surface and the second active surface being configured to modulate the phase and/or the amplitude of light incident on the respective active surface in a polarization-dependent manner
Implementation Method 4
an objective lens which is configured to focus the light modulated in its phase and/or its amplitude by the light modulator into a sample, so that at least one light intensity distribution, in particular a light intensity distribution with a local minimum
Data Source
AI summary
The specification relates to a luminescence microscope comprising a first light source for generating an input light beam, a light modulator comprising a first active surface and a second active surface, for modulating the phase and/or amplitude of the light incident on the respective active surface, an objective lens for focusing the light into a sample so that an light intensity distribution is formed in the sample, wherein the luminescence microscope comprises a first beam displacement element for polarization-dependent generation of a first output light beam and/or a second output light beam forming an angle of less than 90°, wherein the first beam displacement element is arranged such that that the first output light beam impinges on the first active surface and the second output light beam impinges on the second active surface and a method for imaging a sample or for localizing or tracking emitters in the sample.