Magnetic Sample Holder for Fixed-Focus Image Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for capturing images of samples using lens arrangements with adjustable or fixed focal planes face challenges such as high costs, difficulty in adjusting the focal plane correctly and requiring precise sample positioning, which can lead to unreliable results due to mechanical tolerances and wear.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method utilizing a lens arrangement with a fixed focal plane, combined with a magnet-based sample holder and transfer unit, allowing for precise and reliable sample positioning using magnetic interactions to reduce mechanical parts and wear, enabling accurate image capture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a lens arrangement with an adjustable focal plane is used, then the focal plane can be adjusted to the correct position, but the apparatus becomes expensive and adjustment becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of adjusting the focal plane of the lens arrangement to match the sample position, the invention inverts the approach by moving the sample (via the sample holder) to match the fixed focal plane of the lens arrangement. This eliminates the need for complex adjustable focal plane mechanisms while achieving the same positioning accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms for the focal plane with a magnetic positioning system. The magnetic field interacts with the magnet in the sample holder to precisely position the sample at the fixed focal plane, substituting mechanical adjustment with magnetic actuation.
2Device complexity
If a lens arrangement with a fixed focal plane is used, then the apparatus cost is reduced, but the sample must be located in the exact same relation to the fixed focal plane each time
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces mechanical positioning mechanisms with a magnetic positioning system. The magnetic field interacts with the magnet in the sample holder to automatically and consistently position the sample at the correct location relative to the fixed focal plane, eliminating variability from manual mechanical positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The sample holder with the embedded magnet automatically positions itself at the correct location through magnetic interaction with the stationary magnet in the apparatus. This self-positioning mechanism ensures consistent sample placement without requiring precise manual alignment each time.
3Manufacturing precision
If mechanical parts are used to move the sample holder, then the sample can be positioned, but mechanical tolerances and wear affect positioning accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces mechanical moving parts with a magnetic positioning system. The magnetic field acts on the magnet in the sample holder to achieve precise positioning without physical contact, eliminating mechanical tolerances and wear that would otherwise degrade positioning accuracy over time.
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
The solution enables reliable and efficient image capture with reduced mechanical tolerances and wear, facilitating easy sample handling and processing, particularly for samples with thicknesses near or smaller than the image capturing unit's depth of field, while maintaining high accuracy and reducing the risk of incorrect analysis.
Implementation Method 1
the third magnet unit being adapted to position the sample holder in the inlet station by means of magnetic interaction of the first magnet unit and the third magnet unit
Implementation Method 2
the sample holder being movable from the first position to a second position by means of magnetic interaction of the first magnet unit and the second magnet unit
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
An apparatus (1) for capturing an image of a sample retained by a sample acquiring device (7), comprises an image capturing unit (2) comprising a lens arrangement (6) with a fixed focal plane, a sample holder (3) comprising a first magnet unit (10), and a second magnet unit (14). The sample holder (3) is adapted to receive the sample acquiring device (7) and is movable in relation to the lens arrangement (6) to a first position (18). The sample holder (3) is movable from the first position (18) to a second position (19) by means of magnetic interaction of the first magnet unit (10) and the second magnet unit (14), and the image capturing unit (2) is adapted to capture an image of the sample by means of the lens arrangement (6) when the sample holder (3 is in the second position (19).