Microscope Functional Module with MEMS Optical Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current microscopes face challenges in effectively recording images with an enhanced depth of field, particularly at lower light levels and with faster focusing times.
Innovation Solution
The functional module incorporates two microelectromechanical optical systems with arrays of moveable micromirrors offering two degrees of freedom rotation and one degree of freedom translation, which enhance the depth of field by directing images to a polarization-sensitive image sensor through a beam splitter, allowing for near 100% light collection and rapid focusing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If a single microelectromechanical optical system is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the light collection efficiency and depth of field enhancement are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the optical system into multiple independent microelectromechanical optical systems (first, second, and optionally third systems), each capable of independently directing light to the image sensor. This segmentation allows each subsystem to optimize light collection for specific depth ranges or optical paths, thereby increasing overall light collection efficiency while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
Each microelectromechanical optical system is designed with multi-functionality, capable of performing both imaging and depth of field enhancement functions. The systems can operate independently or in combination, providing universal functionality that addresses multiple optical requirements simultaneously, thereby improving light collection efficiency without proportionally increasing device complexity
2Loss of time
If traditional focusing methods are used, then the system is simpler, but the focusing time is longer and depth of field is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic microelectromechanical optical systems with moveable micromirrors that can rapidly adjust their position and orientation. This dynamic capability enables fast focusing by electronically controlling mirror positions rather than mechanically moving entire optical assemblies, significantly reducing focusing time while the modular design keeps complexity manageable
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical focusing mechanisms with microelectromechanical systems that use electrostatic or electromagnetic fields to control micromirror positions. This substitution eliminates heavy mechanical moving parts, enabling faster response times and reduced focusing duration while maintaining system controllability and reducing overall mechanical complexity
3Measurement precision
If higher light levels are used to improve image quality, then the image quality improves, but the sample may be damaged or the light source requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the optical path into multiple subpaths, each handled by a dedicated microelectromechanical optical system. This allows efficient collection and directing of available light across different depth ranges, maximizing the use of lower light levels to achieve high image quality without requiring intense illumination that could damage sensitive samples
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables continuous operation of multiple optical systems simultaneously, each contributing to image formation from different depth planes. This continuous multi-path light collection maximizes the utilization of available photons at lower light levels, maintaining high image quality through cumulative signal accumulation rather than requiring high instantaneous light intensity
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 configuration enables the production of images with enhanced depth of field at lower light levels and in shorter times, with the potential to collect up to 75% more light compared to systems using a single microelectromechanical optical system, while maintaining high image quality.
Implementation Method 1
A first microelectromechanical optical system and a second microelectromechanical optical system are provided. The first microelectromechanical optical system is configured for enhancing a depth of field on a first optical subpath. The second microelectromechanical optical system is configured for enhancing a depth of field on a second optical subpath
Implementation Method 2
The functional module comprises at least one image sensor for converting an image transferred via the optical interface to the images sensor into an electrical signal
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention concerns a functional module (02) for a microscope. That functional module (02) comprises a mechanical interface (11) for removable mounting the functional module (02) to a module support of the microscope. The functional module (02) further comprises an optical interface (12) for establishing an optical path (09) from an objective (03) of the microscope to the functional module (02). Furthermore, the functional module (02) comprises at least one image sensor (21). According to the invention, the functional module (02) comprises a first microelectromechanical optical system (17) and a second microelectromechanical optical system (18). The first microelectromechanical optical system (17) is configured for enhancing a depth of field on a first optical subpath (14) that is directed to the image sensor (21). The second microelectromechanical optical system (18) is configured for enhancing a depth of field on a second optical subpath (16) that is directed to the image sensor (21). The present invention further concerns a microscope that comprises the functional module (02).