Microlens Array for 3D Super-Resolution Microscopy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current high-resolution luminescence microscopy methods, such as PALM, require extensive data processing and time to generate complete images due to the need for numerous individual pictures and complex mathematical calculations, and are limited to two-dimensional imaging, with challenges in accurately localizing molecules in the third spatial direction.
Innovation Solution
The use of a microscope with a microlens array to create multiple object planes on a single camera sensor, allowing for three-dimensional imaging without altering the beam path, and the integration of microlenses or cylinder lenses for precise z-localization, enabling efficient data processing and real-time localization of molecules in all three dimensions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional PALM methodology is used to achieve high-resolution luminescence microscopy, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases due to extensive data processing and numerous individual pictures required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional imaging to three-dimensional imaging by integrating microlens arrays that create multiple object planes on a single camera sensor. This enables simultaneous acquisition of molecular localization data across different z-depths, reducing the time required to compile complete high-resolution images while maintaining or improving spatial resolution through the additional dimensional information.
Solution Approach 2:
The microlens array performs preliminary optical processing by pre-separating and positioning different object planes onto the camera sensor before the final image capture. This preliminary action of optical plane separation reduces the subsequent computational burden and time required for data processing and image reconstruction.
2Measurement precision
If traditional luminescence microscopy is used, then ease of operation is maintained, but measurement precision deteriorates in the third spatial direction (z-localization)
Solution Approach 1:
The microlens array acts as an intermediary optical element that introduces the additional capability for three-dimensional localization without fundamentally changing the operational workflow. The microlenses mediate between the incoming light and the camera sensor, creating multiple object planes that enable z-localization while the overall system operation remains similar to traditional luminescence microscopy.
3Measurement precision
If multiple individual pictures are acquired and processed to generate complete images, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to complex mathematical calculations and data processing
Solution Approach 1:
The microlens array performs preliminary optical separation of different object planes onto the camera sensor, creating a structured multi-plane image that simplifies subsequent data processing. By pre-organizing the spatial information optically before capture, the complex mathematical calculations required for image reconstruction are reduced compared to processing numerous separate individual pictures.
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 the time required to acquire high-resolution images by enabling simultaneous three-dimensional localization of molecules with increased accuracy and efficiency, overcoming the limitations of previous methods in data processing and dimensionality.
Implementation Method 1
The use of a microscope with a microlens array to create multiple object planes on a single camera sensor
Implementation Method 2
certain dyes (so-called phosphors or fluorophores) are used for the specific labeling of samples... the luminescent radiation induced in this way is recorded
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a high resolution microscope for three-dimensionally determining the position of objects, in particular individual fluorophores, and preferably for the high spatial resolution luminescence microscopy of a sample, which is marked with marker molecules that can be activated or switched using a signal such that they can be induced to emit certain luminescent radiation only in the activated state. The object is represented by means of an imaging system, preferably the microscope lens, on a surface detector consisting of individual detector elements. At least one microlens array is located in front of the detector elements, and different, preferably adjacent, detector elements receive light from microlenses having different focal lengths and from different object planes, or wherein by means of at least once microlens array, located in part in front of the detector elements, a different object plane is represented on the detector elements in the direction of the light behind the microlenses than on detector elements having no microlenses in front of the latter.