Microlens Array Integral Structure for Super-Resolution Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional optical imaging systems are limited by the diffraction limit, making it difficult to resolve small features such as synaptic vesicles and ribosomes, and track molecular interactions effectively, as their spatial resolution is insufficient for imaging these tiny structures.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a microlens array into optical imaging systems, combining solid immersion lenses with micro-fabrication techniques to enhance spatial resolution beyond the conventional diffraction limit, achieving resolutions as small as 4 nm with minimal incremental cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional optical imaging systems are used, then the system is simple and cost-effective, but the spatial resolution is limited by the diffraction limit and cannot resolve small features such as synaptic vesicles and ribosomes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the imaging system into modular components: a microlens array chip that can be integrated with standard microscope objectives. This segmentation allows the resolution-enhancing functionality to be added as a separate module rather than requiring complete system redesign, thus improving spatial resolution while controlling complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a microlens array chip as an intermediary component between the sample and the microscope objective. This intermediary structure with high refractive index materials enables super-resolution imaging by modifying the optical path without requiring fundamental changes to the existing microscope system
2Measurement precision
If solid immersion lenses are used to shorten the observation wavelength, then the spatial resolution improves beyond the diffraction limit, but the device complexity increases compared to conventional systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by pre-fabricating the microlens array chip with precise optical properties before integration. The chip is manufactured with specific refractive index materials and lens geometries optimized for super-resolution, allowing standard microscopes to achieve enhanced resolution without requiring complex real-time adjustments or custom manufacturing of entire optical paths
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes key optical parameters by using high refractive index materials in the microlens array, which effectively shortens the observation wavelength and improves resolution. This parameter change is achieved through material selection rather than mechanical modification, simplifying the manufacturing process compared to traditional solid immersion lens approaches
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 integrated microlens array technology significantly improves imaging resolution, enabling the visualization of small biological structures like microspheres, mitochondria, and chromatin fibers with superior clarity and precision, while being cost-effective compared to super-resolution microscopes.
Implementation Method 1
Solid immersion lenses use hemispherical lenses of a high-index glass to effectively shorten the observation wavelength of the imaging system
Implementation Method 2
spatial resolution is limited by the diffraction-limited focal spot size in the image plane of the optical system
Data Source
AI summary
An optical imaging system with microlens array with integral structure includes a microlens array having a back surface for depositing sample material to be imaged and one or more microlenses on a front surface. At least one of the one or more microlenses are aligned to the deposited sample material. A plate is attached to the microlens array. A microscope objective is positioned proximate to the plurality of microlenses.