Inverted Microscope Condenser Focusing Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Inverted microscopes with existing condenser focusing mechanisms face operational inefficiencies and accessibility issues due to the placement of the condenser focusing operation unit near the stage, which complicates focusing and specimen manipulation when additional units like manipulators are integrated.
Innovation Solution
The condenser focusing operation unit is positioned above the condenser unit and integrated with a timing belt transmission mechanism, allowing for improved accessibility and operability, while maintaining the optical path and enabling efficient focusing and specimen handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the condenser focusing operation unit is placed near the stage, then the condenser can be focused, but the accessibility and operability are complicated when additional units like manipulators are integrated
Solution Approach 1:
The condenser focusing operation unit is relocated from the horizontal plane near the stage to the vertical dimension above the condenser unit. This dimensional shift allows the operation unit to be accessible from above without interfering with stage-level components like manipulators, thereby improving operability while reducing integration complexity
Solution Approach 2:
A timing belt transmission mechanism is introduced as an intermediary between the condenser focusing operation unit and the condenser moving mechanism. This intermediary allows the operation unit to be positioned remotely above the condenser while still effectively transmitting power to move the condenser, simplifying the overall system integration
2Ease of operation
If the condenser focusing operation unit is positioned above the condenser unit, then accessibility is improved, but the power transmission mechanism becomes necessary
Solution Approach 1:
The traditional direct mechanical connection between the operation unit and condenser moving mechanism is replaced with a timing belt transmission system. This substitution allows for flexible power transmission over distance while maintaining precision, and the timing belt mechanism is simpler and more reliable than alternative mechanical linkages
Solution Approach 2:
The timing belt transmission mechanism serves multiple functions: it transmits power from the operation unit to the condenser moving mechanism, allows for flexible positioning of the operation unit above the condenser, and maintains precise control of condenser movement. This multi-functionality justifies the added component while delivering operational benefits
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 enhances the operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness of the inverted microscope by simplifying the focusing process and maintaining the optical path, even when additional units are integrated, such as manipulators.
Implementation Method 1
a transmission mechanism which transmits power for moving the condenser to the condenser moving mechanism
Implementation Method 2
The condenser moving mechanism 59 is realized by, for example, the combination of a rack and a pinion
Implementation Method 3
an objective lens which focuses at least observation light from the specimen on the stage
Implementation Method 4
an objective lens which focuses at least observation light from the specimen on the stage
Implementation Method 5
a condenser which is provided on an optical axis of the objective lens
Implementation Method 6
a condenser which is provided on an optical axis of the objective lens
Data Source
AI summary
An inverted microscope includes: a stage which places a specimen thereon; a light source unit which has a light source irradiating light to the specimen on the stage; an objective lens which focuses at least observation light from the specimen on the stage; a body unit which holds at least the objective lens; a condenser which is provided on an optical axis of the objective lens; a condenser holding unit which holds the condenser; a condenser moving mechanism which movably supports the condenser holding unit and moves the condenser holding unit along the optical axis; a transmission mechanism which transmits power for moving the condenser to the condenser moving mechanism; and an input unit which inputs the power to the transmission mechanism. The input unit is provided above the condenser holding unit.