Microscope Deflecting Device for Ergonomic Display Viewing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Microscopes used in microsurgery require operators to look directly through eyepieces, limiting their unimpeded view of the operating area and preventing the simultaneous observation of enlarged images on a display.

Innovation Solution

A microscope design featuring a deflecting device within the display apparatus that redirects light beams from the object into the optics, allowing the display to be positioned ergonomically and enabling the operator to view the operating area on a screen without direct eye alignment, using technologies like LCDs, OELs, or switchable mirrors for deflection and transparency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If the operator looks directly through the eyepieces of the microscope, then a magnified view of the operating area is obtained, but the unimpeded view of the operating area is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemagnified viewVSAvoidunimpeded view
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The invention introduces a display dimension by projecting the magnified image onto a display screen that the operator can view from a distance. This adds a new viewing dimension beyond the traditional eyepiece, allowing the operator to see the magnified image on a screen while maintaining an unimpeded view of the operating area, thus resolving the contradiction between magnified view and ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Measurement precision

If the display apparatus is positioned close to the object for optimal viewing, then the magnified image quality is improved, but the operator's freedom of movement is restricted

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage qualityVSAvoidfreedom of movement
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The invention segments the optical path by introducing a beam splitter or deflecting device that separates the light path from the object into two channels: one to the display screen and another to the eyepieces. This segmentation allows the display to be positioned at a distance from the object while still receiving a clear magnified image, thereby maintaining both image quality and operator freedom of movement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Power

If the eyepieces are positioned close to the object, then the magnification is maximized, but the operator cannot maintain a natural viewing position

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovemagnificationVSAvoidnatural viewing position
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The invention introduces an intermediary display screen between the operator and the microscope optics. The beam splitter or deflecting device acts as an intermediary that redirects light to the display while allowing the operator to view the operating area naturally. This intermediary system enables the operator to maintain a natural viewing position while still accessing the magnified image, resolving the contradiction between magnification and ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

Enables the operator to perform surgeries with a clear, magnified view of the operating area on a display while maintaining ergonomic freedom, allowing for natural handling and potential direct viewing without moving the display.

Implementation Method 1

at least one area of the microscope's display apparatus is constructed as a deflecting device for deflecting light beams emitted by the object which is to be observed into the microscope optics

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight deflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS7518791B2Microscope
Publication Date: 2009.04.14 LEICA INSTRUMENTS (SINGAPORE) PTE LTD
  • US7518791B2 patent drawing
  • US7518791B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Microscope comprising microscope optics (25), a camera device (7) for recordal of images, captured by the microscope optics (25), of an object to be observed, and a display apparatus (12) which can be viewed by an observer for displaying the images taken by the camera device (7), wherein at least one area of the display apparatus (12) is constructed as a deflecting device (13) for deflecting light beams emitted by the object which is to be observed into the microscope optics (25).