Microscope Focus Detection Using Wavelength-Separated Optical Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Recent advancements in biological microscopes, such as longer wavelength fluorescent dyes and two-photon excitation, limit the exclusive use of near-infrared light for focus detection, making it difficult to utilize this wavelength range for other observation purposes.
Innovation Solution
A focus detection apparatus that employs a light source emitting a specific wavelength range for focus detection, using an optical member to reflect this light and transmit non-focus detection light, allowing broader wavelength usage for microscope observation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If near-infrared light is used for focus detection, then focus detection capability is improved, but wavelength range for other observation purposes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The optical system is segmented into separate wavelength channels: a first optical system dedicated to focus detection using near-infrared light, and a second optical system for observation using other wavelength ranges. This segmentation allows each system to operate independently without interfering with the other, resolving the contradiction between focus detection capability and wavelength versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The focus detection function is extracted from the main observation path by using a dedicated first optical system that operates in the near-infrared range. This extraction allows the second optical system to use the full visible and other wavelength ranges for observation without being constrained by focus detection requirements.
2Device complexity
If a single optical system is used for both focus detection and observation, then device complexity is reduced, but functional interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The optical system is divided into two independent subsystems: a first optical system for focus detection and a second optical system for observation. Each subsystem has its own optical path, light source, and detection components, eliminating functional interference while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
A wavelength-selective optical member (dichroic mirror or beam splitter) acts as an intermediary that separates the near-infrared focus detection light from other wavelength ranges used for observation. This intermediary enables both functions to coexist in the same microscope platform without direct interference.
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 effective focus detection within a limited wavelength range while allowing the use of longer wavelengths for other observation methods like optical tweezers and two-photon excitation, enhancing the versatility of microscope observations.
Implementation Method 1
an optical member that reflects focus detection light with a given wavelength range in order to detect focus shift between an objective lens and an object to be observed in a microscope, and transmits non-focus detection light with at least two wavelength ranges except the given wavelength range
Implementation Method 2
an optical member that reflects focus detection light with a given wavelength range in order to detect focus shift between an objective lens and an object to be observed in a microscope, and transmits non-focus detection light with at least two wavelength ranges except the given wavelength range
Data Source
AI summary
A focus detection apparatus is provided with a light source 16 that emanates light with a given wavelength range; a reflection member 15 that reflects light emanated from the light source 16 to lead to an object 6a, reflects light from the light source 16 reflected from the object 6a, and transmits light from the object 6a with at least two different wavelength ranges except the light reflected from the object 6a; a photodetector 21 detecting the light from the light source 16 reflected from the object 6a; and a controller 22 detecting a focus shift between the objective lens 8 and the object 6a in the microscope 2 based on a signal detected by the photodetector 21, thereby providing a focus detection apparatus capable of limiting wavelength range of light for focus detection thereby able to use wider wavelength range for the microscope observation, and a microscope equipped therewith.