Microscope Focus-Holding Unit Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing microscopes with retaining focus units require separate modules and control panels, leading to complex handling and increased space usage due to the need for additional control interfaces.
Innovation Solution
Integration of the retaining focus unit's hardware and software elements within the microscope's control unit, allowing for seamless operation without an additional control panel and enabling access to all relevant microscope data for maintaining focal positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate retaining focus unit with its own control panel is used, then the focal position can be maintained for extended observations, but the device complexity and required space increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the retaining focus unit with the microscope's existing control unit, merging previously separate functions into a single integrated control system. This eliminates the need for a separate control panel while maintaining the capability to maintain focal positions during extended observations.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit is designed to perform multiple functions: it controls both the standard microscope operations and the retaining focus functionality. By making the control unit universal, the patent eliminates the need for dedicated separate controls, reducing overall device complexity while preserving all necessary functions.
2Reliability
If a separate retaining focus unit with its own control panel is used, then the focal position can be maintained for extended observations, but the required space increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the retaining focus control functions into the existing control unit, eliminating the need for a separate physical control panel. This integration directly reduces the required space while maintaining all retaining focus capabilities for extended observations.
3Ease of operation
If the retaining focus unit is fully integrated in the control unit, then the handling is simplified and space is reduced, but the control unit must access and process more microscope data
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit is enhanced to serve multiple functions, including both standard microscope control and retaining focus operations. By designing the control unit as a universal interface that can handle diverse data types and processing requirements, the patent simplifies the user experience (single control panel) while managing the increased data processing demands through a consolidated system architecture.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a microscope having a stage for supporting a sample to be examined, a recording sensor, an imaging optic for imaging the sample onto the recording sensor, a moving unit by means of which the distance between the stage and the imaging optic can be changed, a control unit for controlling an image recording of the sample and a focus-holding unit for maintaining a prescribed focal position for image recording of the sample at temporal intervals, wherein the focus-holding device comprises at least one hardware element and one software module, wherein the focus-holding unit is fully integrated in the control unit, on both the hardware and software sides.