Microscope Focus Prediction for Faster Row-Wise Image Acquisition
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In microscopic digital imaging, the challenge lies in efficiently transferring large image data and accurately determining the focus surface, especially with high magnification and inexpensive mechanical systems, which trade off between focus quality and speed.
Innovation Solution
A method for focus prediction in microscopic digital imaging that involves row-wise scanning of sample positions, determining and storing focus for the first position on each row, and predicting focus for subsequent positions by adding stored differences, or determining focus if no difference exists, allowing for accurate and efficient focus prediction without prior knowledge of mechanical inaccuracies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If focus is determined at each sample position, then focus quality is improved, but acquisition time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by determining focus at the first sample position of each row in advance, then using this pre-determined focus information to predict focus positions for subsequent sample positions within the same row. This eliminates the need to perform full focus determination at every position, thereby reducing acquisition time while maintaining acceptable focus quality through the prediction mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary element - the focus prediction mechanism - that uses the focus position from the first sample position as a reference to estimate focus positions for subsequent sample positions. This intermediary prediction step acts as a mediator between full focus determination and direct imaging, reducing the need for repeated focus measurements while maintaining reasonable focus accuracy.
2Measurement precision
If focus map is built with many focus positions, then prediction accuracy is improved, but time consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the focus determination process by applying it only to the first sample position of each row, rather than to all sample positions. This segmentation reduces the number of focus determinations required while maintaining prediction accuracy through the use of row-wise focus information to predict subsequent positions within the same row.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by using the focus position determined at the first sample position of each row as a localized reference point. This local focus information is then used to predict focus positions for subsequent sample positions within the same row, providing locally adapted focus prediction that maintains accuracy without requiring a complete focus map of the entire imaging area.
3Ease of manufacture
If inexpensive mechanical parts are used, then cost is reduced, but focus surface accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by using the actual focus position determined at the first sample position of each row to inform and adjust the focus prediction for subsequent sample positions. This feedback mechanism compensates for mechanical inaccuracies in inexpensive systems by continuously adapting the focus prediction based on real focus measurements, thereby maintaining focus surface accuracy despite using cost-effective mechanical components.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a method, an analyzer and a computer program product for focus prediction in a sample arranged on a measuring surface of an analyzer. The method comprises row wise scanning sample positions by means of an optical system of said analyzer, said sample positions being positions in a coordinate system for said measuring surface containing said sample, for the first sample position on each row, determining a focus and storing said focus, and for each subsequent sample position: if a stored difference exists, predicting a focus by adding said stored difference to said stored focus, or if no stored difference exists, determining a focus and storing said focus.