Microscope Illumination Control for High Dynamic Range Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for acquiring image data, such as high-dynamic-range imaging, are complex and slow, and simultaneous recording methods introduce noise due to light signal division across multiple channels.
Innovation Solution
A method where a pixel area is illuminated repeatedly with different intensities, with image data from each illumination event acquired before moving to the next pixel area, using a control unit to actuate the illumination device based on selected intensity functions, such as step or sinusoidal functions, to minimize noise and ensure accurate data capture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If sequential recording of multiple images with different exposure times or illumination intensities is used, then both dark and light image areas can be measured separately with good signal-to-noise ratio, but the method becomes complex and slow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by using alternating illumination at two different intensities (first and second illumination intensities) for the same pixel area. This periodic switching allows simultaneous capture of both dark and light image areas through temporal multiplexing, achieving high dynamic range without sequential recording. The detector alternates between receiving signals from illumination at the first intensity and illumination at the second intensity, enabling parallel acquisition of multiple exposure levels.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamics by continuously varying the illumination intensity between two levels during the acquisition process. The illumination device dynamically switches between first and second illumination intensities, allowing the system to adaptively capture both dark and light regions. This dynamic illumination approach replaces static sequential exposure with a time-varying illumination scheme that maintains high signal-to-noise ratio while improving acquisition speed.
2Productivity
If simultaneous recording of single images with different contrast range is performed by asymmetrical optical beam splitting, then acquisition speed improves, but light signal is divided over multiple channels reducing signal-to-noise ratio
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses periodic action to alternate between two illumination intensities for the same pixel area, achieving simultaneous recording of different contrast ranges without beam splitting. The temporal alternation between first and second illumination intensities allows the detector to capture both dark and light image areas sequentially in time, effectively replacing spatial beam splitting with temporal multiplexing and avoiding signal division losses.
3Measurement precision
If multiple single image recordings with different exposure times are performed, then both dark and light image areas can be captured with good signal-to-noise ratio, but the total illumination interval increases causing specimen properties to change
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by rapidly alternating between two illumination intensities within a single illumination interval. This temporal multiplexing approach captures both dark and light image areas within the same pixel area without requiring extended sequential exposure times. The periodic switching between first and second illumination intensities completes both measurements within a shortened total interval, preventing specimen property changes.
4Measurement precision
If excitation light intensity is regulated depending on detected signal strengths (DIM method), then exposure intensity is optimized, but the regulation system adds complexity and the process remains slow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses periodic action to alternate between two predetermined illumination intensities without requiring complex feedback regulation. This predetermined periodic switching simplifies the system architecture by eliminating the need for continuous signal strength monitoring and dynamic intensity adjustment. The alternating illumination scheme achieves optimized exposure for both dark and light areas through temporal multiplexing rather than complex real-time regulation.
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 approach allows for rapid acquisition of image data with reduced noise and specimen load, preventing property changes in biological specimens and enabling efficient image formation with enhanced dynamic range.
Implementation Method 1
a pixel area of a specimen to be imaged is illuminated repeatedly, at least twice, with illumination light of a respectively different intensity
Implementation Method 2
detection light emanating from the pixel area is acquired for each illumination event as image data of a subpixel
Data Source
AI summary
A method and arrangement for acquiring image data, wherein a pixel area of a specimen to be imaged is illuminated in a plurality of illumination events with illumination light of a respective selected intensity, which intensities are different from one another. Subsequently, detection light emanating from the respective pixel area is acquired for each of the intensities as image data of a subpixel and resulting image data of the pixel area are determined from the number of acquired image data of the subpixels. According to the invention, the illumination events are triggered successively. The image data of all subpixels of the pixel area are acquired before a further pixel area is illuminated.