Microscope Imaging Device Using Dynamic Light Source Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current microscopy technologies face challenges in imaging microscopic objects across a wide spectral range from visible to short-wave infrared (SWIR) due to the limitations of detectors and optical components, requiring cumbersome switching of components or the use of multiple instruments.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising an array of light-sensitive areas sensitive to a wide wavelength range and a light source capable of generating light in both visible and infrared parts of the spectrum, allowing for the detection of an interference pattern formed by scattered and non-scattered light, which enables imaging without the need for switching microscope objectives or detectors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two different imaging detectors are used to cover visible and infrared ranges, then the spectral range coverage is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a single imaging detector that can operate across both visible and infrared spectral ranges by utilizing two different points of operation for the light source. This universal approach eliminates the need for switching between multiple detectors, thereby maintaining spectral range coverage while reducing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between two points of operation for the light source, where each point corresponds to a different spectral range (visible or infrared). This dynamic operation allows a single detector to serve multiple functions across different wavelength ranges without requiring physical component changes
2Manufacturing precision
If microscope objectives are switched between visible and SWIR applications, then the imaging quality for specific wavelength ranges is improved, but the loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses dynamic switching between two points of operation for the light source instead of physically switching microscope objectives. This dynamic approach maintains optimal imaging quality for both visible and SWIR ranges while eliminating the time-consuming mechanical objective switching process
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical objective switching system with an optical control mechanism that switches between two points of operation for the light source. This substitution eliminates mechanical movement and component physical changes, thereby reducing switching time while maintaining imaging quality
3Adaptability or versatility
If two different microscope instruments are used for visible and SWIR imaging, then the imaging capability across spectral ranges is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functionality of two separate microscope instruments (visible and SWIR) into a single integrated system. By combining the imaging capabilities into one device with a single detector operating at two different points of operation, it achieves full spectral range coverage while reducing the overall device complexity and eliminating the need for multiple instruments
4Adaptability or versatility
If components are replaced when switching between wavelength ranges, then the adaptability to different spectral ranges is improved, but the productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses dynamic switching between two points of operation for the light source, allowing rapid transition between visible and infrared imaging modes without physical component replacement. This dynamic approach maintains spectral adaptability while significantly improving data acquisition rate and productivity
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 solution allows for aberration-free, compact, and cost-effective imaging of microscopic objects across the visible to SWIR spectral range without the need for component switching, enhancing user-friendliness and data acquisition rates.
Implementation Method 1
a light source capable of generating light in both visible and infrared parts of the spectrum
Implementation Method 2
at least part of the light is scattered by the microscopic object, forming scattered light
Implementation Method 3
the array of light sensitive areas is configured to detect an interference pattern formed by interference between the scattered light and the non-scattered light
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3
AI summary
According to an aspect of the present inventive concept there is provided a device for imaging of a microscopic object, the device comprising: an array of light sensitive areas sensitive to detect light spanning a wavelength range of at least 400-1200 nm; at least one light source comprising at least a first point of operation in which the at least one light source is configured to generate visible light, and a second point of operation in which the at least one light source is configured to generate infrared light, and being arranged to illuminate the microscopic object such that light is scattered by the microscopic object; wherein the array of light sensitive areas is configured to detect an interference pattern formed between the scattered light and non-scattered light; the device being configured to be set in a selected point of operation from the at least first and second points of operation, for detecting the interference pattern for imaging the microscopic object at a wavelength defined by the selected point of operation.