Microscope Imaging System for Non-Complete Plane Samples
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional high-magnification microscope lenses have a limited depth of field, making it difficult to capture clear images of samples with vertical gaps, and the sample preparation process is complex and time-consuming, hindering rapid and large-scale observation.
Innovation Solution
An imaging system with a carrier stage and an imaging unit that moves in a perpendicular direction to capture multiple images of a sample at different positions, allowing for the integration of these images into a single clear image, using a controller and distance measuring unit to adjust the focus and position for optimal imaging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a high-magnification microscope lens is used to photograph samples, then subtle features can be easily found, but the depth of field becomes very small, making it difficult to capture clear images of samples with vertical gaps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the imaging process into multiple segments by capturing multiple images at different focal planes (first focal plane and second focal plane) and then merging them. This segmentation allows each image to be clear at its specific depth, while the combination provides comprehensive clarity across all vertical gaps.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-plane imaging approach to a multi-plane imaging approach by adding the depth dimension. The imaging unit moves along the optical axis to capture images at different focal planes, transforming the two-dimensional image capture into a three-dimensional imaging process that resolves vertical gap issues.
2Reliability
If the sample is fixed in formalin and embedded in paraffin then sliced to obtain a clear image, then image clarity is improved, but the preparation process becomes complicated and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary imaging actions by capturing multiple images at different focal planes before any complex preparation is needed. This allows the sample to be imaged in its natural state, eliminating the need for time-consuming formalin fixation and paraffin embedding processes while maintaining image clarity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates multiple copies of the sample at different focal planes through rapid sequential imaging. These digital copies are then merged to produce the final clear image, replacing the physical copying process of formalin fixation and paraffin embedding with a digital multi-plane capture and fusion approach.
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional imaging methods are used to photograph samples, then the process is simple, but large-scale observation is hindered due to limited depth of field and complex preparation requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the imaging process into multiple rapid captures at different focal planes, each simple in itself, but combines them to achieve comprehensive large-scale observation capability. This segmentation allows complex observation goals to be met through multiple simple operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple simple images captured at different focal planes into a single comprehensive clear image. This merging operation combines the simplicity of individual captures with the comprehensive observation capability of the combined result, enabling efficient large-scale observation.
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging system and an imaging method are provided for photographing samples in a non-complete plane arrangement. With using the imaging system and the imaging method, a clear image of each point of the sample can be obtained under a high-magnification microscope lens, and the steps of fixing and embedding the sample in advance can be simplified.