Microscope Objective Thermal Insulation Ring

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing microscope temperature regulation systems face challenges in maintaining constant temperature at the sample location due to significant heat or cold loss through the objective turret, requiring high energy and resource expenditure for temperature adjustments.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating a self-enclosed insulating ring with low thermal conductivity between the objective heating or cooling element and the objective turret to block heat or cold flow, ensuring minimal thermal conduction and maintaining desired temperature at the front lens and sample area.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Temperature

If heating or cooling elements are used to regulate temperature at the objective, then temperature control at the sample location is improved, but heat or cold loss through the objective turret increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetemperature at sample locationVSAvoidheat or cold flow through objective turret
Core Design Contradiction:
TemperatureVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

An insulating ring made of material with low thermal conductivity is introduced as an intermediary component between the objective heating/cooling element and the objective turret. This insulating ring acts as a thermal barrier that prevents heat or cold from flowing through the objective turret, thereby reducing energy loss while maintaining temperature control at the sample location.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The insulating ring is positioned specifically at the interface between the objective mounting and the turret, creating a localized thermal barrier where it is most needed. This allows temperature regulation to be maintained at the critical sample location while preventing thermal leakage through the turret structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Temperature

If heating or cooling elements are used to regulate temperature at the objective, then temperature control at the sample location is improved, but the thermal mass of the elements increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetemperature at sample locationVSAvoidthermal mass of heating/cooling elements
Core Design Contradiction:
TemperatureVSWeight of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The insulating ring serves as a thermal barrier that reduces the amount of heat or cold needed to maintain temperature at the sample location. By preventing thermal leakage through the turret, the system requires less energy input and smaller heating/cooling elements, thereby reducing the overall thermal mass.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 efficient and consistent temperature regulation at the sample location with reduced energy consumption and minimized stress on the objective, leading to improved live cell examination results and prolonged equipment lifespan.

Implementation Method 1

a self-enclosed insulating ring comprising a material having almost no thermal conductivity

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThermal insulation: Thermal Insulation

Data Source

PatentUS7502165B2Arrangement for regulating the temperature of the sample space of a microscope
Publication Date: 2009.03.10 CARL ZEISS MICROSCOPY GMBH
  • US7502165B2 patent drawing
  • US7502165B2 patent drawing
  • US7502165B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention is directed to an arrangement for regulating the temperature of the sample space of a microscope, preferably for observing cells (live cell imaging) with an objective turret carrying objectives, a sample holder serving to receive a sample, a heating or cooling insert with an incubator hood for managing the temperature of the sample holder, and an objective heating element or objective cooling element. According to the invention, at least one structural component part which blocks the heating flow or cooling flow is provided between the objective heating element or objective cooling element and the objective turret.