Microscopic Imaging Device Light Modulation Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing microscopic imaging devices face challenges in easily switching between imaging methods using light with and without patterns, leading to increased size and weight due to the need for separate light projecting sections and complex mask arrangements.
Innovation Solution
A microscopic imaging device with a light modulation element that selectively generates measurement light with and without patterns, allowing for easy switching between observation modes using a common light path and optical system, along with a controller to manage the light modulation and image data generation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate light projecting sections are arranged for patterned and non-patterned light, then imaging method switching capability is improved, but device size and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by enabling a single light projecting section to perform multiple functions: it can project both patterned light (for structured illumination microscopy) and non-patterned light (for conventional microscopy) by dynamically controlling the light source through software, eliminating the need for separate physical light projecting sections and thereby reducing device weight and size
2Adaptability or versatility
If masks are made insertable and removable for method switching, then imaging method adaptability is improved, but operational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical mask insertion/removal system with a software-controlled light modulation approach. The light source is modulated electronically to generate patterns when needed, and the same light source can be controlled to emit uniform light when masks are not used, eliminating mechanical operations and simplifying the switching process between imaging methods
3Adaptability or versatility
If masks are arranged in the light source for pattern generation, then patterned light capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the pattern generation function from physical masks and implements it through software control of the light source. Instead of having masks as separate physical components arranged in the light path, the system uses digital control to modulate the light source itself, thereby eliminating mask-related complexity while maintaining patterned light capability
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
Enables efficient switching between imaging modes while minimizing device size and weight, reducing damage to the object and light modulation element, and maintaining image quality by controlling light exposure.
Implementation Method 1
a light modulation element that is configured to selectively generate first measurement light with a pattern and second measurement light without a pattern from the light emitted by the first light projecting section
Data Source
AI summary
To provide a microscopic imaging device capable of easily switching the imaging method. During sectioning observation and normal observation, a measuring object is irradiated with pattern measurement light and uniform measurement light generated by a light modulation element, respectively. The measuring object is irradiated with the pattern measurement light and the uniform measurement light through a common light path. During the sectioning observation, a spatial phase of the pattern is sequentially moved on the measuring object by a predetermined amount by the light modulation element, and sectioning image data indicating an image of the measuring object is generated based on a plurality of pieces of image data generated at a plurality of phases of the pattern based on the light receiving signal. During the normal observation, normal image data indicating an image of the measuring object is generated based on the light receiving signal.