Microscope Objective Changer Segmentation for Positioning Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing microscope objective changer systems face challenges with low precision and repetition accuracy due to high mechanical loads, drift effects, and increased susceptibility to vibrations, primarily caused by the large mass of objectives and the objective revolver, leading to inefficient focusing and image capture processes.
Innovation Solution
An objective changer apparatus with an adapter system that allows for precise and controlled movement of active objectives into position by using a transfer element with an adjustable receiving apparatus, enabling orthogonal transport between a transfer position and a work position, reducing the length of the transport path and minimizing the mass moved, thereby reducing mechanical loads and improving positioning accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the entire objective revolver is included in the focusing movement, then all objectives can be positioned, but the large mass causes high mechanical loads, drift effects, and reduced positioning accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The objective revolver is divided into two independent parts: a stationary portion holding multiple objectives and a movable receiving apparatus that transports only the active objective. This segmentation allows the heavy revolver body to remain fixed while only the light receiving apparatus moves during focusing, eliminating drift effects and improving positioning accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The active objective is extracted from the stationary objective revolver and placed in a separate movable receiving apparatus. This extraction allows the focusing movement to involve only the lightweight receiving apparatus rather than the entire heavy revolver assembly, reducing mechanical loads and improving dynamic response.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the entire objective revolver is moved during focusing, then all objectives remain accessible, but the large mass increases mechanical wear and susceptibility to vibrations
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into a stationary objective revolver that maintains objective accessibility and a movable receiving apparatus that performs focusing. This segmentation ensures that the heavy revolver body with multiple objectives remains stationary, eliminating mechanical wear and vibration issues associated with moving the entire assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The active objective is extracted from the stationary revolver and placed in the movable receiving apparatus. This extraction isolates the focusing movement to only the lightweight receiving apparatus, significantly reducing mechanical wear, vibration susceptibility, and improving system reliability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the centre of gravity of the objective revolver is off-centred, then multiple objectives can be held, but disadvantageous leverages are exerted on the guides reducing positioning accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The active objective is extracted from the off-centred revolver and placed in a movable receiving apparatus positioned on the optical axis. This extraction eliminates the disadvantageous leverages caused by the off-centred centre of gravity, as the lightweight receiving apparatus can be precisely positioned without being affected by the revolver's不平衡 mass distribution.
4Adaptability or versatility
If different objectives are changed in the objective revolver, then various magnifications are available, but the centre of gravity displaces causing modified load situations and reduced accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The active objective is extracted from the revolver and placed in the movable receiving apparatus. This extraction isolates the objective changing operation to the stationary revolver, while the lightweight receiving apparatus maintains consistent loading conditions during focusing movements, eliminating accuracy issues caused by centre of gravity displacement.
Data Source
AI summary
An objective-changer apparatus for a microscope system comprising an objective-transfer element with at least one objective holder for holding an objective that has been provided with an adapter, wherein the objective-transfer element moves a selected active objective into position in a transfer position in controlled fashion and an objective axis of the active objective does not coincide with the optical axis of the microscope system in the transfer position. A receiving apparatus is adjustable in the direction of the optical axis of the microscope system and can be brought into contact with the adapter. The receiving apparatus transports the active objective along a transport path in a transport direction orthogonal to the microscope system's optical axis between the transfer position and a work position in line with the microscope system's optical axis. The transport path is shorter than the extent of the objective holder in the transport direction.