Microscope Specimen Imaging with Optical Marker Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for identifying microscope specimens, particularly in refrigerated conditions, often require additional devices like barcode scanners and are inefficient in quickly and accurately identifying specimens without prior examination of non-object regions.
Innovation Solution
A method and device using optical markers to generate a digital identification code through fingerprinting, allowing direct identification within the specimen's digital image without additional scanning, utilizing hash functions and image processing to create unique identification codes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If barcode scanners and additional devices are used for specimen identification, then identification capability is provided, but device complexity and operation time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the identification function with the existing microscope imaging system by incorporating optical markers directly into the specimen mounting process. The identification code is embedded within the digital image itself rather than requiring separate barcode scanning devices, thus combining multiple functions into a unified system that reduces overall device complexity while maintaining identification accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The specimen identification system becomes self-service by using the microscope's own imaging capabilities to capture and process identification codes. The system processes its own output images to extract identification information without needing external barcode scanners or additional specialized devices, making the system autonomous and simpler to operate
2Measurement precision
If separate barcode scanning is performed, then identification is achieved, but examination time increases due to prior examination of non-object regions
Solution Approach 1:
The identification code is pre-encoded into the digital image during the initial imaging process, so that when the image is captured, the identification information is already present and ready for immediate processing. This eliminates the need for separate scanning steps that would require examining non-object regions, as the identification data is embedded within the object region itself from the outset
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the identification code with the specimen image by embedding optical markers within the digital image data. This merging allows the identification information to be extracted simultaneously with image processing, eliminating sequential scanning steps and reducing the time loss associated with examining separate identification regions
3Productivity
If optical markers are used for identification, then identification speed increases, but measurement precision may be affected by marker visibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by using optical markers with specific properties tailored to their function - they are designed with high contrast and distinct visual characteristics that make them easily distinguishable from the specimen itself. The markers are positioned in specific locations within the image frame where they will not interfere with the specimen while maintaining optimal visibility for rapid automated detection
Solution Approach 2:
The optical markers utilize distinct color properties that differentiate them from the specimen material. By using markers with specific color characteristics that contrast with the specimen, the system enables rapid automated detection through color-based image processing while maintaining high measurement precision in identifying the correct specimen
Data Source
AI summary
A microscopy method for microscope specimens, wherein the microscope specimens each include an object to be examined by a microscope and a specimen carrier holding the object, the method including calculating a digital identification code for at least one microscope specimen of the microscope specimens. The digital identification code is calculated using optical markers in at least one digital image of at least a part of the object of each of the at least one microscope specimens. The method further includes using at least one of the optical markers as a position reference.