Microscope Optical Tip Reorientation for Connector ROI Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Microscopes often have a field of view (FOV) that is misaligned with the longest dimension of the region of interest (ROI) of an optical connector, making accurate imaging and analysis difficult due to ergonomic and physical constraints, and extending the FOV in multiple directions complicates the design and use.
Innovation Solution
An optical system with a set of optical components is positioned between the microscope and the ROI to reorient the major dimension of the FOV to align with the longest dimension of the ROI, allowing for accurate imaging and analysis by redirecting light to the sensor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the FOV is extended in multiple directions to cover the ROI, then the imaging coverage is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a second optical path that redirects light from the ROI to a different sensor, effectively adding a dimensional perspective to the imaging system. This allows the FOV to cover the ROI without requiring complex mechanical extension in multiple directions, as the light is redirected through a different optical dimension.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary optical system consisting of additional lenses and a second sensor to capture and redirect light from the ROI. This intermediary pathway enables extended FOV coverage while maintaining simplicity in the primary optical path, avoiding direct complexity in the main imaging system.
2Ease of manufacture
If the FOV major dimension is aligned with the sensor dimension, then the imaging alignment is simplified, but the ROI coverage is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds a second optical path that captures light from dimensions not covered by the primary sensor alignment. This secondary pathway enables the system to cover the ROI area that would otherwise be missed due to the simplified alignment of the first optical path.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the imaging system multi-functional by having two optical paths: one optimized for alignment simplicity and another for ROI coverage. The system can simultaneously achieve both simplified manufacturing alignment and comprehensive ROI coverage through these complementary pathways.
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 accurate imaging and analysis of the ROI by aligning the FOV with the longest dimension, overcoming ergonomic and physical constraints without adding complexity to the design.
Implementation Method 1
an optical system configured to be positioned between the microscope and the at least one ROI of the optical connector, the optical system including a set of optical components
Implementation Method 2
the set of optical components are configured to, when the microscope inspects the at least one ROI, reorient the first major dimension of the FOV to align with a longest dimension associated with the at least one ROI
Data Source
AI summary
An optical tip includes an optical system that includes a set of optical components. The optical tip is configured to interface with a device that includes a microscope that is configured to inspect an optical connector attached to an optical cable. The set of optical components are configured to reorient a first major dimension of a field of view of the microscope of the device to not align with a second major dimension of a sensor of the device.