Microscope Imaging Optics With Insertable Low-Magnification Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Finding and imaging objects in microscopes, particularly those with immersion objectives and non-standard configurations, is challenging due to the need for objective changes which disrupt the imaging situation and complicate correlation between different magnifications.
Innovation Solution
An optical imaging device with two operating modes, using a movable optical module with a positive lens element near the exit pupil to switch between high and low magnifications without changing the objective, allowing easy object finding and imaging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the objective is changed to adjust magnification, then the magnification is adjusted, but the imaging consistency is disrupted and the immersion medium must be reapplied
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic optical system where an optical module can be selectively inserted or removed from the optical path to change magnification. This dynamic configuration allows magnification adjustment without changing the objective, maintaining imaging consistency and avoiding the need to reapply immersion medium.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical module serves multiple functions: it acts as a magnification changer when inserted and can be removed to restore the original imaging path. This multi-functionality allows a single objective to serve multiple magnification purposes, eliminating the need for multiple objectives and maintaining immersion medium consistency.
2Area of stationary object
If the objective is changed to enlarge the object field, then the object field is enlarged, but the numerical aperture is reduced and immersion medium management becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the magnification adjustment function from the objective into a separate optical module. This segmentation allows the objective to maintain its high numerical aperture and immersion configuration while the optical module provides the magnification reduction needed to enlarge the object field.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical module acts as an intermediary element between the objective and the imaging system. It mediates the magnification adjustment without requiring changes to the objective itself, thus maintaining the numerical aperture and simplifying immersion medium management.
3Length of stationary object
If an immersion objective with long working distance is used, then the working distance is increased, but finding the object becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables preliminary viewing at low magnification by inserting the optical module before detailed imaging. This allows the user to locate the object of interest from a greater distance, and then switch to high magnification by removing the module for detailed observation.
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic insertion and removal of the optical module provides flexibility in viewing distances. When the module is inserted, it creates a low magnification view suitable for object location; when removed, it restores high magnification for detailed imaging, all while maintaining the long working distance of the immersion objective.
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 easy object finding and imaging without objective changes, maintaining imaging consistency, suitable for immersion systems and non-standard configurations, and supporting large object fields like microtiter cavities.
Implementation Method 1
The optical module comprises a lens element with positive refractive power causing the second magnification to be smaller than the first magnification by being closer to an exit pupil of the objective than the other lens elements of the optical system when inserted into the optical path
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
An optical imaging device for a microscope is provided, comprising an objective configured to collect detection light from an object and to guide the detection light into an optical path, and an optical system comprising a plurality of lens elements configured to interact with the objective for optically imaging the object selectively in a first operating mode and a second operating mode. The optical system comprises a first optical subsystem associated with the first operating mode, the first optical subsystem being configured to form a first image of the object with a first magnification. The optical system comprises a second optical subsystem associated with the second operating mode, the second optical subsystem being configured to form a second image of the object with a second magnification, the second magnification being smaller than the first magnification. The second optical subsystem comprises an optical module insertable into the optical path for selecting a second operating mode. The optical module comprises a lens element with positive refractive power causing the second magnification to be smaller than the first magnification by being closer to an exit pupil of the objective than the other lens elements of the optical system when inserted into the optical path.