Light Microscope Pulse Timing via Shifted Detection Windows
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for determining the time of arrival of light pulses in microscopy are complex and prone to environmental fluctuations, leading to a lack of repeatability and reproducibility in microscopic experiments.
Innovation Solution
A method involving detecting a light signal generated by light pulses in a first detection time window, adjusting the starting time point of the window in equal steps, and determining a reference time point based on the detected light signal, which is less influenced by environmental fluctuations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If complex existing methods are used to determine the time of arrival of light pulses, then measurement capability is provided, but measurement precision and reliability deteriorate due to environmental fluctuations and lack of repeatability
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the light-emitting entities within the sample itself to generate the light signal for time determination. The sample's own fluorescent structures serve as the reference, eliminating the need for external calibration objects and making the measurement self-referential and environmentally robust
Solution Approach 2:
The light-emitting entities in the sample serve dual purposes: they are both the biological/structural targets of microscopy investigation and the reference standard for time determination. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate reference systems and ensures consistency across different measurements
2Ease of operation
If simple methods are used to determine light pulse arrival time, then ease of operation improves, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical or optical reference systems with an electronic/software-based detection and analysis system. The time determination is achieved through electronic signal processing and computational analysis of the light signal from the sample, eliminating mechanical complexity while maintaining precision
Solution Approach 2:
The light signal generated by the light-emitting entities acts as an intermediary between the light pulse and the detection system. This intermediary carries the time information in a form that is easily detectable and processable, simplifying the overall measurement process while maintaining accuracy
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
This approach provides a simple and robust method for accurately determining the time of arrival of light pulses, enhancing the repeatability and reproducibility of microscopic experiments.
Implementation Method 1
a sample is illuminated by first light pulses by means of a first light source of a light microscope in order to excite light-emitting entities in the sample
Implementation Method 2
a light signal generated by means of the first light pulses is detected
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for determining a reference time point (t0) by means of a light microscope (1), wherein a sample (2) is illuminated by first light pulses (P1) in order to excite light-emitting entities in the sample (2), wherein a light signal generated by means of the first light pulses (P1) is detected, and wherein the reference time point (t0) is determined based on the detected light signal, and wherein the light signal is detected in at least two measurements each in a first detection time window (G1), wherein a starting time point of the first detection time window (G1) is adjusted for each of the measurements. The invention further relates to a light microscope (1) and a computer program for carrying out the method.