Microscope Sample Presence Detection for Safe Immersion Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing microscopes lack accurate detection of the presence of a sample in the sample space, which can lead to damage to the microscope and/or the sample, particularly when immersion liquids are applied without a sample present.
Innovation Solution
A control device that generates a measurement light beam, directs it into the sample space, and uses reflection light to detect the presence of a sample, controlling the microscope to perform actions only when a sample is present.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If automatic immersion system is provided to apply immersion liquid without manual interaction, then image quality and resolution are improved, but immersion liquid may spill into the microscope when no sample is present
Solution Approach 1:
The control device performs a preliminary detection action before the immersion system operates. A light beam is directed into the sample space and reflection light is detected to determine whether a sample is present. Only after confirming sample presence does the system allow the immersion liquid to be applied, preventing spillage while maintaining automated operation
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from the detector about the sample presence condition to control the immersion system. The processor receives detection results and adjusts the immersion system's operation accordingly, enabling automated control that prevents liquid spillage when no sample is detected
2Productivity
If automated tasks are performed without human intervention, then productivity is improved, but accurate detection of sample presence is required to prevent damage
Solution Approach 1:
The microscope system performs self-detection of sample presence using an integrated light source and detector. The control device autonomously determines whether a sample is present and controls appropriate actions without external intervention, enabling reliable automated operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical or manual detection methods with an optical detection system. A light beam is used to probe the sample space, and the presence or absence of reflected light provides digital-like detection output that reliably indicates sample presence for automated control decisions
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
Ensures safe operation by preventing damage to the microscope and sample by ensuring immersion liquids are only applied when a sample is present, improving user safety and microscope handling.
Implementation Method 1
a light source configured to generate a measurement light beam, an optical system configured to direct the measurement light beam into a sample space of the microscope and to receive reflection light of the measurement light beam reflected in the sample space
Implementation Method 2
receive reflection light of the measurement light beam reflected in the sample space
Data Source
AI summary
A control device for a microscope includes a light source configured to generate a measurement light beam, an optical system configured to direct the measurement light beam into a sample space of the microscope and to receive reflection light of the measurement light beam reflected in the sample space, a detector configured to detect an intensity of the reflection light received by the optical system, and a processor configured to determine whether a sample is present in the sample space based on the intensity of the reflection light detected by the detector, and to control the microscope to perform or not to perform an action based on whether the processor has determined that the sample is present in the sample space.