Microscope System Merging Optical and Digital Images for Wide Field Observation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current microscope systems require expensive digital imaging solutions for high color reproducibility and dynamic range, limiting their accessibility for tasks like pathological diagnoses that rely on optical images, as digital images are inferior in these aspects.
Innovation Solution
A microscope system that projects a projection image including a first assistance image onto an image plane, allowing users to observe a wider field of view than the actual optical image, reducing the burden on operators by combining optical and digital image data without the need for high-cost digital imaging systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If expensive digital imaging systems are used to achieve high color reproducibility and dynamic range, then image quality is improved, but system cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines optical imaging (for high color reproducibility and dynamic range) and digital imaging (for wide field of view) into a single microscope system. The optical image and digital image are superimposed and displayed together, allowing the system to leverage the strengths of both imaging modalities without requiring a complete transition to expensive digital systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The microscope system is designed to perform multiple functions: it can capture both optical images (for high-quality detailed observation) and digital images (for wide field of view), and display them in a superimposed manner. This multi-functionality allows the system to meet diverse observational needs without requiring separate specialized equipment.
2Area of stationary object
If digital imaging is used to expand field of view, then observation coverage is improved, but image quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges optical images (high quality, narrow field of view) and digital images (lower quality, wide field of view) into a single superimposed display. The optical image provides the high-quality detailed view, while the digital image provides the broader context, and their combination allows users to simultaneously access both wide coverage and high quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies different image qualities to different regions: the optical image (high quality) is displayed in the central region where detailed observation is needed, while the digital image (lower quality but wider coverage) surrounds it to provide contextual information. This local differentiation optimizes the use of each imaging modality's strengths.
3Measurement precision
If optical imaging is used for detailed observation, then image quality is improved, but field of view is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines optical imaging and digital imaging in a superimposed display format. The optical image provides high-quality detailed observation in the center, while the digital image extends the field of view peripherally, allowing users to access both detailed and broad views simultaneously without switching between separate systems.
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 detailed observation of sample portions with optical images while grasping a wider range, assisting operators in tasks like pathological diagnoses without the need for expensive digital imaging systems, thus reducing user burden and costs.
Implementation Method 1
a tube lens that is disposed on a light path between the eyepiece and the objective and forms an optical image of the sample on the basis of light therefrom
Data Source
AI summary
A microscope system comprising an eyepiece, an objective that guides light from a sample to the eyepiece, a tube lens that is disposed on a light path between the eyepiece and the objective and forms an optical image of the sample on the basis of light therefrom, a projection apparatus that projects a projection image including a first assistance image onto an image plane on which the optical image is formed, and a processor that performs processes. The processes include generating projection image data representing the projection image. The first assistance image is an image of the sample in which a region wider than an actual field of view corresponding to the optical image is seen, The first assistance image is projected onto a portion of the image plane that is close to an outer edge of the optical image.