Microscope Optical Alignment Correction for Wavelength Misalignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Microscopes with light scanning and image acquisition sections face displacement issues between images acquired using different wavelengths due to individual differences in optical elements' reflection angles and seating positions, leading to misalignment in composite imaging.
Innovation Solution
A microscope design that includes a radiation optical system, detection optical systems, switchable optical elements, a storage section for correction information, and a correction section to adjust for relative misalignment between observation lights of different wavelengths, using galvanometer mirrors and CCD adjustments to ensure aligned imaging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If optical elements are switched or replaced according to wavelength, then the microscope can accommodate different laser light wavelengths and illumination light wavelengths, but the optical axes of the laser light and illumination light are shifted causing displacement between images
Solution Approach 1:
The patent stores correction information about relative misalignment between observation lights of different wavelengths in advance. When optical elements are switched, the system retrieves pre-stored correction data and applies it automatically to compensate for optical axis shifts, eliminating the need for real-time manual realignment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the system detects the wavelength being used and automatically selects the appropriate correction information from stored data. This closed-loop approach ensures that optical axis misalignments are continuously compensated based on the actual optical configuration in use.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple optical elements are placed in the light path for different wavelengths, then the microscope can perform both laser scanning and image acquisition, but individual differences in reflection angle and seating position cause optical axis shift
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter of optical axis angle dynamically based on the wavelength being used. By storing correction information that specifies the required angular adjustment for each wavelength, the system automatically adjusts the optical path to maintain proper alignment across different operational modes.
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
Prevents displacement between images acquired at different wavelengths, allowing for accurate superimposition and matching of fluorescence images on the specimen, enhancing imaging precision and speed.
Implementation Method 1
a radiation optical system that radiates first illumination light and second illumination light onto a specimen
Implementation Method 2
a first detection optical system that detects first observation light produced from the specimen when the first illumination light is radiated
Implementation Method 3
an optical element (for example, a dichroic beam splitter that separates an observation optical system used for laser scanning and an observation optical system used by the image acquisition section)
Data Source
AI summary
A microscope includes: an objective lens radiating laser light and illumination light onto a specimen; a first detection optical system detecting first observation light produced from the specimen when the laser light is radiated; a second detection optical system detecting second observation light produced from the specimen when the illumination light is radiated; optical elements placed so as to be capable of being inserted into or removed from a light path of the first detection optical system or the second detection optical system; a rotating turret selectively switching the optical elements to be inserted into the light path; a storage section storing correction information about a relative misalignment between the first observation light and the second observation light caused when the optical elements are switched; and a control section correcting the relative misalignment between the first observation light and the second observation light based on the correction information.