Microscopy Contrast via Phase Mask Gradient Extraction
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current microscopy methods for imaging low-contrast objects, such as phase-contrast and differential interference contrast (DIC), require expensive optical elements and are not flexible for combination with other imaging techniques like fluorescence microscopy, leading to difficulties in achieving high resolution and contrast.
Innovation Solution
A microscopy method utilizing a phase mask with an optical gradient in the microscope's pupil to produce a phase gradient in object radiation, allowing for the acquisition of image data in two configurations, with differences between these images used to generate a contrast image, which can be normalized to compensate for absorption losses and enhance contrast without signal loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If phase-contrast or DIC methods are used to image low-contrast objects, then contrast is improved, but device complexity and cost increase due to requiring two expensive Wollaston or Nomarski prisms and two polarizers
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the contrast-enhancing function from the complex multi-element optical system (prisms and polarizers) and implements it using a single phase mask with optical gradient. This removes unnecessary optical elements while preserving the essential contrast improvement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The phase mask serves multiple functions: it creates the phase gradient needed for contrast enhancement, replaces the functionality of prisms and polarizers, and maintains compatibility with other imaging techniques like fluorescence microscopy. This single element performs what previously required multiple specialized components.
2Measurement precision
If multiple optical elements are introduced into the beam path for phase-contrast or DIC, then contrast is improved, but adaptability decreases making it more difficult to combine with other methods like fluorescence microscopy
Solution Approach 1:
By removing the multiple optical elements (prisms and polarizers) from the beam path and replacing them with a single phase mask, the invention eliminates the barriers to combining with other imaging techniques. The simplified optical path can now be easily integrated with fluorescence microscopy and other methods without interference.
3Measurement precision
If traditional contrast methods are used, then low-contrast objects become visible, but signal loss occurs and resolution is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the optical parameter approach by using a phase mask with optical gradient to manipulate phase rather than relying on amplitude modulation or interference patterns. This parameter change preserves signal intensity while achieving contrast enhancement, avoiding the signal loss inherent in traditional methods.
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 method improves contrast image resolution and flexibility, allowing for better visualization of low-contrast objects and compatibility with other imaging techniques, while avoiding signal loss and interference-based issues, resulting in enhanced imaging capabilities for biological samples.
Implementation Method 1
a phase mask that has an optical gradient transversely in relation to the optical axis of the microscope is arranged in a pupil of the microscope. By the effect of the phase mask, a phase gradient of the object radiation is, or can be, produced
Data Source
AI summary
A microscopy method, and a microscope for carrying out the method, in which an illumination radiation is directed through an object arranged in an object plane of a microscope, in order to image the object, image data of a first image of the object being acquired with a first configuration of the microscope and image data of a second image of the object being acquired with a second configuration of the microscope. Differences between the image data of the first image and the second image are determined and, in dependence on the determined differences, image data of a contrast image of the object is provided. In the first configuration, a phase mask that has at least one optical gradient transversely in relation to the optical axis of the microscope, by the effect of which a phase gradient of the illumination radiation passing through the phase mask is produced or can be produced, is arranged in an objective pupil of the microscope and, in the second configuration, the phase mask is removed from the objective pupil.