Modular Microscope Objective for Laser Alignment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing microscope systems face interference issues when combining an objective, laser, and directional beam, which hinders the precise targeting and visualization of laser energy during microsurgery, particularly in the context of laser beam microsurgery.

Innovation Solution

A modular objective assembly that includes a laser assembly and an indicator assembly, where the laser energy is aligned with the optical axis and reflected through the objective, while the indicator beam is directed opposite to provide a visible indication of the laser position through the eyepiece, eliminating interference with the turret geometry.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a laser assembly and indicator assembly are combined with an objective in existing microscope systems, then the laser beam can be directed at the specimen, but interference problems occur with the turret geometry

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelaser microsurgery capabilityVSAvoidinterference with turret geometry

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The invention divides the laser delivery system into a separate modular objective assembly that can be independently mounted on the turret. This segmentation allows the laser assembly to be detached when not needed, eliminating interference with turret geometry while maintaining adaptability for laser microsurgery applications.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The modular objective assembly containing the laser assembly and indicator assembly is designed to nest onto the existing microscope turret interface. This nested configuration allows the additional functionality to be integrated without permanently altering the turret structure, resolving the geometric interference issue.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Measurement precision

If the laser beam is aligned with the optical axis, then precise targeting is achieved, but the laser beam position becomes invisible to the operator

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelaser targeting precisionVSAvoidlaser position visibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The invention introduces an indicator beam as an intermediary visual element that travels along the same optical path as the laser beam. This indicator beam makes the invisible laser position visible to the operator through the eyepiece, while the laser itself remains aligned with the optical axis for precise targeting.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The indicator beam provides a visible visual cue (potentially with distinct color characteristics) that allows the operator to see the laser beam position through the eyepiece without deviating the actual laser alignment from the optical axis.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #32Color changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If a modular objective assembly is designed to eliminate turret interference, then compatibility with microscope turret geometry is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveturret compatibilityVSAvoidmodular assembly structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The modular objective assembly is designed with a universal mounting interface that is compatible with standard microscope turrets. This multi-functional design allows the same modular unit to be mounted on various microscope models without requiring custom adaptations, managing complexity through standardization.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 precise alignment and visualization of the laser beam during microsurgery, ensuring accurate targeting and minimizing interference with the microscope turret, thereby enhancing the precision and effectiveness of laser microsurgery procedures.

Implementation Method 1

A modular laser assembly is positioned on the modular body on a first side of the mirror for directing laser energy toward said mirror so that the laser energy is reflected off of the mirror and through the objective

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS8422128B2Modular objective assembly

Publication Date: 2013.04.16 HAMILTON THORNE

AI summary

A modular laser objective for use with a microscope is provided. A mounting modular body permits the modular objective to be releasably mounted to the turret of a microscope. The objective has an optical axis that permits an image beam to be emitted through the objective toward the eyepiece of a microscope. The modular body supports a mirror positioned at an angle to the optical axis of the objective. A modular laser assembly is mounted on the modular body on a first side of the mirror for directing a laser beam toward the mirror so that the energy is reflected off the mirror and through the objective in a direction that is substantially aligned with the optical axis of the objective. A modular indicator assembly is received in the modular body and includes a source of light positioned with the light incident on the other side of the mirror to reflect a beam of light in a direction opposite to the direction of the laser beam to provide an optical representation at the eyepiece of a microscope or on a camera of the position on the target of the laser beam being emitted by the objective.