Multi-Sensor Image Scanning Apparatus for Z-Stack Acquisition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current image scanning techniques face challenges in obtaining high-quality images of biological samples with varying surface topographies due to limited depth of focus, leading to the need for multiple focus levels and inefficient light utilization.
Innovation Solution
An image scanning apparatus utilizing multiple imaging sensors positioned off-axis with distinct optical paths and beam splitters to capture images at different focus levels simultaneously, minimizing light reduction and enabling a 'single pass' Z stack scanning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple beam splitters are used to capture images at different focus levels, then multiple focus levels can be obtained simultaneously, but light intensity is reduced by a factor dependent on the number of sensors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions imaging sensors off the optical axis at different lateral positions and depths, creating multiple optical paths that converge at different focus levels. This dimensional arrangement allows simultaneous capture of multiple focal planes without using beam splitters, thereby maintaining full light intensity at each sensor while achieving Z-stack scanning capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the imaging function across multiple sensors positioned at different locations in the optical path. Each sensor captures a specific focal plane independently, segmenting the multi-focus imaging task into parallel operations that avoid the light division inherent in beam splitter-based systems
2Productivity
If multiple imaging sensors are used to capture different focus levels, then scanning time is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a single objective lens that serves multiple functions by directing light to multiple sensors at different focus levels simultaneously. This universal optical element performs what would otherwise require multiple separate imaging systems, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining high productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple optical paths into a single objective lens system, where one lens serves multiple sensors. This merging approach consolidates what could be multiple independent imaging systems into a unified structure, achieving multi-focus capability without proportionally increasing complexity
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 approach allows for efficient acquisition of multiple focus levels without reducing light intensity, enabling high-resolution imaging across extensive biological sample regions with reduced scanning time and increased image quality.
Implementation Method 1
the use of a beam splitter to minimise any reduction in the intensity of light received from the sample
Implementation Method 2
the light is received from a position on the target with respect to the optical axis which is different from the respective position for each other imaging sensor
Data Source
AI summary
Image scanning apparatus comprises a plurality of imaging sensors for generating image data; a focusing system and a scanning system. The focusing system defines an optical axis and directs light received from a target on to the imaging sensors. Each imaging sensor is positioned with respect to the focusing system such that, the light directed to the imaging sensor has an optical focus level with respect to the target which is different from each other imaging sensor, and the light is received from a position on the target with respect to the optical axis which is different from the respective position for each other imaging sensor. The focusing system comprises a optical path modifier so as to generate a first light path between the optical path modifier and at least one of the plurality of imaging sensors, and a second light path between the optical path modifier and at least one of the imaging sensors, wherein the first light path is different from the second light path. The scanning system is arranged in use to cause the target to be moved relative to the optical axis such that an image of the target may be generated using the image data from the plurality of image sensors. A method of using the apparatus is also disclosed.