Multi-beam Confocal Scanner Spatial Resolution Enhancement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Multi-beam confocal scanning systems struggle to achieve spatial image resolution beyond the Abbe limit due to lack of necessary elements and precision in step-by-step scanning and synchronization, unlike traditional single beam systems.
Innovation Solution
Modifying multi-beam confocal scanners by ensuring sufficient spatial separation between beams, focusing them into diffraction limited spots, and implementing additional mechanisms such as tilting optical windows, precise displacement of microlens and pinhole arrays, and closed-loop control of scanning mirrors to achieve sub-native optical resolution scanning and data collection for enhanced image processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multi-beam scanning is used to increase image capture speed, then productivity is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to inability to achieve sub-native optical resolution scanning
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the scanning process into discrete step-by-step positions, with each beam stopping at precisely controlled locations. The scanning system is divided into multiple independent beam paths that can be controlled individually, allowing each beam to achieve precise sub-native optical resolution positioning while maintaining high overall scanning speed through parallel operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback control mechanisms including encoder feedback for rotational position detection and closed-loop control of scanning mirrors. The system continuously monitors the actual beam positions and adjusts them in real-time to maintain precise sub-native optical resolution spacing, ensuring measurement precision is maintained despite the high-speed multi-beam scanning operation.
2Measurement precision
If step-by-step scanning with precise synchronization is implemented to achieve enhanced spatial resolution, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the scanning system multi-functional by enabling it to perform both high-speed parallel imaging and precise step-by-step scanning with sub-native optical resolution. The same multi-beam scanning apparatus can operate in different modes depending on the requirements, eliminating the need for separate dedicated systems and reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary components such as microlens arrays and aperture arrays that facilitate precise beam positioning and control. These intermediary elements act as mediators between the scanning mirrors and the sample, enabling precise sub-native optical resolution spacing without requiring overly complex direct control mechanisms.
3Measurement precision
If beams are focused into diffraction limited spots with sufficient spatial separation, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional optical elements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple optical functions into integrated components. The microlens arrays and aperture arrays are combined in a single optical plane, and the illumination and detection paths are merged through the use of dichroic mirrors. This consolidation achieves precise diffraction-limited focusing while reducing the number of separate optical elements and simplifying the overall system architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs self-aligning optical configurations where the microlens arrays and aperture arrays are positioned in conjugate planes, automatically ensuring proper alignment and diffraction-limited focusing. The optical design allows the system to self-correct for minor misalignments, reducing the need for complex active alignment mechanisms and control 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 the collection and processing of data for improved two-dimensional image resolution enhancement, achieving faster image capture with reduced photo-bleaching and enhanced spatial resolution in multi-beam confocal systems.
Implementation Method 1
focusing them into diffraction limited spots
Implementation Method 2
an image of a region of interest (ROI) Spq is captured at each stationary beam scan position
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2A~3A
AI summary
The invention relates to improving the spatial resolution of images captured using multi-beam scanning confocal imaging systems by developing the mechanisms required in a variety of multibeam confocal scanner formats that enable the data capture requirements of the prior art calculations to be met.