Multichannel Microlens Imaging for Wide-Field Fluorescent Close-Ups
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing close-up imaging systems face challenges such as the need for sophisticated and expensive lenses, limitations in handling UV illumination, optical crosstalk between channels, and inefficiency in imaging isotropic light sources like fluorescent objects, leading to image alteration and reduced resolution.
Innovation Solution
A multichannel imaging device utilizing a two-dimensional array of catoptric and catadioptric systems with thin film mirrors and dioptric microlenses, configured to minimize crosstalk and enhance resolution by using reflective optics with symmetrical designs and high numerical aperture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a large diameter object lens is used to achieve a large field of view for close-up imaging, then the field of view is improved, but the device becomes more expensive and requires sophisticated lenses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the imaging system into multiple optical channels, each with its own microlens and photodetector element. This segmentation allows the system to achieve a large effective field of view through the combined input of multiple channels, avoiding the need for a single large-diameter lens while reducing device complexity and cost.
2Device complexity
If gradient index optical fibers are used in the imaging system, then the structure is simplified, but UV transparency is lost limiting utility in UV applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses photodetector elements that optically copy or replicate the function of gradient index optical fibers without requiring the actual fiber structure. This allows the system to achieve similar light-guiding functionality while maintaining UV transparency and enabling UV imaging applications.
3Area of stationary object
If multiple optical channels are superimposed to increase field of view, then the field of view is improved, but optical crosstalk between adjacent channels occurs leading to image alteration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts or removes the source of crosstalk by using discrete photodetector elements for each optical channel rather than allowing light to propagate between channels. This isolation prevents optical crosstalk while maintaining the multi-channel field of view advantage.
4Device complexity
If conventional optical systems are used for close-up imaging, then the system is simple, but resolution and numerical aperture are reduced for isotropic light sources
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from conventional two-dimensional lens-based optics to a three-dimensional arrangement of multiple optical channels with photodetector elements positioned to capture light from isotropic sources. This dimensional change enables improved resolution and numerical aperture while maintaining relative system simplicity.
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
The device achieves improved resolution and wider field of view, effectively imaging isotropic light sources like fluorescent objects with reduced ghost images and aberrations, while maintaining high numerical aperture and optical performance homogeneity.
Implementation Method 1
a first two-dimensional array of thin film secondary mirrors covering the first slide, each secondary mirror being adapted to reflect a light ray coming from a side opposite the object relative to the first slide
Implementation Method 2
a second two-dimensional array of thin film primary mirrors covering the second slide, each primary mirror being adapted to reflect a light ray coming from a side facing the object relative to the second slide
Implementation Method 3
a third two-dimensional array of thin film quaternary mirrors covering the third slide, each quaternary mirror being adapted to reflect a light ray coming from a side opposite to the first array relative to the third slide
Implementation Method 4
a fourth two-dimensional array of thin film tertiary mirrors covering the fourth slide, each tertiary mirror being adapted to reflect a light ray coming from a side facing the first array relative to the fourth slide
Implementation Method 5
a first slide of transparent material arranged to face the object, the transparent material absorbing less than 50% of energy of light rays in the visible range
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a device for optically imaging at least a part of an object, the device having an optical axis and comprising a two- dimensional first array of first microlenses, having a first side intended to face the object, and a second side, opposite the first side, a two-dimensional second array of second microlenses, each first microlens being aligned with a second microlens on an axis parallel to the optical axis, wherein each first microlens comprises a first catoptric system, and preferably a first catadioptric system.