Optical Analysis Blur Correction for Rotational Scanning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical analysis systems face inefficiencies in imaging speed and analyte density due to imaging blur and downtime in linear and rotational scanning methods, with rotational systems particularly suffering from image blurring issues that limit resolution and analyte density.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a system with blur correction optics that induce a distortion, such as trapezoidal distortion, to transform a rotationally moving object into a linearly moving image at the sensor, using a pair of optical elements positioned on either side of the intermediate imaging plane to correct image inaccuracies caused by non-linear scanning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If linear scanning is used to image the substrate, then imaging resolution is maintained, but imaging speed decreases and downtime increases due to repeated stopping and re-positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from static linear scanning to dynamic rotational scanning, where the substrate rotates continuously under the objective. This dynamic approach eliminates the need to stop and re-position the objective between imaging passes, maintaining continuous imaging operation and improving productivity while preserving resolution through proper optical design
2Productivity
If rotational scanning is used to improve imaging speed, then productivity increases, but imaging resolution deteriorates due to blur from differential angular velocities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by using a field lens positioned at the intermediate image plane that provides position-dependent optical correction. The lens creates varying magnification across the field of view, with different regions experiencing different magnification factors that compensate for the differential angular velocities at different radial distances from the rotation axis, thereby correcting blur locally across the image
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes optical parameters by introducing a field lens that modifies the magnification parameter across the field of view. This parameter change creates a magnification gradient that transforms the rotational motion into an equivalent linear scan, correcting the blur caused by differential angular velocities and restoring imaging resolution
3Loss of time
If rotational scanning is implemented to eliminate downtime, then loss of time is reduced, but image blur increases due to non-linear motion effects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a field lens as an intermediary optical element positioned at the intermediate image plane. This intermediary component mediates between the rotational motion of the substrate and the linear detection requirements, transforming the non-linear rotational scan into an equivalent linear scan through anamorphic magnification, thereby eliminating blur while maintaining continuous rotational motion
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 diffraction-limited imagery and enhances scanning efficiency for higher analyte density substrates, allowing for accurate detection of discrete radiation events with improved imaging resolution and reduced downtime.
Implementation Method 1
blur correction optics to induce a distortion, for example a trapezoidal distortion, to match the curved scanned area to the rectilinear layout of an array imaging detector
Implementation Method 2
an objective configured to collect radiation associated with discrete analyte binding sites on the substrate
Implementation Method 3
an actuator configured to rotate the substrate relative to the objective about a rotational axis
Data Source
AI summary
Optical analysis systems and methods including optical elements positioned on opposite sides of an intermediate imaging plane to create anisotropic distortion associated with a non-linear scanning of an objective relative to a substrate including an analyte array in order to remove motion blurring and produce diffraction limited imaging.