Multi-Objective Optical Imaging With Mirror-Switched 3D Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing microscopes require multiple expensive detectors for 3D imaging, which can cause sample movement and increase development costs due to the need for precise and fast hardware movements, and existing optical arrangements do not efficiently utilize objective lenses for both illumination and observation.
Innovation Solution
An optical arrangement using at least two objective lenses, an illumination source, and movable mirrors to direct illumination beams and radiation to a single detector, allowing simultaneous imaging from multiple angles without detector movement, and optionally using a third objective lens for radiation collection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single objective lens is used for both illumination and detection, then the device structure is simple, but the system cannot perform both illumination and detection functions simultaneously with different parameters
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the optical system into separate illumination and detection pathways with dedicated objective lenses (first objective lens for illumination, second objective lens for detection). This segmentation allows each lens to be optimized for its specific function while enabling simultaneous operation of both illumination and detection modes without interference.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple objective lenses are used for illumination and detection, then both functions can be performed simultaneously, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple objective lenses and their associated optical components into a single integrated optical arrangement. The illumination and detection pathways are merged into one cohesive system with shared structural elements, allowing simultaneous operation while managing complexity through unified design rather than separate independent systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical arrangement is designed as a multi-functional system where the same physical platform supports both illumination and detection functions. The system can operate in different modes (illumination only, detection only, or simultaneous operation) depending on configuration, providing universal functionality across multiple operational requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the illumination beam parameters are changed, then different illumination patterns can be achieved, but the position of optical components must be adjusted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adjustment mechanisms that allow the position of optical components (particularly the mirror and objective lenses) to be changed based on the desired illumination parameters. This enables flexible switching between different illumination patterns (such as brightfield, darkfield, or oblique illumination) by adjusting component positions through control signals rather than manual reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the desired illumination parameters are sensed or specified, and the positions of optical components are automatically adjusted to achieve the target configuration. This feedback loop simplifies operation by allowing users to specify illumination parameters without manually calculating and adjusting component positions.
4Ease of operation
If the mirror position is fixed, then the device structure is simple, but the illumination beam cannot be adjusted to different parameters
Solution Approach 1:
The mirror position is made dynamically adjustable rather than fixed, allowing the illumination beam parameters to be changed by repositioning the mirror. This dynamic capability enables flexible control over illumination characteristics while the overall system design manages the added complexity through integrated control mechanisms.
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 efficient 3D imaging with a single detector by minimizing hardware movement, reducing costs, and optimizing the use of objective lenses for both illumination and observation.
Implementation Method 1
at least one mirror (90a, 90b, 90c) for reflecting the radiation (80) from one of the first objective lens (30) or the second objective lens (40) into the detector (70)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3a
AI summary
An optical arrangement (10) for imaging a sample (20) comprises at least one first objective lens (30) and at least one second objective lens (40); at least one illumination source (50) for producing an illumination beam (60); a detector (70) for imaging radiation (80) from the sample (20); and at least one mirror (90a, 90b, 90c) for reflecting the radiation (80) from one of the first objective lens (30) or the second objective lens (40) into the detector (70), wherein the position of the at least one mirror (90a, 90b, 90c) is dependent on the illumination beam (60) at the other one of the at least one first objective lens (30) and the at least one second objective lens (40).