Optical Imaging Sample Positioning for Multi-Angle Observation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing microscopy systems can only view samples from one fixed direction, limiting the reliability of research and the ability to observe the full properties of tiny samples like microwires and pollen tubes, as they cannot capture the sample's characteristics from multiple angles.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that determine an intermediate position of a sample using image processing and a micromanipulation mechanism to move the sample to an optimal position within the field of view and depth of field of an optical instrument, allowing for multi-directional observation by combining rotational and translational movements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the sample is rotated to observe from multiple angles, then the comprehensiveness of sample characterization is improved, but the sample position accuracy deteriorates due to movement errors
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors the sample position using an imaging device during rotation and feeds this information back to the controller, which calculates compensation values to correct position deviations in real-time
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces pure mechanical positioning with a combined optical-mechanical system that uses imaging devices and computational algorithms to detect and correct position errors, substituting mechanical precision requirements with optical detection and software compensation
2Device complexity
If a fixed-direction microscopy system is used, then the system simplicity is maintained, but the sample characterization completeness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static fixed-direction microscopy system into a dynamic system where the sample can be rotated to multiple angles while the optical instrument maintains its position, enabling multi-directional observation without requiring multiple fixed microscopes
Solution Approach 2:
The optical instrument is designed to serve multiple functions: it can observe the sample at its initial position, track the sample during rotation, and capture images at various rotated angles, replacing the need for multiple specialized observation systems
3Measurement precision
If the sample is moved to optimal position for each angle, then the observation quality is improved, but the operation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-positioning through automated control: the imaging device detects sample position, the controller calculates the optimal position, and the manipulator executes the movement, all without manual intervention
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-calculates the optimal sample position for each rotation angle based on the initial position and rotation angle, so that when rotation occurs, the sample is already positioned optimally for observation at that angle
Data Source
AI summary
A method for use in optical imaging, a system for using in optical imaging, and an optical system includes a controller arranged to determine an intermediate position of a sample upon a detection of a completion of a first movement of the sample, and to derive an optimal position associated with the intermediate position; a manipulator arranged to move the sample from the intermediate position to the optimal position with a second movement; wherein the sample is arranged to be observed using an optical instrument in the optimal position.