Optical Scanning Arrangement for Rapid Focus Topology Determination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional scanning microscopy systems are inefficient in terms of measurement time due to limitations in focusing mechanisms, which result in prolonged acquisition times for sharp partial images of histological tissue samples.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a two-step focus determination process using laser reflection and transmission flash illumination, with two cameras to determine reference and focus distances across the object region, allowing for interpolation of focus distances between predefined sample lateral positions, enabling faster and more accurate focusing during scanning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional focusing mechanisms are used to determine focus positions across the object region, then sharp partial images can be acquired, but the total acquisition time is prolonged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs focus determination at multiple predefined sample lateral positions before the actual scanning process. By pre-determining the focus distance topology across the object region, the system eliminates the need for time-consuming focus adjustments during scanning, thus reducing total acquisition time while maintaining sharp image quality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the object region into multiple predefined sample lateral positions where focus determination is performed independently. This segmentation allows parallel or sequential focus measurements at discrete locations, enabling efficient construction of the focus distance topology without requiring continuous focus scanning across the entire region
2Measurement precision
If multiple sequential overlapping images are taken by a tilted autofocus image sensor for focusing, then focus position can be determined, but the procedure is time-consuming and limits system throughput
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical tilted sensor approach with a two-camera system using optical methods (laser reflection and transmission flash illumination). This substitution eliminates the need for sequential mechanical adjustments and complex sensor tilting, enabling faster focus determination through parallel optical measurements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses periodic flash illumination to capture multiple images at different focus positions rapidly. The flash-based illumination allows for quick sequential capture of images at predefined positions without requiring continuous mechanical movement, thereby maintaining measurement precision while improving throughput
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
This approach significantly reduces the total acquisition time for optical scanning of histological tissue samples by enabling rapid and accurate determination of focus distances, allowing for efficient scanning of larger areas with improved image quality.
Implementation Method 1
performing laser reflection and using a first camera taking plural first images to determine a reference distance between the specimen holder and an objective lens
Implementation Method 2
performing transmission flash illumination and using a second camera taking plural second images to define a focus distance
Data Source
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AI summary
It is provided a method for optical scanning of at least one object region (105) placed on a transparent specimen holder (107), the method comprising: for each sample lateral position (x1) of plural predefined sample lateral positions (x0,x1,x2) performing a focus determination by: performing laser reflection and using a first camera (109) taking plural first images to determine a reference distance (rd) between the specimen holder (107) and an objective lens (113); performing transmission flash illumination and using a second camera (111) taking plural second images to define a focus distance taking into account the reference distance (rd); after completing the focus determination, determining a focus distance topology (600; 700) across the object region (105) based on the focus distances determined for all sample lateral positions (x0,x1,x2); and laterally moving the specimen holder (107) and acquiring third images while focusing according to the focus distance topology (600, 700);