Plenoptic Ocular Device for 3D Microscopy Adaptation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional optical microscopes are limited to capturing 2D images, and there is a lack of devices that can easily adapt a 2D microscope to obtain plenoptic 3D images, as existing solutions are either voluminous laboratory assemblies or do not provide 3D imaging capabilities when coupled with optical instruments.
Innovation Solution
A plenoptic ocular device configured to be coupled in the ocular port of optical instruments, featuring a tubular element with a diaphragm, first and second lens arrangements, and a lens array that captures elemental images and transmits them to a recording means with spatial discretization for external image processing, allowing for the generation of 3D images from different perspectives.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If conventional optical microscopes are used, then 2D images can be obtained, but 3D imaging capability is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The optical system is segmented into multiple lens arrangements (first lens arrangement with diaphragm, second lens arrangement, and lens array). Each segment performs a specific function: the first lens arrangement captures light from different perspectives, the second lens arrangement focuses the light, and the lens array creates multiple elemental images. This segmentation allows 3D information capture while maintaining a manageable device structure that can be coupled to conventional microscopes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary plenoptic ocular device that couples between the conventional microscope and the image sensor. This intermediary contains the lens array and multiple lens arrangements that transform the conventional 2D microscope output into plenoptic 3D data. The intermediary preserves the simplicity of conventional microscopes while adding 3D imaging capability through its internal optical elements.
2Loss of information
If plenoptic 3D imaging is implemented, then 3D information can be captured, but the device becomes voluminous and difficult to adapt
Solution Approach 1:
The plenoptic ocular device is designed with universal coupling mechanisms that can be attached to conventional 2D microscopes, making the system multi-functional. The same device structure can capture both 2D images (when the lens array is not used) and 3D plenoptic images (when the lens array is activated), providing versatility across different imaging needs without requiring separate specialized equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a nested structure where the lens array and other plenoptic components are integrated within a compact ocular housing that fits into the microscope's existing optical path. The first and second lens arrangements are nested within the tubular element, creating a compact configuration that adapts to the microscope without requiring voluminous external assemblies.
3Measurement precision
If high magnification is achieved, then detail resolution improves, but the field of view becomes limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from 2D imaging to 3D plenoptic imaging by adding the dimension of depth. The lens array captures light rays from multiple angles and depths, creating elemental images that encode three-dimensional spatial information. This dimensional expansion allows the system to maintain a broader effective field of view by capturing vertical and horizontal perspectives simultaneously, rather than being limited to a single 2D plane at high magnification.
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 the conversion of conventional optical instruments into plenoptic microscopes capable of capturing 3D images from multiple perspectives, with the device being easily removable and adaptable to various optical instruments, and allowing simultaneous or independent 2D and 3D image recording.
Implementation Method 1
a lens array situated at a distance S'F from the second lens arrangement, configured to capture the real image coming from the optical instrument, generate a set of elemental images
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a plenoptic ocular device intended to be coupled in an ocular port of an optical instrument configured to generate a real image of a sample on a focal plane situated in a region close to said ocular port, said plenoptic ocular device being configured to capture said real image, generate a set of elemental images and send them to recording means with spatial discretisation which in turn comprises communication means configured to transmit the set of elemental images to external image processing means.