Quantitative Phase Imaging with Discrete Focal-Plane Sampling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing phase measurement methods in microscopy require a large number of imaging operations to achieve accurate phase information, which is inefficient and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A quantitative phase image generating method that involves irradiating an object with illumination light and disposing the focal point of an objective lens at multiple positions along the optical axis, detecting light from the object, and generating light intensity distribution data to create a quantitative phase image.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a large number of imaging operations are performed to obtain accurate phase information, then measurement precision is improved, but productivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter of focal point position along the optical axis, acquiring light intensity distribution data at multiple discrete focal positions. By strategically selecting these focal positions based on optical parameters (numerical aperture, wavelength), the system achieves accurate phase reconstruction with fewer imaging operations, resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary determination of optimal focal point positions before actual phase measurement. The device control unit calculates and sets the focal point positions in advance based on microscope setting information, allowing the subsequent phase measurement to proceed efficiently with a predetermined number of imaging operations at these pre-selected positions
2Measurement precision
If the gap between focal point positions is reduced to improve measurement accuracy, then measurement precision is improved, but the number of imaging operations increases, worsening productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the gap parameter Δz between focal point positions by establishing a specific range (0.07-90.3 μm) based on optical parameters. This optimized gap ensures sufficient sampling density for accurate phase reconstruction while minimizing the total number of imaging operations required, thus reducing time loss
Solution Approach 2:
The patent acquires light intensity distribution data at multiple discrete focal positions as copies of the phase information at different depths. These copied intensity distributions at strategically selected positions are sufficient to reconstruct the complete phase information without requiring continuous or excessive sampling
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 method allows for the generation of accurate quantitative phase images with a reduced number of imaging operations, improving efficiency and accuracy in phase measurement.
Implementation Method 1
disposing a focal point of an objective lens at each of a plurality of positions that are mutually separated by gaps Δz along an optical axis of the objective lens
Implementation Method 2
detecting light from the object; generating sets of light intensity distribution data corresponding to each of the plurality of positions based upon the detected light
Data Source
AI summary
A quantitative phase image generating method for a microscope, includes: irradiating an object with illumination light; disposing a focal point of an objective lens at each of a plurality of positions that are mutually separated by gaps Δz along an optical axis of the objective lens, and detecting light from the object; generating sets of light intensity distribution data corresponding to each of the plurality of positions based upon the detected light; and generating a quantitative phase image based upon the light intensity distribution data; wherein the gap Δz is set based upon setting information of the microscope.