Resonant Scanner Sampling Circuit for Accurate Pixel Timing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sampling techniques in laser scanning microscopes face challenges in synchronizing detection signal sampling with the scanning position of resonant scanners, particularly due to temperature fluctuations and variations in scanner characteristics, which can lead to inaccurate image generation.
Innovation Solution
A sampling circuit that generates an N-multiplied clock synchronized with the scanning position signal using a phase-locked loop, an AD converter for converting detection signals, a counter for counting clocks, a memory for storing counter thresholds, and a comparison circuit for generating a sampling clock when the counter value matches the threshold, allowing for accurate sampling and pixel data generation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional sampling techniques are used with resonant scanners, then sampling can be performed, but temperature fluctuations and scanner variations cause inaccurate image generation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms where the actual scanning position signal is continuously monitored and used to adjust sampling timing. The system compares the actual scanner position with expected positions and dynamically corrects sampling clock timing to maintain synchronization, thereby compensating for temperature-induced drift and scanner variations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts sampling parameters including clock frequency and timing based on real-time scanner position feedback. By changing the sampling clock timing parameters according to actual scanning conditions, the system maintains accurate synchronization despite temperature fluctuations and scanner performance variations.
2Measurement precision
If complex operations are performed to compensate for temperature and scanner variations, then sampling accuracy improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary synchronization mechanism that mediates between the scanner position signal and the sampling clock. This intermediary system uses a position signal from the scanner to generate timing adjustment information, which then modifies the sampling clock timing, providing accurate synchronization without requiring complex direct control circuits.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms with electronic signal processing. Instead of using mechanical devices to physically adjust sampling timing, the patent uses electronic timing circuits that automatically adjust sampling clock phases and frequencies based on digital position signal processing.
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 solution enables accurate sampling and image generation in laser scanning microscopes, even with temperature changes and scanner variations, without requiring complex operations, ensuring high precision and synchronization with the scanner's scanning position.
Implementation Method 1
a phase synchronization circuit that generates, based on a scanning position signal indicating a scanning position of a laser light scanned on a sample by a scanner and by a phase-locked loop, an N-multiplied clock which has a frequency N times as high as a scan frequency of the scanning position signal
Implementation Method 2
an AD converter that AD-converts a detection signal obtained by converting light from the sample by a detector in synchronization with the N-multiplied clock generated by the phase synchronization circuit
Implementation Method 3
a counter that counts the number of clocks in synchronization with the N-multiplied clock
Data Source
AI summary
A sampling circuit includes: a phase synchronization circuit for generating, by a phase-locked loop, an N-multiplied clock that is N times as high as the scanning frequency of a scanning position signal of a resonant scanner and is synchronized with the phase of the scanning position signal, an AD converter for AD-converting a detection signal obtained by detecting light from a sample in synchronization with the N-multiplied clock, a counter for counting the number of clocks in synchronization with the N-multiplied clock, a memory for storing a counter threshold corresponding to a desired scanning position of the resonant scanner, a comparison circuit for outputting a sampling clock in response to the counter threshold and a counter value of the counter circuit coinciding with each other, and a data processing circuit for sampling the AD-converted detection signal based on the sampling clock and generating pixel data.