Rotatable Mirror Switching Optical Paths in Structured Illumination Microscopy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing structured illumination microscopy (SIM) systems are complex, costly, and require multiple light sources or optical switches, which increase complexity and reduce throughput due to the need for precise positioning and thermal stability of moving components.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a single light source with a rotatable double-sided mirror and fixed gratings, where the mirror switches between two optical paths, eliminating the need for multiple light sources and optical switches, and providing stability and precision through a compact design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple light sources or optical switches are used in SIM systems, then the illumination coverage and pattern switching capability are improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
A single light source is designed to provide multiple illumination patterns by combining it with a rotating grating assembly that can generate different fringe patterns (first and second patterns with different orientations) and phase shifts. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for multiple light sources while maintaining the capability to provide diverse illumination patterns required for SIM imaging.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the grating elements that generate different illumination patterns into a single rotating assembly. The grating assembly includes multiple gratings (first grating, second grating, third grating) that can be rotated to different positions to provide different illumination patterns. This merging of multiple pattern-generating elements into one rotating unit reduces system complexity compared to using separate light sources or optical switches for each pattern.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple light sources or optical switches are used in SIM systems, then the illumination pattern capability is improved, but the manufacturing cost and operation cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The single light source is designed to perform multiple functions by generating different illumination patterns through the rotating grating assembly. This eliminates the need to manufacture and maintain multiple separate light sources, thereby reducing manufacturing costs while still providing the required illumination pattern capability for SIM imaging.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotating grating assembly creates multiple illumination patterns (first pattern, second pattern, and their rotated versions) from a single light source. Instead of copying the entire light source system multiple times, the patent uses the grating rotation to generate equivalent illumination patterns, significantly reducing manufacturing complexity and cost.
3Measurement precision
If precise positioning and thermal stability of moving components are required, then the imaging precision is maintained, but the throughput and operational speed are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The grating assembly rotates periodically to switch between different illumination patterns (first pattern, second pattern, and their rotated versions). This periodic rotation allows the system to rapidly cycle through the required patterns for SIM imaging, maintaining high throughput. The periodic nature of the rotation enables predictable timing and synchronization, which helps maintain imaging precision despite the moving component.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a rotating grating assembly that dynamically switches between different illumination patterns during operation. This dynamic approach allows the system to adaptively provide different patterns as needed for SIM imaging, improving throughput compared to static systems. The rotation mechanism is designed to maintain sufficient stability during operation to preserve imaging precision while enabling fast pattern switching.
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 configuration reduces the complexity and cost of the SIM system, enhances throughput by allowing faster switching and operation, and maintains precision and stability, enabling high-resolution imaging with reduced mechanical precision requirements.
Implementation Method 1
a rotatable mirror that assumes the first or second positions... reflects first light originating at the light source toward the first grating... reflects second light from the second grating toward the subsequent component
Implementation Method 2
a first grating and a second grating... directing first phase-selected light from the first light path onto a sample... directing second phase-selected light from the second light path onto the sample
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A system includes: a light source (204); first (208) and second (210) gratings; and at least one reflective component (202) that in a first position forms a first light path originating at the light source and extending to the first grating and thereafter to a subsequent component in the system, and that in a second position forms a second light path originating at the light source and extending to the second grating and thereafter to the subsequent component.,Th reflective component is a double sided mirror whose opposite surfaces reflect either the light from the source to the first or second grating;