Sample Holder with Reflective Surface for Dual Illumination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for analyzing biological samples are limited in their ability to provide comprehensive and accurate optical and image analysis, particularly in providing both epi-illumination and trans-illumination simultaneously, which is essential for detailed sample examination and measurement.
Innovation Solution
The development of a sample holder with an optically transmissive portion and a reflective surface that enables both epi-illumination and trans-illumination, using partial or total internal reflection to illuminate samples from multiple directions, combined with a detector system for precise measurement and analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If a sample holder uses only trans-illumination, then the sample can be illuminated from below, but the sample cannot receive epi-illumination from above simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The sample holder is designed to perform multiple illumination functions simultaneously. The holder includes both a light source positioned below the sample for trans-illumination and a reflective surface positioned above the sample to reflect light onto the sample for epi-illumination, enabling the single device to provide both illumination modes at the same time
Solution Approach 2:
The invention adds a vertical dimension to light delivery by positioning light sources and reflective surfaces on both the top and bottom sides of the sample holder. This multi-dimensional light delivery approach allows light to reach the sample from multiple directions (from below through the holder and from above via reflection), transforming a single-direction illumination system into a multi-directional one
2Measurement precision
If a sample holder provides illumination from multiple directions, then the optical examination capability is enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sample holder merges multiple illumination functions into a single integrated structure. The holder combines the light source, the reflective surface, and the sample positioning elements into one unified device, eliminating the need for separate illumination systems and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining multi-directional illumination capability
Solution Approach 2:
The reflective surface is positioned and oriented within the sample holder such that it automatically reflects light onto the sample from above without requiring additional active components or complex control mechanisms. The geometry of the reflective surface itself provides the necessary light redirection, making the system self-regulating and reducing operational complexity
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 allows for enhanced optical examination and measurement of biological samples, providing both qualitative and quantitative data, improving the accuracy and efficiency of sample analysis in various clinical and research settings.
Implementation Method 1
a sample holder having an optically transmissive portion and a portion configured to provide internal reflection of light within the sample holder
Implementation Method 2
internal reflections may include partial internal reflection and may include total internal reflection of light
Implementation Method 3
an optically transmissive portion
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, devices, apparatus, and systems are provided for image analysis. Methods of image analysis may include observation, measurement, and analysis of images of biological and other samples; devices, apparatus, and systems provided herein are useful for observation, measurement, and analysis of images of such samples. The methods, devices, apparatus, and systems disclosed herein provide advantages over other methods, devices, apparatus, and systems.