Scanning Microscope Orthogonal Scanner Speed Ratio
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional laser scanning microscopes face challenges in obtaining images quickly due to limitations in scan speed and image distortion, particularly during reciprocal scans, which affect the efficiency and accuracy of three-dimensional data acquisition.
Innovation Solution
A scanning microscope design that incorporates a two-dimensional scanning device with orthogonal scanners, where one scanner operates at a higher speed than the other, and a scan controller that adjusts the output timing for image validity signals and sampling waveforms to optimize image acquisition during both forward and backward movements, reducing image obtainment time and distortion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If reciprocal scan is used to obtain images from both forward and backward movements, then image acquisition speed is improved, but image distortion occurs due to speed differences between forward and backward scans
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the scanning parameters by adjusting the scanning speeds of the first and second scanners to be in a specific integer ratio (e.g., 2:1). This parameter adjustment allows the system to maintain synchronized sampling during reciprocal scans, eliminating image distortion while preserving the speed benefits of reciprocal scanning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically adjusts the operation frequency of the scanners based on the scanning direction and maintains flexible sampling rates that adapt to the reciprocal scan pattern. This dynamic adjustment ensures that sampling occurs at appropriate moments during both forward and backward movements, preventing distortion.
2Productivity
If the operation frequency of the scanner is increased to reduce acquisition time, then productivity is improved, but image distortion and quality degradation occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic sampling synchronized with the scanner's oscillation cycle. By sampling at specific periodic intervals during both forward and backward movements, the system maintains image quality even at high operation frequencies. The periodic action ensures that data is collected at consistent phases of the scanning cycle.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary synchronization of the sampling timing with the scanner's motion cycle before actual image acquisition begins. This preliminary action ensures that the sampling system is properly aligned with the scanning speed and direction, preventing distortion when high-speed scanning is initiated.
3Device complexity
If sampling is performed only during forward movement, then sampling simplicity is maintained, but acquisition time increases due to unused backward movement period
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous sampling during both forward and backward movements of the scanner, eliminating idle periods. The sampling system operates continuously throughout the entire scanning cycle, ensuring that no useful data collection opportunities are lost. This doubles the effective data acquisition time compared to unidirectional sampling.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the sampling process into distinct phases corresponding to forward and backward movements. By controlling the sampling device to operate in both directions with appropriate timing adjustments, the system efficiently utilizes the entire scanning cycle while maintaining organized data collection.
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 enables faster image acquisition with reduced distortion, allowing for more efficient and accurate three-dimensional data collection, and the ability to increase scanner operation frequency, thereby enhancing the speed and quality of scanning processes.
Implementation Method 1
an photodetector that detects light from the sample scanned by the two-dimensional scanning device
Data Source
AI summary
A scanning microscope includes a two-dimensional scanning device that includes a first scanner and a second scanner for scanning, in oscillation motion and with light, a sample in directions orthogonal to each other, the first scanner scanning the sample at a speed higher than a speed of the second scanner, and a scan controller that controls the two-dimensional scanning device.