Semi-Submersible Objective for Multiphoton Imaging in Scattering Media
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multiphoton imaging methods face challenges in achieving high-resolution fabrication in scattering and/or absorbing media due to beam scattering and absorption, leading to reduced power and resolution issues, especially with low magnification objectives.
Innovation Solution
A semi-submersible microscope objective with a protective element sealing the optical outlet but not the inlet is used, allowing laser light to pass through a transparent portion, reducing the beam path length in scattering and/or absorbing media, and enabling high-resolution imaging and fabrication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a conventional microscope objective is used in scattering and/or absorbing media, then the beam path length is long, but the resolution and power are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The objective system is segmented into two parts: a conventional microscope objective and a separate protective element (window). This segmentation allows the protective element to be positioned close to the sample, reducing the beam path length through scattering/absorbing media while the microscope objective remains at its optimal position for focusing.
Solution Approach 2:
A protective element (transparent window) is introduced as an intermediary component between the microscope objective and the scattering/absorbing media. This window reduces the beam path length through the problematic media while maintaining optical quality and protecting the objective.
2Manufacturing precision
If a semi-submersible microscope objective with protective element is used, then the beam path length in scattering media is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The protective element serves multiple functions: it reduces the beam path length through scattering/absorbing media, protects the microscope objective from contact with the media, and maintains optical quality. This multi-functionality justifies the added structural complexity.
3Length of moving object
If low magnification objectives are used, then the working distance is long, but the resolution is reduced due to beam scattering
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the objective system into a microscope objective and a protective element, the working distance of the microscope objective can be maintained while the protective element creates a shorter effective beam path through the scattering media, thereby preserving resolution.
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 direct fabrication of high-resolution parts with minimal surface finishing, maintaining mechanical properties similar to conventional 3D printing, and eliminating the need for tiling structures, thus reducing stress and crack concentrations.
Implementation Method 1
directing laser light through the semi-submersible microscope objective and into the liquid medium in an image-wise manner under conditions such that multiphoton absorption by the multiphoton absorber occurs
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a multiphoton imaging method. The method includes a) immersing a semi-submersible microscope objective in a liquid medium that is at least one of scattering or absorbing; b) directing laser light through the semi-submersible microscope objective and into the liquid medium in an image-wise manner under conditions such that multiphoton absorption by the multiphoton absorber occurs, and at least partial polymerization of the polymerizable compound occurs resulting in an article; and c) removing uncured polymerizable compound to clean the article. The liquid medium includes a polymerizable compound, a secondary component, and a multiphoton absorber. An article is also provided. The article includes a material defining one or more tortuous or arcuate channels, one or more internal architectural voids, one or more undercuts, one or more perforations, or combinations thereof, at least one of which exhibits a surface roughness of 1.0 micrometer Ra or less.