Single-Tube-Lens Optical Layout for Multi-Detector Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional optical systems with multiple tube lenses are difficult to adjust and require individual alignment of each lens, leading to complexity and inefficiency in combining different detectors and radiation sources.
Innovation Solution
An optical system with exactly one tube lens positioned between a beam splitter and detectors, allowing for easy adjustment and alignment, suitable for various radiation detection applications, including optical biopsy, OCT, Raman spectroscopy, and fluorescence imaging, by using a single tube lens with a beam splitter arrangement that simplifies construction and enhances flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate optical components (objective lens, beam splitter, dichroic mirror, objective lens) are used to achieve multi-color fluorescence observation, then observation capability is improved, but device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple optical functions (objective lens, beam splitter, dichroic mirror) into a single objective lens structure. The lens includes multiple layers with different optical properties: a first objective lens portion for collecting fluorescence, a beam splitter portion with reflective and transmissive regions, and a dichroic mirror portion that reflects specific wavelengths while transmitting others. This integration eliminates the need for separate components while maintaining multi-color observation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The objective lens is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a fluorescence collection lens, a beam splitter, and a dichroic mirror. Different regions of the lens serve different purposes - the first objective lens portion collects fluorescence, the beam splitter portion divides light paths, and the dichroic mirror portion separates different wavelength bands. This multi-functional design allows a single component to replace multiple traditional optical elements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate optical components are arranged in sequence, then optical path control is improved, but the required space and device footprint increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested structure where the beam splitter portion and dichroic mirror portion are integrated within the objective lens body. The beam splitter portion is positioned at a specific depth from the front surface, and the dichroic mirror portion is positioned at an even greater depth, creating a layered configuration. This nesting allows multiple optical functions to be compacted into a single lens volume, dramatically reducing the overall optical path length compared to sequential arrangement of separate components.
3Device complexity
If a single objective lens performs multiple functions, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating distinct regions within the objective lens with specific optical properties. The first objective lens portion, beam splitter portion, and dichroic mirror portion each have tailored characteristics optimized for their specific functions. The beam splitter portion has reflective and transmissive regions with different optical densities, while the dichroic mirror portion is designed to reflect specific wavelength bands. This localized optimization allows each region to perform its function effectively while maintaining overall system simplicity.
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
The system provides a space-saving, easily adjustable setup for multiple detection methods, enabling simultaneous use of different detectors and radiation sources with improved ease of alignment and reduced complexity.
Implementation Method 1
the beam splitter portion has a reflective region and a transmissive region
Implementation Method 2
the beam splitter portion has a reflective region and a transmissive region
Implementation Method 3
the dichroic mirror portion reflects excitation light and transmits fluorescence light
Implementation Method 4
the first objective lens portion, which collects the fluorescence light emitted from the sample
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an optical system for detecting radiation in a measurement region, comprising at least one radiation source for generating radiation along an excitation beam path that guides radiation from the radiation source to the measurement region, and comprising a detection beam path that guides radiation from the measurement region to at least a first detector and a second detector, wherein exactly one tube lens, which has a first end and an opposite second end, a first beam splitter, a first detector that is located in the direction of reflection of the first beam splitter, and a second detector that is located in the direction of transmission of the first beam splitter, are arranged consecutively along the detection beam path, the first detector having a first detection face and the second detector having a second detection face at a distance from the first detection face, the first detection face and the second detection face being located at the same distance from the second end of the tube lens along the detection beam path.