Smart Photo-Microscope System with Embedded Processor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current photo-microscope systems are cumbersome and error-prone, requiring additional computers and software, increasing costs and footprint, while users seek compact, easy-to-use solutions for routine microscopy that prevent errors and conserve space.
Innovation Solution
A smart photo-microscope system with a camera equipped with a built-in processor and image sensor, connected to the microscope via a USB bus, allowing for direct information exchange and control, eliminating the need for a separate computer and software, featuring an On-Screen-Display (OSD) system and a single board computer (SBC) for enhanced image acquisition and control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a separate computer and software are used to control the microscope and camera, then the system provides full control capability, but the footprint and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the computer's processing capabilities directly into the camera by embedding a processor within the camera housing. This merging of functions allows the camera to perform image processing, analysis, and control operations locally, eliminating the need for a separate computer while maintaining full control capability over the microscope and camera systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The camera is designed with multi-functional capabilities, serving not only as an image capture device but also as a processing unit and control interface. The embedded processor enables the camera to handle multiple tasks including image acquisition, processing, analysis, and system control, replacing the need for separate dedicated devices for each function.
2Ease of operation
If a separate computer and software are installed, then complete control and processing is achieved, but the system cost increases substantially
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the computer's processing functions with the camera into a single integrated unit. By embedding the processor within the camera, the system eliminates the need to purchase and install a separate computer, thereby substantially reducing the overall system cost while maintaining complete control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the essential processing and control functions from the separate computer system and relocates them into the camera. This extraction allows the system to function with minimal external components, reducing both cost and complexity while preserving full control capabilities.
3Adaptability or versatility
If manual adjustment of camera and microscope settings is required, then flexibility is maintained, but the process becomes cumbersome and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The embedded processor in the camera automatically detects the microscope's current settings (magnification, fluorescence channel, condenser position, reflector position) and uses this feedback to automatically adjust camera parameters (exposure time, gain, white balance) to optimal values, eliminating manual adjustment while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-adjustment through the embedded processor, which automatically configures camera settings based on microscope parameters without requiring user intervention. This self-service capability maintains full adaptability to different imaging conditions while dramatically simplifying operation.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate devices are used for microscopy, then functional completeness is achieved, but the system footprint increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate devices (camera, computer, control interface) into a single integrated camera unit with an embedded processor. This consolidation maintains all necessary functions for image acquisition, processing, and system control while dramatically reducing the physical footprint of the system.
Solution Approach 2:
The camera is designed as a universal device that performs multiple functions previously requiring separate equipment. The embedded processor enables the camera to handle image capture, processing, analysis, and microscope control, providing functional completeness within a compact single-device form factor.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a smart photo-microscope system, including a microscope and a camera attached to the microscope to photograph a microscope sample. In an exemplary configuration, the camera includes a built-in processor and is connected with the microscope to receive and process information from the microscope. In another exemplary configuration, the smart photo-microscope system further includes a single board computer (SBC), which includes a built-in processor and is connected with the microscope and camera to receive and process information from the microscope and/or camera.