Solid State Fluorescence Light Assembly with Integrated Filter Cubes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Fluorescence microscopes using arc type lamps are expensive, have short lifespans, require complex alignment, and are hazardous, while solid state LEDs are limited in application due to the need for multiple sources and manual filter selection, which is time-consuming and prone to human error.
Innovation Solution
A solid state fluorescence light system with a carriage and filter cubes, each containing a specific LED and corresponding optical filters, allowing for easy selection and use of different wavelengths without manual filter changes, ensuring correct filter usage and reducing alignment complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If arc type lamps (mercury or xenon) are used as light sources, then high illumination intensity and broad spectrum are achieved, but the system becomes expensive, has short lifespan, requires complex alignment, and creates hazardous disposal issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of the light source from arc discharge (mercury/xenon) to solid-state LED technology. This parameter change transforms the illumination mechanism while maintaining high intensity output, eliminates the short lifespan and instability issues of arc lamps, and removes hazardous materials from the system.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate LEDs with different wavelengths are used to accommodate various fluorescence stains, then versatility is improved, but the system becomes complex and requires manual filter selection which is time-consuming and prone to human error
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple LED light sources of different wavelengths into a single integrated illumination assembly. This consolidation allows the system to accommodate various fluorescence stains while reducing complexity - the user simply activates the appropriate wavelength from the integrated assembly rather than manually selecting from multiple separate LEDs and filters.
Solution Approach 2:
The illumination assembly is designed with multi-functionality to serve multiple fluorescence staining applications. By incorporating LEDs of different wavelengths (e.g., 450nm blue, 530nm green, 630nm red) within a single universal assembly, the system can adapt to various stains without requiring separate dedicated light sources for each application.
3Adaptability or versatility
If arc type lamps are used, then broad spectrum light is provided, but complex optical filtration is required to achieve adequate signal-to-noise ratio
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a broad spectrum source and filtering out unwanted wavelengths (the traditional arc lamp approach), the patent inverts the approach by using narrow-band LED sources that emit only the specific wavelengths needed. This eliminates the need for complex filtration systems while maintaining versatility across different fluorescence stains.
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 cost-effective, reliable, and user-friendly illumination for various fluorescence stains by automatically selecting the correct LED and filters, reducing alignment time and minimizing human error, while extending the lifespan of the light source.
Implementation Method 1
The illumination system includes a solid state light source secured to the housing. The solid state light source emits light.
Implementation Method 2
Each filter cube further comprises at least one optical filter disposed within the housing, wherein the optical filter corresponds to the solid state light source.
Implementation Method 3
The fluorescence microscope is based on the phenomenon that certain material emits energy detectable as visible light when irradiated with the light of a specific wavelength.
Data Source
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AI summary
An illumination system for a fluorescent microscope is provided The illumination system includes a carriage (56) is removably receivable within the microscope and a plurality of filter cubes (60) movably arranged on the carnage wherein each filter cube is moveable between an active position and an inactive position Each filter cube includes a housing having first and second (130) openings for supporting at least one optical filter and a solid state light source The solid state light source emits light when the filter cube is moved into the active position