Scanning Probe Microscope Liquid Surface Detection Automation
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Solution Overview
Problem
In-liquid observation in scanning probe microscopes requires manual adjustment of detection signal target values, leading to time-consuming and labor-intensive approaching operations when detecting a sample surface submerged in liquid.
Innovation Solution
A scanning probe microscope configuration that includes an approaching processor, photodetector movement processor, and optical axis adjustment processor, allowing the photodetector to be moved and the optical axis adjusted automatically when detecting a liquid surface, enabling continued approaching operations without manual target value adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual adjustment of target value is performed during in-liquid observation, then detection accuracy is maintained, but operation time and labor increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-adjustment by automatically detecting the liquid surface position and recalibrating the target value without operator intervention. The detection signal from the photodetector is processed to identify when the cantilever contacts the liquid surface, triggering automatic target value adjustment that eliminates manual operation while maintaining detection accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from the photodetector detection signal to automatically adjust the target value. When the detection signal indicates liquid surface contact, the system processes this feedback information and automatically recalibrates the target value, creating a closed-loop control system that maintains precision without manual intervention.
2Measurement precision
If manual adjustment of target value is performed during in-liquid observation, then detection accuracy is maintained, but operational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-adjustment by automatically detecting the liquid surface position and recalibrating the target value without operator intervention. The detection signal from the photodetector is processed to identify when the cantilever contacts the liquid surface, triggering automatic target value adjustment that eliminates manual operation while maintaining detection accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system acts as an intermediary between the photodetector signal and the target value adjustment. It processes the detection signal automatically and mediates the calibration process, replacing manual operator actions with automated control logic that simplifies operation while preserving precision.
3Productivity
If photodetector position is adjusted automatically upon liquid surface detection, then continued approaching operation becomes possible, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The photodetector assembly is designed with multi-functionality, capable of operating in both fixed and movable configurations. The same photodetector can function with the traditional fixed optical path or be moved to accommodate liquid surface detection, allowing the system to handle multiple operational modes without requiring entirely separate detection systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The photodetector position is made dynamic rather than fixed. The system can adjust the photodetector position based on operational conditions (air vs. liquid environment), enabling the optical path to adapt to different measurement scenarios. This dynamic adjustment capability allows continued approaching operation in liquid environments while maintaining system versatility.
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 configuration reduces labor requirements during in-liquid observations by automatically confirming the cantilever's position in the liquid and accurately detecting the sample surface, eliminating the need for manual target value adjustments and ensuring reliable detection.
Implementation Method 1
an optical lever type scanning probe microscope, an uneven surface image of a sample can be obtained by moving a probe of a cantilever along the surface of the sample and detecting deflection of the cantilever... provided with a light irradiator for irradiating the cantilever with light and a photodetector for receiving reflected light from the cantilever
Data Source
AI summary
When a liquid surface is detected based on a detection signal from a photodetector during the approaching operation, a photodetector movement processor moves the photodetector to a position where reflected light from a cantilever is incident with the cantilever being in liquid. When the reflected light from the cantilever is incident on the photodetector during the approaching operation continued after the movement of the photodetector by the photodetector movement processor, an optical axis adjustment processor adjusts an optical axis of the reflected light incident on the photodetector. When a surface of a solid sample is detected based on a detection signal from the photodetector during the approaching operation continued after the adjustment of the optical axis by the optical axis adjustment processor, an approaching processor stops the approaching operation.