Scanning Probe Microscope Automated Range Calculation
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Solution Overview
Problem
In scanning probe microscopes, when the observation target region is wider than the scanning range, users face increased workload due to the need to position and set multiple scanning ranges and movement distances for acquiring multiple pieces of image data, which can lead to inefficiencies and inaccuracies in surface profiling.
Innovation Solution
A scanning probe microscope system with a data processing unit that accepts user input for scanning conditions, including scanning range, spacing between adjacent ranges, and maximum fields of view, and automatically calculates the remaining variable, simplifying the setup process and preventing overlapping particle observations by setting a minimum spacing based on the standard particle size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multiple scanning ranges are manually positioned and configured to cover a wide observation target region, then the observation coverage is improved, but the user workload and operation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically calculates and positions multiple scanning ranges based on the observation target region, eliminating the need for manual positioning and configuration by the user. The data processing unit performs self-service by autonomously determining the optimal arrangement of scanning ranges to cover the entire target area.
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-calculates the arrangement of multiple scanning ranges before actual scanning begins. By performing preliminary positioning and configuration automatically, the system prepares the optimal scanning plan in advance, reducing operational complexity during the scanning process.
2Area of stationary object
If multiple scanning ranges are arranged to cover a wide observation target region, then the observation coverage is improved, but the positioning precision and setup accuracy become more difficult to maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses feedback from the observed particle distribution and scanning range overlap detection to automatically adjust and optimize the positioning of scanning ranges. By monitoring whether particles are duplicated across ranges or if gaps exist, the system refines the positioning to achieve accurate and complete coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical positioning with automated computational methods. The data processing unit calculates the optimal positions of scanning ranges using algorithms that consider the observation target region dimensions and particle distribution, substituting manual positioning operations with automated computational positioning.
3Area of stationary object
If the scanner moves through multiple scanning ranges to acquire comprehensive image data, then the observation coverage is improved, but the scanning time and productivity efficiency decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-calculates and optimizes the scanning path and sequence before acquiring image data. By determining the most efficient arrangement and order of scanning ranges in advance, the system minimizes unnecessary stage movements and maximizes scanning efficiency during data acquisition.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the scanning range arrangement and acquisition sequence based on the specific characteristics of the observation target region and particle distribution. This dynamic optimization allows the system to adapt the scanning plan to achieve complete coverage with minimal scanning time.
Data Source
AI summary
A scanning probe microscope according to one aspect of the present disclosure divides an observation target region of a sample into a plurality of regions, and drives a scanner to scan the surface of the sample for each region. The data processing unit acquires image data corresponding to the respective regions in the plurality of regions. The input means accepts a user input regarding the acquisition conditions for the plurality of pieces of image data. The acquisition conditions include scanning conditions of the scanner. When the input means accepts a user input for any two variables out of three variables consisting of a scanning range of the scanner for each image data, a spacing between two adjacent scanning ranges, and a maximum number of fields of view capable of being obtained from a maximum scanning range of the scanner, the data processing unit is configured to calculate a remaining one of the three variables based on the accepted two variables.