Stereoscopic Microscope Illumination with Collimated Beam Overlap
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing microscope illumination systems fail to provide a clear three-dimensional view of partially occluded objects, particularly in surgical settings, due to inadequate light delivery and distribution.
Innovation Solution
A stereoscopic illumination system that delivers two collimated light beams overlapping on the subject surface, supplemented by an oblique illumination system, using a combination of lenses and filters to produce collimated light and adjust illumination ratios for optimal viewing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If a point source is used for stereoscopic illumination, then beam overlap on the subject surface is minimized, but three-dimensional visualization is degraded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter of light source size from point source to extended source. By using an extended source positioned at the focal plane of the condenser lens, the system generates two divergent beams that overlap significantly on the subject surface, providing the intensity needed for three-dimensional visualization while maintaining stereoscopic separation through the beam splitting optics.
2Illumination intensity
If a large light source is used, then beam overlap and three-dimensional illumination are improved, but beam collimation is degraded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a beam combining optics system as an intermediary between the extended light source and the subject. This system includes a condenser lens that collects light from the extended source and a beam splitting prism that separates the light into two stereoscopic beams. The intermediary optics maintain collimation while enabling the use of an extended source for improved beam overlap.
3Adaptability or versatility
If oblique illumination is added to the stereoscopic system, then illumination versatility is improved, but device complexity is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the stereoscopic illumination system and the oblique illumination system into a single integrated illumination unit. Both systems share common components including the light source, condenser lens, and housing. The beam splitting prism serves dual functions by directing light to both the stereoscopic path and the oblique illumination path, thereby reducing overall system complexity while providing multiple illumination modes.
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
Enhances three-dimensional visualization by providing more direct and intense light, allowing for better stereopsis and reduced glare, while being adaptable for use in surgical microscopes with optional integration as a module.
Implementation Method 1
a first condensing lens (4) that gathers and concentrates light from the light source (5)
Implementation Method 2
a beam splitting element (12) that divides the collimated light beam into a first beam and a second beam
Implementation Method 3
an objective lens (11a) that receives light from the subject surface (16)
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention is a novel stereoscopic illumination system for a microscope which delivers at least two collimated light beams to a subject surface. Each of the two collimated light beams is delivered for an eye of the user. Additionally, a third light beam is provided at an angle oblique to the other two collimated light beams.