TDI Sensor Focus Adjustment via Detector Array Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image scanning devices using time delay integration (TDI) sensors face challenges in focusing due to sensitivity to changes during image acquisition, making it difficult to rapidly refocus the objective lens for variations in biological samples, especially when capturing fluorescent images.
Innovation Solution
An image scanning apparatus that incorporates a detector array in addition to the TDI sensor, allowing for the capture of second image information without interrupting the integration process, enabling focus or spatial scans and using this information to adjust the focus level, thereby facilitating rapid refocusing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a TDI sensor is used to integrate multiple captured images, then image quality is improved, but the system becomes sensitive to changes during acquisition making focusing difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the detection system into two separate sensors: a TDI sensor for capturing fluorescent images and a separate detector array for capturing focus information. This segmentation allows the focusing operation to be performed independently using the detector array without interfering with the TDI sensor's integration process, thereby resolving the contradiction between maintaining image quality and enabling focusing operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a separate detector array as an intermediary device that captures focus information independently. This intermediary allows the system to obtain focus data without disrupting the TDI sensor's image integration process, enabling focusing operations to be performed while maintaining the quality of fluorescent images being captured.
2Illumination intensity
If the TDI sensor integrates images of a particular area, then light sensitivity is improved, but rapid refocusing cannot be performed during image capture
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the imaging function from the focusing monitoring function by using separate sensors. The TDI sensor continues to integrate light signals for high sensitivity fluorescent imaging, while the separate detector array independently monitors focus changes, enabling rapid refocusing decisions without interrupting the light integration process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables preliminary focus assessment by using the detector array to capture focus information before or during the TDI sensor's integration process. This allows the system to pre-determine focus status and initiate refocusing actions without delaying the actual image capture, thereby maintaining both light sensitivity and refocusing speed.
3Device complexity
If a single TDI sensor is used for both imaging and focusing, then device complexity is reduced, but the ability to rapidly refocus is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multi-functionality by having the separate detector array serve multiple purposes: capturing focus information, enabling rapid refocusing, and potentially providing spatial scan data. This additional sensor brings versatility to the system without significantly increasing overall complexity, as the detector array can be integrated into the existing optical path.
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
Enables precise focusing operations while capturing images with a TDI sensor, improving the ability to handle variations in biological samples and maintaining image quality in fluorescence microscopy.
Implementation Method 1
This sensor is adapted to integrate a plurality of captured images of the target to produce a high quality image
Implementation Method 2
certain molecules within a sample must be labeled with a fluorescent marker or 'fluorophore' that enables items of interest to fluoresce; for example, cancer cells within a tissue sample may be selectively labeled with the fluorescent marker
Data Source
AI summary
An image scanning apparatus comprises a time delay integration sensor for obtaining first image information from a target and a scan device for causing relative motion between the time delay integration sensor and the target. The image scanning apparatus is characterized by detector array for obtaining second image information from a target, wherein the first image information corresponds to a first portion of light received from the target and the second image information corresponds to a second portion of light received from the target.